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Thamo Telele

Tshanakona, Maun, Ngamiland East 2745 Botswana
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Traveller (102)
Room & Suite (30)
Dining (7)

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About

#1 of 1 villa in Maun
Location
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Value
Thamo Telele is a safari lodge in Maun located within a 250 hectare private game reserve on the outskirts of the iconic safari town, the gateway to the Okavango Delta. This intimate and comfortable lodge was recently refurbished and opened its tent flaps again in March 2022. With an enviable location bordering the Thamalakane River, Thamo Telele can accommodate 22 guests and offers space for relaxation and tranquility, making it the ideal stop-over either side of any safari. The abundant bird life will set any twitcher twitching and anyone with a soft spot for giraffe will be in a state of pure bliss as they get up close and learn more about our resident herd from our team of naturalists. In fact, the lodge was named after our littlest giraffe resident, born during our refurb in 2021. A night or two at Thamo Telele is all you need to discover why this little lodge has some cool safari style and soul!
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Property amenities
Free parking
Free internet
Pool
Free breakfast
Hiking
Horseback riding
Airport transportation
Mosquito net
Internet
Hot bath
Outdoor pool
Bar / lounge
Restaurant
Special diet menus
Non-smoking hotel
Outdoor fireplace
Outdoor furniture
Shared lounge / TV area
Sun terrace
Laundry service
Ironing service
Shoeshine
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Room features
Housekeeping
Safe
Room types
Bridal suite
Non-smoking rooms
Family rooms
Good to know
HOTEL CLASS
4.0 of 5 stars
HOTEL STYLE
Quaint
Charming
121Reviews3Q+A18Room tips
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Gayle M wrote a review Sept 2021
Santa Fe, New Mexico196 contributions158 helpful votes
Julius, the General Manager of the Royal Tree Lodge and his team are absolutely unparalleled. The location of the lodge is lovely, it reminded me of a tropical location in Thailand with wildlife. There are great walks to take allowing one to see Giraffes, Zebras, Impalas. Very safe and a nice way to wind down after Safari Rides in the National Parks. The team made every effort to make us feel welcome - including making a lovely cake for our 30th anniversary. We stayed in one of the casitas which was well appointed. I understand that they will be renovating the lodge in the near future, but I found it entirely satisfactory. The food was also quite good and reasonably priced. All in all, a lovely visit
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Date of stay: September 2021
Rooms
Service
Sleep Quality
Room Tip: There are two casitas which are well worth the money
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
1 Helpful vote
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Response from Natural Selection, Marketing at Thamo Telele
Responded 29 Jan 2024
Thank you so much for leaving us this review. We're so pleased that you enjoyed your stay. I see that you stayed with us before we reopened after our refurb - we're confident that should you visit us again you'll find the experience even better. Best wishes, Thamo Telele Team
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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Joan K wrote a review Aug 2021
Wyncote, Pennsylvania442 contributions646 helpful votes
I had planned a couple nights in Maun to unwind from two very long flights. The description and photos of the lodge were lovely but I was disappointed in the extreme. I heard they were shutting the lodge for a complete refurbishment. I wish they had closed it much earlier so they would not diminish their reputation in the process.
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Date of stay: June 2021
Cleanliness
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
1 Helpful vote
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Response from Natural Selection, Marketing at Thamo Telele
Responded 29 Jan 2024
Thanks so much for your review Joan. I see that you stayed before the lodge was refurbished and came under new management. We're confident that should you choose to stay with us again, you'd find the experience much improved. Best wishes, Thamo Telele Team
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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Jurgen B wrote a review Jul 2021
Brussels, Belgium2870 contributions781 helpful votes
It is more expensive than many luxury lodges in the parks around Maun that include all food and game drives, so really not worth its price. Moreover, food was simply not good. On the other hand the bungalow room is very nice and comfortabel, and you can do nice walks on their big property.
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Date of stay: July 2021
Location
Service
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
1 Helpful vote
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Response from Natural Selection, Marketing at Thamo Telele
Responded 29 Jan 2024
Thanks so much for your review Joan. I see that you stayed before the lodge was refurbished and came under new management. We're confident that should you choose to stay with us again, you'd find the experience much improved. Best wishes, Thamo Telele Team
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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John H wrote a review May 2021
Tucson, Arizona24 contributions11 helpful votes
I spent three wonderful nights here on a recent business trip. We were on a full board package and found the food to be incredible. From a made to order breakfast, followed by a diverse luncheon menu at 13:00, to the high tea at 16:00 to a family style three course meal at 19:00 you will not be disappointed with cuisine that is prepared with some of the freshest ingredients. The staff are attendant and generous almost to a fault. Warm days and cool evenings add to your enjoyment. Be sure to schedule a horseback game ride and seek Vlad as your guide. An amazing experience!
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Date of stay: May 2021Trip type: Travelled on business
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
1 Helpful vote
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Response from Natural Selection, Marketing at Thamo Telele
Responded 29 Jan 2024
Thank you so much for leaving us this review. We're so pleased that you enjoyed your stay. I see that you stayed with us before we reopened after our refurb - we're confident that should you visit us again you'll find the experience even better. Best wishes, Thamo Telele Team
Read more
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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Marc S wrote a review Mar 2020
Brussels, Belgium522 contributions263 helpful votes
Somewhat old facilities but tents are in good shape and very comfortable. Beds are superb. Breakfast is OK. The location is a good 15 min drive via sandy paths which is a bit of a challenge if not in a 4X4. The best part of the lodge is the staff who make this place special. Wifi is ok and only in the main lodge (not in the tents). Stayed one night and will return in the future.
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Date of stay: March 2020
Location
Cleanliness
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
2 Helpful votes
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Response from Natural Selection, Marketing at Thamo Telele
Responded 29 Jan 2024
Thank you so much for leaving us this review. We're so pleased that you enjoyed your stay. I see that you stayed with us before we reopened after our refurb - we're confident that should you visit us again you'll find the experience even better. Best wishes, Thamo Telele Team
Read more
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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Nicole S wrote a review Jan 2020
Byron Bay, Australia29 contributions12 helpful votes
+1
We were privileged to have the opportunity to stay at this beautiful and established lodge just outside of Maun. We had a fantastic nine days relaxing by the pool, hiring a car to do day tours to amazing Moremi National Reserve ( 4 wheel drive only ! But 2 hours to the South Gate ). With No predictors present on this large reserve; the interesting twist to this lodge has the availability of horseback safaris. Advantage being the animals are not startled by another grass eating creature whilst you are on its back. This enables very close proximity to their many giraffes, impalas, Kudu, zebras and wilder-beast etc Lovely Liz, the operator of the horses lives on site and is a very accomplished rider. It’s a magical experience. She knows the property like the back of her hand. The accommodation is beautifully appointed by their Texan owners; NGO operators and residents of 35 years in Botswana. We were blessed to be given a tour through the many projects the owners, Jana and Jerry, have created and fought tooth and nail for with Botswana’s Government to provide unparalleled facilities. These range from an International School which they ran for 25 years having had up to matriculation in place for local kids, a youth centre with an extensive gym, a sanctuary of prayer, recording studio for local talent and youth programs in place to keep young people on the right track. Drs Jana and Jerry are a credit to the community and so humble in their major accomplishments including a ‘Baby House’ which is open now and the go to for HIV babies that are dumped in Maun. It’s a delicate subject to broach however these good people have taken it on and have paved the way for these unwanted infants to receive not only the medication and roof over there heads, but mums to cuddle them and give them a better life. Proceeds of guest’s stays here at the lodge go directly to these projects if not straight from Jana and Jerry’s pockets and tireless work to create a better life for the abandonment of HIV new borns which is endemic in Botswana. All in all, I can truly say I have never had the opportunity to meet such inspirational people making a difference and their lodge is a fabulous place to kick back in a paradise setting, eating gourmet food which is relentless in its servings and know that the money is truly making a difference to the world we live in. We love you guys. Thank you so much.
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Date of stay: January 2020Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
1 Helpful vote
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Response from Natural Selection, Marketing at Thamo Telele
Responded 29 Jan 2024
Thank you so much for leaving us this review. We're so pleased that you enjoyed your stay. I see that you stayed with us before we reopened after our refurb - we're confident that should you visit us again you'll find the experience even better. Best wishes, Thamo Telele Team
Read more
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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Dreamer34778974052 wrote a review Dec 2019
Austin, Texas2 contributions
Very quiet feels very removed from the busy city of Maun. Wonderful tent walled safari style, but luxurious permanent tents, as well as chalets. Rustic but pampering. Horseback, and walking safaris on well marked trails in predator free areas. Great staff, food service. Terrific deck to enjoy while birding and watching the monkeys. Dip pool to cool down in on warm days. We'll be back next summer!
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Date of stay: September 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Natural Selection, Marketing at Thamo Telele
Responded 29 Jan 2024
Thank you so much for leaving us this review. We're so pleased that you enjoyed your stay. I see that you stayed with us before we reopened after our refurb - we're confident that should you visit us again you'll find the experience even better. Best wishes, Thamo Telele Team
Read more
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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JeanAustria wrote a review Dec 2019
Austria125 contributions121 helpful votes
We absolutely loved staying in this impeccable lodge located near the town of Maun in Northern Botswana Our thatched cottage was a dream with four poster bed and cosy seating area for our morning coffees and game viewings from our veranda. We really didn't need to go on a game drive as we had lovely animals on our doorstep. As they had no dangerous animals we could safely and very happily either ride or walk along the well-marked trails and view zebras, wildebeest, giraffes, marabou storks to name but a few as well as the lovely bushbuck that roams around the oroperty. While we were there we got to meet the newly born giraffe which was just fantastic. Jerry and Jana, the lovely, owners, couldn't do enough to make sure we had a super stay. With every night you stay in this lovely lodge and with every meal you enjoy you are helping their amazing work among the people of Botswana. We spent a very interesting day getting to know all the projects that they so fantastically support. Our stay at the Royal Tree Lodge was more than a holiday it was a once in a lifetime experience among friends. We can't thank them and their lovely staff enough for giving us the experience of a lifetime.
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Date of stay: November 2019
Rooms
Service
Sleep Quality
Room Tip: The cottages are all spaced out in the reserve that you have no idea you have any neighbours!
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
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Response from Natural Selection, Marketing at Thamo Telele
Responded 29 Jan 2024
Thank you so much for leaving us this review. We're so pleased that you enjoyed your stay. I see that you stayed with us before we reopened after our refurb - we're confident that should you visit us again you'll find the experience even better. Best wishes, Thamo Telele Team
Read more
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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Andrew W wrote a review Oct 2019
Shrewsbury, United Kingdom231 contributions139 helpful votes
We stayed at the Royal Tree Lodge some years ago and enjoyed it. Then we slept in the permanent safari tents, which were lovely. This time our accommodation was in a detached bungalow room which was a fairly long walk from the main building, but very private and quiet as a result. We liked the outside shower which had hot water, and Mrs W enjoyed an hour in the sunken bath to help get over the overnight flight from Heathrow. This property is a small fenced game reserve and has a variety of animals, but no predators. As a result it is pleasant to walk within the property, birding is excellent, as are the photographic opportunities. Unfortunately, this time, our stay was very short and we didn’t get to spend much time in the game area. We were however treated to a visit from a Chobe Bushbuck outside the main entrance just as we were leaving. Dinner, which is a communal affair around a large dining room in the main building, was hosted by Julius who is a convivial host. It was pleasant to spend the evening with other guests and share experiences, or hopes whilst being treated to silver service and excellent fare. We liked Royal Tree Lodge on our last visit. It has recently had a refresh and is even better as a result and the staff deserve a special mention for being friendly and polite. Would we go back. Definitely!
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Date of stay: September 2019
Cleanliness
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Natural Selection, Marketing at Thamo Telele
Responded 29 Jan 2024
Thank you so much for leaving us this review. We're so pleased that you enjoyed your stay. I see that you stayed with us before we reopened after our refurb - we're confident that should you visit us again you'll find the experience even better. Best wishes, Thamo Telele Team
Read more
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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Daisyki wrote a review Oct 2019
Newton Abbot, United Kingdom25 contributions3 helpful votes
Happy days at The Royal Tree Lodge with Julius at the helm. First class accommodation, a pool to cool off in, good food and friendly service. Horse riding and walks in the grounds. Just hit the right note.
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Date of stay: September 2019Trip type: Travelled with friends
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
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Response from Natural Selection, Marketing at Thamo Telele
Responded 29 Jan 2024
Thank you so much for leaving us this review. We're so pleased that you enjoyed your stay. I see that you stayed with us before we reopened after our refurb - we're confident that should you visit us again you'll find the experience even better. Best wishes, Thamo Telele Team
Read more
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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There are more places to choose from in the Maun area.
FORMERLY KNOWN AS
Royal Tree Lodge
LOCATION
BotswanaNorth-West DistrictNgamiland EastMaun
NUMBER OF ROOMS
11
Prices are the average nightly price provided by our partners and may not include all taxes and fees. Taxes and fees that are shown are estimates only. Please see our partners for more details.
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THAMO TELELE: See 95 Reviews and 133 Photos (Maun, Botswana) - Tripadvisor

Frequently Asked Questions about Thamo Telele
Which popular attractions are close to Thamo Telele?
Nearby attractions include Your Botswana Experience (6.7 km), African Guide Academy (5.7 km), and General Trading Company (6.2 km).
What are some of the property amenities at Thamo Telele?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include free breakfast, a pool, and an on-site restaurant.
What food & drink options are available at Thamo Telele?
Guests can enjoy free breakfast, an on-site restaurant, and a lounge during their stay.
Is parking available at Thamo Telele?
Yes, free parking is available to guests.
What are some restaurants close to Thamo Telele?
Conveniently located restaurants include Dusty Donkey Café, Tandurei Indian Restaurant, and Hilary's.
Are there opportunities to exercise at Thamo Telele?
Yes, guests have access to a pool during their stay.
Does Thamo Telele have airport transportation?
Yes, Thamo Telele offers airport transportation for guests. We recommend calling ahead to confirm details.