Xigera Safari Lodge
Okavango Delta, Botswana
A luxury safari lodge in Botswana's Okavango Delta
The story of Xigera Safari Lodge is one of renewal. Of rebirth and family legacy, and of the pioneering spirit that drives us to seek out Africa’s wild spaces. The same spirit that inspired this remarkable reimagining, perhaps a complete reinvention, of an Okavango Delta safari. This is Xigera (pronounced ‘kee-jera’), named for the Pied Kingfisher that makes its home amid the watery channels of Botswana’s Moremi Game Reserve. Every aspect is handcrafted to beguile our guests’ senses and stir their souls – from the evocative interiors to one-of-a-kind encounters. But Xigera is equally a line in the sand. A raising of the bar. A bold statement in the realm of luxury safaris in Botswana, and an Okavango Delta safari experience like no other.
Pinot Pioneer
When Peter Finlayson planted the first vines on the estate in 1989, he had a vision for tapping into this remarkable coastal terroir to craft world-class Pinot Noir. Take a walk with our founder to discover the history, evolution and unique character of the estate.
The Homestead
Bouchard Finlayson is a family-owned farm, and at the heart of the estate is The Homestead, the residence of the Tollman family. Set on a hill above the cellar, and surrounded by lush indigenous gardens, in its white-washed walls and thatched roof The Homestead draws inspiration from the timeless Cape Dutch architectural style.
This modern interpretation of the Cape’s architectural heritage is the work of acclaimed architect Anton De Kock, and a perfect reflection of the Bouchard Finlayson philosophy of celebrating tradition while embracing innovation. Indoors, the walls are graced by the Tollman family’s remarkable collection of art from the 19th and 20th centuries, creating an elegant space in which to host visiting wine industry agents and colleagues.
Discover our unique estate...
In a valley between earth & sky
The cellar
Our charming cellar-door tasting room welcomes visitors daily, with a range of unique experiences for guests to discover the wines of Bouchard Finlayson. Tutored tastings offer a choice of wine flights, while cellar tours and unforgettable vintage tastings are available with prior reservation. Extend your visit with a generous platter of local cheese and charcuterie, enjoyed on the sunny terrace overlooking the valley.
The winery
In contrast to the homely charm of the cellar, the clean lines and minimalism of the production cellar are testament to our winemaking team’s relentless pursuit of quality. Every step of the process happens on-site, from meticulous fruit sorting at harvest time through to fermentation, ageing, bottling and distribution. A space where tradition meets innovation, in the ongoing evolution of Bouchard Finlayson.
Working with nature
We put sustainability at the heart of our operations, especially when it comes to conserving our natural landscape. The farm’s 25 hectares of vineyard account for 20 percent of the estate, with the rest, fynbos conservancy.
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