It may not seem like you could step any further off the beaten track than the Okavango Delta, but how does a private island sound? Welcome to North Island, a gorgeous lodge on an island ensconced by the boughs of ebony, mangosteen, leadwood and fig trees, and watched over by a lagoon that's popular with the ample wildlife. With only three enormous tents, it's incredibly exclusive and the views and surrounding landscapes are sublime. During the day, discover the Okavango by land, water or from the sky, and in the evening, plonk yourself down and listen to the symphony of bell frogs as fireflies blink above the water. Magic.
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Shades of deep green and taupe fill the trio of tented suites, each with a giant bed draped in netting and an eco-friendly cooling system (which is completely solar-powered). In the winter months, there's a fireplace just waiting to be lit and keep you cosy in the chilly mornings. You'll also find a fully-equipped bathroom with an outdoor shower to use on balmy, starlit evenings, and the expansive deck boasts a sunken lounge and private plunge pool with views of the busy lagoon.
Thanks to its location in the north, the lodge is one of the first to receive the Delta's annual floodwaters so you can enjoy activities on the water almost all year round.
If the bumpy vehicle 'massages' are getting to you, request an in-tent spa treatment to make the most of your siesta.
If you're travelling en-famille, take note that North Island only accommodates children six years and older.
North Island Okavango is owned by Natural Selection which is dedicated to conservation, partnering with local communities, governments, and organizations to protect and expand conservation areas. They build eco-friendly camps that blend into the environment and aim to inform guests about Africa's wildlife challenges and successes, hoping to inspire further positive action for wildlife conservation. A contribution of $50 per guest, which is included in the nightly rate, goes towards the above goals.
Start with a recommended trip or create one from scratch
North Island Okavango can be booked with Timbuktu as part of a tailor-made Botswana trip, rather than as a standalone room reservation. Start online, customising one of our recommended Botswana trips featuring North Island Okavango or get advice and suggestions from one of our Botswana specialists who will design the trip around your dates, check availability and handle every booking for you.
Stays at North Island Okavango start from around $1.7K, or US$1.7K, per person per night as part of a tailor-made trip. The exact price depends on your travel dates, room type and the shape of the rest of your itinerary. A Timbuktu travel specialist can give you an accurate quote for your dates.
Where uber-stylish lodges offer a range of iconic experiences and exceptional wildlife is the cherry on top
