Xugana Island Lodge by Desert & Delta Safaris is situated on a private concession and is widely regarded as the most stunning permanent water site in the Okavango Delta—an African jewel. Thanks to its remote setting, the lodge offers unparalleled privacy and uninterrupted views of the surrounding oasis. In May 2025, the lodge is set to reopen after a rebulid and will feature 10 rooms and 1 family room, a pool overlooking the Delta, and an expansive main area featuring a dining area, curio shop and reception, all woven into multi-level decks for optimal vistas. The life-filled channels of the Okavango Delta's lagoons remain a focul point, enhanced with a new Over-Water Fire Deck, which will extend beyond the island and onto the water's surface. To get guests even closer to nature, activities including boating, fishing, mokoro (traditional canoe) excursions, and walking safaris remain highlights. The area is teeming with wildlife to see and is a haven for birdwatching and fishing.
Each Luxury Safari Tent is elegantly perched at the island's edge and features an enclosed private deck with vistas overlooking the lagoon. Inside, there are tastefully designed en suite rooms that capture the natural colours and atmosphere of the Okavango Delta. Each Luxury Safari Tent includes: Tent positioning on raised teak deck (lagoon-facing); King bed (double and twin bed configuration options); Enclosed private viewing deck with loungers; En suite bathroom with shower, double vanity, and toilet; Eco-friendly bathroom toiletries; Wardrobe; Dressing gowns; Fans; Mosquito net; Small safe for valuables; Tea- and coffee-making facilities; In-room Wi-Fi; Hairdryer; Writing desk/dresser; Rain umbrellas; Flashlight; 220V Plug points for charging equipment; Airhorns in case of emergency; Laundry service (complimentary).
Balcony / Deck, Complimentary Wi-Fi, En Suite Bathroom, Fan, Hairdryer, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Lounge, Mosquito Netting, Private Lounge / Sitting Area, Safe, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Wardrobe
In keeping with Xugana Island Lodge's reputation for privacy, one Luxury Family Safari Tent offers a perfect blend of luxury, intimacy, and nature. Thoughtful exploration of Xugana Island has led to the creation of this beautiful family room, which includes two separate bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a connecting corridor between rooms. One of the bedrooms can be configured as either a twin or a double. The Luxury Family Safari Tent includes: Tent positioning on raised teak deck (lagoon-facing); Enclosed private viewing decks with loungers; Two en suite bedrooms (the second bedroom can accommodate 2 children in twin beds (or a double), and a third child on a roll out bed); Two separate en suite bathrooms including showers, toilets and vanities in each; Eco-friendly bathroom toiletries; Wardrobes; Dressing gowns; Fans; Mosquito nets; Small safe for valuables; Tea- and coffee-making facilities; In-room Wi-Fi; Hairdryers; Writing desks/dressers; Rain umbrellas; Flashlights; 220V Plug points for charging equipment; Airhorns in case of emergency; Laundry service (complimentary).
Balcony / Deck, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Electrical Outlets, En Suite Bathroom, Family Safari Tent, Fan, Hairdryer, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Lounge, Mosquito Netting, Private Lounge / Sitting Area, Safe, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Wardrobe
Bar, Battery Charging Facilities, Communal Dining, Credit Card Facilities, Eco Friendly, Guided Tours, Library, Licensed, Pool, Restaurant
Balcony / Deck, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Dressing Gowns, En Suite Bathroom, Ensuite, Family Safari Tent, Fan, Hairdryer, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Lounge Area, Lounge, Mosquito Nets, Private Lounge / Sitting Area, Safe, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Wardrobe
24-hour Security, Laundry Service (Complimentary)
Bird Watching, Boating, Fishing, Game Viewing, Game Walks, Helicopter Scenic Flights, Mokoro Excursion
Cultural Tours
Guided walking safaris, led by qualified experts on the surrounding islands, provide an opportunity to track the region's larger wildlife while also immersing in the smaller marvels that make up its intricate ecosystems. These excursions are conducted in small groups, each accompanied by two knowledgeable guides.
Drift through the Okavango Delta's serene, wildlife-rich channels in a mokoro (traditional dugout canoe), expertly navigated by seasoned guides. Immerse yourself in the vibrant diversity of birds, plants, and reptiles that thrive here, and savour the leisurely pace which enhances detail-orientated viewing.
Hop aboard a hard-bottom aluminum motorboat to explore the deeper channels of the iconic Okavango Delta. Cruise through this pristine landscape and be treated to a stunning array of birdlife, plant species, and larger game such as elephants, with expert guides to uncover Delta gems along the way. The boats are equipped with comfortable seating, a foldaway canvas roof for shade, and life jackets for safety and comfort.
The Okavango Delta provides one of the most diverse and rewarding birdwatching experiences, offering the chance to observe both resident and migratory species in one of the planet’s most pristine and ecologically vital landscapes. Enquire about Desert & Delta’s Epic Experience: Best of Botswana’s Birding: A Tailor-made Safari Experience (Hosted by a Specialist Bird Guide).
Brimming with tiger fish and home to the iconic annual (seasonal) Barbel Run, the Okavango Delta delivers the thrill of the chase, where anglers engage in an exhilarating dance of patience and skill. Seasoned and novice fishers are invited to cast their lines on a guided adventure. All fishing equipment is available at the lodge.
Seeing the Okavango Delta from a helicopter is a truly magnificent experience. Desert & Delta’s partners at Helicopter Horizons will remove the doors providing uninterrupted views and close up angles of the majestic Delta and its wildlife. A scenic flight is not just a must for keen photographers but an exciting opportunity to witness this remarkable network of land and water from above.
The flights are operated with the utmost respect and caution for the natural environment, the wildlife and travellers. Routes have been carefully marked out ensuring guests on other activities and in camp are not disturbed. The flight routes and take off areas are designed specifically to make use of pristine areas within the concession.
Dining takes on a new level with al fresco experiences on a spacious, multi-level deck that overlooks the pristine waters of the Delta. An Over-Water Fire Deck adds to the uniqueness and extends out over the water, offering the rare chance to step right above the delta and soak in spectacular views while sipping a drink beneath the open sky. A fire pit enhances the atmosphere, blending the elements of fire and water to create unforgettable moments, both morning and night.