NG/28 Moremi Game Reserve

Situated in the eastern part of the Okavango Delta, Moremi is often considered one of the most beautiful wildlife areas in Africa, encompassing both...

NG/28 Moremi Game Reserve at a Glance

Location
Okavango Delta & Moremi, Botswana, Southern Africa
Coordinates
-19.294598, 23.218386
IUCN Category
II
Crowds
Moderate
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/28 Moremi Game Reserve

Nearest airport: Shindi Lodge Airstrip, 21 km away.

Nearest international airport: Phillip Gaonwe Matante International Airport (FRW), 490 km away.

Big Five in NG/28 Moremi Game Reserve

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

Weather & Climate in NG/28 Moremi Game Reserve

The warmest temperatures in NG/28 Moremi Game Reserve occur in October, averaging 28.7°C (up to 36.4°C). The coolest conditions are in July at 17.5°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in September with average rainfall of 0.0mm. Average humidity: 23.4%.

Monthly Temperatures

  • January: 24.5°C (rainfall: 178.6mm)
  • February: 25.6°C (rainfall: 88.0mm)
  • March: 24.8°C (rainfall: 68.3mm)
  • April: 23.5°C (rainfall: 9.7mm)
  • May: 20.7°C (rainfall: 0.4mm)
  • June: 17.8°C (rainfall: 0.2mm)
  • July: 17.5°C (rainfall: 0.1mm)
  • August: 21.4°C (rainfall: 0.1mm)
  • September: 25.9°C (rainfall: 0.0mm)
  • October: 28.7°C (rainfall: 4.0mm)
  • November: 28.1°C (rainfall: 29.6mm)
  • December: 26.4°C (rainfall: 91.0mm)

Best Time to Visit NG/28 Moremi Game Reserve

The best months to visit NG/28 Moremi Game Reserve are April, May, August, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Great, temperature 24.48°C, rainfall 178.6mm, sunshine 10.9 hrs, humidity 69.2%
  • February: Great, temperature 25.61°C, rainfall 88mm, sunshine 11.3 hrs, humidity 60.8%
  • March: Great, temperature 24.79°C, rainfall 68.3mm, sunshine 10.6 hrs, humidity 61.2%
  • April: Great, temperature 23.48°C, rainfall 9.7mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 50.1%
  • May: Great, temperature 20.7°C, rainfall 0.4mm, sunshine 10.8 hrs, humidity 35.5%
  • June: Great, temperature 17.76°C, rainfall 0.2mm, sunshine 10.8 hrs, humidity 36.5%
  • July: Great, temperature 17.52°C, rainfall 0.1mm, sunshine 10.9 hrs, humidity 32%
  • August: Great, temperature 21.42°C, rainfall 0.1mm, sunshine 10.9 hrs, humidity 26.1%
  • September: Great, temperature 25.9°C, rainfall 0mm, sunshine 11.2 hrs, humidity 23.4%
  • October: Great, temperature 28.69°C, rainfall 4mm, sunshine 11.6 hrs, humidity 24.8%
  • November: Great, temperature 28.14°C, rainfall 29.6mm, sunshine 11.5 hrs, humidity 42.9%
  • December: Great, temperature 26.4°C, rainfall 91mm, sunshine 11.3 hrs, humidity 57.9%

Wildlife in NG/28 Moremi Game Reserve

Home to 118 recorded species including 41 waterbirds, 26 iconic birds, 26 birds of prey, 5 big herbivores, 4 big five, 4 antelope & gazelle.

Recommended Packing List for NG/28 Moremi Game Reserve

Based on average temperature of 23.7°C, typical conditions, humidity 43%.

  • 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/28 Moremi Game Reserve

33 safari lodges available.

Other

luxury

Similar Parks in Okavango Delta & Moremi

Visitor Tips - NG/28 Moremi Game Reserve

Moremi Game Reserve is where the Okavango Delta truly begins to reveal its magic, a place where permanent water meets dryland wilderness in a spectacular fusion of ecosystems. We love how this unique environment supports an astonishing diversity of wildlife, offering unparalleled opportunities for both land and water-based safaris. It's an immersive experience that feels both wild and wonderfully intimate, a true jewel in Botswana's crown.

Gate Times

Moremi Game Reserve typically operates from sunrise to sunset, usually around 6:00 AM to 6:30 PM, though exact times can vary seasonally. We strongly recommend confirming current gate times upon arrival or with your tour operator. All visitors require pre-booked permits and confirmed accommodation or campsite reservations to enter. Self-drivers must have a high-clearance 4x4 vehicle and be fully self-sufficient; entry is strictly controlled to manage visitor numbers.

Tipping

Tipping is customary and a meaningful way to show appreciation for excellent service. For safari guides, we recommend around BWP 150-250 (USD 10-20) per guest per day. For general camp staff (pooled tips), BWP 75-150 (USD 5-10) per guest per day is appropriate. It's best to tip in Botswana Pula, though US Dollars are often accepted. We advise placing tips in designated envelopes or boxes, usually found at the main camp area, rather than handing cash directly to individuals.

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Botswana

Travel advisory for Botswana

NG/28 Moremi Game Reserve FAQs

When is the best time to visit Moremi Game Reserve for optimal wildlife viewing, considering its unique blend of water and land habitats?

The dry season, from May to October, is generally considered the best time to visit Moremi. During these months, wildlife congregates around permanent water sources as seasonal pans dry up, making sightings more predictable and abundant, especially for predators and large mammals. This period also offers excellent conditions for both land-based game drives and water activities.

What specific safari activities are available in Moremi Game Reserve, taking advantage of its unique water and land environments?

Moremi uniquely offers both traditional 4x4 game drives on its dry land sections and serene water-based activities like mokoro (traditional dugout canoe) excursions and motorboat safaris in its permanent waterways. This allows for diverse perspectives on wildlife, from tracking predators on land to silently gliding past hippos and crocodiles. Night drives are also offered by some private concessions within the reserve.

What unique wildlife encounters can I expect in Moremi, given its diverse habitats within the Okavango Delta?

Moremi offers exceptional opportunities to see both land and water-based wildlife, including all of the Big Five, healthy populations of African wild dogs, and a spectacular array of over 500 bird species. Its unique position within the Okavango Delta means you can witness animals like red lechwe and sitatunga alongside typical savanna species, often interacting at the water's edge.

What is the typical cost range for a safari in Moremi Game Reserve, and what factors influence it?

Safaris in Moremi Game Reserve are generally considered a premium experience, with costs typically ranging from $500 to over $1500 per person per night, depending on the camp's luxury level and inclusions. This usually covers accommodation, meals, guided activities, and park fees, reflecting the high-quality, low-impact tourism model of the Okavango Delta. Factors like private charter flights and exclusive concession access can further influence the price.

Beyond the low malaria risk, what are key safety considerations or practical tips for visitors to Moremi Game Reserve?

While malaria risk is low, it's crucial to always follow your guide's instructions, especially during game drives and water activities, as you are in a wild environment with dangerous animals. Be mindful of sun protection and staying hydrated in the African sun. For self-drivers, be aware that tracks can be challenging, sandy, or waterlogged, requiring a high-clearance 4x4 vehicle and experience.

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.