Kings Pool

Linyanti, Botswana

Kings Pool

Kings Pool is one of Botswana's premier camps, as well as one of only three permanent retreats in the Linyanti.

One of only three permanent camps in the Linyanti area, Kings Pool is a highly exclusive retreat designed to accommodate only a small number of guests. Kings Pool is the most luxurious of the Linyanti camps.

The location of Kings Pool is marvellous. The camp overlooks a permanent lagoon in a region of the Linyanti that is frequented by a huge variety of wildlife, including staggering elephant populations and a healthy number of wild dog, as well as a multitude of birds. Most of the structures at Kings Pool are raised off the ground so as to allow the wildlife to wander freely in the vicinity of the camp, providing wonderful game-viewing opportunities—wildlife-spotting from the comfort of the camp's viewing deck or its underground hide is an absolute delight.

Though very much a luxury camp, Kings Pool isn't overly plush. The design is quite minimalist, not unlike its sister camp in the Linyanti, Duma Tau. The main lodge is built on raised decking under thatch and opens at either side onto an extended viewing deck. There are lots of spots to relax and take in the stunning views, including a lovely pool which overlooks the lagoon. Beyond the public areas, the rooms at Kings Pool are huge and all come with their own private plunge pools and day beds – this is a camp that just invites you to relax!

Accommodation

There are just nine rooms at Kings Pool, connected to the main lodge by raised boardwalks. They are located far enough apart to ensure a good level of privacy, while care has also been taken to ensure that each has a view of the lagoon.

The rooms are technically tents, with canvas sides, but the thatched roofs and tiled bathrooms give them a more permanent character. They are very spacious, both inside and out, with expansive viewing decks. There is a single honeymoon suite with a king-sized bed. Each tent has its own private viewing deck with plunge pool overlooking the lagoon, a separate lounge area, and sala. The rooms are fan-cooled.

Dining

The dining experience at Kings Pool tends to be somewhat more formal than at other camps. There's a communal dining table, but meals are more often served individually at private tables, and mealtimes are flexible. The menus are equally flexible, with multiple options for each course. There's plenty of variety in the cooking, too. Much of the food, from international favourites to local specialties, is cooked in the local fashion, using ground pits and oven fires—you'll be amazed what the chefs manage to prepare using these methods!

Facilities

- Large dining room, bar and lounge under thatch
- Swimming pool
- Curio shop
- Open air boma for dinner around campfire (this typically takes place once a week, and is optional if guests prefer to dine privately)
- Two hides, one of which is underground
- Laundry service

Activities

- Game drives in open 4x4 Land Rovers
- Walking safaris
- Hides for game viewing

Child Policy

The camp will accommodate children over the age of six, though private vehicles must be booked for game activities if travelling with children under twelve. Walking activities have a minimum age of thirteen. There is no child rate.

Due to the camp's relatively remote and exposed location, we wouldn't recommend Kings Pool for families with young children.