Okavango Delta, Botswana
The Okavango Delta is not your typical safari destination. It’s a pulsing green oasis in the middle of the Kalahari Desert, created by seasonal floodwaters from the Okavango River. This vast inland delta fans out into countless winding channels, crystal-clear lagoons, papyrus-lined waterways, and secret islands — forming one of the richest and most pristine ecosystems in Africa.
Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Delta is an otherworldly wildlife haven and a paradise for those seeking exclusivity, intimacy with nature, and off-the-beaten-path luxury.
Location
Fly into Maun Airport (MUB) from Johannesburg, Cape Town, or Gaborone.
From Maun, take a charter flight directly to your camp’s bush airstrip inside the Delta.
Some itineraries also start from Kasane (near Chobe) with flights into the Delta.
Best Time to Visit
June to October (Dry Season / Peak Flood)
When the Delta is full and wildlife viewing is at its best — animals are drawn to the water and game drives are phenomenal.
November to April (Green Season)
Great for birdwatching, lush landscapes, and fewer crowds — though some areas may be less accessible.
Highlights
Chief’s Island: The largest island and wildlife hotspot within the Moremi Game Reserve.
Moremi Game Reserve: A protected area covering part of the Delta, rich in predators and biodiversity.
Xigera & Vumbura Plains: Remote regions offering ultra-luxury safari experiences and rare sightings.
What to Expect
Water-Based Safaris: Glide silently in a mokoro canoe, steered by a local guide, past hippos, elephants, and colorful birds.
Walking Safaris: Experience the bush up close on guided nature walks — the Delta is one of the best places in Africa to do this safely.
Fly-In Luxury Camps: Most lodges are remote and accessible only by small plane, ensuring absolute seclusion.
Incredible Wildlife: Lions, leopards, buffaloes, wild dogs, giraffes, zebras, and over 400 species of birds.
Ever-Changing Landscape: The Delta changes with the seasons — some areas dry out completely and others become islands surrounded by water.