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OVERVIEW ON XUDUM LODGE IN OKAVANGO DELTA
Surrounded by a mosaic of papyrus and reed beds, Xudum Lodge lies deep within an exclusive 25000 (61800 acres) hectares wildlife concession. The nine playfully crafted split-level safari suites, boasting handsome tones of chocolate and ebony, feature large bathtubs and romantic al fresco showers. Each suite also boasts a lofty hideout with magnificent Delta views and a private plunge pool. Innovative design details, featuring artful recycling of everyday objects, have been used throughout, and all timber work is rough-hewn and chunky. The multilayer guest areas boast dramatic decks with 180° views of the surrounding wilderness, yet remain discreetly within the tree line. These spaces are designed in such a way to make the guest experience more intimate, with inviting plump sofas ideal for total relaxation. The overall atmosphere is one of earthy glamor. Botswana basket-ware is used throughout, and playful accents celebrate Delta icons. A signature interactive kitchen completes the overall experience. The well-stocked Safari Shop showcases chic safari gear, African art and jewellery.
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Location Of Xudum Lodge
Xudum Okavango Delta Lodge is set in a private wilderness concession of 25 000 hectares 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. Xudum is situated in an area that boasts a number of permanent river channels that flow throughout the year. The steady water supply creates a distinctive layer of vegetation, with lush beds of tall papyrus, miscanthus grass, evergreen figs and ferns. This is another good birding area, with warblers, weavers and various types of kingfishers. Pel’s fishing owls are attracted by the large variety of fish found in the channels. Clear lagoons are created where channels open up, dotted with floating rafts of water lilies, water chestnut and other aquatic plants. Families of hippo bask in the open water and Cape clawless otter may be spotted.
Safari Experience At Xudum Lodge
Renowned for its abundant wildlife, the Okavango Delta and the areas surrounding Xudum Delta Lodge 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. Families of hippo wallow in the deeper channels and lagoons. The area supports the continent’s largest surviving concentration of elephant and buffalo, while roan and sable antelope roam the open woodlands. Lion, cheetah, leopard and African wild dog are occasionally also encountered. 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 a dominant pair, with a strict social hierarchy. Lion may be sighted near Xudum and, although predominantly nocturnal and difficult to spot, leopards are fairly common throughout the Okavango, particularly in dense riverine forest. 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 Xudum Lodge
Twice daily game drives – guests can explore the rich wildlife surrounding Xudum on early morning and late afternoon / evening game drives in an open air safari vehicle, accompanied by an armed guide and tracker. The landscape traversed on game drives includes floodplains, as well as seasonal grassland, woodland, shrub-land 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 coloured frog species like Painted Reed Frog are seen hanging on papyrus
Summary For Xudum Lodge
- 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)
- Night game drives
- The architecture and infrastructure is guided by the principle of a light footprint
- Interactive kitchen – 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 40-minute game drive to the lodge.
- Nine playfully crafted split-level safari suites in handsome tones of chocolate and ebony feature large bathtubs and romantic al fresco showers. Each suite also has a private plunge pool and a lofty rooftop look-out with magnificent Delta views.
- 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 inventive, layered guest areas boast dramatic decks with 180° views of the surrounding wilderness yet remain discreetly within the tree line. These spaces are designed in such a way to make the guest experience more intimate, with massive, inviting over-sized sofas ideal for total relaxation. The well-stocked Safari Shop showcases chic safari gear, African art and jewellery.
- Morning, afternoon/early evening and night 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.
