Okavango Delta
A place unlike anywhere else on Earth, the Okavango Delta is a vast inland oasis where crystal-clear channels, lush islands, and open floodplains create one of Africa’s most spectacular wildlife destinations. The only officially proclaimed wildlife reserve directly inside the Okavango Delta is the Moremi Game Reserve. The rest of the Okavango Delta is divided into a series of privately managed safari concessions and wildlife areas.
Surrounding Moremi, the Okavango Delta is partitioned into numerous exclusive-use private concessions (e.g., Vumbura, Selinda, Mombo, and Khwai). While these are not officially called “game reserves,” they operate under similar high-end, low-impact conservation models to protect wildlife
The Okavango Delta is one of Africa’s most remarkable safari destinations and a true natural wonder. Located in northern Botswana, this vast inland delta transforms the Kalahari Desert into a thriving oasis of winding waterways, lush islands and wildlife-rich floodplains. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Okavango offers an exclusive safari experience unlike anywhere else on earth.
Each year, seasonal floodwaters from Angola flow into the Delta, creating a dynamic ecosystem that attracts an incredible diversity of wildlife. From elephants and buffalo to lions, leopards and wild dogs, the Okavango Delta is renowned for exceptional game viewing throughout the year.
Why Visit the Okavango Delta?
The Okavango Delta combines spectacular scenery with some of Africa’s finest wildlife encounters. Its unique blend of water and land-based safari experiences allows visitors to explore the wilderness from multiple perspectives.
Highlights include:
- Exceptional wildlife viewing, including the Big Five
- Traditional mokoro (dugout canoe) safaris
- Guided walking safaris
- Scenic boat cruises through crystal-clear channels
- Luxury safari camps and lodges in remote settings
- Outstanding birdwatching with more than 400 recorded species
- Exclusive safari experiences away from crowds
Safari Experiences
- Mokoro Safaris Glide silently through reed-lined channels in a traditional mokoro canoe. Guided by local polers, these excursions offer a peaceful and intimate way to experience the Delta’s waterways and wildlife.
- Game Drives Explore the Delta’s islands and surrounding concessions on expertly guided game drives. Morning and afternoon safaris provide excellent opportunities to encounter both predators and herbivores.
- Walking Safaris Discover the smaller details of the bush on foot with experienced guides. Walking safaris reveal tracks, plants, birds and wildlife behaviour often missed from a vehicle.
- Boat Safaris Water-based safaris provide unique photographic opportunities and access to areas unreachable by road, especially during the annual floods.
Best Time to Visit
The Okavango Delta is a year-round destination, but the peak safari season typically runs from June to October when floodwaters are at their highest and wildlife congregates around permanent water sources.
The green season, from November to April, brings lush landscapes, excellent birdwatching and dramatic summer skies, making it an attractive time for photographers and nature enthusiasts.
