Nxamaseri Island Lodge is a unique African experience on a private island in the permanent waters of Botswana’s Okavango Delta. A small, exclusive lodge, it is one of the oldest in the Okavango Delta.
The distinct style of Nxamaseri Island Lodge showcases the beauty of the permanent swamp that is its home and subtly expresses the rich vibrancy of the indigenous people.
It was established in the early 1980s by PJ and Barney Bestelink. PJ, an experienced guide, spent months exploring the permanent water channels of the delta in search of a perfect location for his home and camp. He favored the Nxamaseri Channel for its beauty and seclusion, eventually choosing to build his lodge on a large shady island hidden in the Nxamaseri waterways.
Locally inspired, Nxamaseri Island Lodge celebrates the colorful vibrancy of Botswana's culture. Guests can enjoy incredible views of the panhandle from the lounge area, which features comfortable seating and a collection of good books to browse.
Nxamaseri is a secluded lodge with a total of nine chalets, all nestled beneath the forest canopy. Each chalet is privately situated on its own teak deck. Bedrooms are quiet havens, with open access to a seating area on a private deck. Each evening, guests’ beds are turned down, and during cooler nights, hot water bottles are tucked under the blankets as a warm and welcoming surprise for tired travelers. A safe is provided in each room and at the reception for guests’ valuables.
The traditional method of transport along the waterways and over floodplains in Botswana is by mokoro (dug-out canoe). There is no better way to experience the stillness and beauty of the Okavango Delta than to be poled silently on the water, gliding just inches above the crystal-clear surface. You'll be at eye level with dragonflies, reed frogs, and water lilies, and within touching distance of the myriad of colorful fish that swim just below the surface.
June 11, 2025
Lana has been exceptional
Lana has been exceptional! From the moment I contacted her she understood my needs as a traveler and put together a short but perfect itinerary. I will be contacting her again when I do the Tanzania trip next year
June 1, 2025
Excellent planning service
We’ve had a wonderful experience planning our Africa safari with Safari.com. Lana Goodwin has been incredibly patient and supportive throughout the process—answering our many questions, offering honest advice, and helping us craft the ideal itinerary for our family. We really appreciated Safari.com’s wide network of accommodation providers, which gave us the flexibility to “mix and match” based on our preferences and budget. Looking forward to our trip and grateful for the thoughtful planning behind it!
March 13, 2025
Thank you Lana Goodwin and Safari.com
Lana has been super helpful in addressing all our needs in timely manner. Due to her efforts, be believe we are going to have a great trip. Safari.com needs to get better exchange rate as well as lower the credit card payment fees. We were charged in excess of 3% plus bit higher exchange rate.