Xugana Island Lodge 

Discover a remarkable water camp of thatched roofs and reed, a wild world of eagle owls and hippos and the chance to dine floating in the Xugana Lagoon

Disconnect from the world for a while. Glide in a mokoro canoe across the Okavango Delta. Sleep restfully in a thatched chalet under fine viridian lace, feet facing out towards the Xugana Lagoon. Xugana Island Lodge rises sylvan style out of a canopy of ebony and mangosteen trees, sitting on one of the world's most incredible natural wonders in northern Botswana. A place where reed frogs leap and starlings perch, red lechwe and sitatunga graze in the wetlands and lions share the floodplains with buffalo and elephants. A magical lodge that's rustically elegant, this is a rare chance to stay in a one-of-a-kind water camp. Fish by day and dine communally with fellow guests by night in the open-sided restaurant. Enjoy sundowner South African wines in the enchanting bar and for a matchless experience take a candlelit dinner on the floating pontoon. Attention to detail is divine. A pretty swimming pool nestled in lush gardens, a central boma for shared stories over drinks, a lounge filled with sofas and treasure chests and a wildlife viewing deck stretching out over the water for more of those stunning views.

Expect day and night game drives (seasonal: usually September to June), bush walks, bird-watching expeditions and mokoro trips along the tranquil waterways. With only eight lodges you're guaranteed a serene and solitary time. Your thatch and reef bedroom cabins are all well-dressed safari style; khakis and creams with teak flooring, double beds, storage trunks, en-suite bathrooms, flashlights and even an air horn. Each comes with a private verandah accessed by sliding doors, opening up onto the breathtaking Xugana lagoon.