Xigera Safari Lodge | Botswana
Xigera Safari Lodge, Okavango Delta
Xigera Safari Lodge sits on the western edge of the Okavango Delta, a place where water, wildlife, and design come together in remarkable harmony. Owned and operated by the Tollman family of The Red Carnation Hotel Collection, it redefines what a luxury safari lodge can be. Every element, from the architecture to the art and furnishings, has been carefully considered to create a space that feels deeply connected to its surroundings while offering the highest level of comfort and craftsmanship.
Xigera lies within a private area of the Moremi Game Reserve, surrounded by floodplains, papyrus channels, and forested islands. It is one of the most water-rich corners of the Delta, which means mokoro excursions and boating safaris are available for much of the year. The lodge’s position ensures both seclusion and variety, with access to tranquil waterways as well as the open plains where large herds and predators roam.
The camp itself is striking. Built almost entirely on stilts, it appears to float among the trees. Wooden walkways curve between enormous leadwoods, and open decks look out over a constantly shifting landscape of water and grassland. The design is bold and contemporary but softened by natural materials and organic shapes that reflect the flow of the Delta. Every space feels open, light, and alive with birdsong.
The Lodge
Xigera offers twelve individually designed suites and one exclusive villa. Each is positioned for privacy and views, with large glass panels that blur the line between inside and out. The interiors combine natural textures with handcrafted art pieces, much of it commissioned from local and Southern African artists. The result is a lodge that feels like a living gallery, where each item tells a story.
Inside, the suites are generous in size, with king beds, spacious lounges, and outdoor decks complete with daybeds and private plunge pools. The bathrooms are open and luxurious, featuring freestanding tubs, rain showers, and elegant details in wood, stone, and copper. Everything has been designed for both beauty and function, from the soft lighting to the quiet ceiling fans that stir the warm Delta air.
The two-bedroom villa, known as the Xigera Family Suite, offers a more private experience with its own lounge, pool, and dedicated butler. It is ideal for families or small groups wanting complete exclusivity. In the main lodge, guests can relax in the library, art gallery, or wellness center, which includes a gym, yoga deck, and full spa overlooking the water.
Safari Experience
Xigera’s setting within the Moremi Game Reserve allows for a wide range of safari experiences. Morning and afternoon game drives explore the surrounding woodland and open plains, where lions, leopards, and wild dogs are regularly seen. The area also supports healthy populations of elephant, red lechwe, giraffe, and buffalo. Birdlife is exceptional, with everything from kingfishers and bee-eaters to African skimmers and Pel’s fishing owl.
Water-based safaris are a highlight. Guests can explore by mokoro or motorboat, gliding through channels lined with papyrus and reeds. These excursions offer a peaceful contrast to the excitement of the drives, allowing time to appreciate the smaller details that define the Delta. Walking safaris with experienced guides provide another perspective, focusing on the plants, insects, and animal tracks that reveal how this intricate ecosystem works.
Evenings at Xigera are unhurried and elegant. Sundowners are enjoyed by the water, followed by dinners in the open dining area or on the deck beneath the stars. The food is exceptional, inspired by local ingredients and prepared with the attention to detail you would expect from one of Africa’s finest hospitality groups. The service is polished yet warm, and the staff take pride in creating experiences that feel personal and memorable.
Why We Love It
Xigera Safari Lodge is unlike anywhere else in the Okavango Delta. It combines cutting-edge design with a deep respect for the environment and local craftsmanship. The lodge runs almost entirely on solar power and was built with sustainability at its core. The attention to detail is extraordinary, yet it never overshadows the sense of place.
It is the kind of lodge that appeals to travelers who appreciate both art and wilderness, those who value comfort but still want to feel close to nature. Every part of Xigera feels carefully curated yet entirely authentic, and the experience manages to be indulgent without losing its connection to the Delta.
A stay at Xigera is about more than just seeing wildlife. It is about feeling part of one of Africa’s most remarkable landscapes and appreciating the creativity and care that went into bringing it to life. Whether you are floating through the waterways in a mokoro or watching the sunset from your deck, it is a place that leaves a lasting impression. If you would like to include Xigera Safari Lodge in your Botswana itinerary, get in touch. We can help you design a tailor-made journey that captures the best of the Okavango Delta, from its wild waterways to its most inspiring lodges.
Booking Process
We tailor every aspect of your travel – your itinerary, private guides, accommodations, & activities – to create the trip you’re dreaming of. With deep in-country knowledge, our team is able to craft your trip precisely the way you want. Request a custom itinerary below.
1. Make an Enquiry
Submit an enquiry online.
2. Speak to a Local Expert
Discuss your travel plans with your own dedicated Africa specialist.
3. Receive a Quote + Itinerary
We craft your dream itinerary and send you a quote.
4. Book Your Trip
Once every detail is just right, we confirm your booking.