Botswana’s Okavango Delta is one of Africa’s most stunning wilderness areas, an elaborate ecosystem that’s home to 2,000 species of animals, including 80 different fish species in the waterways and 450 types of birds. Rhinos, lions, leopards, giraffes… not to mention that one-third of the continent’s entire elephant population meanders through the north of Botswana each year. Needless to say, this is one of the most memorable destinations for travelers looking to experience a luxury safari. It’s here on the western side of the Moremi Game Reserve that the Red Carnation Hotel Collection is planning to unveil the Xigera Safari Lodge in June 2020. The family-owned hospitality group already owns a trio of properties in South Africa, but this is the first lodge in Botswana.
Red Carnation invested $35 million in this project, stressing sustainability and a light footprint. There will only be 12 exclusive, air-conditioned suites, suspended above the forest floor and designed with spacious bathrooms, outdoor showers and daybed-equipped decks for taking in the endless views over the floodplains. The Xigera Family Suite will have two en-suite bedrooms. Note that the lodge will be open to children aged 12 and older.
The focus at Xigera will be on the quality of the service, with 105 staff attending 24 guests and personalized attention, allowing guests to explore the Okavango Delta the way they want to. In the air-conditioned library, visiting specialists will give talks and screen wildlife documentaries. After a walking safari or a game drive, enjoy a “feet in the water” sundowner or return to the lodge for a massage in the spa. There will also be a swimming pool, gym, bar and wine cellar, and an interactive kitchen and dining room. Nice touch: The traditional boma is where storytelling and stargazing will take place in the evenings.
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