On the hunt for a truly unforgettable birthday adventure where you can take along all your best buds? The Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge is just the place. Nestled in the Okavango Delta just adjacent to the magnificent Moremi Game Reserve in Botswana, this magical architectural gem is the perfect spot for nature-lovers, wildlife-admirers, photographers and serious adventure seekers—and everything in between. Surrounded by one of Africa’s most heavenly landscapes with all the exotic creatures you’ve ever scribbled away on your bucket list, this gorgeous eco-design getaway was made for the genuinely wild at heart. 
Photography: Michaelis Boyd
One Stunning Skyline
As if the canopy of wild palms, sprawling fig trees and grassy floodplains weren’t enough to wow you upon arrival, both the exterior and interior design of this nature-inspired lodge is a feast for the eyes. The exquisite main gathering area is shaped like an oblong dome, clad in scale-like wooden shingles based off of one of the region’s resident critters, the pangolin (a secretive, scaly anteater-like creature). Similarly, the 12 elegant on-stilts guest suites surrounding the lodge take all kinds of cues from nature. Boasting wooden rooftops (some mirroring the golden weaver birds’ brilliant nests), rough-hewn or woven fence railing made from local trees and dreamy wrap-around screen doors that welcome the outdoors in—without the bugs or unwanted wild things—every building blends seamlessly with the encompassing panorama.
Photography: Brooke Saward | Michaelis Boyd
A Group Gathering Sanctuary
Completely outfitted in natural materials, tones and textures from end to end, Sandibe is the epitome of serenity and calm. Adorned in light-hued wood, hand-woven baskets and other treasures that celebrate the arts and crafts of the Delta, you’ll be basking in the tantalizing interiors of all your Out of Africa-esque dreams. More than just pretty surroundings, one of the highlights of staying here are all the well-designed gathering spaces. From the vast dining room with one giant table (made from the roots of an ironwood tree, naturally), to the open patio, expansive bar, cozy fire-pits, open-plan copper-clad kitchen right down to the various elevated viewing decks made for overlooking the Delta together, Sandibe is designed to be enjoyed either solo or en masse (ideal for your birthday gallivants). Although, you may want to enjoy your private plunge pool and outdoor shower without the company of your fellow travelers.
Photography: Brooke Saward | Michaelis Boyd
Seeing the Sights
Curious about what you can do beyond luxuriating in the absolutely glorious lodge? We got you covered. To fully celebrate your recent (and upcoming) rotation around the sun, you’re definitely going to want to take advantage of every experience Sandibe has to offer. This includes morning and evening game drives, walks through the bush, scenic helicopter flights over the Okavango Delta and Moremi Game Reserve, and, of course, simply enjoying the unrivaled sunrises and sunsets from the comfort of your canopied bed. Whether out on the plains or perched on the patio, expect to see lions, elephants, giraffes, hippos and an array of wildlife you never knew existed.
Photography: Michaelis Boyd
