Xugana Island Lodge

Xugana Island Lodge, Moremi Wildlife Reserve, Botswana

Our rating: First Class

Xugana is situated in one of the oldest sites in the delta, occupying a prime position overlooking the wide Xugana Lagoon. There are eight reed and thatch chalets, built into the riverine forest. Each has large beds, simple furniture in pretty colours, and an en suite bathroom with flush toilet, basin and shower. There's a small deck outside, shaded by the trees.

In the middle of the camp there is a wide lawn and raised deck, with a small swimming pool. There are a few resident hippos in the Xugana Lagoon that help keep the grass short by grazing here each night, so guests are always escorted to and from their rooms after dark.

The main dining area and bar are situated on the banks of the river, with open sides to allow for wonderful views. In front of the bar, there's a fire with comfortable safari chairs, perfect for sunset drinks. Meals are mostly taken outside, with glossy starlings resting on the chair backs, hopeful for crumbs.