Sandibe Safari Lodge has existed for years but never quite like it is now. In September 2014 the lodge was completely rebuilt and now stands as the most luxurious lodge in the &Beyond portfolio in Botswana. The structure of the main lodge is designed to resemble a pangolin’s body, with wooden scales overlapping each other in the manner of a pangolin’s body armour. The organic materials blend in wonderfully with the surroundings, and look like no other ldoge on earth. The high curvaceous roof creates an immense sense of space inside, and the interactive kitchen fills the interiors with wonderful scents at each mealtime.
The lodge has twelve elegant suites that have been designed with privacy at the forefront along with position to make the best of the marvellous views. Each of the suites is raised just above the papyrus, and nestled into the trees and thickets along the edge of the watery channel. Two of the suites connect to form a family suite and children of all ages are welcome at Sandibe although some activities are age restricted.
The suites are all beautifully designed, with every imaginable luxury, vast beds, en-suite bathrooms and discreet butler hatches which your morning tea and coffees will appear through. Each of the suites has an open-plan lounge area, perfect in any season with air-conditioning for hot days and a cosy fireplace for chilly evenings. The suite leads out through large sliding doors onto private split-level decks, with a plunge pool, an outdoor seating area, shower and daybed.
Despite the permanent water channels near Sandibe it must be noted that this is not a water-based activity focussed safari lodge. Activities centre around game drives and guided walks, with scenic helicopter flights also available at an additional cost.