Got something to say? Luxury in the Delta
Respected safari operator &Beyond has opened two outstanding new lodges in the Okavango Delta, bringing their eco-friendly brand of five-star escapism to Botswana's premier tourist hotspot.Xudum Delta Lodge is situated on a permanent channel of the Delta and, being frequently marooned by the annual floodwaters, often provides an exciting entrance for guests as the only way to or from the lodge is by boat!
Built entirely of wood, the lodge's 12 suites make the most of the outstanding vistas stretching out over the reed beds, with wrap-around wooden decks and billowing mosquito nets offering all the romance you could ask for.
Xaranna Tented Camp also makes the most of its Delta views. Situated on its own private island the lodge is cut off by water for most of the year, so everything from food supplies to tourists has to be brought in by boat.
Xaranna offers equally splendid suites, but drag yourself away from the outdoor shower and day-bed-with-a-view to get out and explore the Delta. Twice-daily game-excursions take place in mokoros, speedboats or open 4x4 vehicles allowing you to get up close and personal with everything from herds of elephant and buffalo to the semi-aquatic Red Lechwe. There is also the opportunity for bush walks.
Both Xaranna and Xudum are situated in an area of the Delta that boasts a number of permanent river channels. While this steady supply of water spreads the game far and wide, it also creates a unique layer of vegetation which is home to a myriad of animal life.
Sprawling beds of papyrus reeds (keep an eye out for the Painted Reed frogs!) flank the channels carved by hippos, while evergreen figs and ferns add height. The area also offers fantastic birding, from the elusive Pel’s fishing owls to Africa Jacanas and Squacco Herons. African Fish Eagles seem to perch around almost every bend in the river, keeping a beady eye out for unwary African pike and tilapia in the crystal-clear channels below.
For more information on Xudum Delta Lodge or Xaranna Tented Camp, visit www.andbeyond.com or call 011 809 4300.
