Xugana Island Lodge, Okavango Delta

Location

Perched on the serene Xugana Lagoon within the Shinde concession, this secluded retreat is accessed via light-aircraft flight and a short boat transfer. Surrounded by a rich tapestry of ebony and mangosteen trees, the lodge gazes out across lily-strewn waters where hippos wallow and elephants wade through the reeds. Nearby, classic game drives through Moremi Game Reserve and walking safaris on nearby islands offer a deeper insight into the region’s wildlife and ecology.

Accommodation

The lodge features eight raised reed-and-thatch chalets, along with a family suite, each offering sweeping lagoon views. Inside, floor-to-ceiling canvas windows invite in the Delta’s gentle breezes, while private decks provide the perfect perch for birdwatching or a morning coffee. Interiors are airy and elegant, styled in lagoon-inspired tones with natural textures. Each suite features indoor and outdoor showers, double vanities, mosquito nets, and thoughtful comforts like ceiling fans and curated safari décor.

Dining

Meals are enjoyed communally in an open-air thatched dining area built into the tree canopy. Expect fresh, seasonal dishes, traditional Botswana cuisine and warm, personalised service. Highlights include sunset dinners served on a private floating pontoon and fireside meals on the lodge’s over-water deck. High tea is a daily ritual, with biltong, scones and local treats offered mid-afternoon, while sundowners are served with panoramic views and the gentle calls of Delta wildlife.

Facilities

The main lodge features a welcoming open-air lounge and bar overlooking the water, along with a refreshing plunge pool surrounded by loungers and leafy shade. A small library offers wildlife guides and local literature, while the curio shop stocks handmade crafts and keepsakes. Wooden walkways connect multi-level decks and a striking over-water firepit platform, perfect for storytelling and stargazing. While the lodge does not offer game drives – being a fully water-based camp – it more than makes up for it with a curated selection of immersive wilderness experiences. Drift peacefully across the mirror-like waters in a traditional mokoro canoe, as expert polers guide you through a floating world of papyrus, water lilies and remarkable wildlife, from nesting storks and singing reed frogs to crocodiles and bathing hippos. For those craving a bit more pace, motorboat safaris provide a thrilling alternative, often accompanied by the dramatic sight of a fish eagle swooping for its catch. Back on dry land, guided bush walks on nearby islands bring the untamed Delta into sharp focus. Follow elephant tracks, spot giraffes between the trees, or—if lucky—encounter wild dogs, leopards, and the elusive red lechwe antelope.