Okavango Delta

An Okavango Delta safari offers a unique and world-class wildlife experience, defined by a dramatic annual flood that transforms a vast corner of the Kalahari Desert into a labyrinth of waterways, islands, and floodplains. Officially declared UNESCO’s 1,000th World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Africa, the Delta is home to a staggering array of life. It supports over 200,000 large mammals, including iconic species like the African bush elephant, buffalo, lion, leopard, and the endangered African wild dog, which has one of its last viable populations here. The ecosystem is further enriched by over 400 bird species and a host of specially adapted semi-aquatic antelope, such as the elegant red lechwe and the shy sitatunga.

This remarkable destination is best experienced through a variety of activities that showcase its diverse landscapes. Traditional game drives in 4WD vehicles provide close encounters with predators and large herds on dry land. However, the quintessential Delta experience is a silent glide through the reed-lined channels in a mokoro (a traditional dugout canoe), offering a serene, ground-level perspective for birdwatching and observing aquatic life. For a truly breathtaking view, scenic helicopter flights reveal the patchwork of islands and channels from above. Many camps also offer guided walking safaris for an intimate, ground-level exploration of the bush.

Choosing the right time to visit is crucial, as the landscape and wildlife activities change dramatically with the seasons. The peak safari season runs from July to October, when the annual floodwaters from the Angolan highlands are at their highest, enabling excellent mokoro excursions and concentrating animals around the remaining water sources for exceptional game viewing. The landscape is lush and green from November to April, known as the “Emerald Season,” which is ideal for birdwatching and seeing newborn animals, though afternoon rains can make some areas less accessible. The transitional months of May and June offer a good balance, with the floods beginning and lower visitor numbers before the peak season.

Accommodations in the Okavango Delta range from luxurious, architecturally stunning lodges to intimate, classic tented camps, often situated in private concessions for an exclusive wilderness experience. Access is typically by small aircraft from the gateway town of Maun, flying guests directly to remote airstrips near their camp.