About Place
- "A hidden gem in the heart of the Okavango Delta."
- "A paradise for wildlife enthusiasts and luxury travelers alike."
- "A place where nature and luxury meet in perfect harmony."
Reasons to Visit
- Unparalleled Wildlife Encounters: Xigera is situated in the Okavango Delta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its rich and diverse wildlife. Visitors can witness an array of animals including elephants, lions, leopards, and various bird species. The delta's unique ecosystem supports both aquatic and terrestrial life, offering visitors a rare opportunity to experience the best of both worlds.
- Exclusive and Sustainable Luxury: Xigera Safari Lodge, the main accommodation in the area, offers an exceptional blend of luxury and sustainability. The lodge is designed to blend seamlessly with the natural environment, using eco-friendly materials and practices. Guests can enjoy world-class amenities, gourmet dining, and personalized service while knowing their stay supports conservation efforts.
- Immersive Safari Experiences: Xigera offers a variety of activities that allow guests to explore the delta in depth. From traditional mokoro (dugout canoe) excursions and guided bush walks to game drives and helicopter tours, there are numerous ways to experience the stunning landscapes and wildlife. These activities provide an intimate and up-close view of the Okavango Delta's unique environment.
Visa
- United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, and EU Citizens: No visa required for stays up to 90 days.
- India and China Citizens: Visa required. Must apply through the Botswana embassy or consulate.
- South Africa Citizens: No visa required for stays up to 90 days.
- Other Countries: It is advisable to check with the nearest Botswana embassy or consulate for specific visa requirements.
Travel Expenses
- Travel to & from Xigera:
- Flights from Maun to Xigera: $1,200 (round trip for two)
- Hotel Cost:
- Xigera Safari Lodge: $2,500 per night
- Total for 3 nights: $7,500
- Food Cost:
- Lunch and dinner included in the lodge package
- Estimated cost for additional meals and drinks: $300
- Activity Cost:
- Mokoro excursions, game drives, bush walks: Included
- Helicopter tour: $600 per person
- Total for two: $1,200
- Near Destination Travel Cost:
- Motorboat sunset cruise: Included
- Miscellaneous transport within the delta: $100
Best Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and Introduction to Xigera
Arrive at Xigera Safari Lodge after a scenic flight from Maun. Spend the morning settling into your luxurious tented suite, designed to blend seamlessly with the surrounding wilderness. After a light lunch at the lodge’s dining area, join an afternoon mokoro excursion, gliding through the tranquil waterways of the Okavango Delta. Marvel at the diverse birdlife and serene landscapes. Return to the lodge for a sumptuous dinner featuring local delicacies like bream and kudu, served in the open-air boma. Spend the evening relaxing under the stars, with the sounds of the delta as your backdrop.
Day 2: Game Drives and Bush Walks
Start your day early with a sunrise game drive, exploring the diverse habitats of the Okavango Delta. Track big cats, elephants, and other wildlife with the help of experienced guides. Return to the lodge for a hearty breakfast. Mid-morning, embark on a guided bush walk to learn about the flora and smaller fauna of the area. Enjoy a picnic lunch in a scenic spot. In the afternoon, take another game drive to a different part of the concession. For dinner, savor Botswana beef and other local dishes at the lodge. Conclude the day with a night drive, spotting nocturnal animals like hyenas and owls.
Day 3: Helicopter Tour and Relaxation
After breakfast, take a thrilling helicopter tour over the Okavango Delta, gaining a bird’s-eye view of the intricate waterways and diverse wildlife. Return to the lodge for a leisurely lunch. Spend the afternoon at your leisure—perhaps with a dip in the lodge’s pool or a relaxing massage at the spa. In the evening, join a sunset cruise on a motorboat, enjoying sundowners as the sky transforms into a canvas of colors. Dinner tonight is a gourmet affair with a fusion of international and local flavors. End the night with stargazing, using the lodge’s telescopes to explore the southern hemisphere’s night sky.
Safety Tips
- Always follow the guide's instructions during safari activities.
- Do not wander alone, especially at night.
- Stay hydrated and wear sun protection.
- Be cautious of wildlife and maintain a safe distance.
- Keep your tent zipped to avoid unwanted animal encounters.
- Use insect repellent to protect against mosquito bites.
- Respect local customs and traditions.
- Carry a first aid kit for minor injuries.
- Ensure your travel insurance covers safari activities.
- Stay informed about weather conditions and potential natural hazards.
Flights
- From Johannesburg to Maun: South African Airways, 2 hours, approx. $400 per person round trip.
- From Maun to Xigera: Private charter, 45 minutes, approx. $600 per person round trip.
Hotels
- Xigera Safari Lodge
- Belmond Eagle Island Lodge
- Chief's Camp
- Mombo Camp
- Vumbura Plains
Contacts
- Indian Embassy in Botswana: +267 391 2650
- Police: 999
- Ambulance: 997
- Firefighters: 998
Country
Closet Airport
- Maun International Airport (MUB)
Nearest City
- Maun
Heritage Sites
- Okavango Delta (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
Airlines
- South African Airways
- Air Botswana
- Mack Air (charter flights)
Currency
- Botswana Pula (BWP)
Languages Spoken
- English
- Setswana
Real Story
The Okavango Delta, including Xigera, played a crucial role during the colonial and post-colonial eras of Botswana's history. One of the significant historical events in the region was the establishment of Botswana as a republic and its subsequent development into one of Africa's most stable and prosperous nations.
Botswana, formerly the British Protectorate of Bechuanaland, gained independence on September 30, 1966. At that time, the country faced numerous challenges, including limited infrastructure and economic resources. However, the discovery of diamonds in the late 1960s transformed the nation’s fortunes. The wise leadership of Botswana's first president, Sir Seretse Khama, ensured that the diamond revenue was used to build infrastructure, improve education, and provide healthcare.
The Okavango Delta, including areas like Xigera, was identified early on as a vital area for conservation and tourism. The government implemented policies to protect the delta's unique ecosystem while promoting it as a premier safari destination. This balanced approach has helped maintain the delta's ecological integrity and supported sustainable tourism.
Cuisine
Overview of Botswana Cuisine
Botswana's cuisine is rich and diverse, deeply influenced by its cultural heritage and natural environment. Traditional dishes often feature local ingredients such as beef, goat, lamb, chicken, and freshwater fish from the Okavango Delta. The cuisine is characterized by simple, hearty meals that provide sustenance and comfort.
Key Dishes and Ingredients
- Seswaa:
- Description: Seswaa is a traditional Botswana dish made from beef, goat, or lamb. The meat is boiled with salt until tender and then pounded or shredded. It is often served with bogobe (a type of porridge made from sorghum or maize).
- Flavor Profile: The dish has a savory and slightly salty taste, with a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Bogobe:
- Description: Bogobe is a staple food in Botswana, similar to polenta or porridge. It is made by mixing sorghum, maize, or millet flour with water and cooking it until it reaches a smooth, thick consistency.
- Flavor Profile: The taste is mild and slightly nutty, making it a versatile accompaniment to savory dishes like Seswaa.
- Bream:
- Description: Bream is a common freshwater fish found in the Okavango Delta. It is typically grilled or fried and served with side dishes like morogo (wild spinach) and pap (maize porridge).
- Flavor Profile: The fish has a delicate, slightly sweet flavor with a firm, flaky texture.
- Morogo:
- Description: Morogo refers to wild spinach or other leafy greens that are commonly foraged and cooked in Botswana. It is often sautéed with onions, tomatoes, and spices.
- Flavor Profile: The greens have an earthy, slightly bitter taste, which is balanced by the sweetness of the onions and tomatoes.
- Madila:
- Description: Madila is a traditional fermented milk product, similar to yogurt. It is often used as a condiment or side dish.
- Flavor Profile: Madila has a tangy, creamy taste that pairs well with savory dishes or can be enjoyed on its own.
Culture and History
Xigera, located within Botswana's Okavango Delta, is a microcosm of the rich cultural and natural heritage of Botswana. The Okavango Delta itself is a marvel of nature, being one of the world's largest inland deltas and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a crucial water source in the otherwise arid region of Botswana, supporting an incredible diversity of wildlife and plant species.
Botswana's culture is deeply intertwined with its natural environment. The people of Botswana, particularly the Tswana and San communities, have a long history of coexisting with the land and its wildlife. Traditional practices and knowledge are still evident in many aspects of daily life and are particularly relevant in the context of eco-tourism. The sustainable practices of the Xigera Safari Lodge reflect this cultural heritage, emphasizing conservation and community involvement.
Historically, the area that is now the Okavango Delta was inhabited by the San people, who were hunter-gatherers with a deep understanding of the land and its rhythms. Their rock art and ancient tools found in the region provide a glimpse into a time when humans lived in harmony with nature. Today, the San people still inhabit parts of Botswana and continue to practice traditional ways of life, despite modern challenges.
The Xigera Safari Lodge embodies the intersection of luxury and sustainability. Designed to have minimal impact on the environment, the lodge uses solar power, recycles water, and is built with eco-friendly materials. It also employs local people, providing economic benefits to the community and fostering a sense of ownership and pride in preserving the natural environment.