A Magical Stay at Xigera Safari Lodge, the Okavango Delta
When one thinks of an African safari, the mind often conjures images of vast plains dotted with wildlife, golden sunsets, and the exhilarating thrill of encountering nature in its rawest form. This November, we had the privilege of experiencing all of this and more at the extraordinary Xigera Safari Lodge, nestled in the heart of the Okavango Delta, Botswana. Our stay was an unforgettable journey into the wild, where luxury meets nature in a seamless blend of adventure and relaxation.
Xigera (pronounced “Kee-gera”) is located in a prime spot within the Moremi Game Reserve, one of the most biodiverse and pristine wildlife regions in Africa. Arriving at the lodge felt like stepping into another world. After a short flight by light aircraft from Maun, (Botswana’s gateway to the Delta) we landed on the lodge’s private dirt airstrip. We were greeted by our guide Des who whisked us away to the lodge, where we had a warm welcome by the smiley team. Xigera is renowned for its luxurious offerings and commitment to sustainability, it’s not just a place to stay but an experience. The lodge’s design incorporates locally sourced materials and eco-friendly practices without sacrificing comfort. The architecture is a blend of contemporary elegance, extraordinary art, sculptures and traditional African craftsmanship.
Xigera’s accommodations are as unique as the surroundings. The luxury suites are perched above the water, connected by wooden walkways that give guests the feeling of living among the treetops. Each suite is a tranquil sanctuary, complete with outdoor showers, and large verandas. Inside, the interiors are thoughtfully designed with an earthy colour palette and luxurious furnishings. The highlight for us was the outdoor deck—perfect for watching the sun set over the water while sipping a delicious Okavango Gin & tonic.
The communal areas are equally impressive, including the lodge’s open-plan dining area, a well-stocked bar, a pantry, gift shop and a library with books about local flora and fauna. There is also a lovely swimming pool, gym and spa with stunning panoramic views of the Delta.
One of the things that stood out about Xigera was its dedication to sustainability. The lodge runs entirely on solar power, and much of the fabulous food served is locally sourced, with an emphasis on organic produce. We were lucky enough to have the innovative and passionate Chef Prince cook a six-course tasting menu right in front of us which was the equivalent to a fascinating cookery course.
Of course, the main draw of any safari lodge is the wildlife, and Xigera did not disappoint. The lodge offers a range of activities including game drives, walks, boat and mokoro (traditional dugout canoe) trips. The game drives were nothing short of spectacular. I would go as far as saying that it was the best game viewing in over twenty years of going on safari.
Early mornings, before the heat of the day set in, were spent in comfortable open 4×4 vehicles, tracking herds of elephants, lion prides, cheetah and an array of antelope species. The guides at Xigera are exceptional, with deep knowledge of the land, its animals, and the delicate ecosystem that sustains them. Our guide, Des was particularly gifted at reading the signs of nature and could spot a lion’s tracks from miles away, not to mention finding an elusive leopard up a tree. One of the highlights of the safari was witnessing a pack of around 20 Wild Dog, initially lounging in the shade, followed by them hunting and then catching an impala, only to have it stolen by a pack of hyena.
But it wasn’t just the big game that left an impression. The Okavango Delta is famous for its birdlife, and we were lucky enough to spot a range of species, including the striking malachite kingfisher, lilac-breasted rollers, and majestic African fish eagles, one of which had caught a catfish.
One of the most unique activities at Xigera is the chance to explore the Delta by mokoro. Guided by a local poler, we glided through narrow channels, weaving between reeds and water lilies, observing vibrant birdlife and the surrounding wetlands. The silence of the Delta is astounding, broken only by the occasional splash of a fish leaping from the water or the distant call of a bird. This peaceful excursion offered a chance to see the Delta’s smaller creatures up close, the not-so-small curious hippos that waddle along the water’s edge and the elegant waterbuck sipping from the banks. We glided round the corner where we had such a surprise to find an exquisitely set up bar with an elaborate array of drinks and light snacks whilst we watched the sun set. The sunsets over the Delta were particularly memorable—fiery oranges and pinks stretching across the sky, reflecting off the water below, while herons and storks took flight against the vibrant backdrop.
A real highlight of our stay was a 15-minute scenic helicopter flight, with the doors off, where we had a spectacular preview of a mosaic of wetlands, islands, and floodplains, with endless shimmering waterways of the Delta stretching below and dry plains dotted with wildlife.
Xigera Safari Lodge is an unparalleled destination that combines luxury with adventure, offering a deep connection to one of the world’s most extraordinary ecosystems. Whether you’re a seasoned safari-goer or a first timer, the experience at Xigera is sure to leave a lasting impression. The combination of top-tier service, incredible wildlife, and the unparalleled beauty of the Okavango Delta makes this a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a truly unforgettable African adventure. Our stay was a reminder of the magic of the wild, and we can’t wait to return.
