Xugana Island Lodge is situated on a private concession within the world-renowned Okavango Delta. The Okavango Delta braids across 15 000 km² of Botswana’s Kalahari Desert, providing an oasis to an abundance of wildlife. In the permanent delta, the myriad of sparkling waterways coil amongst the reed and papyrus beds and open unexpectedly onto tranquil lagoons that are fringed by wooded islands.
Xugana Lagoon is recognized as being the most spectacular permanent water camp in the Okavango Delta. The lodge, on a wooded island in the Xugana Lagoon, nestles beneath the shade of old wild ebony and African mangosteen trees facing and overlooks the lagoon. This exclusive reed and thatch structure blends seemingly with the surrounding landscape. Xugana prides itself on offering exceptional service, comfortable accommodation, and sumptuous cuisine.
The lodge boasts eight reed and thatch Lagoon-Facing Chalets that are raised on wooden platforms to afford spectacular views of the lagoon. All of the chalets feature twin beds, an en-suite bathroom with double vanities and shower, overhead fan, in-room safe, tea and coffee making facilities, umbrella, flashlight, air horn, hairdryer, and private deck.
The lodge facilities include a lounge, bar, various indoor and outdoor dining areas, swimming pool and viewing deck.
Xugana focusses on water-based activities that explore the delta. Tranquil mokoro trips provide a soothing way of viewing the multitude of water birds and pods of grunting hippos up-close. Motorboat safaris to lagoons and nearby islands offer exceptional game and bird viewing opportunities, and wilderness walks afford the opportunity to learn about the wonders of the swamp and the smaller creatures that live there. Xugana also offers catch and release fishing experiences where guests can try their hand at catching bream and tiger fish.
Xugana Island Lodge borders the Moremi Game Reserve, which has diverse habitats supporting a wide variety of animals. As well as possible sightings of wild dog, leopard and cheetah, other resident species include lion, elephant, buffalo, hippo, giraffe, hyena, zebra, kudu, red lechwe, sable and roan antelope.
Bird-watching is excellent throughout the year with species such as reed cormorant, African darter, eastern white pelican, African spoonbill, goliath heron, egrets, glossy ibis, sacred ibis, storks, geese and ducks only but a few to be spotted in the area.
Xugana Island Lodge is ideal for solo explorers, couples and families looking for a tranquil yet rewarding safari experience in the delta.
October 23, 2024
Booking with Leigh-Ann Croeser
Thank you for this fantastic booking experience. Leigh-Ann Croeser did everything to let my wishes become reality. I wasn’t an easy customer, but he never let me feel that. She answered very fast to all my questions and helped me with everything so that we have the most of our trip. Thank you very much for organizing our dream Safari. I can only recommend it.
October 21, 2024
Excellent, fast, helpful service
The service from Leigh-Ann has been exceptional. No matter the difference in time zone, her responses and suggestions are always fast and helpful. When we’ve asked for changes to the itinerary, there has never been a problem. Highly recommended.
October 9, 2024
Seems pointless to book things direct when Safari.com can do it all for you at the same cost
I wasn’t actually planning on leaving a review until after our trip which has been scheduled for March 2025. I wasn’t even planning to use a travel company to assist as we are experienced travellers who are used to booking our own arrangements. The cost of going direct with suppliers and going through Safari.com was exactly the same - with the latter you also have outstanding service and advice which makes it pointless to do it yourself. But I felt compelled to leave a shout out for Leigh-Ann Croeser who has been extremely helpful in organising our itinerary for South Africa. Her response to queries was always prompt and professional. When we ultimately wish to travel to East Africa, I know who I will be contacting.
Oct 23, 2024
Shann @ Safari.com is fantastic!
We worked with Shann Shaw and she was amazing! As someone who usually books my own travel I was a little bit skeptical at first... But safaris are not like a typical vacation and there are just SO many different options. Shann was incredibly patient in answering all of my questions, and eventually found the perfect safari lodge for me and my family. I really don't think I could have done it without her help. Highly recommend working with her!
Oct 23, 2024
Service was excellent
Service was excellent, and I was sent a reminder when the balance was due.
Oct 23, 2024
Booking with Leigh-Ann Croeser
Thank you for this fantastic booking experience. Leigh-Ann Croeser did everything to let my wishes become reality. I wasn’t an easy customer, but he never let me feel that. She answered very fast to all my questions and helped me with everything so that we have the most of our trip. Thank you very much for organizing our dream Safari. I can only recommend it.
Oct 23, 2024
Sara
Sara, bent over backwards to give us what we wanted as we changed our minds more than once
Oct 23, 2024
Very Responsive and Patient w/ Our Needs!
Anja has been great in making our travel reservations! She is very quick and responsive (at all hours, I'm not sure when she sleeps)! We went back and forth on 39 emails. Yes, 39 emails for a couple of weeks. She made several different itineraries in ranging prices, types of accommodations, and locations. She was patient through the whole process and provided so much information. We finally decided on our perfect trip!
Oct 21, 2024
Friendliness
Friendliness, quick response to my request and understanding of my needs It was only a pleasure dealing with Tanya Lomas.
Oct 21, 2024
Excellent, fast, helpful service
The service from Leigh-Ann has been exceptional. No matter the difference in time zone, her responses and suggestions are always fast and helpful. When we’ve asked for changes to the itinerary, there has never been a problem. Highly recommended.
Oct 18, 2024
Cannot recommend enough
Cannot recommend enough! Contacted at 6pm night before and Dorothy was helpful friendly and managed to book a safari trip with transport for 6 people! She was contactable on the day too and very very helpful!
Oct 17, 2024
Aquilia Safari trip
Re: Safari from Cape Town to Aquilia. Fadiel was very helpful and organised our trip for us. We were picked up by Joe, who was our driver for the day. Joe is born and raised in Cape Town. He was prompt and was very friendly and informative. There was a good choice of food at Aquilia and had choices for my husband too who is Coeliac.