Jao Reserve to Reopen Kwetsani Camp After Complete Rebuild
Kwetsani Camp, located within Botswana’s Jao Reserve in the Okavango Delta, will reopen on 1 June 2026 following a complete rebuild.
Owned and operated by the Kays family, David, Cathy, and Martin, Jao Reserve has been shaped over decades as an independent, family-led safari destination in the Okavango Delta. The rebuilding of Kwetsani continues this legacy, carefully renewing one of the reserve’s most beloved camps while preserving the elevated, intimate character that has long defined its appeal.
For Cathy Kays, the rebuild also represents a personal milestone. "We built the original Kwetsani in 1999 as a treehouse-style camp, and it stood proudly for 26 years," she says. "Seeing it evolve into its next chapter is emotional, but also incredibly rewarding as the next generation of our family becomes more involved in shaping its future."
The next generation is already playing a visible role in the redevelopment. Interior design is led by Tiffany Riley, daughter of Cathy and David Kays bringing a fresh perspective while remaining rooted in the spirit of the Delta. Her design approach draws directly from the surrounding landscape – from deep indigo evening skies and warm terracotta sunsets to soft sand tones and the textures of reeds, timber and stone.
Perched within a riverine forest on a palm island and overlooking expansive floodplains, the reimagined camp has been designed to feel calm, natural and deeply connected to its environment. Natural materials, handcrafted details and a quiet, understated palette create a refined sense of luxury while allowing the Delta itself to remain the true focal point. Elevated suites, layered guest spaces and open views strengthen this connection to the landscape’s rhythm, offering guests a sense of immersion while still feeling protected and completely at ease.
The rebuilt camp will offer five guest suites and a large family suite comprising two en-suite bedrooms, designed to offer increased privacy, comfort, and a strong sense of place. Kwetsani will also operate on a fully solar-powered infrastructure, reflecting Jao Reserve’s long-term commitment to low-impact, environmentally responsible tourism.
Kwetsani’s proximity to Hunda Island allows access to varied game-drive areas even during peak flood periods. The camp will continue to place strong emphasis on water-based activities during the flood season, including boating and mokoro excursions, complemented by year-round wildlife viewing.
To further enhance the guest experience across the reserve, Jao Reserve recently upgraded its entire fleet of safari vehicles with 16 brand-new, fully equipped game-drive Land Cruisers, ensuring improved comfort, reliability, and exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities.
The Kays family believes the new Kwetsani will build on the legacy of the original camp while setting a new benchmark for the reserve.
"Kwetsani has always been very special to us," says the family. "This rebuild allows us to honour its history while improving the experience for future guests."
