Nxamaseri Island Lodge is a unique African experience on a private island in the permanent waters of Botswana’s Okavango Delta. A small, exclusive lodge, it is one of the oldest in the Okavango Delta.
The distinct style of Nxamaseri Island Lodge showcases the beauty of the permanent swamp that is its home and subtly expresses the rich vibrancy of the indigenous people.
It was established in the early 1980s by PJ and Barney Bestelink. PJ, an experienced guide, spent months exploring the permanent water channels of the delta in search of a perfect location for his home and camp. He favored the Nxamaseri Channel for its beauty and seclusion, eventually choosing to build his lodge on a large shady island hidden in the Nxamaseri waterways.
Locally inspired, Nxamaseri Island Lodge celebrates the colorful vibrancy of Botswana's culture. Guests can enjoy incredible views of the panhandle from the lounge area, which features comfortable seating and a collection of good books to browse.
Nxamaseri is a secluded lodge with a total of nine chalets, all nestled beneath the forest canopy. Each chalet is privately situated on its own teak deck. Bedrooms are quiet havens, with open access to a seating area on a private deck. Each evening, guests’ beds are turned down, and during cooler nights, hot water bottles are tucked under the blankets as a warm and welcoming surprise for tired travelers. A safe is provided in each room and at the reception for guests’ valuables.
The traditional method of transport along the waterways and over floodplains in Botswana is by mokoro (dug-out canoe). There is no better way to experience the stillness and beauty of the Okavango Delta than to be poled silently on the water, gliding just inches above the crystal-clear surface. You'll be at eye level with dragonflies, reed frogs, and water lilies, and within touching distance of the myriad of colorful fish that swim just below the surface.
March 7, 2025
Great Booking experience
I was reccommended to safari.com by a fellow traveller . From the moment I reached out to safari.com , the experience has exceeded by expectations. We worked with Lana for the booking process and I can tell you that she was very patient with us answering numerous questions. She also came up with multiple itineraries for us to choose from. She also hopped on a call with us pretty late in her time zone. Really appreciate that. While our travel dates are not until later this year, I am hoping that safari.com continues to provide the best experience during our travel.
March 5, 2025
Out of Afica
Lana organised our trip and every aspect of it was perfect. We went to Kambaku River Sands. You can see my review on trip advisor. The experience was faultless and I do not think we could have had a better experience anywhere in Africa. Utterly amazing and what was key was Lana’s ability to match what we wanted to the exactly right lodge/safari. Thank you.
March 3, 2025
Everything was perfect
Everything was perfect. Best vacation experience ever. Lana did a fantastic job!