Nxamaseri Island Lodge

Far from the busier reaches of the Okavango Delta, Nxamaseri Island Lodge offers a wonderfully peaceful safari where permanent waterways, outstanding birdlife and ancient cultural treasures come together in Botswana's remote Okavango Panhandle.

Occupying a private island surrounded by crystal-clear channels and floodplains, this intimate lodge is one of the oldest in the Okavango Delta. The emphasis here is on slowing the pace, exploring by boat and mokoro, and discovering a quieter side of Botswana where wildlife, fishing and the UNESCO-listed Tsodilo Hills are all part of the experience.

Accommodation

Accommodation comprises five thatched chalets, a Honeymoon Chalet, a Triple Chalet and a spacious Family Chalet, all tucked beneath indigenous forest and connected to the main lodge by raised teak walkways.

Every chalet features a private viewing deck, comfortable safari-inspired interiors and en-suite bathrooms, creating peaceful retreats where the sounds of birds, rustling reeds and flowing water replace the distractions of everyday life.

Dining

Freshly prepared three-course meals are served in the open-air dining area overlooking the river, creating a relaxed atmosphere where every meal becomes part of the safari. Private dining can also be arranged for those seeking a more intimate experience.

As evening falls, guests gather around the campfire beside the water, enjoying sundowners beneath vast African skies while listening to the sounds of the Panhandle come alive after dark.

Safari Experience

Nxamaseri celebrates the quieter side of the Okavango. Guided motorboat safaris explore the deeper channels and lagoons of the Panhandle, where hippos, crocodiles, sitatunga, red lechwe and an astonishing variety of birdlife thrive amongst the reeds and papyrus.

Traditional mokoro excursions glide silently through narrow waterways, offering an intimate perspective on this remarkable ecosystem, while guided island walks reveal the smaller details of the Delta that are often overlooked from a vehicle.

The Panhandle is also regarded as one of Botswana's premier fishing destinations. Between March and December, anglers can target powerful tigerfish and bream, making Nxamaseri a favourite with both experienced fishermen and those trying the sport for the first time.

One of the lodge's most distinctive experiences is a guided visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Tsodilo Hills. Home to thousands of ancient San rock paintings, these sacred hills offer a fascinating insight into Botswana's earliest inhabitants. Guests staying three nights or more can also extend the adventure with the unforgettable Tsodilo Hills Sleep Out, spending a night beneath the stars in beautifully designed Bushman Pods at the foot of these iconic mountains.

Wildlife & Seasons

The permanent waters of the Okavango Panhandle provide exceptional wildlife viewing throughout the year. Hippos, crocodiles, otters, red lechwe and prolific birdlife are regular sightings, while the summer months bring migrant species that make this one of Botswana's finest birdwatching destinations.

Wellness

Between excursions, guests can unwind beside the secluded swimming pool, enjoy a rejuvenating spa treatment or simply relax on their private deck surrounded by the tranquillity of the Panhandle.

Location

Nxamaseri Island Lodge occupies a private island in Botswana's Okavango Panhandle, close to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Tsodilo Hills. Combining pristine waterways, remarkable birdlife and fascinating cultural heritage, it offers one of Botswana's most distinctive safari experiences.