In the Okavango – the world's last intact delta, located in Botswana – seasons are shaped by water. When floodwaters arrive from Angola, they replenish waterways and bring wildlife to the transformed region. Between April and September is the ideal time to see the magnificent animals the delta draws and to enjoy the clearer skies and cooler nights of the Botswanan winter.
Saturday
Upon landing, you’ll drive 45 minutes to Zarafa Camp. Enjoy afternoon tea with scenic views, then head out on your first game drive in Selinda Reserve, which is home to a host of African wildlife. During the dry months, you will spot large elephant herds gathering at waterways – an unforgettable start to your safari adventure.
Sunday
Take a helicopter to a remote community project in the Okavango Delta, where you'll take a guided tour of traditional Hambukushu village Eretsha. Here, you'll see how locals live in harmony with elephants and big cat and learn about the region’s unique blend of conservation and culture.
Monday
Borrow Zarafa’s camera gear to sharpen your wildlife photography on a morning game drive or guided bush walk – perhaps you'll spot the elusive African wild dogs. Later, cruise the Zibadianja Lagoon at sunset, where the golden light rivals Santorini’s and casts a magical glow over water and animals alike.
Tuesday
Take a short flight to Xigera, a safari lodge located on the edge of Moremi Game Reserve and known for exceptional wildlife viewing. Here, Dinner becomes a culinary safari, with menus inspired by Botswana’s land, seasons, and stories and crafted daily from fresh, local ingredients.
Wednesday
A scenic helicopter flight takes you to Habu Village, where you'll discover how the partnership between the community and Xigera has benefited locals – from cultivating gardens to education. In the evening, head to Xigera’s striking Baobab Treehouse. Here, minimal light pollution offers breathtaking stargazing opportunities.
Thursday
With water levels at their peak, you'll explore the Delta by mokoro canoe, gliding silently past wildlife from a unique, water-level vantage point. As evening falls, switch to a motorboat to navigate the deeper rivers and lagoons that are home to crocodiles and pods of hippos for a thrilling end to the day.
Friday
On your last day, you'll stroll through Xigera’s main lodge to admire its design collection, which features works by renowned African artists. After a week of adventure, unwind with a spa treatment while overlooking the seasonal floodplains and lush forests – a serene setting to relax and recharge before your journey home.
Essential travel companion : Binoculars – to get a close-up view of African animals in their natural habitats.
A culinary curiosity not to be missed : Dine under the stars surrounded by lantern light, sampling a traditional Boma dinner that includes local delicacies of pap (cornmeal porridge) and morogo (wild spinach) .
The best spot for a post-prandial pause: Sink into the cushions on the deck at Xigera and enjoy a cocktail by the warmth of the fire
An unmissable event : Stargazing – enjoy clear constellations unobstructed by light pollution
A luxury that doesn’t cost the earth : Okavango gin – born out of a love for the wilderness. The distillery is wholly off-grid, hidden beneath an ebony tree forest that overlooks a seasonal floodplain.
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