There are few experiences as exhilarating as peering from a charter plane upon expanses of kelly green grass, glistening water, and scores of striking zebras. Such is the moment before you land at Little Machaba. Whether up in the air, out in the plains, or winding through lily pads in a wooden Mekoro canoe, Little Machaba offers pure seclusion from the buzzing of everyday life in an eco-luxury paradise.

From the Khwai airstrip you’ll travel by jeep to the remote and glamorous Little Machaba. Tucked away from the slightly larger Machaba camp, Little Machaba is just you, three other tents, and whatever elephant, leopard, or warthog patters by. Artfully constructed of cotton, canvas, and leather, Little Machaba harkens back to the 1950s glamour of exploration. The breezy main tent features an ample bar, numerous sofas to sprawl upon, and an outdoor viewing area where meal tables are set up. Walk the trail past an exclusive plunge pool and you’ll come upon Little Machaba’s four tents. Unzip the layers of mosquito nets shielding your tent for a feat of wild luxury. Enormous beds, piles of pillows, crisp linens and indulgent toiletries and accessories await. Rays of sun shine in through airy open panels. And in the evening, look up at Botswana’s stars joining the balmy air from your truly special outdoor shower. The tents are spacious, sumptuous, and secluded. Just don’t expect air conditioning —Little Machaba’s eco-luxury promise shines through and through.

While Little Machaba’s luxe aesthetic is top-notch, the activities are the real treat. Hop on a safari vehicle with your incredibly knowledgeable ranger for a crack-of-dawn game drive, plus one after lunch. You’ll power through sand and swamp in thrilling pursuit of the unknown. And if ever the ride gets too bumpy, opt into a wildlife walk or Mekoro ride instead. Serenely taking in nature as a guide paddles you through still water and lily pads is a new breed of peace.

It goes without saying to expect unlimited delectable food and drinks. Lunch and breakfast are at individual tables, but dinner is a communal gathering next to the fire and under the stars. Daily sundowner drinks at Leopard’s Lagoon will show off a setting sun so round and red it will live in your memory forever, and if you’re lucky there might be a glam brunch in the bush.

From the porch massages to pool dips, game drives to evening fires, Little Machaba is more than a hotel. It is a marvel of opulence and environmental thinking that will bring you closer to nature than ever before.

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