Okavango Delta
Africa’s Largest Inland Delta and Wildlife harbor
Overview
The Okavango Delta, located in Botswana, is a breathtaking natural wonder that covers an area of 15,000 square kilometers. This unique ecosystem is formed by the Okavango River, which flows inland, instead of to the sea, creating a lush wetland that is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. The delta is considered one of the world’s largest inland deltas and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The region has a rich history, and archaeological evidence suggests that the area has been inhabited by humans for thousands of years. The Okavango Delta is known for its incredible wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, hyenas, and over 400 species of birds. The plant species in the delta include papyrus reeds, water lilies, and various acacia and mopane trees. The climate in the delta is largely influenced by the rainy season from November to March, which can cause flooding in some areas. The best time to visit is during the dry season, from May to October, when the wildlife is most concentrated around the water sources. A visit to the Okavango Delta is a truly breathtaking experience that will leave you in awe of the natural beauty and diversity of Africa.
Things to Do
The Okavango Delta offers a range of activities that will leave you awe-inspired and exhilarated. Here are some of the top things to do in this breathtaking destination:
Safari game drives: The Okavango Delta is home to a diverse range of wildlife, and going on a safari game drive is one of the best ways to see these animals up close. You can take a guided tour in an open 4×4 vehicle, and your experienced guide will help you spot different species and share information about their behavior and habits.Â
Mokoro rides: A mokoro is a traditional canoe used by the locals to navigate the delta’s waterways. Taking a mokoro ride is a peaceful and serene way to explore the delta and allows you to get close to the wildlife without disturbing them.Â
Guided nature walks: If you prefer a more intimate and immersive experience, a guided nature walk is a great option. You’ll be accompanied by an experienced ranger who will help you identify different species of plants and animals and teach you about the local culture and traditions.
Bird watching: The Okavango Delta is a bird lover’s paradise, with over 400 species of birds to spot. Some of the most sought-after species include the African fish eagle, the sacred ibis, and the African jacana.
Cultural experiences: The local communities in the Okavango Delta have a rich culture and traditions that are worth experiencing. You can visit a traditional village and learn about their way of life, or attend a cultural event or festival.
Hot air balloon rides: For a truly breathtaking experience, take a hot air balloon ride over the delta at sunrise. This offers a unique perspective of the delta’s stunning landscape and the chance to spot wildlife from above.
Fishing: The Okavango Delta is home to a variety of fish species, including tigerfish and catfish. Fishing is a popular activity in the delta, and you can take a guided tour to some of the best fishing spots.Â
Camping: The delta has a number of campsites where you can relax and unwind after a day of exploring. Here you can enjoy a traditional braai (barbecue), share stories with fellow travelers, and marvel at the starry African sky. Camping is a great way to connect with nature and immerse yourself in the delta’s wilderness.
What to See
Wildlife: The Okavango Delta is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, hyenas, giraffes, and more. You can take a safari game drive or a mokoro ride to spot these animals up close and in their natural habitat.
Birdlife: The delta is a bird lover’s paradise, with over 400 species of birds to spot. Some of the most sought-after species include the African fish eagle, the sacred ibis, and the African jacana.
Waterways: The Okavango Delta is a maze of waterways, channels, and lagoons that are worth exploring. You can take a mokoro ride or a motorboat tour to navigate the delta’s waterways and admire the stunning scenery.
Flora: The delta is home to a diverse range of plant species, including papyrus reeds, water lilies, and various acacia and mopane trees. You can take a guided nature walk to discover these plants and learn about their medicinal and cultural uses.Â
Cultural experiences: The local communities in the Okavango Delta have a rich culture and traditions that are worth experiencing. You can visit a traditional village and learn about their way of life, or attend a cultural event or festival.
Scenic flights: For a truly breathtaking experience, take a scenic flight over the delta. This offers a unique perspective of the delta’s stunning landscape and the chance to spot wildlife from above.
Islands: The Okavango Delta has a number of islands that are worth visiting, including Chief’s Island, which is the largest island in the delta and home to a variety of wildlife.
Sunsets: The sunsets in the Okavango Delta are truly breathtaking and offer a magical experience. You can watch the sun go down over the delta’s waterways and admire the stunning colors of the sky.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit the Okavango Delta is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. This is the peak season for tourism, as the weather is dry and mild, making it easier to navigate the delta’s waterways and spot wildlife. During this time, the vegetation is also less dense, making it easier to see animals. The months of June to August are particularly popular, as the temperatures are cooler and there is less humidity. However, it is worth noting that this is also the busiest time of year, and accommodation and activities may be more expensive and harder to book. The rainy season, which runs from November to April, is also a good time to visit the delta, as the landscape is transformed into a lush green paradise. However, the weather can be unpredictable, and some areas may be inaccessible due to flooding. If you’re looking for a quieter and more affordable time to visit, consider going in the shoulder season (May to June or September to October),
Getting there
By air: The easiest and most convenient way to get to the Okavango Delta is by air. There are several airlines that offer flights to Maun, the gateway to the delta, from major cities in Southern Africa, including Johannesburg and Cape Town. From Maun, you can take a charter flight to one of the delta’s many airstrips, where you will be picked up by your lodge or camp. The flight over the delta is a breathtaking experience, offering a bird’s eye view of the stunning landscape.
By road: If you prefer a more adventurous journey, you can drive to the Okavango Delta. The delta is located in the northwestern part of Botswana, and the main access point is Maun. From Maun, you can drive to the delta’s many lodges and camps, but it is worth noting that the roads can be rough and unpaved, and a 4×4 vehicle is recommended. You can also take a guided self-drive tour, which allows you to explore the delta at your own pace.
Where to Stay
Mid-Range Accommodation:
Delta CampÂ
Delta Camp offers comfortable mid-range tented accommodation in the heart of the Okavango Delta. The camp features spacious tents with en-suite bathrooms, a dining area serving delicious meals, and a communal area for relaxation. Guests can enjoy guided safaris, mokoro (dugout canoe) excursions, and walking safaris.
Pom Pom CampÂ
Pom Pom Camp offers mid-range tented accommodation overlooking a scenic lagoon. The camp features tented rooms with en-suite bathrooms, a dining area serving a variety of dishes, and a swimming pool. Guests can enjoy guided safaris, mokoro trips, and bird watching.
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Luxury Accommodation:
Mombo CampÂ
Mombo Camp offers luxurious tented accommodation in a prime wildlife viewing area of the Okavango Delta. The camp features spacious tents with en-suite bathrooms, a dining area serving gourmet cuisine, and a swimming pool. Guests can enjoy exclusive guided safaris, mokoro trips, and bird watching.
Vumbura Plains CampÂ
Vumbura Plains Camp offers exclusive luxury tented accommodation in a private concession in the Okavango Delta. The camp features luxurious tented suites with private plunge pools, a dining area serving gourmet meals, and a spa offering a range of treatments. Guests can enjoy exclusive guided safaris, mokoro trips, and bird watching in the pristine wilderness of the delta.
Other Attractions in Botswana
Makgadikgadi Pans
Chobe National Park
Moremi Game Reserve
Tsodilo Hills
Central Kalahari Game Reserve
Nxai Pan National Park
Tuli Block
Linyanti Wildlife Reserve
Khama Rhino Sanctuary
General Knowledge Base
General information about Akavango Delta
The Okavango Delta is a unique ecosystem formed by the Okavango River, which flows inland, instead of to the sea, creating a lush wetland that is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna.
The Okavango Delta covers an area of approximately 15,000 square kilometers.
The Okavango Delta is relatively shallow, with a maximum depth of around 6 meters.
The Okavango Delta has around 70 islands, with Chief’s Island being the largest.
The Okavango Delta is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, hyenas, giraffes, and over 400 species of birds.
The Okavango Delta has a rich cultural heritage, and the local communities have a deep connection to the land and its wildlife.
The Okavango Delta is home to a diverse range of plant species, including papyrus reeds, water lilies, and various acacia and mopane trees.
The water in the Okavango Delta can vary in depth, depending on the season and location. Some areas may be shallow enough to wade through, while others may be several meters deep.
