Overlooking an active watering hole and positioned between Moremi Game Reserve, Chobe National Park – home to the world’s largest population of elephant – and the Khwai River, Hyena Pan is a meeting point for myriad animals (think nomadic herds of buffalo, lion, leopard and wild dog, as well as kudu, red lechwe and herds of dainty antelope dotted across the plains).
Whilst out on game drives, your binoculars won’t be short of action: sight giraffe and elephant from the north, herds of buffalo and zebra migrating from the south, and the watering hole’s resident hippo. Expert guides know exactly where and when to spot big cats, and there’s a good chance you’ll see lion on the prowl, leopard slinking through the trees, as well as cheetah and even wild dog.
The atmosphere here is homely, relaxed and unpretentious. The thatched main area is raised and open-sided, allowing guests to keep an eye on the comings and goings at the watering hole down below. A wooden walkway leads out to a deck and firepit (perfect for those colder evenings), whilst the swimming pool looks directly across the watering hole.
The eight guest tents are linked to this main area by a winding path, all decorated with an eclectic mix of rustic furniture complemented by vibrant colours and local artefacts. Wake up to trumpeting elephant in the waters below and fall asleep to antelope grazing just outside your canvas walls.