The Countdown to the Re-Opening of Xugana Island Lodge Begins!
The Countdown to the Anticipated Re-Opening of Xugana Island Lodge Begins!
Desert & Delta Safaris Will Soon Be Ready to Welcome Guests to their Iconic Okavango Delta Gem: 15 April 2025
In 2024, Desert & Delta Safaris announced the temporary closure of the long-cherished and highly esteemed Xugana Island Lodge. Now, the anticipation of this grand reopening on 15th April 2025 will soon be replaced with awe. What awaits guests is truly special thanks to the masterful consideration consistent throughout the Desert & Delta Safaris portfolio.
The Xugana Lagoon, home to Xugana Island Lodge, inspired the rebuild. Known widely as the most spectacular permanent water site in the entire Okavango Delta, the newly renovated lodge is set to reflect the sheer splendour of this area.
Expect an authentic celebration of nature, luxury, epic adventure and tranquillity, all intertwined with exceptional service and soul—such is the Desert & Delta Safaris way!
The renovation of Xugana Island Lodge has been carried out with a focus on minimising environmental impact while maximising the year-round experience. The lodge's intimate size and considered design ensure that visitors can enjoy the beauty of the Okavango Delta without compromising its delicate ecosystem.
Xugana Island Lodge is Set to Impress:
With a maximum capacity of 22 guests, privacy and tranquillity remain central, while views of the lagoon are unparalleled—steadfast elements and odes to the lodge’s rich history and consistent excellence over the years.
Nature remains the hero throughout the lodge and with its array of activities. The Xugana Lagoon is Africa’s largest and most awe-inspiring oasis, and owing to its location, Xugana Island Lodge is a year-round water paradise offering guests the chance to experience a myriad of deep waterways, open floodplains and diverse wildlife.
Xugana Island Lodge retains its beloved essence and now features some exciting highlights:
1. Overwater Fire-Deck: A standout addition that extends beyond the island, allowing guests to step directly onto the water's edge and enjoy panoramic views beneath the open sky—an ideal setting for unforgettable moments, both day and night.
2. Lagoon-Facing Pool and Bar: The swimming pool has been repositioned to offer sweeping vistas of the lagoon, and the rondavel-style bar is the perfect place to order a cocktail.
3. Uncompromised Connection with Nature: The curio shop, reception, and dining areas are now incorporated into spacious, multi-level decks, providing elevated vantage points of areas set under a canopy of Ebony and African Mangosteen trees.
4. Conscious Expansion: Two new rooms and a family suite have been added in a previously unexplored area of the island, maintaining privacy and seclusion while minimising environmental disruption. As committed stewards of the environment, Desert & Delta Safaris is upholding its minimal-impact ethos by introducing a state-of-the-art power plant, enabling it to operate entirely off the grid. Additionally, using durable, lightweight materials reduces transport demands and protects the delicate ecosystem.
5. Water-Based Safaris: As a water-based camp, Xugana Island Lodge offers unique activities such as guided motorboat safaris, mokoro (traditional canoe) excursions, and catch-and-release fishing for bream and tiger fish. Guided walking safaris are inclusive and take place on the surrounding islands. Scenic helicopter flights are a must for aerial delta views (surcharges apply).
6. Luxury Tents, including:
• Fresh décor echoing the blue hues of the lagoon
• Enclosed decks with lagoon views, perfect for indoor-outdoor living
• Outdoor showers
• En-suite bathrooms with indoor showers and double vanities
• Spacious writing desks and closets for storage
The renovated and remodelled features combine to create a luxurious and immersive stay in one of Africa's most remarkable areas, offering guests unparalleled opportunities to connect with the natural beauty underpinned by Desert & Delta’s commitment to conservation and sustainable tourism.
“We are excited to unveil the newly renovated Xugana Island Lodge," said Matthew Johnson, Desert & Delta Safaris Managing Director. "Our team has worked tirelessly to remodel a distinctive lodge that honours the natural beauty of the Okavango Delta while providing our guests with a chance to experience unparalleled adventures in luxury and comfort. We believe that Xugana Island Lodge will continue to be a jewel in the crown of Desert & Delta’s destinations, for its life-changing encounters in one of the world's most extraordinary ecosystems."
From April 15th 2025 new and returning guests can celebrate the reopening for themselves with a visit to Xugana Island Lodge, highlighting its outstanding innovations from the beginning - the fresh décor of the lodge, the seamless design with touches of colour and earthy fabrics complemented by a comfortable seating area with a plush lounger providing the perfect spot to relax and soak in the breathtaking surroundings.
Desert & Delta Safaris has excelled in encompassing the Old Soul, New Look concept at Xugana Island Lodge and is excited to reveal more about the safari company’s groundbreaking 2025/2026 initiatives soon!