Sable Alley

Not only is Khwai Private Reserve one of Botswana’s best-kept secrets, but it’s also home to the lovely Sable Alley. Opened in 2017, Sable is a piece of light, bright and beautiful luxury amid the game-rich floodplains of Khwai, and the best news is that it’s as sustainable as it is sophisticated. The management of Sable Alley partnered with the local communities in Khwai, and proceeds from staying at the lodge go straight back into the Khwai Village community projects.

Located right on the banks of a lily-covered lagoon, home to harrumphing hippo and a favourite drinking spot for elephant and buffalo, the big game quite literally comes to you at Sable. But as tempting as it is to stay in camp, venture out you should, for Khwai offers one of Africa’s greatest and most exclusive safari experiences. Have your binoculars at the ready for lion, leopard, wild dog, buffalo, elephant and hundreds of dainty antelope as you drive through the diverse landscapes.

There’s no denying that Sable is spacious, sophisticated and really quite stylish. Each canvas-walled suite is a huge 55 square metres and comes complete with a mini-indoor seating area, writing desk, double bed, and some seriously Afro-chic décor. Slide open the screen doors at the front for uninterrupted views of the lagoon, or take a seat on the veranda for a closer inspection. At the back, you’ll find two basins, an indoor shower and a flush loo. And if you fancy washing off the dust from the day in the great outdoors, no problem – there’s an outdoor shower with a view too.

Just like the bedrooms, the communal areas are designed around the spectacular vistas. Watch the happenings at the lagoon from the bar, Gin & Tonic in hand, from the outdoor fire pit, or from a squashy sofa in the lounge. At night, dinner is served either in the indoor dining area or alfresco on the deck, accompanied by twinkling stars and the rumblings and grumblings of the wildlife. There is also a swimming pool and sun deck, both unique spots from which to watch the hippo pods emerge from the lagoon, or simply for some chill-out time in the heat of the day.

Skybeds Experience

If you are looking for a truly unique way to spend time in the best then the Skybeds located deep within the Khwai Private Reserve is perfect for you. Each Skybed offers a 3-story structure that overlooks the wildlife-spotted plains of Khwai. Inside you will find a bathroom with a flushing loo, a dressing area, and an enormous double bed draped in white linen and soft duvets. From here you can enjoy the African sky and nature combined in one thrilling experience.

With such spectacular skies overhead, you could be forgiven for forgetting about what’s happening down below. But keep one eye on the ground, for the Skybeds overlook a busy waterhole. Guests have witnessed wild dogs, lions, elephants and hyenas all in one night.

The Skybeds experience is a one-night sleepout and is only bookable from 01 April to 31 October. This can be added to your booking and involves a helicopter transfer to Hyena Pan followed by a road transfer via the underground hide en-route to Skybeds.

About Khwai Private Reserve