Xugana Island Lodge

An expansive deck seemingly floats above the lagoon, offering front-row seats to the daily Delta drama. The open-sided main area nestles under a canopy of ebony and mangosteen trees, while the swimming pool, tucked into mature island gardens, provides a cooling refuge between activities. The bar and lounge areas feel delightfully intimate, and evenings often end with stories shared around the fire pit as hippos chorus their approval from the lagoon.

Twelve raised tents dot the island's shaded fringe, each positioned to make the most of those mesmerising lagoon views. The interiors strike just the right balance between luxury and practicality, with proper en-suite bathrooms and private viewing decks that beg for afternoon siestas. The elevation ensures both cooling breezes and uninterrupted wildlife watching – don't be surprised to spot a wading elephant from your daybed.

Its location amongst the permanent waterways of the Okavango means Xugana's focus is on water-based activities. There is a maze of channels and lagoons to explore by boat, where you'll likely get good glimpses of hippos and crocodiles, and a few wading elephants. Fishing can be especially rewarding out here, with several species of tilapia and bream sure to bite. The quintessential Okavango experience - a ride on a mokoro - is not to be missed - it's the most soothing and tranquil means of exploring this landscape and its incredible flora and fauna. Enjoy a walk on one of the many islands too (probably your best shot at spotting other, non-aquatic wildlife), while your guide reveals more secrets of the bush as you go. Scenic helicopter flights over the Okavango Delta are available at an additional charge.