The Okavango Delta, located in northwestern Botswana, is a vast and lush inland river delta that defies logic: a river that never reaches the sea. Instead, the Okavango River fans out into the Kalahari Desert, creating an immense oasis teeming with wildlife and biodiversity. This rare ecosystem—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—is often referred to as Africa’s Last Eden due to its pristine condition and ecological importance.
Key Facts
- Size: ~15,000 km² during peak flood (varies seasonally)
- Source: Okavango River, originating in the Angolan highlands
- Unique Feature: It floods during Botswana’s dry season (May–October), creating a seasonal paradise for wildlife
Wildlife & Ecosystem
The delta supports one of Africa’s densest concentrations of wildlife, making it a top-tier safari destination. Its patchwork of lagoons, floodplains, grasslands, islands, and palm-fringed channels creates diverse habitats for:
- Big Five (elephant, lion, buffalo, leopard, rhino)
- Hippos and crocodiles
- Wild dogs, cheetahs, and hyenas
- Hundreds of bird species (especially in the flood season)
- Antelope like lechwe and sitatunga that are specially adapted to swampy environments
Activities in the Delta
The Okavango offers a uniquely water-based safari experience that sets it apart from typical game drives. Activities include:
- Mokoro canoe safaris – glide silently through lily-filled channels in a traditional dugout canoe
- Motorboat cruises – explore deeper into the flooded areas
- Walking safaris – led by expert guides across the islands and dry patches
- Game drives – in drier areas or concessions like Moremi Game Reserve
- Birdwatching – especially rewarding from October to March
Best Time to Visit
- Dry season (May–October): Peak floodwaters, excellent wildlife viewing, cooler weather
- Wet season (Nov–April): Lush greenery, baby animals, bird migrations, but access may be limited due to rain
Lodges and Camps
Accommodations range from ultra-luxury to rustic charm. Many are only accessible by light aircraft from Maun, the main gateway to the Delta. Notable options include:
- Luxury: Xigera Safari Lodge, Vumbura Plains, &Beyond Sandibe
- Mid-range: Camp Okavango, Pom Pom Camp
- Adventure: Mobile safaris and basic bush camps
Why the Okavango Delta is Special
- One of the world’s only inland deltas
- Floods during the dry season, attracting wildlife from all around
- Cultural richness with opportunities to engage with local communities and traditional guides
- Exclusive safari experiences – many lodges are in private concessions with low tourist density