Camping Chronicles: Mwandi View – Where Wild Adventures and Relaxation Meet!
Mwandi View camping review Botswana safari stopover
In this article:
- A True Oasis
- Elephants, Beer, and Poolside Chilling
- Dinner, Hippo Standoffs, and Canon Mix-Ups
- Goodbyes (and Lost Firewood)
After an exhilarating time at Ihaha Camp, we decided to take the scenic (read: less bumpy) route toward Savuti. And what better way to ease the journey than with a stopover at Mwandi View, a hidden gem conveniently placed on the road between Ihaha and Savuti. A quick glance at Tracks4Africa sealed the deal, and we were off!
A True Oasis (With a Bar!)
At first glance, Mwandi View might seem like just another lodge on the side of the road, but don’t be fooled. Once you pass through the gates, it reveals itself as a lush oasis in the middle of the wilderness. After being warmly welcomed by one of the owners at reception (strategically located near the bar), we were soon checked in and soaking in the view. And boy, does “Mwandi” live up to its name, meaning “beautiful view”!

The tented chalets, where we opted to stay for the night, were minimalistic but comfortable. We later learned that the decor had a habit of going on its own adventures—probably hitching rides with guests as “keepsakes.” So, keeping it simple yet stylish was the way to go. That said, the owners’ handmade quilts and mosquito nets gave the rooms a charming, personal touch.
Elephants, Beer, and Poolside Chilling
While the family took a well-deserved nap, I took care of a rogue solar cable (fixed like a pro) and then treated myself to an ice-cold beer on the porch. The view stretched over plains dotted with cattle, and the occasional game —nature’s own safari TV.
When everyone woke up, it was time for a dip in the crystal-clear infinity pool. We weren’t alone for long—the owners’ friendly Belgian Malinois joined us for a swim. Post-pool, we settled on the deck with G&Ts, watching the sunset and enjoying the occasional mooing of cattle as they headed home. This was when the “cows go home,” as they say, and game takes over the show.

Dinner, Hippo Standoffs, and Canon Mix-Ups
Dinner was a gourmet three-course feast at the lodge’s restaurant, with even the picky eaters in the family going for seconds (that’s saying something!). Midway through dessert, we rushed to the viewing deck as a group of hippos wandered in for a drink. In the chaos, my daughter grabbed a Canon camera—not ours, but that of some very understanding European guests. They joked, “As long as she got good shots!” as we handed it back.
The evening wasn’t over yet, though. As we sipped nightcaps, elephants rolled in, leading to a classic hippo-elephant waterhole standoff. And in case you’re wondering, the elephants won—no contest!

Goodbyes (and Lost Firewood)
The next morning, we welcomed the break from striking camp as we sat down to a full English breakfast, laid out exactly as we ordered the night before. Amelia, the ever-gracious host, provided directions to Savuti, warning us about the sandy roads but assuring us they weren’t as bad as Ihaha. This became the running joke of the trip whenever we asked about road conditions, as the answer was always the same; “not as bad as the road you are coming from”.
After a quick stop at the curio shop (and purchasing firewood, which we later lost), we were off to our next adventure. Mwandi View turned out to be more than a stopover—it was an unforgettable experience, and next time, we’ll definitely stay an extra night!
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