The Delta, woven into every moment: New andBeyond Xaranna Okavango Delta Lodge
andBeyond Xaranna Okavango Delta Camp is set to enter an exciting new chapter with an extensive rebuild that will see the intimate safari camp evolve and reopen as andBeyond Xaranna Okavango Delta Lodge in August 2027. Set within an exclusive 90,500-hectare concession in Botswana’s Okavango Delta, Xaranna is immersed in one of the world’s most extraordinary wilderness ecosystems: a UNESCO World Heritage Site where the seasonal flood transforms the landscape into a shifting mosaic of waterways, islands and floodplains. This delicate ecosystem supports an exceptional diversity of wildlife, and approximately 450 recorded bird species. Guided by the rhythms of the Delta itself, the new lodge will bring the landscape into every aspect of the guest experience, inviting travellers to rediscover this remarkable wilderness as a restorative place that reveals itself layer by layer.
Designed by award-winning multidisciplinary practice LIFE Interiors Architecture Strategic Design, the lodge will draw inspiration from the Delta’s ever-changing relationship between land and water, Botswana’s weaving traditions and the linear forms of reeds. Natural materials, tactile finishes, subtle rope detailing, sage and forest-green tones, blonde linen, timber and beaten brass will create a refined yet understated aesthetic that reflects the surrounding landscape. Exceptional guiding, thoughtful hospitality and elevated wellness will remain central to the intimate Xaranna experience.
Reimagined guest spaces will create a seamless flow between light-filled interiors and the wilderness beyond. The main guest area will bring together lounge, dining and creative spaces inspired by the Setswana tradition of gathering, with indoor and outdoor dining, an interactive kitchen and al forno experience. Guests can also enjoy evenings in the traditional boma, unwind in the library, explore the sculptural wine bodega or take in panoramic views of the floodplains and night sky from the stargazing nest.
The lodge will feature nine expansive Suites, each measuring 160 m², with thoughtfully designed living areas, a personal bar, two-way fireplace, private pool, shaded sala and outdoor seating. A new 404 m² two-bedroom Family Suite will offer additional space for families and small groups, with interleading passageways connecting two Suites to a central lounge and shared deck, while retaining the flexibility to accommodate guests separately.
Welcoming children of all ages, the lodge will offer andBeyond’s WILDchild programme, with age-appropriate activities designed to connect younger guests with the Delta. Children aged six to 11 may join shared game drives at the Lodge Manager’s discretion; guests aged 12 and older may also enjoy seasonal motorised boat cruises, while guided walking safaris and seasonal mokoro excursions are available from age 16.
Guests can explore the Delta through twice-daily game drives, guided walking safaris, seasonal mokoro journeys and motorised boat cruises, alongside community experiences. Private safaris and scenic helicopter flights will also be available at an additional cost. Expert guides will tailor each day to wildlife movements and seasonal conditions, complemented by new wellness, dining and lifestyle offerings. A dedicated wellness centre will introduce Healing Earth treatments, a bespoke apothecary, hammam, Rasul therapy, a treatment tower, rain and Vichy showers, and an outdoor hot tub and hydrotherapy deck. A new fitness and wellbeing area will feature premium Technogym equipment, a cold plunge pool, relaxation deck overlooking the wetlands and Kneipp Therapy, offering further opportunities to restore body and mind between safari adventures.
“What sets andBeyond Xaranna Okavango Delta Lodge apart is its ability to provide a truly multidimensional sense of place, held by the Delta. The lodge will introduce a more immersive and holistic approach to luxury safari travel, representing a significant step forward in our Botswana portfolio. Alongside Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge, Nxabega Okavango Tented Camp and our Under Canvas camps, it strengthens our Botswana circuit while offering a distinctly Delta-led perspective that showcases the depth and diversity of the Okavango experience,” says Jason King, Managing Director of andBeyond Southern Africa Lodges.