Eco-lodge to open in the birthplace of humanity

There is something poetic in the idea that the crucible of mankind is now one of the last remaining unspoiled Edens in the world. It seems appropriate then that if tourism is to be brought to the region it does so with the lowest possible impact and greatest reverence.

The Okavango Delta writhes with an abundance of animal life, as plentiful as it is varied, and its this exposure to pure African nature that attracts visitors year after year as they get a taste of the delta’s unique palette. And now, the recent discovery that the earliest population of modern humans began 200,000 years ago in an area that covers parts of Botswana, Namibia and Zimbabwe, means that the eco-lodge is in a prime position to expose its visitors to a glimpse of where human life first began.

Ecotourism at an eco-lodge in Botswana

In the fragile eco-system of some 15 000 square kilometres, the delta spreads itself out over the Kalahari sand system. Situated right at the heart of this unique wetland is Xigera Safari Lodge – an eco-lodge built in at the birthplace of mankind. Along with its commitment to ensuring that the Botswanan jewel is protected, the eco-lodge aims to empower local communities. This will be achieved by maintaining environmentally conscious hospitality alongside sustainable conservation, ensuring that the site remains almost as unspoiled as it was hundreds and hundreds of years ago.

With the rise in ecotourism in Botswana, the eco-lodge, due to open in June 2020, is concentrating on creating the smallest possible disruption to the Okavango delta as possible. The goal is to maintain as much of the natural landscape as possible and to cause the least amount of disruption to the plants an animals of the area as possible.

As part of its commitment to retaining the natural beauty and environment of the delta, The Xigera Energy Centre will supply over 95% of Xigera’s energy needs, which will save the lodge an estimated 175 000 litres of diesel, and the environment 500 tons of carbon emissions each year. Along with this, energy-use will be minimised via the use of thermodynamic geysers.

All plants and trees will be documented and protected as far as possible so as to create as little disturbance as possible in the building process. An on-site composter will create compost that will be sent to local communities for garden projects, making sure that local communities are able to benefit from the eco-lodge’s appearance on the ancient land.

Wildlife in the delta

Owing to its location within Botswana, the Okavango Delta is teeming with wildlife. The unspoiled nature of the surrounds of the lodge, make the location ideal for bird and animal sightings and the area remains a perfect site for game viewing.

Xigera eco-lodge in Botswana is due to open in June 2020. For bookings or queries, visit the website.

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