Xigera Safari Lodge (pronounced “Kee-jera”) is a luxury safari lodge in Botswana’s Okavango Delta, within the Moremi Game Reserve. It was extensively rebuilt and re-opened in 2020, and is considered one of the most exclusive safari lodges in Africa. The property is owned and managed by Red Carnation Hotels.

Location & Setting

The lodge sits on a private concession inside Moremi Game Reserve, surrounded by waterways, floodplains, and indigenous trees like jackalberry and mangosteen. Its unique setting allows for both land-based safaris and water-based explorations such as boat trips and mokoro (dugout canoe) excursions.

Accommodation & Design

12 individual suites plus a two-bedroom Family Suite.

Suites include a bedroom, lounge, dressing room, indoor and outdoor showers, and a private deck with a gazebo for dining or relaxing.

Interiors feature art, sculpture, and furniture crafted by African artists and designers.

A highlight is the Baobab Treehouse, a striking three-story structure where guests can spend a night under the stars.

Activities & Experiences

Guests enjoy a mix of land and water safari activities, depending on the season:

Morning and evening game drives in open 4x4 vehicles.

Mokoro canoe rides and motorboat trips through the Delta’s channels.

Walking safaris in permitted areas.

Seasonal catch-and-release fishing.

Spa treatments, yoga sessions, a swimming pool, and curated dining experiences.

Sustainability

Xigera was designed with sustainability at its core:

Runs largely on solar power.

Uses locally sourced food, materials, and art.

Emphasizes eco-friendly practices to reduce its footprint while supporting local communities and artists.

Rates

Xigera is one of the most high-end safari lodges in Africa. Approximate nightly rates per person (depending on season):

Low season: around US$2,600

Mid season: around US$3,000

High/peak season: up to US$4,800+

Rates typically include accommodation, meals, many safari activities, laundry, WiFi, and most drinks. Premium wines, spirits, spa treatments, and the Baobab Treehouse sleepout are extra.

Access

The lodge is reached via light aircraft transfer to its private airstrip, followed by either a boat or road transfer depending on water levels. Travel arrangements are usually coordinated through safari operators as part of a broader itinerary.

Best Time to Visit

June–September (dry season): best wildlife viewing, peak season.

May–August (flood season): ideal for mokoro and boating activities.

November–March (green season): lush scenery, great birding, fewer crowds, lower rates.