Shinde Concession

The Shinde Concession is a jewel within the Okavango Delta, offering a pristine and highly exclusive safari experience. Unlike national parks, this private concession allows for off-road driving, night drives, and guided walking safaris, providing a much more intimate and flexible wildlife encounter. The landscape is a stunning mix of deep waterways, shallow floodplains, and dry islands dotted with palm trees and ancient leadwoods.

Wildlife enthusiasts will be thrilled by the resident predator population, including frequent sightings of lions, leopards, and cheetahs, alongside large herds of elephants and buffalo. The waterways are home to hippos and crocodiles, while the skies and trees boast over 400 species of birds, making it a paradise for ornithologists. The seamless blend of water and land activities ensures that every day in the Shinde Concession offers a new perspective on one of Africa's most dynamic ecosystems.

Reasons to Visit

• Exclusive access to a private concession with very few other vehicles.
• Year-round water and land-based safari activities, including mokoro rides.
• Exceptional predator sightings and diverse wildlife populations.
• Luxurious, eco-friendly accommodations with world-class hospitality.
• Opportunities for night drives and off-road tracking not permitted in national parks.

Things to Avoid

• Do not ignore safety briefings provided by your guides and camp managers.
• Avoid walking around the camp unescorted after dark.
• Do not bring hard-sided luggage; light aircraft require soft duffel bags.
• Avoid wearing bright colors or white on safari; stick to neutral tones.
• Do not attempt to interact with or feed any wildlife.

Local Transportation Tips

Transportation within the Shinde Concession is entirely handled by your safari lodge. You will explore the area in specialized open 4x4 safari vehicles, motorized boats, or traditional mokoros (dugout canoes). Transfers into and out of the concession are conducted via light aircraft flights from major hubs like Maun or Kasane.

Travel Etiquette

• Always listen to your guide's instructions, especially regarding wildlife encounters.
• Keep noise to a minimum during game drives to avoid startling animals.
• Tipping is customary but voluntary; usually, there is a communal tip box for camp staff and you tip your guide directly.
• Respect the environment by not littering and adhering to the camp's eco-policies.

Recommended Age Group

The Shinde Concession offers an unforgettable wilderness experience, but its remote nature and wildlife presence make it better suited for certain age groups.

• Babies (0-2 years): Not Recommended. The remote location, lack of immediate medical facilities, malaria risk, and strict camp age policies make it unsuitable for infants.
• Kids (3-12 years): Neutral. While some camps have minimum age limits (often 7+), specialized family safaris can be arranged. Parents must ensure children can remain quiet during game drives.
• Teens (13-19 years): Recommended. An incredible educational and adventurous experience, offering a profound connection with nature and wildlife.
• Adults (20-64 years): Recommended. The prime demographic for luxury safaris, offering a perfect blend of adventure, photography, and high-end relaxation.
• Seniors (65+ years): Recommended. Luxury camps provide high levels of comfort, excellent food, and accessible game viewing from specialized vehicles, making it ideal for mature travelers.

Accessibility Level: Medium

• Due to the remote wilderness setting, sandy terrain, and use of small aircraft and 4x4 vehicles, accessibility for wheelchair users can be challenging.
• Some luxury camps do offer accessible tents with ramps and modified bathrooms, but this must be confirmed well in advance.
• Travelers with mobility issues should discuss their specific needs with a specialized safari operator to ensure appropriate accommodations and vehicle arrangements.

Did You Know?

The Okavango Delta is one of the few major interior delta systems that do not flow into a sea or ocean. Instead, the water from the Angolan highlands empties onto the sands of the Kalahari Desert, creating a unique and lush oasis that supports the incredible biodiversity found in the Shinde Concession.

Cool Statistics

• The Okavango Delta covers an area of up to 15,000 square kilometers during peak flooding.
• Over 400 species of birds have been recorded in the delta region.
• The delta is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Africa.
• Water takes about four months to travel from the Angolan highlands to the delta.