In a significant leap for Botswana’s high-end safari market, Wilderness Safaris has unveiled its reimagined DumaTau Camp, a seven-star luxury retreat in the heart of the Linyanti Wildlife Reserve. Launched to much fanfare last week, the camp showcases the company’s firm commitment to eco-friendly tourism and community development, while elevating the country’s already sterling reputation for exclusive safari experiences.
A Milestone Event
Speaking at the official opening, Minister of Tourism and Environment Wynter Mmolotsi applauded Wilderness Safaris’ continued growth and investment in Botswana.
“Wilderness has demonstrated the utmost commitment to growing the economy of Botswana through investment in tourism and the general welfare of our people,”
Mmolotsi said, highlighting the operator’s role in creating job opportunities and fostering economic development in the North West region.
Leading the Way in Sustainable Luxury
Keith Vincent, the CEO of Wilderness Safaris, described DumaTau Camp as a testament to the group’s ongoing mission to merge world-class travel with responsible environmental stewardship.
“At Wilderness Safaris, we are committed to both the conservation of this spectacular wilderness and delivering world-class experiences for our guests,” Vincent noted. “DumaTau Camp is the latest step in our investment in high-end sustainable tourism. It is not only about providing an extraordinary stay but also about supporting local communities and wildlife conservation in the region.”
Built along the Linyanti River, DumaTau’s design marries contemporary comforts with minimal ecological impact. The revamped camp boasts spacious, light-filled tents with panoramic decks, a redesigned main lodge with expansive lounge and dining areas, and an infinity pool that overlooks the river. Each element was crafted to immerse visitors in the sights and sounds of Linyanti’s iconic wildlife.
Eco-Conscious Innovations
True to Wilderness Safaris’ ethos, the camp integrates responsible building practices and cutting-edge green technology:
• Solar Power: A solar system—costing roughly P10 million—provides clean energy for DumaTau’s operations.
• Water Recycling: Comprehensive water treatment and recycling systems reduce usage and minimize waste.
• Local Materials: Much of the camp’s structure utilizes regionally sourced, sustainable materials, aligning with the company’s pledge to preserve the ecosystem.
Thanks to these measures, DumaTau operates with a minimal environmental footprint, even while offering the highest standards of luxury.
An Unparalleled Wildlife Haven
The Linyanti Wildlife Reserve is renowned for its abundant game, making it a prime destination for safari enthusiasts. DumaTau’s location between two major elephant corridors—with 45 km of river frontage—ensures steady sightings of elephants, lions, wild dogs, and other iconic African wildlife. For visitors seeking an immersive, conservation-focused experience, DumaTau delivers with game drives, guided nature walks, and expert-led educational programs about the region’s delicate ecosystem.
Boosting the Local Economy
The upgraded camp is expected to bring significant economic benefits:
• Job Creation: The expansion has already created new employment opportunities for locals, further boosting regional livelihoods.
• Local Community Trusts: Increased tourism revenue is set to bolster community trusts that focus on healthcare, education, and sustainability projects in nearby villages.
• Premium Tourist Attraction: By attracting high-net-worth travelers, DumaTau Camp reinforces Botswana’s stature as a leading safari and eco-tourism hub, spurring additional growth in the sector.
Looking Ahead
With global demand for luxury safari experiences rising, Wilderness Safaris’ multi-million-pula investment in DumaTau underscores a broader strategy to stay at the forefront of sustainable tourism. For guests, it means an unforgettable blend of comfort, adventure, and cultural insight—all underpinned by an unwavering dedication to conservation and community upliftment.
“This new camp is not just about opulence,” Vincent concluded, “It’s an opportunity to protect Botswana’s pristine wilderness while offering visitors life-changing encounters with nature. DumaTau is our pledge that exclusivity and ecological responsibility can—and should—go hand in hand.”
