Singita to open ultra-luxury Elela lodge in Botswana’s Okavango Delta

There are safari lodges, and then there are places that completely redefine what it means to experience the African wilderness. In December 2026, luxury conservation brand Singita will unveil its first-ever Botswana property: Singita Elela — an ultra-exclusive retreat set deep within the legendary Okavango Delta.

For safari lovers, this is one of the most anticipated lodge openings in Africa.

Located within the vast Abu Concession (NG26), Singita Elela promises privacy, extraordinary wildlife encounters, and a deeply immersive connection to one of the world’s most spectacular ecosystems. The lodge will sit within more than 170,000 hectares of protected wilderness, where seasonal floodplains, palm islands, lagoons, and winding waterways create a constantly shifting landscape alive with elephants, predators, birds, and aquatic life.

A Name Inspired by Water and Movement

“Elela” means “to flow” in Setswana — a fitting name for a lodge shaped by the rhythm of the Delta itself. The entire concept has been designed around the changing seasons, the movement of wildlife, and the fluid beauty of Botswana’s waterways.

Unlike traditional safari camps, Singita Elela will feature eight elevated and fully private camps, each positioned above the floodplains to maximize views across the Delta. The design combines organic architecture with understated luxury, allowing the surrounding wilderness to remain the true centerpiece.

Accommodation will include:

Five one-bedroom camps

Two two-bedroom camps

One expansive four-bedroom exclusive-use retreat

Each space will include private pools, outdoor decks, fire pits, lounges, dining areas, wellness spaces, and dedicated safari teams. The largest villa will come with its own chef, private guides, and wellness facilities — creating the feel of a fully private safari residence in the middle of the Okavango.

A New Standard for Botswana Safaris

Botswana has long been regarded as Africa’s pinnacle safari destination, known for its low-volume, high-value tourism model. But Singita’s arrival into the Okavango Delta signals a major moment for luxury travel in the region.

The Abu Concession is already considered one of the Delta’s most beautiful and wildlife-rich areas, famous for large elephant populations, big cats, seasonal wetlands, and untouched landscapes. Because the concession is private, guests at Elela will also enjoy experiences not always permitted in national park areas — including night drives and off-road game viewing.

Seasonal activities are expected to include:

Day and night game drives

Mokoro safaris

Boating excursions

Guided bush walks

Stargazing

Fishing

Wellness treatments and yoga

Scenic helicopter flights over the Delta

Conservation at the Heart of the Experience

Like all Singita properties, conservation is expected to be central to Elela’s identity. The brand is internationally respected for combining ultra-luxury hospitality with long-term environmental protection and community partnerships across Africa.

The Okavango Delta itself is one of the planet’s most important wetland ecosystems and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Home to hundreds of bird species and extraordinary biodiversity, the region depends heavily on sustainable tourism models that protect wildlife while supporting local livelihoods.

Singita’s entry into Botswana reflects the growing demand for experiences that are not only luxurious, but also deeply purposeful and conservation-driven.