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OVERVIEW ON XARANNA CAMP IN OKAVANGO DELTA
Xaranna Camp enjoys luxurious solitude on its own Delta island within a 25000 hectare (61800 acres) exclusive wildlife concession. Taking its inspiration from the water lily, Xaranna is a delightful camp with just nine sleek en-suite safari tents that combine canvas and bleached timber. The overall atmosphere of the Camp is cool, light and airy, in keeping with its gentle geographic location on the Delta. The safari tents are organic in design, and delicately decorated in shades of fatigue (khaki) and soft lily pink. Each tent boasts a romantic sala, private plunge pool, indoor bathtub and al fresco shower. The guest areas are all positioned carefully to maximize the sweeping views out across the channels, with classic Delta tree line silhouettes. The camp celebrates Botswana’s iconography, with humorous design touches used throughout. The intimate guest sitting area boasts a spacious reading area, perfect for afternoon relaxation. The elevated dining area features shady verandas with mesmerizing views leading out onto an open air boma, where exotic candlelit dinners are served under the stars. A fully-stocked Safari Shop offers chic safari gear, African art and jewellery.
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Location Of Xaranna Camp
Xaranna Okavango Delta Camp is set in a private wilderness concession of 25000 hectares (61800 acres) to the southeast of the Moremi Wildlife Reserve in the center of one of the most unique regions in the world, the Okavango Delta. Renowned for its lush waterways and abundant wildlife, the Okavango is home to a number of aquatic and land species. Located in northern Botswana, the Okavango River is a unique natural phenomenon – flowing more than 1 000 km (620 miles) from its source in Angola, this river disappears beneath the sands of Botswana, creating a lush inland delta in the midst of this otherwise arid country. The Okavango Delta is in a constant state of flux, expanding and contracting according to the rainy season. While some parts of the Delta remain permanently flooded, others only experience high water levels from May to September, when rainwaters from Angola reach the outer stretches of the Okavango. Covering approximately one third of the Delta, permanent swamp areas are lush and green, with groves of wild date palm, papyrus and water lilies growing around deep lagoons lined with riverine forest. Seasonal swamps, on the other hand, contain a network of small channels cutting their way through papyrus and reed beds to create islands of all shapes and sizes. Xaranna is located on the channels and lagoons of the southern, seasonal part of the Delta.
Safari Experience At Xaranna Camp
The Okavango Delta and the areas surrounding Xaranna Tented Camp are home to a large number of species, including a number of species adapted to the semi-aquatic lifestyle, such as the elegant red lechwe and shy sitatunga. Lion prides, cheetah, leopard and African wild dog are occasionally encountered, while families of hippo hide in the deeper channels and lagoons. The area supports the continent’s largest surviving concentration of elephant and buffalo, while roan and sable antelope are occasionally spotted in the open woodlands. Although predominantly nocturnal and difficult to spot, leopards occur throughout the Okavango, particularly in dense riverine forest. Apart from the more commonly encountered predators, the Okavango is also a stronghold for the endangered African wild dog, although sightings of this rare animal are relatively uncommon. Exhibiting a fascinating social structure, wild dog live in packs led by dominant pairs, with a strict social hierarchy. One of the most common antelope in the Okavango, the red lechwe is especially adapted for the swampy conditions. Its splayed, elongated hooves give it a sure footing in muddy conditions, allowing it to inhabit the outskirts of the permanent swamps. With an incredible wealth of species, the Okavango is also a haven for birding enthusiasts. One of its most sought after species is the huge but elusive Pel’s fishing owl, which roosts in the densest evergreen thickets. A quintessential African sound, the haunting call of the fish eagle can often be heard echoing over the channels.
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Activities At Xaranna Camp
Twice daily game drives – guests can explore the wildlife surrounding Xaranna on morning and afternoon game drives in an open air 4×4 safari vehicle, accompanied by an armed guide and tracker. The landscape traversed on game drives includes floodplains, as well as seasonal grassland, woodland, shrubland and savanna. Game drives track the Big Five, as well as a variety of other animals, including the semi-aquatic lechwe and sitatunga antelope. Interpretive bush walks – take a leisurely walk in the surroundings of the Camp to take in the sights, smells and sounds of the Okavango Delta, accompanied by an armed guide. Learn about how elephant are vital to the survival of the fan palm, try to spot the elusive Pel’s fishing owl and keep a sharp eye out for the shy bushbuck. River cruises in an electrically powered ‘eco boat’ or mokoro – explore the waterways of the Okavango by boat in the company of our experienced guides. Learn the fascinating details of the Delta’s network of channels, fringed by dense reeds and papyrus. A good variety of fish can be found in the clear waters and fishing trips can be arranged on request during fishing season (1 March to 31 December). Spot the nests of weavers and warblers in the papyrus beds and watch out for malachite kingfishers among the taller stems. Beautifully colored frog species, such as the painted reed frog, abound. Waterlilies brighten up the surface of lagoons, where sleepy hippo splash beneath the surface.
Summary For Xaranna Camp
- Situated near permanent channels of the Okavango Delta with sweeping views of the vast floodplains
- 25 000 hectares (62 000 acres) of pristine wilderness shared by only 18 guests
- Water and wilderness experience with the excitement of viewing big game
- Diverse bird, plant and animal species (birders might well see the elusive Pel’s Fishing Owl)
- Guided walking, mokoro (traditional dugout canoe) and seasonal power (or electric) boat adventures (depending on water levels)
- The architecture and infrastructure is guided by the principle of a light footprint
- Delicious Pan African meals
- A memorable water and wilderness experience
- The pace of the mokoro excursions and game drives is much gentler, allowing time to appreciate the small wonders and the spectacular Delta scenery
- Fly into the Xudum airstrip, a mere 20 minute flight from Maun (90 minute flight from Kasane), followed by a 45-minute game drive and/or a boat ride into camp (depending on water levels).
- Nine sleek en-suite safari tents with breathtaking views over the channel. Each tented suite also boasts a romantic sala and a private plunge pool.
- The lodge is not fenced off, and we request guests to be extremely vigilant at all times. Under no circumstances is a guest to walk around the lodge/camp at night, unless accompanied by a security guard.
- The guest areas are all positioned carefully to maximize the sweeping views out across the channels, with classic Delta tree line silhouettes. The intimate guest sitting area boasts a spacious reading area, perfect for afternoon relaxation. The innovative dining area features shady verandas overlooking the channels of the Delta. A fully stocked Safari Shop offers chic safari gear, African art and jewellery.
- Morning, afternoon/early evening game drives in open 4×4 safari vehicles, boating and mokoro (traditional dugout canoe) adventures in the Delta, and guided walks. Excellent area for birdwatching. Helicopter transfers and flights available at an extra cost. Fishing is permitted between the months of March and December.
- Children are welcome. Regretfully, children 5 years and younger cannot participate in the regular game drives and mokoro activities. Children 16 years and older can participate in guided walks and mokoro activities. Childminders can be booked at an additional cost. Children aged 6 to 11 years are accommodated on game drives at the lodge manager’s discretion. An extra bed can be arranged for a child sharing its parents’ suite. No more than 1 triple in camp at any one time.
