Okavango Wilderness Safaris (OWS) announced the official opening of Wilderness DumaTau and Wilderness Mokete on February 4.
The unveiling of these two high-end safari camps underscores the company’s commitment to sustainable tourism while aligning with the government’s vision for economic growth and environmental preservation.
The launch event was attended by Minister of Environment and Tourism Boipuso Wynter Mmolotsi, along with key government officials, members of parliament, and representatives from the Botswana Tourism Organisation, according to a report by Botswana Unplugged.
The delegation was welcomed by Wilderness Group CEO Keith Vincent and other company leaders, highlighting the partnership between the private sector and the government in advancing Botswana’s tourism sector.
Situated in the Linyanti and Mababe regions, respectively, DumaTau and Mokete represent a significant investment in Botswana’s high-value, low-impact tourism model.
These properties are designed to enhance the country’s global reputation while ensuring minimal ecological disruption.
“Today, we open not one but two exceptional camps that will enrich our tourism offerings, support the preservation of our unique biodiversity, and contribute to the economic growth and diversification of the country,” said Minister Mmolotsi.
For industry stakeholders, these developments illustrate the growing emphasis on balancing luxury tourism with conservation and community upliftment.
The projects, which required an investment of approximately BWP 108 million, are part of Wilderness’ broader efforts to integrate local communities into its operations.
The company has a longstanding history of reinvesting in Botswana, with over BWP 700 million in capital projects between 2014 and 2023. This investment has created jobs, supported small businesses, and contributed to educational and social initiatives.
Beyond tourism, Wilderness has played an active role in community support. A recent food relief program, running from November 2024 to January 2025, provided 40 tonnes of aid to drought-affected areas, benefiting over 4,400 people.
“We’re committed to working with the government’s ambitions because we’re not just a business – we are partners and neighbors,” said Wilderness Board Chairman Kabelo Binns.
Keith Vincent, CEO of Wilderness, praised the contributions of local staff in bringing these projects to life. “We are excited about the future and remain committed to working with the government, all authorities, and the people of Botswana to achieve even more for the country,” he said.
As the tourism sector evolves, the launch of these camps provides a model for operators looking to merge environmental stewardship with business growth.
