“On this island in the Panhandle, you’ll discover that the Delta consists of more than just water and animals: the stories and people truly make it special!”
In the Panhandle of the Okavango Delta, between papyrus fields and calm river arms, lies Nxamaseri Island Lodge. This is one of the oldest lodges in Botswana, small and charming, built on an island that can only be reached by boat. Nxamaseri is a place where you don’t come for game drives, but for water, birds, culture, and the magic of the Tsodilo Hills. Expect a unique visit to this UNESCO World Heritage site and a spiritual place with ancient rock paintings.
Nxamaseri Island Lodge full of character
This authentic lodge has only nine chalets, simply but charmingly furnished and tucked away in greenery. Each chalet at Nxamaseri Island Lodge features an ensuite bathroom, a veranda, and views over the water. The setting is intimate, small-scale, and feels like a home in the bush. What really makes this lodge special? It’s the people who work here. Expect a warm welcome and beautiful stories!

Culture as part of your safari
One of the highlights of your stay at Nxamaseri Island Lodge will definitely be an excursion to the Tsodilo Hills. Here, you’ll walk past ancient rock paintings of the San and learn more about their way of life and spiritual traditions. A unique addition that gives your safari in Botswana a cultural dimension.

Safari on the water
Okay, not so strange on an island, of course. But a stay at Nxamaseri Island Lodge is known for its activities on and around the water. Here’s what you can experience:
- Boat trips along narrow channels and wide river arms
- Mokoro excursions in silence between papyrus and water lilies
- Fishing for the notorious tigerfish (catch & release)
- Birdwatching: kingfishers, bee-eaters, and the rare Pel’s fishing owl
Between water and silence
Amid all these wonderful activities at Nxamaseri Island Lodge, you can relax on the central deck, overlooking the river. A drink at sunset, a good book in the hammock, or just watching the rippling water. This is the place to leave the busy Western existence completely behind you.

Practical information about Nxamaseri Island Lodge
- Location: Okavango Panhandle, on an island in the Nxamaseri Channel
- Accommodation: 9 chalets with ensuite bathroom and veranda
- Price range: Mid-range
- Minimum age: 6 years
- Activities: Boat trips, mokoro, fishing, birdwatching, excursion to Tsodilo Hills
- Special: Focus on water and culture, no game drives, intimate atmosphere
Personal recommendation
“If you’re considering a stay at Nxamaseri Island Lodge, be sure to also plan a visit to the Tsodilo Hills. That way, you’ll combine nature, silence, and culture in an experience you won’t find anywhere else in Botswana,” Ebe tells you in advance. But do you want to know more about this special lodge in Botswana? We are happy to share our personal experience at Nxamaseri Island Lodge, so feel free to contact us.