HIGHLIGHTS
WHY VISIT
World’s biggest inland wetland
Rare species like Pel’s fishing owl and sitatunga
Mekoro rides through pristine channels
FAMOUS FOR
Being the world’s largest inland delta. What makes it even more remarkable is that its 16 000km² / 10 000mi² of oxbow lakes, meandering waterways and islands dotted with ilala palms is adjacent to the semi-desert of the Kalahari. Botswana’s lack of mountains or valleys allows the Okavango to be flooded by rivers that originate in faraway Angola.
Permanent water in the Panhandle. Although less visited than the more seasonal floodplains of the Delta itself, the Panhandle offers experienced safari goers a unique experience. African fish eagles and rare Pel’s fishing owls abound here while boating activities from secluded lodges are possible year-round. You may be lucky enough to see a shy sitatunga antelope, which are uniquely adapted to swamp habitats.
Outstanding wildlife sightings. Because of plentiful water and good grazing for large parts of the year, the Delta boasts an incredible array of game, especially breeding herds of elephants, large dazzles of zebra and sprightly herds of red lechwe. And where there are herbivores, carnivores follow. Lion, leopard, hyena and even growing numbers of wild dog can all be found stalking the grasslands, woodlands and riparian forest.
WHEN TO VISIT
High-water season: July to October
The floodwaters generally arrive as a gentle trickle in about July, causing water levels to slowly rise. As they do, activities such as mekoro (traditional dugout canoes) rides and boating become possible. A trip on a mokoro offers a completely different perspective on the Delta as you are poled through glades of reeds teeming with tiny painted reed frogs, iridescent dragonflies and a plethora of water birds.
October is considered the hottest and driest month in Botswana, and time on the water gives a welcome respite from the heat. July to October is the peak season when the Okavango has the greatest number of safari visitors.
Low-water season: November to June
By November, an interesting conundrum occurs: the floodwaters start receding as the first summer rains arrive. The rain makes some areas impassable as they become too muddy for game-drive vehicles – these are often places best reached by mekoro or boat in the dry season. The rain also encourages the grass to grow tall and trees to blossom: great baobabs that have been leafless all winter exuberantly spring to life.
Until about April, migrant birds are present and ungulates like impala drop their young, often resulting in heart-stopping predator action.
Low-water season generally overlaps with the green season in Botswana. It may seem counterintuitive that a delta is lowest in the rainy season and highest in dry season but the Okavango, like the Victoria Falls between Zimbabwe and Zambia, is dependent on green season rainfall to fill up.
SAFARIS TO INSPIRE YOU
Experience the magic of the Okavango Delta, a perfect destination for photographers, couples or families. This unique wetland promises an unforgettable blend of wildlife and scenic beauty, turning every trip into a memorable adventure in the heart of Botswana’s wilderness.
Best of Botswana
Okavango Delta | Linyanti | Makgadikgadi
DURATION: 12 NIGHTS
Northern Highlights
Chobe | Khwai | Okavango Delta
DURATION: 6 NIGHTS
Secret Gems
Selinda | Duba Plains
DURATION: 8 NIGHTS
ACCOMMODATION TO INSPIRE YOU
Here are our favourite Okavango Delta Lodges & Camps to inspire you. Contact us to discuss your specific requirements.
PREMIUM ACCOMMODATION
Camps and lodges that surpass the bar when it comes to unusual activities, extra-special amenities and stand-out design.
Sitatunga Private Island Camp
PREMIUM
Complete privacy and indulgence in an intimate permanent water camp
Vumbura Plains
PREMIUM
A premier retreat in the Okavango Delta offering breathtaking wildlife encounters and panoramic views across diverse habitats
Duba Plains Camp
PREMIUM
Experience the thrill of the Okavango Delta at this exclusive safari lodge, renowned for its extraordinary wildlife encounters
Xigera Safari Lodge
PREMIUM
Redefining luxury in the heart of the Okavango Delta, with bespoke experiences in an unparalleled wilderness setting
LUXURY ACCOMMODATION
Exemplary accommodation that offers welcome touches that are a step up and provide an extra level of indulgence.
Okavango Explorers
LUXURY
Venture into the heart of the Delta with expert guides, experiencing the ultimate in adventure and pristine natural beauty
Little Vumbura
LUXURY
A secluded gem in the Okavango Delta, offering intimate wildlife experiences and luxurious accommodations in a stunning aquatic setting
Chitabe Camp
LUXURY
Nestled on an island in the Okavango Delta, this camp is a wildlife enthusiast's dream, surrounded by diverse ecosystems and abundant sightings
Gomoti Plains Camp
LUXURY
Immerse yourself in the raw beauty of the Okavango Delta, where luxurious tents overlook vibrant floodplains teeming with wildlife
Shinde Camp
LUXURY
A secluded haven nestled in the heart of the Okavango Delta, offering intimate wildlife experiences and serene waterway explorations
Kanana Camp
LUXURY
Discover a hidden jewel within the Okavango Delta, where serene waters meet abundant wildlife in an intimate setting
Kwara Camp
LUXURY
Experience the untouched beauty of the Okavango Delta with exclusive wildlife sightings and luxurious tented accommodations
COMFORTABLE ACCOMMODATION
Very congenial surroundings with everything you need for an enjoyable safari grounded in tried-and-tested camps and lodges.
Mma Dinare
COMFORTABLE
Set along the Gomoti River, this camp offers an immersive safari experience, surrounded by the dynamic Okavango Delta ecosystem
Oddball’s Camp
COMFORTABLE
Embrace the spirit of adventure with rustic charm in this authentic delta camp, where nature's wonders are at your doorstep
Moremi Crossing
COMFORTABLE
A eco-friendly camp on a picturesque island, offering panoramic Delta views and wildlife-rich explorations by mokoro or foot
Xugana Island Lodge
COMFORTABLE
A tranquil oasis on the pristine waters of the Delta, offering an exclusive escape into Botswana's untouched wildernessA tranquil oasis on the pristine waters of the Delta, offering an exclusive escape into Botswana's untouched wilderness
Rra Dinare
COMFORTABLE
Set against the vibrant backdrop of the Okavango Delta, this camp offers exclusive encounters with nature's untamed beauty
EXPLORE THE OKAVANGO DELTA
OPTIONS TO EXTEND YOUR OKAVANGO DELTA ITINERARY
Here are a few of our favourite destinations to add to your Okavango Delta itinerary. These extensions are here for inspiration. Chat to one of our experienced Travel Consultants to build the ultimate itinerary, tailored just for you.
Enhance your Delta adventure with a visit to Cape Town, where you can explore diverse landscapes, indulge in gourmet dining, and soak in the rich culture of South Africa’s most iconic city
Extend your Delta journey with a breathtaking visit to Victoria Falls, where the awe-inspiring cascades of water and thrilling activities promise an unforgettable adventure
Extend your Delta adventure by adding a visit to Chobe, where the iconic river safaris, prolific wildlife, and stunning sunsets along the Chobe River create an unforgettable African experience
WHY BOOK WITH BIGGESTLEAF TRAVEL
