(12 chalets and camping) PO Box 116, Maun; tel: 6860330; fax: 6862932; email: island@info.bw
Island Safari Lodge was a well-established hub when I first visited Maun in 1988. It's now run by the helpful Phil and Kay Potter and still stands in the same place, beside the Thamalakane River about 12km north of Maun, under a forest canopy dominated by tall sycamore figs (Ficus sycomorus). Coming from Maun you take a well signposted left turn just before the river. Then the drive (a kilometre or so) is corrugated and bumpy in places, but is a really lovely stretch of track through old riverine forest (and perfectly navigable for 2WD vehicles).

Accommodation here is in one of twelve thatched bungalows, which are widely spaced in indigenous vegetation and lawns beside the river. All have twin beds with mosquito nets, ceiling fans, tea and coffee facilities, and en-suite toilet and shower – and a bench outside on which to sit and contemplate the sunset!

The bar/restaurant can be lively when there are large groups in, but it's normally a more gentle, sedate spot which serves breakfast (a full one costs an extra P16.50 per person), bar snacks and light meals from 10.00 to 21.30, and à la carte dinners from 19.00 to 21.00.

Open all year.