Introduction
Xugana (the 'X' is a
palatal click) means "kneel down to drink". Xugana Lagoon has, for thousands of
years, been a safe haven for the Bushman people who hunted this pristine water world.
Xugana Lagoon is in the permanent Delta, a world of crystal clear waterways winding
through vast reed and papyrus beds, opening unexpectedly onto tranquil lagoons, home to
bream, catfish and the fighting tiger-fish and fringed by secret wooded islands, haven for
the magnificent bird and wildlife that inhabit the Delta.
Xugana Lagoon is widely accepted as being the most spectacular permanent
water site in the entire Okavango Delta. Xugana Island Lodge, situated on a wooded island
abutting the lagoon, takes full advantage of this magnificent site. The thatched common
area, comprising cocktail bar, lounge and curio shop, is still the original building put
up in 1974, when Xugana became only the second tourist lodge ever built in the Okavango
Delta. Meals, for which the lodge is justly famous, are taken alfresco on the edge of the
lagoon, except on those rare occasions of rain when the lounge doubles as the dining-room.
Tea is often served in the garden inside the island, where quiet, secluded reading benches
can also be found. The lodge swimming pool is a unique construction, allowing guests to
swim in the clear fresh water of the lagoon protected by a heavy metal cage, designed to
deter "fat Albert" the crocodile, a long-time lagoon resident.
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The
lodge accommodates a maximum of 16 guests in raised reed and thatch "Mesasas"
situated on the shaded fringe of the island, each with a lagoon view through the artfully
cleared lagoon-side vegetation. The tastefully decorated "Mesasas" have twin or
double beds, en-suite facilities, ceiling fan and a private deck.
Access is by charter aircraft from Maun and Kasane (served by daily road transfers from Victoria Falls) to Xugana airstrip. The lodge transfers guests from and back to Xugana airstrip by boat.
Your stay at Xugana Island Lodge is inclusive of accommodation, all meals, all local brand drinks, safari activities, park entrance fees and limited laundry.
No children under 12 years are accepted.
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SAFARI ACTIVITIES
Mokoro trips in eco-friendly dugout canoes built to the traditional design,
boat safaris to lagoons and islands and wilderness walks give guests the chance to see the
Delta denizens such as sitatunga and lechwe antelope, crocodile and hippo, as well as the
other big game that frequents the islands and riverine fringes. Bird-watching
opportunities are outstanding, and the bream and tiger fishing can be excellent at certain
times of the year. The peaceful boat ride back across Xugana Lagoon during the spectacular
African sunset provides a lifelong memory. All activities are conducted by our experienced
naturalist guides, who, as well as ensuring that guests come to no harm, are keen to
impart their vast knowledge and love of this unique area.
| Xugana Island
Lodge, Low Season Valid November 01, 2003-June 30, 2004 |
|
| Double occupancy (per person) |
Single occupancy (per person) |
| $360 per person | No single surcharge during high season |
|
|
| Xugana Island
Lodge, High Season Valid July 1-October 31, 2004 |
|
| Double occupancy (per person) |
Single occupancy (per person) |
| $420 per person | $560 per person |
|
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