Xaro Lodge
Xaro Lodge is a locally owned, boat-access-only island lodge on the Okavango Panhandle, a step up in polish from its Shakawe-area neighbours (Askiesbos, Shakawe River Lodge, Drotsky's) while sharing their birding focus. Guests park at reception in Samochima Village and are boat-transferred to the 45-hectare island (fly-in guests are met at Shakawe Airport). Because the Panhandle carries permanent water year-round, the area rates among the Delta's best birding, with 400+ recorded species including Pel's fishing owl, African skimmer and Brown Firefinch, plus sightings of the amphibious sitatunga. The lodge runs entirely on solar power, is built to be fully removable without disrupting the landscape, and supports local initiatives including a jetty for the Samochima Village Development Committee and the Xhoaga playgroup.
Accommodation is 9 Luxury Meru Tents (incl. 1 Family Unit) plus 1 Luxury Honeymoon Suite and 1 Pilot/Guide Room. Standard tents are double-bedded (twin option), raised on wooden decks with a private veranda and en-suite shower, all with equal river views. The Family Unit pairs two separate en-suite tents on a shared deck for 2 adults + 2 children (under 18). The Honeymoon Suite has a king bed, private garden and balcony, a private lounge area and a minibar.
Xaro runs boat cruises (papyrus/water lilies, crocodile/hippo), guided bush walks for rare birds, Tsodilo Hills day trips, doors-off scenic helicopter flights, a helicopter-and-game-drive combo into the remote Delta bushveld, spa/massage treatments and fishing. Facilities: lounge with a fully stocked bar, restaurant overlooking the garden, outdoor pool, firepit over the river, library, braai grills, curio shop (local artists), free off-site parking and boat transfers included.
Rooms: 9 Luxury Meru Tents (incl. 1 Family Unit) + 1 Luxury Honeymoon Suite + 1 Pilot/Guide Room. Facilities: lounge with fully stocked bar, restaurant overlooking the garden, outdoor pool, firepit over the river, library, braai grills, curio shop. Entirely solar powered.
Frequently asked questions.
Where is Xaro Lodge located?
Xaro Lodge sits at Okavango Panhandle, northern Botswana — 45-hectare island property on the Okavango River, near Samochima/Shakawe, and is operated by Locally owned (independent).
How many rooms does Xaro Lodge have?
9 Luxury Meru Tents (incl 1 Family Unit) + 1 Luxury Honeymoon Suite + 1 Pilot/Guide Room.
What facilities are available?
lounge with fully stocked bar, restaurant overlooking the garden, outdoor pool, firepit over the river, library, braai grills, curio shop.
What's the power and Wi-Fi situation?
Entirely solar powered.
How do I book Xaro Lodge?
Africa Compass Collection can arrange your booking at Xaro Lodge — whether you're a travel agent or planning directly. Use the "Request a quote" button on this page for a personalised, costed itinerary.