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Botswana

Okavango Delta

WELCOME TO AFRICA’S LAST EDEN

The Okavango Delta is one of the world’s most extraordinary wilderness destinations - a vast inland river delta where crystal clear channels weave through grassy floodplains, palm dotted islands, and mopane woodlands. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Delta offers a unique safari experience shaped by seasonal flooding and an abundance of wildlife.

Every year, waters from the Angolan Highlands flood into Botswana, transforming the landscape into a shimmering oasis that supports an astonishing diversity of species. Whether you're gliding silently in a traditional mokoro canoe, tracking lions on foot, or watching elephants bathe at sunset, the Okavango offers moments found nowhere else on Earth.

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EXPERIENCE CAMPING IN THE WILD – YOUR WAY

The Delta caters to all tastes and budgets, with a wide range of camps and lodges tucked away in its remote corners:


Luxury Safari Lodges: Stylish, fully serviced properties with private plunge pools, fine dining, and exclusive game drives.

  • Classic Tented Camps: Offering the charm of traditional canvas living with all the comforts, these camps blend into the wilderness for a close-to-nature feel.

  • Mobile Camps: Perfect for adventurous travellers, these camps move seasonally and offer authentic bush experiences with minimal impact.

  • Water-Based Camps: Situated in permanent swamps, these focus on water activities like mokoro excursions and boat safaris.

Land-Based Camps: Located in drier regions of the Delta, ideal for game drives and walking safaris.

Safari Camps & Lodges
See our Safari Lodges & Camps in 
Okavango Delta

EXPLORE THE DELTA’S DIVERSE REGIONS

The Okavango Delta is made up of distinct ecosystems and private concessions, each offering a unique safari experience:

  • Moremi Game Reserve: A protected area on the eastern edge of the Delta, known for its superb game viewing and mixed terrain of waterways and woodland.

  • Private Concessions: These exclusive areas offer low density tourism, ensuring intimate wildlife encounters and the freedom to enjoy night drives, guided walks, and off road tracking.

  • Khwai: Located along the Khwai River on the northeastern edge of the Delta, this wildlife rich area is renowned for its high concentrations of predators, excellent game viewing, and a mix of community managed and private concession experiences.

  • Seasonal Floodplains: As the waters rise, these regions become lush feeding grounds for wildlife, especially during the peak season (June to October).

Wildlife Highlights

WILDLIFE PARADISE

The Okavango Delta is home to one of Africa’s richest concentrations of wildlife. Depending on the time of year and your location in the Delta, you may encounter:

  • Big Cats: Lions, leopards, and cheetahs roam the plains and woodlands.

  • Elephants and Buffalo: Massive herds are often seen moving between islands and lagoons.

  • African Wild Dogs: One of the best places in the world to see these endangered predators.

  • Hippos and Crocodiles: Common in the deeper channels and lagoons.

  • Birdlife: Over 400 species, including Pel’s fishing owl, African jacana, and wattled crane.

How to Get Here

how to get here:

Whether you're traveling from within Africa or across the globe, reaching the Delta is easier than you might think:

  • From Maun, Botswana: Maun is the main gateway to the Okavango. A short scenic charter flight will take you into your chosen camp or airstrip in the Delta.

  • From Johannesburg or Cape Town, South Africa: Daily international flights connect Johannesburg and Cape Town to Maun, with options on regional carriers.

  • From Dubai: Connect via Johannesburg or Addis Ababa to Maun.

  • From London: Fly via Johannesburg or direct to Cape Town, then onward to Maun.

  • From New York: Travel via major hubs such as Johannesburg, Doha, or Dubai with connecting flights to Maun.

Upon arrival in Maun, your journey into the Delta continues by light aircraft, offering breathtaking aerial views of the winding channels and game-rich islands below.

Location

FAQ's

FAQs
Best Time to Visit

1.

When is the best time to visit The Okavango Delta?

The best time to visit the Okavango Delta depends on what you want to experience, but most travellers prefer the dry season. Best Overall Time: June to September This is the dry season, when floodwaters from Angola fill the Delta. Wildlife gathers around permanent water sources, making game viewing excellent. Temperatures are cooler and there are fewer mosquitoes. This is the peak safari season, so prices are higher and camps book up early. Flood Peak: July to August The Delta is at its most dramatic and scenic. This is the best time for water-based activities such as mokoro safaris. Shoulder Season: April to May and October Fewer visitors and slightly lower prices. April and May offer lush landscapes with good wildlife viewing, though some rain may persist. October is very hot, but wildlife sightings can still be strong due to limited water sources. Rainy Season: November to March Best for birdwatching and photographers. Migratory birds arrive and the landscape is green and vibrant. Wildlife is more dispersed. Weather is hot and humid, and some camps may close. Quick Recommendations First-time visitors and big-game enthusiasts: July to September Birdwatching and photography: January to March Fewer crowds and better value: April to May or October
Is the Big 5 here?

2.

Can I see the The Big Five in The Okavango Delta?

Yes — the Big Five can be found in the Okavango Delta, but with one important caveat. The Big Five in the Okavango Delta Elephant: Very common. The Delta has one of Africa’s largest elephant populations. Lion: Common, including lions adapted to hunting in water. Leopard: Present but elusive; sightings are fairly regular in good safari areas. Buffalo: Large herds are frequently seen. Rhinoceros: Rare. Rhinos are not widespread in the Delta. However, some private concessions (such as the Chief’s Island area in Moremi Game Reserve) have reintroduced black and white rhinos, so sightings are possible but not guaranteed. Because of this, the Okavango Delta is sometimes described as having the “Big Four plus occasional rhino”, depending on where you stay. Other Wildlife You Can Expect to See: The Okavango Delta is actually more famous for its diversity and density of wildlife than for the Big Five label. Predators African wild dogs (one of the best places in Africa to see them) Cheetahs Spotted hyenas Serval and caracal (less common but possible) Plains Game and Herbivores Hippopotamus and Nile crocodile Giraffe Zebra Wildebeest Red lechwe (a Delta specialty) Sable and roan antelope Kudu, impala, tsessebe, waterbuck Birdlife Over 400 bird species African fish eagle Pelicans, storks, herons, kingfishers Migratory birds during the rainy season (November–March)
Is it Expensive?

3.

Is The Okavango Delta expensive?

Yes — generally the Okavango Delta is considered an expensive safari destination, especially compared with many other safari regions in Africa. Why the Okavango Delta Is Expensive Remoteness and Access Costs The Delta is a remote wilderness area. Most lodges and camps require charter flights from Maun rather than overland transfer, which adds significant cost. High-Value, Low-Impact Tourism Model Botswana prioritizes conservation and limits visitor numbers. Many camps offer high service levels, luxury accommodations, and small-group experiences. **All-Inclusive Pricing Most lodges operate on an all-inclusive basis, which usually covers accommodation, meals, game drives, mokoro/boat excursions, and often drinks and park fees. While this can seem expensive upfront, many travelers appreciate the simplicity of “one price.” Seasonality Prices peak during the dry season (June–September) when wildlife viewing is best. Shoulder and wet seasons are somewhat cheaper but still not bargain-level. Typical Cost Range (Indicative) Luxury lodges: High-end properties can be very expensive per night, often including transfers and activities. Mid-range camps: Still pricey by global travel standards — usually all-inclusive. Budget options: More limited and often outside the main Delta waterways; basic camps or community-run sites are available but not as common as in East Africa. (Exact prices vary widely by accommodation style, season, and booking timing.) Who It’s Best For Travelers who want premium safari experiences Small groups and independent travelers who don’t mind flying between camps Wildlife and photography enthusiasts seeking quality game viewing Tips to Make It More Affordable Travel in the shoulder season: April–May and October can be more affordable. Book early: Especially for peak months, early booking often gets better rates. Choose package deals: Some tour operators offer combined packages that include flights, accommodation, and activities.
Is it safe?

4.

Is The Okavango Delta safe?

Yes — the Okavango Delta is considered very safe for visitors, and it operates differently from many safari destinations, especially when it comes to fencing. Personal Safety Botswana is one of the most politically stable and safest countries in Africa. Violent crime against tourists is extremely rare, especially in remote safari areas. Camps are isolated and accessed mainly by light aircraft, which limits outside access. Wildlife Safety The main “risk” is wildlife itself, but this is well managed. Camps follow strict safety protocols: Staff escort guests to and from tents at night. Clear safety briefings are given on arrival. Activities are always led by trained, licensed guides. If you follow camp rules, incidents are very uncommon. Are Camps and Lodges Fenced? Most camps and lodges in the Okavango Delta are NOT fenced. Why They Aren’t Fenced The Delta is a true wilderness area with free-roaming animals. Fences would disrupt natural wildlife movement. Botswana emphasizes a low-impact, conservation-focused safari model. What This Means for Guests Wildlife (elephants, hippos, lions, leopards) may walk through or near camp. You are never allowed to walk around unescorted at night. Tents and lodges are designed to be safe, elevated, or strategically placed. This unfenced setup is intentional and is part of what makes the Okavango Delta feel so wild and authentic. Are There Any Exceptions? Some family-oriented or semi-permanent lodges may have partial fencing or discreet barriers. Camps near Moremi Game Reserve or private concessions still typically remain unfenced. If fencing is important to you, it’s best to choose a lodge specifically designed for families or first-time safari travellers.
Additional Activities

5.

What are additional activities in The Okavango Delta?

Beyond traditional game drive safaris, the Okavango Delta offers a wide range of activities that make it one of Africa’s most varied safari destinations. Not all activities are available at every camp, but these are the main options: Water-Based Activities (Seasonal) Available mainly June–October, when floodwaters are high. Mokoro Safaris Traditional dugout canoe trips through narrow channels. Quiet, close-up encounters with birds, frogs, and smaller wildlife. One of the Delta’s signature experiences. Boat Cruises Motorized boat trips on deeper channels and lagoons. Excellent for hippos, crocodiles, and birdlife. Often offered as afternoon or sunset excursions. Land-Based Experiences Walking Safaris Guided walks with an armed professional guide. Focus on tracking, plants, insects, and animal behavior. Very immersive and educational. Night Drives Usually offered in private concessions (not allowed in national parks). Spot nocturnal animals like leopards, hyenas, genets, and aardvark. Horseback Safaris Available in select areas. Allows you to move quietly through wildlife areas. Suitable only for confident riders. Aerial & Scenic Experiences Scenic Helicopter Flights Aerial views of the Delta’s channels, islands, and wildlife. Great for photography and understanding the scale of the ecosystem. Light Aircraft Transfers (Scenic Flights) Even transfer flights double as scenic experiences with wildlife sightings from above. Cultural & Community Experiences Visits to nearby villages or community projects (where permitted). Learn about local traditions, crafts, and conservation efforts. Usually arranged in community-run or partnership camps. Relaxation & Photography Wildlife photography sessions and hide-based viewing. Fishing (catch-and-release) in designated areas. Spa treatments and wellness activities at luxury lodges. Stargazing in one of the darkest night skies in Africa. Activities Vary by Location Permanent water camps: best for mokoro and boat activities. Dryland camps: better for walking safaris and big game drives. Private concessions: more flexible activities (night drives, off-road tracking).

And Finally...

Whether you seek luxury, solitude, adventure, or all three, the Okavango Delta promises a safari like no other - immersive, intimate, and unforgettable. Come and explore one of the last great natural sanctuaries on Earth.

The Okavango Delta... Where Water and Wildlife Meet in Perfect Harmony

The Okavango Delta is one of the world’s most extraordinary wilderness destinations - a vast inland river delta where crystal clear channels weave through grassy floodplains, palm dotted islands, and mopane woodlands. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Delta offers a unique safari experience shaped by seasonal flooding and an abundance of wildlife. Every year, waters from the Angolan Highlands flood into Botswana, transforming the landscape into a shimmering oasis that supports an astonishing diversity of species. Whether you're gliding silently in a traditional mokoro canoe, tracking lions on foot, or watching elephants bathe at sunset, the Okavango offers moments found nowhere else on Earth.
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