Belmond Eagle Island Lodge is a luxury safari retreat located in the heart of the Okavango Delta, one of the most pristine and diverse ecosystems in Africa. This exceptional lodge provides a blend of modern luxury and the thrilling adventure of a classic African safari, all set within the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Okavango Delta.

Location and Setting

Situated on Xaxaba Island, Belmond Eagle Island Lodge offers guests unparalleled access to one of the world’s most spectacular wilderness areas. The Okavango Delta is renowned for its seasonal floods, which transform the landscape into a lush, waterlogged paradise teeming with wildlife. The area is also a significant haven for birdlife, making it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers.

With its serene and remote location, the lodge offers a true escape from the world, allowing guests to immerse themselves fully in nature while enjoying the luxuries of a world-class lodge. The island is only accessible by a private plane flight or a scenic helicopter ride, which adds to the sense of exclusivity and adventure.

Accommodation at Belmond Eagle Island Lodge

Belmond Eagle Island Lodge offers luxury tented suites that seamlessly blend comfort with nature. The design of the accommodations combines the traditional charm of a safari lodge with modern touches, making it a unique experience for guests.

Luxury Tented Suites
Each of the lodge’s luxury tents features expansive living spaces, complete with comfortable beds, private bathrooms, and air conditioning for those warmer nights. The interiors are tastefully decorated with elegant, nature-inspired themes, featuring earthy tones, wooden furnishings, and African art. Large windows and open decks allow guests to enjoy stunning views of the surrounding delta and its abundant wildlife.

The suites are designed with comfort in mind, offering both indoor and outdoor showers, deep soaking tubs, and an outdoor deck that provides a perfect spot for enjoying the views, whether it’s sunrise over the delta or the vibrant colors of the setting sun.

For those seeking a more exclusive experience, the lodge also offers family suites and private villas that provide more space and additional privacy, ideal for those traveling with children or in larger groups.

Safari Activities at Belmond Eagle Island Lodge

Belmond Eagle Island Lodge offers a wide variety of activities to suit all interests, from game drives to water-based safaris. The Okavango Delta provides unique opportunities for both land and water adventures, giving guests the chance to explore the area from different perspectives.

Game Drives
The game drives around the lodge are an incredible way to experience the Okavango Delta’s wildlife. Led by expert guides, these drives offer guests the chance to view the big game that roams the delta’s dry land during the early mornings and late afternoons. You can expect to see elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, impalas, and the occasional big cats such as lions and leopards.

The open-sided 4×4 vehicles used for the game drives allow for unobstructed views of the landscape and wildlife, making it an ideal way to witness the natural beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Mokoro Safaris (Traditional Canoe)
One of the most iconic activities at Belmond Eagle Island Lodge is the mokoro safari, where guests are guided through the maze of waterways in a traditional dug-out canoe. The mokoro ride offers an intimate way to explore the wetlands of the Okavango Delta, providing close-up views of wildlife such as elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and a wide variety of water birds.

This ancient form of transport provides a serene and peaceful experience, allowing guests to drift silently through the delta while taking in the beauty of the surrounding landscapes.

Walking Safaris
For those who prefer to explore the delta on foot, the lodge also offers walking safaris with expert guides. These walks allow guests to get up close and personal with the environment, learning about the smaller aspects of nature, from tracking animals to identifying plants and insects.

Walking safaris are ideal for those seeking a more immersive and intimate experience in the wild, and they provide a chance to engage with the natural world in a more profound way.

Boating Safaris
Belmond Eagle Island Lodge also offers boating safaris, which allow guests to explore the extensive network of channels and lagoons in the Okavango Delta. These boat safaris provide an opportunity to get closer to wildlife that frequents the water’s edge, such as hippos, crocodiles, and various species of antelope that come to drink from the delta’s waterways.

The boats are specially designed for comfort and provide the ideal vantage point for photography and bird watching.

Dining at Belmond Eagle Island Lodge
The dining experience at Belmond Eagle Island Lodge is an indulgence in itself, offering delicious meals prepared with fresh, local ingredients. Guests can enjoy meals in the lodge’s open-air dining area with panoramic views of the delta.

Breakfast is often served al fresco, offering a variety of fresh fruits, baked goods, and made-to-order dishes, while lunch and dinner feature a mix of international cuisine with African-inspired flavors. The lodge’s chefs are highly skilled, and meals are complemented by a selection of local wines and cocktails.

For a more intimate experience, guests can request private dining in their suites or on their private deck. This ensures an exclusive, romantic experience in the heart of the delta.

Spa and Relaxation
After a day of adventurous safari activities, guests can unwind at the spa with a variety of treatments designed to relax and rejuvenate. The spa offers an array of massage therapies, facials, and body treatments, all inspired by the natural surroundings of the Okavango Delta. The tranquil environment makes it the perfect place to unwind and take in the serene atmosphere.

Sustainability and Conservation
Belmond Eagle Island Lodge is dedicated to promoting sustainable tourism and contributing to the preservation of the Okavango Delta’s unique ecosystem. The lodge operates with minimal environmental impact, using solar power and water conservation initiatives to reduce its carbon footprint.

The lodge also supports local communities through education and employment, ensuring that tourism benefits the surrounding area and promotes the conservation of the region’s wildlife.