NG/14 Kwando Concession

Part of the larger Kwando-Linyanti system, this private concession is celebrated for its high density of predators, especially lions, leopards, and wild...

NG/14 Kwando Concession at a Glance

Location
Chobe & Linyanti Wetlands, Botswana, Southern Africa
Coordinates
-18.309025, 23.298542
Crowds
Very Quiet
Malaria Risk
Low
Best Time to Visit
May to October (dry season) for the Okavango Delta floods and wildlife. November to March for birding and green season rates.

Getting to NG/14 Kwando Concession

Nearest airport: Kwando-Lagoon Airstrip (FBKD), 15 km away.

Big Five in NG/14 Kwando Concession

4 of the Big Five can be found here: Lion, Leopard Tortoise, Leopard, African Buffalo.

Weather & Climate in NG/14 Kwando Concession

The warmest temperatures in NG/14 Kwando Concession occur in October, averaging 29.0°C (up to 36.4°C). The coolest conditions are in July at 18.1°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in May with average rainfall of 0.0mm. Average humidity: 36.5%.

Monthly Temperatures

  • January: 24.0°C (rainfall: 188.4mm)
  • February: 25.1°C (rainfall: 92.2mm)
  • March: 24.8°C (rainfall: 80.3mm)
  • April: 23.5°C (rainfall: 12.1mm)
  • May: 21.1°C (rainfall: 0.0mm)
  • June: 18.4°C (rainfall: 0.4mm)
  • July: 18.1°C (rainfall: 0.0mm)
  • August: 21.8°C (rainfall: 0.0mm)
  • September: 26.3°C (rainfall: 0.1mm)
  • October: 29.0°C (rainfall: 1.8mm)
  • November: 28.1°C (rainfall: 30.6mm)
  • December: 26.4°C (rainfall: 102.2mm)

Best Time to Visit NG/14 Kwando Concession

The best months to visit NG/14 Kwando Concession are April, May, June, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Good, temperature 23.99°C, rainfall 188.4mm, sunshine 10.5 hrs, humidity 73.3%
  • February: Great, temperature 25.13°C, rainfall 92.2mm, sunshine 11.1 hrs, humidity 64.9%
  • March: Great, temperature 24.75°C, rainfall 80.3mm, sunshine 10.5 hrs, humidity 63.1%
  • April: Great, temperature 23.54°C, rainfall 12.1mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 52.2%
  • May: Great, temperature 21.14°C, rainfall 0mm, sunshine 10.8 hrs, humidity 36.5%
  • June: Great, temperature 18.43°C, rainfall 0.4mm, sunshine 10.8 hrs, humidity 35.6%
  • July: Great, temperature 18.13°C, rainfall 0mm, sunshine 10.8 hrs, humidity 31.2%
  • August: Great, temperature 21.84°C, rainfall 0mm, sunshine 10.9 hrs, humidity 25.3%
  • September: Great, temperature 26.27°C, rainfall 0.1mm, sunshine 11.1 hrs, humidity 22.7%
  • October: Great, temperature 29.04°C, rainfall 1.8mm, sunshine 11.7 hrs, humidity 24.8%
  • November: Great, temperature 28.09°C, rainfall 30.6mm, sunshine 11.4 hrs, humidity 44.4%
  • December: Great, temperature 26.44°C, rainfall 102.2mm, sunshine 11.3 hrs, humidity 58.8%

Wildlife in NG/14 Kwando Concession

Home to 120 recorded species including 38 waterbirds, 33 iconic birds, 25 birds of prey, 5 big herbivores, 5 antelope & gazelle, 5 tropical birds.

Recommended Packing List for NG/14 Kwando Concession

Based on average temperature of 23.9°C, typical conditions, humidity 44%.

  • Light layers - comfortable for 24°C weather
  • Binoculars - essential for every game drive
  • Sun hat & sunscreen - protection from the African sun
  • Sturdy walking shoes - for bush walks and uneven terrain
  • Neutral-coloured clothing - khaki, olive, and tan blend with the bush
  • Insect repellent - essential in most safari regions
  • First aid kit - basic medical supplies for remote areas
  • Torch / headlamp - useful for evenings at camp
  • Camera with telephoto lens - capture your safari memories

Notable Species

Safari Lodges in NG/14 Kwando Concession

2 safari lodges available.

ultra-luxury

Similar Parks in Chobe & Linyanti Wetlands

Visitor Tips - NG/14 Kwando Concession

The Kwando Concession offers an unparalleled sense of wildness and exclusivity, a true gem for those seeking genuine wilderness away from the crowds. We particularly love its reputation for exceptional predator sightings and the unique blend of land and water-based activities along the Kwando River, making every day an adventure.

Gate Times

Access to the Kwando Concession is typically managed through your booked safari lodge. There are no public gate times as such; instead, your arrival and departure will be coordinated directly with your camp. Permits are usually arranged by the lodge as part of your booking, ensuring seamless entry into this private wilderness area.

Tipping

We recommend budgeting for tips in USD or Botswana Pula. For your guide, a customary amount is around $15-20 per guest per day, given directly at the end of your stay. For general camp staff, a communal tip of $10-15 per guest per day, placed in a central box, is appreciated. Trackers and mokoro polers can receive $5-10 per activity or per day. Always tip discreetly and with a genuine smile.

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Botswana

Travel advisory for Botswana

NG/14 Kwando Concession FAQs

What is the optimal time to visit NG/14 Kwando Concession for specific wildlife viewing, given its reputation for predators and year-round game?

While NG/14 Kwando offers excellent game viewing year-round, the dry season (May-October) is ideal for concentrated wildlife around water sources, making predator sightings particularly frequent and dramatic. The green season (November-April) transforms the landscape with lush vegetation, migratory birds, and newborn animals, offering a different, equally rewarding experience for photography and birdwatching.

How does the NG/14 Kwando Concession's exceptionally low crowding level (1/5) enhance the safari experience compared to more public parks?

The 1/5 crowding level in NG/14 Kwando ensures an exceptionally private and intimate safari experience. You'll encounter very few other vehicles at wildlife sightings, allowing for extended, undisturbed viewing opportunities and a deeper connection with the pristine wilderness. This exclusivity is a significant hallmark, ensuring a truly immersive and personal safari.

Beyond traditional game drives, what unique activities or safari styles are offered within NG/14 Kwando, especially given its diverse habitats?

In addition to day and night game drives, the diverse habitats of NG/14 Kwando allow for immersive walking safaris, offering a unique perspective on the smaller flora and fauna. Depending on water levels, some camps also provide mokoro (dugout canoe) excursions or boat trips on the Kwando River, allowing for exploration of aquatic wildlife and birdlife from a different vantage point.

What specific health and safety precautions should travelers be aware of when planning a safari to NG/14 Kwando, particularly regarding its low malaria risk?

While NG/14 Kwando boasts a low malaria risk, it's always prudent to consult your doctor about recommended prophylactic medication before your trip. General safety involves strictly following your guide's instructions during all activities, especially game drives and walking safaris, and being mindful of wildlife around unfenced camp areas. The concession maintains high safety standards for all guest experiences.

Considering its private concession status and high-density wildlife, what is the typical cost range for a safari in NG/14 Kwando, and what value does this investment provide?

Safaris in NG/14 Kwando are generally considered a premium investment, reflecting the exclusivity, expert guiding, and unparalleled wildlife viewing opportunities. Costs typically range from $800-$1500+ per person per night, depending on the specific camp and season. This investment provides exceptional privacy, personalized service, and access to one of Africa's most pristine and predator-rich wilderness areas.

Recommended Books

  • The Handbook of Bird Photography by Markus Varesvuo, Jari Peltomäki & Bence Máté - Excellent for birding photographers on safari - covers technique, equipment, fieldcraft, and post-processing with stunning example images.
  • Photographing Wildlife in Africa by Paolo Torchio - Practical guide specifically for African safari photography - camera settings, lens choices, composition techniques, and how to make the most of game drives.
  • Fodor's The Complete Guide to African Safaris by Fodor's Travel - Country-by-country planning guide with lodge reviews, practical logistics, packing lists, and insider tips. Often cited as the best all-in-one safari planning resource.
  • Lonely Planet Botswana & Namibia by Lonely Planet - Covers the Okavango Delta, Chobe, Etosha, Sossusvlei, and the Skeleton Coast. Essential for self-drive safaris through two of southern Africa's wildest destinations.
  • Lonely Planet Zambia & Mozambique by Lonely Planet - From Victoria Falls and South Luangwa to Mozambique's pristine coastline. Practical advice for two of Africa's most rewarding off-the-beaten-path destinations.
  • National Geographic Kids: Safari by National Geographic - Age-appropriate wildlife facts with stunning photographs. Great for getting children excited about the animals they'll see on safari.
  • Bradt Guide: Botswana by Chris McIntyre - Gold standard for Okavango Delta and Chobe planning - self-drive routes, camp reviews, and detailed maps. Essential for anyone planning a Botswana safari.
  • Lonely Planet Southern Africa by Lonely Planet - Covers South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique. Practical planning information with detailed park and city guides.
  • The Last Elephants by Don Pinnock & Colin Bell - Conservation-focused book combining beautiful photography with urgent storytelling about the threats facing Africa's elephant populations.
  • Here Is the African Savanna by Madeleine Dunphy - Beautifully illustrated picture book about the savanna ecosystem. Teaches children about the interconnected web of life on an African plain.
  • Safari: A Photographic Journey by Art Wolfe - Large-format coffee-table book from one of the world's most celebrated nature photographers. Stunning images from across the African continent.
  • The Kingdon Field Guide to African Mammals by Jonathan Kingdon - The definitive mammal field guide for Africa covering over 1,150 species with detailed illustrations. Considered the gold standard for safari-goers and researchers alike.
  • The Behavior Guide to African Mammals by Richard Despard Estes - Goes beyond identification to explain why animals behave as they do. Essential reading for safari-goers who want to understand the wildlife they observe.
  • Roberts Bird Guide by Hugh Chittenden, Greg Davies & Ingrid Weiersbye - Comprehensive southern African bird guide covering 960+ species with detailed range maps and illustrations. The birder's bible for safaris in South Africa, Botswana, and Namibia.
  • Cry of the Kalahari by Mark & Delia Owens - Riveting account of wildlife research in Botswana's Central Kalahari. An adventurous tale of two young researchers living among the wild animals.
  • Remembering Lions by Various Photographers - Part of the acclaimed Remembering Wildlife conservation book series. Features contributions from world-class wildlife photographers, with proceeds supporting lion conservation.
  • African Animals ABC by Stella Blackstone & Petr Horacek - Simple alphabet book with bold, colourful animal illustrations. Perfect for toddlers and young children preparing for their first safari. Ages 2–5.
  • Beat About the Bush: Mammals by Trevor Carnaby - The single best book for understanding animal behaviour on safari. Explains why animals do what they do - feeding, mating, territory, predator-prey dynamics. Makes every game drive infinitely more rewarding.
  • Sasol Birds of Southern Africa by Ian Sinclair, Phil Hockey & Warwick Tarboton - The southern Africa birding bible. Covers over 950 species with detailed illustrations, distribution maps, and habitat notes. The most trusted bird field guide for South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Mozambique.
  • Africa's Top Wildlife Countries by Mark W. Nolting - The most respected safari planning book in print. Detailed country-by-country guide covering parks, lodges, best times to visit, and what wildlife to expect. Updated regularly. The first book every safari planner should read.
  • The Safari Companion: A Guide to Watching African Mammals by Richard D. Estes - Part field guide, part planning tool. Explains mammal behaviour in a way that transforms game drives. Covers tracks, signs, social structures, and habitat preferences. A must-pack for serious safari-goers.
  • The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuscinski - Widely considered the greatest book ever written about Africa. Kapuscinski spent 40 years reporting from across the continent. Vivid, poetic, and deeply insightful. Essential pre-safari reading for understanding the continent.
  • Elephant Company by Vicki Constantine Croke - The extraordinary true story of James Howard Williams and the elephants who helped him build bridges, extract teak, and ultimately rescue refugees across the Burmese jungle during WWII. Gripping and moving.
  • When the Last Lion Roars by Sara Evans - An urgent, accessible account of the African lion's decline from 200,000 to under 20,000 in a century. Covers the science, politics, and human stories behind lion conservation. Eye-opening pre-safari reading.
  • Ivory, Horn and Blood by Ronald Orenstein - The definitive book on the poaching crisis devastating African elephants and rhinos. Covers the criminal networks, the rangers fighting back, and what travellers can do. Important context for any safari visitor.
  • Last Chance to See by Douglas Adams & Mark Carwardine - Witty and heartbreaking tour of endangered species by the Hitchhiker's Guide author. Combines humour with urgent conservation messaging.
  • Owen and Mzee by Isabella Hatkoff, Craig Hatkoff & Paula Kahumbu - True story of an orphaned hippo befriending a 130-year-old tortoise in Kenya. A heartwarming tale of unlikely friendship that teaches empathy.
  • Remembering Elephants by Various Photographers - Stunning coffee-table book from the Remembering Wildlife series. All proceeds go to elephant conservation - beautiful photography with a purpose.
  • Whatever You Do, Don't Run by Peter Allison - Hilarious memoir from a Botswana safari guide - true stories from the bush that will have you laughing out loud. A favourite among safari enthusiasts.
  • Poached by Rachel Love Nuwer - Gripping investigation into the illegal wildlife trade - from African poaching networks to Asian markets. Essential reading for understanding the threats to safari wildlife.
  • Safari Nation by Jacob S. T. Dlamini - Fascinating history of South Africa's national parks and their complex colonial legacy. Academic but accessible - changes how you think about safari tourism.
  • Safari: A Photicular Book by Dan Kainen & Carol Kaufmann - Mesmerising book with moving photographic images of African animals. Kids and adults love the magical moving pictures - perfect pre-trip gift.