&Beyond's Xudum Okavango Delta Lodge nestles on the banks of a lagoon on a permanent channel of the Okavango Delta. Discrete suites boast sweeping views of the intricate network of water that fuels the ever-changing ecosystems of this lush inland delta. Twice-daily expeditions by open 4x4 safari vehicles, mekoro or power boats, as well as walking safaris, offers guests myriad opportunities to explore and discover the abundant wildlife by land or water. Experience intimate encounters with a magnificent variety of animal and bird life, including such elusive species as Pel's fishing owl and the African wild dog.
AN OKAVANGO DELICACY
At this time of the year you will find large herds of elephants around Xudum and Xaranna. The old bulls can often be found in the floodplains eating the tubers of the water lilies. These tubers are very sort after and it’s not uncommon to see baboons wading into the water with a watchful eye for crocodiles to collect them. The local communities also collect them and make a traditional stew of shredded meat and the tubers as a substitute for potatoes. The tubers are known locally as “tshwie”. On this particular day, we interrupted this old Bull with a trunk full of water lilies.