Moela Turns One – A Year of Wild Beauty & Heartfelt Moments

As the sun rises on a new season, we’re taking a moment to reflect on a truly incredible year. From the day we opened our doors in March last year, Moela Safari Lodge has grown into more than just a destination - it’s become a home for adventure, connection, and conservation. Whether you've journeyed with us in person or supported us from afar, we're so grateful to have shared this chapter with you. Here’s a look at some of the moments and milestones that have made our first year so special.

6 REASONS TO VISIT MOELA SAFARI LODGE

1. Wow Factor! 

Moela Safari Lodge’s view is unparalleled in Botswana. Perched on the cliffs of a long bend in the river, Moela Safari Lodge enjoys sweeping panoramas of the Boteti River Valley to the West and the East, allowing 180 degrees of some of the best wildlife viewing from your private deck. It has also been built by the local Botswana women and the lodge is a work of art – unique and luxurious! 

2. You can do everything or nothing! 

With vast numbers of wildlife coming straight to the lodge as well as access to the Makgadikgadi NP and Nxai Pans, we are perfectly located to enjoy an array of areas and diverse activities as well as being the ideal location to relax and enjoy the game viewing right from the lodge or from the private reserve – which allows Moela Safari Lodge to enjoy incredible game drives and walks in an exclusive setting. 

3. View the largest migration in Southern Africa right from the lodge

The largest migration in Southern Africa resides in the Boteti River valley for at least 6 months of the year and guests at Moela Safari Lodge have front row seats to witness this bucket list phenomenon. This is safari heaven and during the green season, one can still enjoy the migration from the air, taking a scenic helicopter flight over the pans (additional cost). 

4. Ancient Culture 

Our guests have the rare opportunity to track animals and learn from the ancient Ju/'hoansi San people. They’ve been living in Southern Africa for thousands of years and represent some of the oldest traditions, most ancient hunting techniques and language. They reside at the lodge and guests can also enjoy unique experiences, like taking the San bushmen on a game drive or spending a morning learning their ancient traditions.

5. Unique Activities 

At Moela Safari Lodge, we believe in experiential luxury and immersive safaris. From after dusk drives on the reserve with an opportunity for the weird and wonderful nocturnal species, to helicopter scenic flights, to pan sleep outs and purposeful community activities. We thrive on taking you on a journey of discovery. 

6. Eco-chic safari design 

Moela Safari Lodge offers elegant safari style, blended with traditional African architecture and design. The lodge was constructed by skilled Botswana craftspeople and artisans from the local village using locally sourced materials. The suites have been carefully designed, sensitive to the ecology and to maximise your experience of the abundant wildlife coming to drink at the water’s edge below. The lodge offers an eco-chic, minimalist design – authentic luxury at its best. 

MOELA SAFARI LODGE IS OFFICIALLY 1 YEAR OLD AND FABULOUS!

Since opening our doors in March last year, we’ve had the joy of welcoming incredible guests and dedicated agents whose support has helped shape our story. From heartfelt entries in our guest book, it's clear that Moela has become a place of unforgettable memories, deep connection with nature, and authentic safari experiences.

Beyond the lodge, our journey has brought meaningful impact to the surrounding community - through staff training, job creation, and partnerships with local artisans and suppliers, we’ve proudly supported growth and opportunity in the nearby village. On the conservation front, we’ve stood strong through challenges, especially during the recent devastating drought—pumping water and providing food for stranded hippos as part of our commitment to preserving the wild spaces we call home. Here’s to a year of purpose, passion, and the people and wildlife that make Moela truly special.

And finally, we’re happy to share that the last rainy season has been generous - bringing much-needed relief to the land and its wildlife. The area is thriving, and nature is bouncing back beautifully. We’re keeping a hopeful eye on the Boteti River, and if it flows as far as Moela this year, it would be a rare and magical sight - a true miracle experience not to be missed.