A vineyard between heaven & earth

Cradled amid the hills of the Hemel-en-Aarde (Heaven and Earth) valley,
Bouchard Finlayson is widely acclaimed as one of South Africa’s leading boutique wine cellars.

With a terroir defined by both ancient soils and a cool maritime climate, the vineyards of Bouchard Finlayson are famous for producing award-winning
Pinot Noir, elegant Chardonnay and terroir-driven Sauvignon Blanc, while inspired blends showcase the depth of skill and innovation in our winemaking team.

The Bouchard Finlayson cellar is conveniently located a scenic 90 minutes’ drive from Cape Town, close to the world-famous whale-watching centre of Hermanus.

Ikalaheng Mogalakwe

Head Safari Guide

I was born in Maun, on the edge of the Okavango Delta. After completing my studies, I began my career in the tourism industry, working my way through the ranks to reach Assistant Camp Manager. I am excited to join Xigera Safari Lodge as Head Guide, and to take on the challenge of building a team and delivering the very best safari experience for all our guests.

Golesedi Baisitse

Safari Guide

I am Golesedi Baisitse, but people call me ’Lesh’. I am from Kanye village, the centre of the Bangwaketse tribe in the south of Botswana. I have been employed as a guide at Xigera since 2014, and I’ve developed a tremendous love for the area’s uniqueness, especially the bird life.

Phodiso Obusitswe

Safari Guide

My name is Phodiso Obusitswe, but I’m also known as Genius. I was born and raised in the Okavango Delta, surrounded by wildlife. From when I was a child I was intrigued by the bush, and began to nurture the knowledge and experience I received from my parents. I then decided that guiding would be my profession. All of these experiences have led to a lifetime of stories. I am thrilled to now be a part of Xigera Safari Lodge.

Salani Gambule

Safari Guide

I am originally from a village in Gambule, in the north-east of Botswana, and joined Xigera Safari Lodge as a professional safari guide in 2020. My first safari experience was actually at Disney’s Animal Kingdom in Florida, USA, where I was a part of Disney’s International Cultural programme from 2009 to 2010. Along with guiding I am also writing articles for the Xigera blog; exploring topics such as our wildlife species and our green initiatives.

Oratile Gotshajwang

Safari Guide

People call me Des. I grew up on a farm on the outskirts of Maun, where I developed a deep appreciation for the natural world. I did a Guiding Basics course at Botswana Wildlife Training Institute, where I learned the fundamentals of guiding, before developing my skills in the bush over the last six years, working for a number of different safari companies. I love the Delta; it’s where I had my first guiding experience, and it’s where I first fell in love with photography.