The enormous main area at Stanley's Camp has a very high tented
ceiling (rather like a circus big top!), secured by large poles and guy
ropes. With the apex of the ceiling rising to about 10m, it's a
spectacular design.
The main deck is slightly raised off the ground
underneath the tented canopy. There are stairs up to the large dining
area, then a couple more steps to the smaller main sitting area. This is
decorated with local artefacts, including some fascinating
black-and-white photos of the area. You'll also find a small library,
and a shop with local arts and crafts, trinkets and books, plus useful
items such as clothes, camera film and batteries, all displayed in
glass-fronted cabinets. In front of the tent, steps lead down to a
grassy area with a campfire and directors' chairs, where drinks can be
taken before dinner.
Sanctuary Stanley's Camp has its own registered private airstrip.
During low water levels, the driving journey to the camp from the airstrip will take approximately 20 minutes. During higher water levels, there will be a 50 minute boat transfer followed by a five minute road transfer to the camp.
Flight times
The camp is accessible by air from:
- Maun (15 minutes)
- Kasane (1 hour 30 minutes)
- Sanctuary Chief's Camp airstrip (10 minutes)
Please note that the luggage restriction is 20kg per person in a soft-sided bag.
Game drives
Game drives are not typical here, as water crossings are part of the adventure, and watching zebra standing belly-deep in water, grazing, is a sight to see. Even giraffe will cross water up to their hocks. During higher water levels, game drives will be combined with motorised boating excursions. Sanctuary Stanley's Camp is set in a private concession which means we can also venture out at night on exciting game drives to see the many nocturnal animals that live here. The evening drive starts after sundowner cocktails, using a spotlight to identify nocturnal creatures including the ones that are easier to catch a glimpse of in the dark, like hyena and leopard. Tiny fireball eyes that seem to levitate through the air and reappear again in different trees are bush babies, just one of several different creatures to be found.
Walking safaris
Our professional guides will show you the bush on foot. This is a chance to see the Delta from a different perspective, one that is up close and personal with the surrounding environment. Walks allow you to read the news of the night in the smooth sand of the road. Lion, leopard, elephants, genets and even millipedes are all part of the signs, each with their story to tell. A walking safari is about seeing the small five and the various flora in the area.
Mokoro excursions
The Okavango Delta is of course flooded for much of the year and when it is, guests can experience serene silence at the gentle pace of a poled mokoro excursion along the narrow channels. Sit back and relax as you glide through lily ponds on local dugout canoes while seeing eye to eye with a buffalo as it laps water from the river, watch crocodiles sunbathe on the banks or cruise past a pod of hippos as they lie in a pool. Fish eagles, frogs and fabulous lilies form much of this experience, but more frequently it is the quietness and gentle pace that makes its impression.
Living with ElephantS immersive experience
Thousands of elephants migrate through the area and here, as at the nearby Sanctuary Baines' Camp, you can have an astonishing experience walking with elephants in the bush. These orphaned elephants have been brought up in the area by their guardians Doug and Sandi Groves. Every morning the elephants go for a walk around their home range, foraging for food and checking that all is well. A few people each day are able to accompany them on their walk through the bush and see the wilds of Africa through the eyes of an elephant - a truly uplifting experience that makes a lasting impression on all who share their time with the elephants. This activity includes a leisurely paced walk with the semi-habituated elephants, followed by a picnic lunch in their company.
This activity is at an additional cost. Please enquire for rates.
- In order to avoid disappointment, pre-booking is recommended.
- The activity is available to a minimum of two guests and a maximum of ten.
- Children nine years and older are allowed to enjoy the activity with parents.
- Please note the elephants are on annual leave from 15 January to 15 February each year.
Scenic helicopter flightThese scenic flights involve flying west towards the permanent delta, exposing areas which are unreachable by vehicle or boat and showcasing the sheer enormity of the Okavango Delta. There is the the option of the doors being removed for unrestricted photographic opportunities. Choose between 30, 45 or 60 minute tour in a one turbine Bell Jetranger helicopter with 3 seats. This activity is offered on a year round basis. Being a personalised activity, it's up to you what time of day you would like to do the activity, however we would recommend early morning and late afternoon as these times usually provide the best light for photography. Preferred flight times can be requested on booking.
This activity is at an additional cost.
Children
Attitude towards children: Children are welcome.
Property's age restrictions: Children of all ages are accepted.
Special activities & services: Guides and staff members teach weaving, and they lead exciting bush walks focusing on identifying mammal tracks. Board games are also available for children in the main areas.
Equipment: A highchair and baby bath are available for very young children, along with one cot. Children also receive a welcome pack with books and crayons.
Generally recommended for children: Best for 12+
Notes: We recommend that guests with children book a private vehicle and, of course, supervise them very closely as dangerous game will often wander through camp.
Dinning
Sanctuary Stanley's Camp's meals are all freshly prepared. The camp prides itself on its personalised service and this includes your culinary preferences and needs.
Come dine with us in spectacular locations where scrumptious meals are served. Where would you like to be seated? In the company of three elephants or with your feet in the cool waters of the Okavango Delta?
Lunch with elephantsWake up to the smell of freshly brewed coffee before indulging in a full English and continental breakfast before departing for your morning game viewing activity which could be a game drive, walking safari, mokoro excursion. If you decide to experience our unique elephant interaction activity you will enjoy a secluded bush brunch in the company of these gentle giants, Jabu and Morula - how many people can say they've had lunch with elephants in the bush? Afternoon tea is served just before your next game viewing activity and includes a delicious selection of warm scones, quiche's, biscuits and refreshing drinks. During your afternoon game viewing activity you might stop for sundowner drinks and snacks before heading back to camp for pre-dinner drinks and a three course dinner. If you are celebrating a special occasion we could arrange a special romantic private dinner right under the African sky.
Water lunches and private dinnersAs Sanctuary Stanley's Camp is situated on a private concession we are also able to offer tranquil water lunches (seasonal). Indulge in a freshly prepared buffet style lunch while sitting with your feet in the cool shallow waters of the Okavango Delta as you immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the surrounding area and wildlife. If you are celebrating a special occasion we could arrange a special private dinner by the pool, complete with lanterns and candles for a romantic night under the African stars. The standard and selection of all our meals are of the very highest quality, making it hard to believe that the camp is in the middle of the African bush.
Baby crib 
