Nxamaseri Island Lodge (Okavango Delta)

THE LODGE

Nxamaseri Island Lodge is one of the oldest camps in the Okavango Delta. It was established in the early 1980s by PJ and Barney Bestelink. PJ, an experienced guide, spent months exploring the permanent water channels of the delta in search of a perfect location for his home and camp. He favoured the Nxamaseri Channel for its beauty and seclusion, and eventually elected to build his lodge on a large shady island hidden in the Nxamaseri waterways.

Locally inspired, Nxamaseri Island Lodge celebrates the colourful vibrance of the Botswana culture. Enjoy incredible views of the panhandle from the lounge area which has comfortable seating and plenty of good books to browse.

Desert & Delta Safaris offers one of the most comprehensive fly-in safari circuits on Botswana and the inclusion of Nxamaseri in the Desert & Delta Safaris portfolio adds a new attraction to our luxury circuit.

With the lodges relatively easy access by road, Nxamaseri is the perfect Okavango Delta inclusion for self-drive travellers exploring the depths of Botswana. For those travelling through Namibia to Victoria Falls, Nxamaseri is a welcome inclusion offering a complete contrast to Namibia’s desert environment.

ACCOMMODATION

Nxamaseri is a secluded lodge with a total of eight chalets all set beneath forest canopy. Each chalet is privately situated on its own teak deck. Bedrooms are quiet havens with open access to a seating area on a private deck. Each evening will see guests’ beds turned down and if there is a chill in the air, hot water bottles are tucked in under the blankets as a welcome surprise for tired guests. A safe is provided in each room and at reception for guests’ valuables.

WILDLIFE & ACTIVITIES

The traditional method of transport along the waterways and over floodplains in Botswana is by mokoro (dug-out canoe). There is no better way to experience the stillness and beauty of the Okavango Delta than to be poled on the water silently, gliding just inches above the crystal clear surface, eye-level with dragon flies, reed frogs and water lilies and within touching distance of the myriad of colourful fish that swim just below the surface.

Nxamaseri Island Lodge has spectacular birding throughout the year. The most exceptional birding months are from September to February, before the new water arrives. The Lodge provides unrivaled water bird viewing, having a large variety of kingfishers, herons, storks and water fowl. The area also has an impressive number of woodland and riverine forest species that occur on the islands and the seasonal floodplains beyond the camp.

Guided walks are offered on nearby islands, accessed by boat or mokoro, giving you the opportunity to experience the intimacy and piece of unspoiled Africa. Exploring the islands on foot is an effective way of relaxing and finding the more timid, forest-dwelling birds.

Owing to its prime delta location fishing is a one of the lodges primary activities from March – December. Tiger fish are indigenous to the area and, as one of the world’s most dramatic freshwater game fish, it provides thrilling angling for both experienced and novice fishermen.

One hour from Nxamaseri Island Lodge is one of Botswana’s greatest treasures. The mystical and spiritual Tsodilo Hills rise out of the dry desert landscape, forming the highest point in Botswana. These hills are sacred to the San people of Northern Botswana and are adorned with over 4000 ancient San paintings. A visit to these hills affords one the privilege of being able to see and feel, however briefly, the essence of an ancient culture, fragile and increasingly threatened in the face of pressure from the Western world.

ACTIVITIES (included)