Wilderness Tubu Tree – Positively impacting the biodiversity conservation of the Jao Reserve

“Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Delta embodies the mystique of Botswana’s diverse vegetation that varies from permanent wetlands to semi-arid desert. It is gratifying to know that we have played an important part in helping protect this habitat and the conservation of its wildlife for two decades”, commented Cathy Kays, Co-owner of the Jao Reserve.

Preserving the integrity and biodiversity of the central Okavango Delta and its unique ecosystem is pivotal to the reserve’s core impact purpose. To this end, mammal populations at Tubu Tree and Little Tubu have been meticulously monitored in annual aerial strip-count surveys conducted over 11 years. Through these surveys, valuable data has been collected, showing a dramatic increase in key wildlife species such as red lechwe, sitatunga, elephant, tsessebe, lion, leopard and hippopotamus.  

Viewing Tubu Tree’s efforts through Wilderness’ Empower lens, the Jao Reserve proudly assists the Tubu Village Development Committee with many of its community’s needs, including sports gear and other specialised requirements. Recycled building materials from the camp construction were also donated to the Committee for community distribution.   

With sustainability at the heart of the newly built camps, their light environmental footprint entailed preserving the integrity of the landscape at all costs during the rebuild. Inspired by the natural beauty of Hunda Island, Tubu Tree was named for its setting in a magnificent grove of towering jackalberries and marulas. Framed by real fan palms, the tree-canopy camps are shaded by these iconic African trees in a seamless blend of nature and design, and are 100% solar powered. 

Hunda Island’s exquisite riverine forests offer exceptional leopard sightings; indeed, many predator species thrive here in this largest dryland area of the renowned wetland, as the floodplains also support an abundance of prey, including Burchell’s zebra, red lechwe, southern giraffe, tsessebe and blue wildebeest. Kudu, impala, and bushbuck are found in the forested areas. From waterways and lagoons to dry Kalahari grasslands, the camps offer both land and water Okavango experiences, with day and night game drives all year round. An impressive array of birdlife is supported by this diversity, from vibrant crimson-breasted shrikes to the elusive Pel’s fishing-owl.

“We are proud to have pioneered sustainable tourism at Jao for 20 years now. By rebuilding our much-loved Tubu and Tube Tree camps, we’re looking forward to welcoming guests to this wildlife haven for many years to come”, Cathy concluded.