With only nine en suite tents and set within a 25 000-hectare private concession in the western Okavango Delta on the border of Moremi Game Reserve, Nxabega Okavango Tented Camp offers you a deluxe entry into one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Africa. At Nxabega – which means ‘place of the giraffe’ – you could happen on grazing lechwe, aquatic antelope uniquely adapted to their water world, or rare and shy sitatunga. Birders might get one of the ultimate ‘big ticks’: an amber-winged Pel’s fishing owl that swoops over the Delta by night.
A classic Okavango excursion is a tranquil mokoro or canoe trail through the reeds where you will be up close to pale pink lilies, miniscule frogs and jewel-like kingfishers. Of course, the Delta is also home to bigger game: expect elephant, buffalo, lion and – if your luck is in – a gorgeous tree-climbing leopard. Enjoy motor-boating excursions during the day while sunset cruises and mekoro rides to picturesque viewing spots round out the afternoon before dinner.
Nxabega’s very roomy tents are strung under black-wooded ebony trees and anchored by a luxurious dining and living area with views onto the water. Because the concession is unfenced, diners can sometimes enjoy views of passing elephant families, the matriarchs gently keeping their little ones in line and guiding them through the glistening water.
Nxabega Okavango Tented Camp is about a 20-minute light aircraft flight from Maun. Your ranger will welcome you at the airstrip for a 20-minute drive to the lodge, depending, of course, on what sightings you have along the way!
