Xudum Delta Lodge opened in August 2008 and is built on an island in a 250km² private reserve in the Okavango Delta. It is surrounded by papyrus and reed beds and overlooks a permanent lagoon. There is a variety of wildlife in the area, however, it has never been purely a game viewing destination. Come to Xudum Delta Lodge for the chance to explore the waterways of the Okavango Delta!

The Okavango has its source in the highlands of central Angola – and unlike most rivers never reaches the sea. Instead it spills out into the Kalahari Desert, and creates a gigantic oasis. Subsequently, a multitude of lagoons, channels, forests and islands have been created, that support a fabulous wealth of wildlife.

Xudum Delta Lodge is accessed by fly-in and transfer. The 20 min flight by light aircraft from Maun is followed by a 20 min road transfer, or longer depending on what game is around en-route.

Xudum's main lounge and dining area are constructed on multi-layered decks. The extra room has been designed to maximise the views over the surrounding Delta environment. Meals are taken either in here, at an outside dining area, or can be delivered to your safari suite and to tend to revolve around the organized activities. The well-stocked safari shop, offers a range of souvenirs, African art, jewellery and branded clothing.

Hidden amongst the lush forest areas at Xudum Delta Lodge is the accommodation. The 9 luxury safari suites are built over split levels, and each unit has an en-suite bathroom with over-sized bath, an open-air shower, a spacious bedroom, a plunge pool, ceiling fan and air-conditioning. A lofty hideout, with great views over the waterways, is set above the bedroom and it can be transformed at night for a sleep-out under the stars.

Elephant and buffalo dominate and lion, cheetah, leopard and the African wild dog are the main predators. The adaptable red lechwe and the shy sitatunga, both water loving antelope, escape predators by fleeing off the land, when they can also feed on semi-aquatic grasses. The deeper lagoons and channels are home to a resident pod of hippo. Honey badgers can be seen in broad daylight, as they adjust their activities to suit their needs and there are water (marsh) mongoose, greater cane rat and look around the termite mounds for families of dwarf and banded mongoose.

The Delta is an ornithologists dream and highlights include Pel's fishing owl, Verreaux's eagle owl, bateleur, wattled cranes, green pigeons and various variety of kingfisher. Photographic opportunities are endless.

Water and wildlife trips make for a great combination. Although there is big game in the area, the Delta waterway experience is irresistible.

Okavango Delta Lodges | Botswana

Boat trips

Traditional mokoro rides are a relaxing, but still very exciting way to explore the Delta. Their electrically powered 'eco-boat' is a suitable alternative.

Game drives

Twice daily (morning and afternoon) plus night game drives are conducted in open-sided 4x4 safari vehicles.

Birdwatching

The Delta is an ornithologists dream and highlights include Pel's fishing owl, Verreaux's eagle owl, bateleur, wattled cranes, green pigeons and various variety of kingfisher. Photographic opportunities are endless.

Bush walk

A guided bush walk around the island is a perfect way to approach big game without alarming or disturbing their habits. It is also a great way to take some photographs from a different angle and perspective than in a vehicle or boat.

Although children are welcome at Xudum Okavango Delta Lodge there are some restriction

• Children under 5 years old can not join game drives and mokoro excursions.
• Children aged between 6 and 11 can participate on these activities at the lodge manager's discretion.
• For safety reasont those under 16 years old are not able to join any walking activities.
• It is sometimes possible to arrange a private vehicle for short game drives with younger children.
• A child minder can be arranged when requested in advance
• An extra bed can be arranged for a child to share with the parents. Note that only one triple room can be created in the lodge at any given time.