Of all the ‘usual’ fly-in camps in the Delta, Duba Plains is one of the most northern. It is north of Moremi Reserve, about five minutes’ flight west of Vumbura.
Duba is a fairly small camp with the main dining area built on raised decking under a high thatched roof, around a large jackalberry tree. The cozy lounge/bar area is adjacent, on a slightly lower level, with armchairs and a couple of sofas around a wicker coffee table. Judicious use of sapling screens lends it a pleasant rustic feel.
The thatched guest toilet is nearby, and beyond is another area of raised decking. On one side of this is a swimming pool; opposite is an observation deck with chairs, tables and loungers. This commands a good view over the plains, and is often used for brunch. To the side of this is a quiet ‘sala’ (a small gazebo), with a couple of wicker chairs and a bench. It’s perfect for relaxing in the afternoon. About 150m from the main lounge is a small hide for birdwatchers, with a copy of Newman for those ‘hard to identify’ species.
Duba’s six tents are linked by bush paths, and raised on decks to give good views of the plains. Outside each there’s a small veranda with a table and two chairs, in front of the tent’s wooden door. Inside, wood has been used extensively for simple, tasteful decor. The headboard at the back of double or twin beds extends into twin washbasins, and there’s a small wardrobe and laundry basket. The tent has mosquito-proof gauze, so mosquito nets are not usually provided. Inside at the back is a flush toilet and a shower, beyond which a door opens onto raised decking where an outdoor shower has a great view of the plains.
Because of its location near the Panhandle, Duba is one the first camps in the main Delta to be flooded. From about May to the end of August the shallow-water plains around it usually have enough water for mekoro trips.