A major new chapter for Xaranna in the Okavango Delta
&Beyond Xaranna Okavango Delta Lodge occupies an exceptional private setting within a vast Okavango concession, surrounded by the changing channels, floodplains and islands that define this part of Botswana.
Importantly, Xaranna is currently temporarily closed while undergoing a significant refurbishment. The lodge is being comprehensively reimagined rather than simply receiving a cosmetic refresh, so travellers considering Xaranna should speak to us about the latest reopening schedule and availability before building it into an itinerary.
The setting
Xaranna sits within a private concession of approximately 90,500 hectares, giving the lodge access to an extraordinary expanse of Delta wilderness.
This is a landscape that changes continually with the movement of water through the Okavango. Seasonal lagoons, floodplains, woodland and channels create a safari environment in which the experience can differ significantly according to both season and water levels.
The reimagined lodge
&Beyond’s current plans retain the landscape as the focus of the property, using natural materials, open spaces and far-reaching views to connect the accommodation with the Delta.
The reimagined lodge is planned around nine generous suites, including a family suite. The intention is a highly private camp that balances active exploration with substantial space to slow down between safaris.
Because the property is undergoing refurbishment, final facilities and specifications should be confirmed for the intended travel dates rather than relying on details from the previous version of Xaranna.
Exploring the Delta
Xaranna’s private-concession location has traditionally allowed guests to experience several sides of the Okavango rather than relying on a single type of safari.
Game drives explore the concession’s land habitats and can continue into the evening, creating opportunities to encounter nocturnal species after sunset.
When water conditions permit, boating and other water-based experiences reveal the Delta from a completely different perspective. Scenic helicopter flights can also provide a remarkable overview of the waterways and islands that are difficult to appreciate fully from ground level.
Who will Xaranna suit?
Once reopened, Xaranna should be particularly interesting to travellers looking for an intimate, high-end Okavango property with access to a very large private wilderness area and the potential for both land and water experiences.
For now, however, its refurbishment status is the key consideration. We would only recommend incorporating it into an itinerary once current opening dates and the final guest experience have been confirmed.
Highlights
- Private Okavango Delta setting
- Approximately 90,500-hectare concession
- Major refurbishment currently underway
- Nine planned suites including family accommodation
- Private-concession safari experience
- Game drives with after-dark possibilities
- Water-based exploration subject to seasonal conditions
- Scenic helicopter experiences can be arranged
Good to know
Xaranna is currently temporarily closed for a significant refurbishment. Reopening dates, final accommodation details and available activities should be checked before confirming travel plans.
Why we like it
The scale of Xaranna’s private concession is compelling, and its location offers the possibility of experiencing several expressions of the Okavango from one base. The refurbishment makes this a property to watch closely rather than one we would describe using outdated information from the previous camp.
Speak to Private Hideaway Escapes for the latest information on &Beyond Xaranna Okavango Delta Lodge and suitable alternatives while the property is closed.
