Xigera: Our full report

Like Mombo Camp, Xigera (pronounced 'keejera') is within a private area of Moremi Game Reserve, in the heart of Botswana's Okavango Delta. When the Detla’s water levels are high, water is everywhere and the luxuriance of the vegetation makes this seem one of the Delta's most tropical corners.

There is game around, including red lechwe and sitatunga, and historically we have viewed Xigera as an area where it's best to concentrate on the more watery aspects of the Delta, especially the spectacular birdlife, including endless herons, egrets, cranes and smaller water-birds. On our most recent visit in September 2012, we were treated to the very special sight of African skimmers at Xigera Lagoon. This is also a good area for anyone searching out the elusive Pel’s fishing owl.

The camp's ten tented chalets are spread around the edge of an island, and linked by long raised walkways. Each has been designed with space and character: it has a truly romantic feel, yet without being over-the-top. Each has luxuries like an electric fan, en-suite bathroom and a second moonlit shower outside. Activities concentrate on motorboat and mokoro excursions, though game drives are usually possible all year as long as water levels permit.

Note that in early December 2012, we received an update from the camp and due to unexpectedly low - and swiftly receding – water levels, motorboat trips at Xigera have become limited. Short boat trips are currently still being offered, but not currently to Xigera Lagoon where it’s too shallow. These are combined with a game drive to reach the boat station. Therefore, at the time of writing this (Dec 2012), mokoros and game drives are the key activities.

We think this is an excellent example of how the dynamics in the Delta change, not only between the different seasons but also from year to year.
We expect this will change again as the water levels rise, most likely from around March or April 2013. So if you’re thinking about including Xigera on your trip to Botswana, then please contact one of our team for an update.

Geographics

Location: Moremi Game Reserve, Botswana

Ideal length of stay: Two nights when water levels are higher, although three nights would usually suit anyone wanting more time on the water.

Directions: Access is by light aircraft to Xigera airstrip. Depending on the time of year, it's then a short drive either directly to the camp or to the boat station and a then a 5 minute boat trip to camp.

Key personnel

Owner: Wilderness Safaris

Food & drink

Usual board basis: Full Board

Dining style: Group Meals

Dining locations: Indoor and Outdoor Dining

Cost of meal e.g. lunch: Included

Special interests

Birdwatching: Xigera is home to spectacular birdlife, including endless herons, egrets, cranes and smaller water-birds. In September 2012, we were treated to the sight of African skimmers at Xigera Lagoon. It's also a good area for the elusive Pel’s fishing owl.

See more ideas for Birdwatching in Botswana

Health & safety

Malarial area: Yes

Dangerous animals: High Risk