Notes from The Pack
Our camps intro series shares a little more about the camps and lodges that make up The Pack and takes you a little deeper into each property.
Xaoo Safari Camp is a magical spot that seems contradictory in that it is within easy reach of Maun by road whilst offering access to the quintessential scenes and experiences of the Okavango Delta.
This is due to its unique location on a permanent lagoon full of water lilies and birdlife that provides a calming view and the most spectacular sunsets over the water. The camp is built to maximise peace and tranquillity. The main area with an elevated lounge and dining area looks over the water and is complemented by a swimming pool and ground-level fireplace. The varied seating and elevation options allow you to relax and soak in the views and ambience.
The 6 rooms are connected by raised walkways through a forest and are all nestled into the indigenous forest. This creates an atmosphere of being a true sanctuary and retreat from the world. Waking up in an open windowed tent with the trees and birdlife surrounding you is bliss. The sense of sanctuary is increased by the luxury of the rooms. Large king-sized beds under billowing mosquito nets dominate the room and are complemented by a double vanity, a large walk-in wardrobe area and a sumptuous bathtub. Alternatively, enjoy an outdoor shower under the shade of the surrounding forest.
Xaoo Safari Camp is a real passion project with much love and care given to the camp. The staff are dedicated and have been working here since opening in 2021 and share Botswana’s natural warm and gentle hospitality with all guests and are incredibly proud of their home here.
Multiple inclusive activities are available. A short distance away is a private concession where game drives and mokoro day trips are conducted. A full-day trip out of camp offers an opportunity toexperience the Delta by mokoro with a local poler from one of the poling stations combined with the opportunity to discover wildlife on the game drive to the poling station. Additional activities include an educational experience offered by visiting a cultural village in the nearby community run by the entrepreneurial and genuine Nametsego “Leina” Mange who offers visitors a shared cultural experience that highlights local traditions without being
staged or forced. Bush walks and night drives are also enjoyable ways to experience the area.
Xaoo Safari Camp offers an easy escape from Maun with inclusive road transfers to and from Maun which are likely to include some elephant sightings as well as great birdlife. This allows for it to be a convenient start or end to a safari or an easy add-on. For those looking to fly on to another camp, the best is by helicopter which then offers the excitement and value add of flying over the Gomoti River and its floodplains as well as an easy and accessibly priced transfer.
With a variety of activities, a beautiful view, easy mokoro access, cultural experiences and proximity to Maun, Xaoo Safari Camp is a great addition to any safari and offers a great juxtaposition to the wildlife-centric camps whilst offering a relaxed stay that feels far removed from day-to-day life.