2 safari lodges
    Okavango Delta & Moremi, Botswana
    Very Quiet
    Malaria: Low

    Safari in Okavango Delta

    A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Okavango Delta is a vast inland delta formed by the Okavango River, creating a unique wetland ecosystem in the heart of the Kalahari Desert. It's renowned for its exceptional biodiversity, offering unparalleled opportunities to see large concentrations of elephants, lions, leopards, buffalo, and a myriad of bird species, often viewed from mokoros (traditional canoes) or safari vehicles.

    Best timeMay to October (dry season) for the Okavango Delta floods and wildlife. November to March for birding and green season rates.
    Species
    131
    Big Five
    4/5
    Lodges
    2
    Recommended stay
    1-2 days

    Okavango Delta Map

    Park location and safari lodges

    The African Big 5

    4 of 5 found in Okavango Delta

    Lion
    Elephant
    Buffalo
    Leopard
    Rhino

    Recent sightings at Okavango Delta

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    131 species recorded in Okavango Delta17 threatened

    Book Safari Experiences in Okavango Delta

    Game drives, guided tours, and unique experiences in Okavango Delta

    Botswana offers exceptional safari experiences year-round, but the 'best' time depends on your priorities. For classic big game viewing and predator action, we unequivocally recommend the dry season...

    January

    Now
    low

    Green Season

    January brings heavy rains, transforming the landscape into a lush, vibrant green. Days are warm and humid, with spectacular afternoon thunderstorms that clear to reveal crisp air.

    This is calving season, so we see many young animals, especially impala and wildebeest, which in turn attracts predators. Birding is exceptional with migratory species in full plumage.

    We love exploring the Central Kalahari Game Reserve this month, where the usually arid pans burst with life and offer incredible predator sightings.

    Central Kalahari Game Reserve
    Nxai Pan National Park
    Makgadikgadi Pans National Park

    February

    low

    Green Season

    Rains continue, often in short, intense bursts, leaving the air fresh and the vegetation dense. Temperatures remain warm, making for comfortable safari conditions between showers.

    Predators are active, taking advantage of the abundant young prey. The zebra migration is often still in full swing across the Makgadikgadi and Nxai Pans, a truly magnificent sight.

    We recommend focusing on the Kalahari parks to witness the zebra migration and the incredible interactions between predators and their vulnerable young.

    Nxai Pan National Park
    Makgadikgadi Pans National Park
    Central Kalahari Game Reserve

    March

    low

    Green Season

    The rains begin to lessen towards the end of March, but the landscape remains wonderfully green and vibrant. Days are warm, and the air is often clear after the last of the seasonal downpours.

    With water still widely available, wildlife is dispersed, offering a more intimate viewing experience. Birdlife remains phenomenal, and the Okavango Delta's water levels start to rise.

    We find March perfect for photography, with dramatic skies and lush backdrops, especially in the southern Okavango Delta as it begins to fill.

    Okavango Delta
    Moremi Game Reserve
    Chobe National Park

    April

    moderate

    Shoulder Season

    April marks a beautiful transition as the rains largely cease, and the bush slowly begins to dry out. Days are warm and sunny, with cooler evenings, making for very pleasant weather.

    Water levels in the Okavango Delta are noticeably rising, attracting more animals to its fringes. Game viewing improves as the vegetation thins, and migratory birds prepare to depart.

    We love April for its excellent value and the chance to experience both the lushness of the green season and the beginnings of the dry season's concentrated wildlife.

    Okavango Delta
    Moremi Game Reserve
    Chobe National Park

    May

    moderate

    Shoulder Season

    The dry season is firmly setting in, with clear, sunny days and comfortably warm temperatures. Nights become noticeably cooler, requiring an extra layer for early morning game drives.

    The Okavango Delta is now at its highest water levels, creating stunning waterways for mokoro excursions. Wildlife starts to concentrate around permanent water sources, improving sightings.

    We recommend May for those seeking the magic of the Delta's floodwaters without the peak season crowds, offering superb game viewing and beautiful scenery.

    Okavango Delta
    Moremi Game Reserve
    Linyanti Concession

    June

    high

    Dry Season

    June brings classic dry season weather: clear, sunny days, virtually no rain, and mild temperatures. Mornings and evenings are cool, sometimes chilly, perfect for safari activities.

    Wildlife viewing is excellent as animals are increasingly drawn to the shrinking water sources. Large herds of elephants and buffalo are common in Chobe and Linyanti, and predators are active.

    We find June to be an ideal month for traditional game drives and water-based activities in the Delta, as the conditions are perfect and wildlife is abundant.

    Okavango Delta
    Moremi Game Reserve
    Chobe National Park
    +1

    July

    high

    Dry Season

    July is characterized by dry, sunny, and pleasant weather. Days are warm, and nights are cool, offering perfect conditions for spending long hours on safari.

    This is prime game viewing. Wildlife concentrations around waterholes are at their peak, making for consistent and spectacular sightings, especially of large herds and their predators.

    We consider July one of the best months for a classic Botswana safari, particularly for those focused on big game and predator action in the Delta and Chobe.

    Okavango Delta
    Moremi Game Reserve
    Chobe National Park
    +1

    August

    peak

    Dry Season

    August is very dry and warm, with virtually no rain. The bush is sparse, offering excellent visibility. Mornings are cool, quickly warming up to pleasant daytime temperatures.

    Wildlife viewing remains phenomenal, with animals congregating at permanent water sources. Predator sightings are frequent as they stalk the concentrated herds. Elephant numbers in Chobe are immense.

    We recommend August for serious wildlife enthusiasts who prioritize intense game viewing and don't mind the higher prices and busier lodges.

    Okavango Delta
    Moremi Game Reserve
    Chobe National Park
    +1

    September

    peak

    Dry Season

    September is the hottest and driest month of the dry season, with temperatures soaring, especially in the afternoon. Water is extremely scarce, intensifying wildlife interactions.

    This is arguably the most dramatic month for wildlife viewing. Animals are desperate for water, leading to incredible predator-prey dynamics around the remaining waterholes. Elephant herds are colossal.

    We advise September for those seeking the raw, intense drama of the African bush, where every waterhole is a stage for survival.

    Okavango Delta
    Moremi Game Reserve
    Chobe National Park
    +1

    October

    high

    Shoulder Season

    October is incredibly hot and dry, often with the first pre-rain thunderstorms building in the afternoons, bringing a sense of anticipation. Humidity starts to rise.

    Wildlife remains concentrated around water, offering excellent viewing despite the heat. The first rains can trigger some animal movements, and migratory birds begin to return.

    We suggest October for experienced safari-goers who appreciate the intense wildlife action and don't mind the heat, often finding it a rewarding challenge.

    Okavango Delta
    Moremi Game Reserve
    Chobe National Park

    November

    moderate

    Green Season

    The first significant rains arrive, breaking the dry spell and transforming the parched landscape into a vibrant green. Days are warm and humid, with refreshing afternoon showers.

    This is the start of the calving season and the zebra migration to the Makgadikgadi and Nxai Pans. Birdlife explodes with the arrival of migratory species. Wildlife disperses with new water sources.

    We love November for witnessing the rebirth of the bush, the arrival of new life, and the spectacular zebra migration, offering a different kind of safari magic.

    Makgadikgadi Pans National Park
    Nxai Pan National Park
    Okavango Delta

    December

    low

    Green Season

    December is warm and humid, with regular afternoon thunderstorms that bring life to the bush. The air is fresh and clean after the rains, and the landscape is brilliantly green.

    Calving season is in full swing, providing excellent opportunities to see young animals and the predators that follow them. Birding is outstanding, with many species in breeding plumage.

    We recommend December for birding enthusiasts and those seeking a quieter, more intimate safari experience, enjoying the lush scenery and vibrant new life.

    Central Kalahari Game Reserve
    Nxai Pan National Park
    Okavango Delta

    January

    Now
    low

    Green Season

    January brings heavy rains, transforming the landscape into a lush, vibrant green. Days are warm and humid, with spectacular afternoon thunderstorms that clear to reveal crisp air.

    This is calving season, so we see many young animals, especially impala and wildebeest, which in turn attracts predators. Birding is exceptional with migratory species in full plumage.

    We love exploring the Central Kalahari Game Reserve this month, where the usually arid pans burst with life and offer incredible predator sightings.

    Central Kalahari Game Reserve
    Nxai Pan National Park
    Makgadikgadi Pans National Park

    February

    low

    Green Season

    Rains continue, often in short, intense bursts, leaving the air fresh and the vegetation dense. Temperatures remain warm, making for comfortable safari conditions between showers.

    Predators are active, taking advantage of the abundant young prey. The zebra migration is often still in full swing across the Makgadikgadi and Nxai Pans, a truly magnificent sight.

    We recommend focusing on the Kalahari parks to witness the zebra migration and the incredible interactions between predators and their vulnerable young.

    Nxai Pan National Park
    Makgadikgadi Pans National Park
    Central Kalahari Game Reserve

    March

    low

    Green Season

    The rains begin to lessen towards the end of March, but the landscape remains wonderfully green and vibrant. Days are warm, and the air is often clear after the last of the seasonal downpours.

    With water still widely available, wildlife is dispersed, offering a more intimate viewing experience. Birdlife remains phenomenal, and the Okavango Delta's water levels start to rise.

    We find March perfect for photography, with dramatic skies and lush backdrops, especially in the southern Okavango Delta as it begins to fill.

    Okavango Delta
    Moremi Game Reserve
    Chobe National Park

    April

    moderate

    Shoulder Season

    April marks a beautiful transition as the rains largely cease, and the bush slowly begins to dry out. Days are warm and sunny, with cooler evenings, making for very pleasant weather.

    Water levels in the Okavango Delta are noticeably rising, attracting more animals to its fringes. Game viewing improves as the vegetation thins, and migratory birds prepare to depart.

    We love April for its excellent value and the chance to experience both the lushness of the green season and the beginnings of the dry season's concentrated wildlife.

    Okavango Delta
    Moremi Game Reserve
    Chobe National Park

    May

    moderate

    Shoulder Season

    The dry season is firmly setting in, with clear, sunny days and comfortably warm temperatures. Nights become noticeably cooler, requiring an extra layer for early morning game drives.

    The Okavango Delta is now at its highest water levels, creating stunning waterways for mokoro excursions. Wildlife starts to concentrate around permanent water sources, improving sightings.

    We recommend May for those seeking the magic of the Delta's floodwaters without the peak season crowds, offering superb game viewing and beautiful scenery.

    Okavango Delta
    Moremi Game Reserve
    Linyanti Concession

    June

    high

    Dry Season

    June brings classic dry season weather: clear, sunny days, virtually no rain, and mild temperatures. Mornings and evenings are cool, sometimes chilly, perfect for safari activities.

    Wildlife viewing is excellent as animals are increasingly drawn to the shrinking water sources. Large herds of elephants and buffalo are common in Chobe and Linyanti, and predators are active.

    We find June to be an ideal month for traditional game drives and water-based activities in the Delta, as the conditions are perfect and wildlife is abundant.

    Okavango Delta
    Moremi Game Reserve
    Chobe National Park
    +1

    July

    high

    Dry Season

    July is characterized by dry, sunny, and pleasant weather. Days are warm, and nights are cool, offering perfect conditions for spending long hours on safari.

    This is prime game viewing. Wildlife concentrations around waterholes are at their peak, making for consistent and spectacular sightings, especially of large herds and their predators.

    We consider July one of the best months for a classic Botswana safari, particularly for those focused on big game and predator action in the Delta and Chobe.

    Okavango Delta
    Moremi Game Reserve
    Chobe National Park
    +1

    August

    peak

    Dry Season

    August is very dry and warm, with virtually no rain. The bush is sparse, offering excellent visibility. Mornings are cool, quickly warming up to pleasant daytime temperatures.

    Wildlife viewing remains phenomenal, with animals congregating at permanent water sources. Predator sightings are frequent as they stalk the concentrated herds. Elephant numbers in Chobe are immense.

    We recommend August for serious wildlife enthusiasts who prioritize intense game viewing and don't mind the higher prices and busier lodges.

    Okavango Delta
    Moremi Game Reserve
    Chobe National Park
    +1

    September

    peak

    Dry Season

    September is the hottest and driest month of the dry season, with temperatures soaring, especially in the afternoon. Water is extremely scarce, intensifying wildlife interactions.

    This is arguably the most dramatic month for wildlife viewing. Animals are desperate for water, leading to incredible predator-prey dynamics around the remaining waterholes. Elephant herds are colossal.

    We advise September for those seeking the raw, intense drama of the African bush, where every waterhole is a stage for survival.

    Okavango Delta
    Moremi Game Reserve
    Chobe National Park
    +1

    October

    high

    Shoulder Season

    October is incredibly hot and dry, often with the first pre-rain thunderstorms building in the afternoons, bringing a sense of anticipation. Humidity starts to rise.

    Wildlife remains concentrated around water, offering excellent viewing despite the heat. The first rains can trigger some animal movements, and migratory birds begin to return.

    We suggest October for experienced safari-goers who appreciate the intense wildlife action and don't mind the heat, often finding it a rewarding challenge.

    Okavango Delta
    Moremi Game Reserve
    Chobe National Park

    November

    moderate

    Green Season

    The first significant rains arrive, breaking the dry spell and transforming the parched landscape into a vibrant green. Days are warm and humid, with refreshing afternoon showers.

    This is the start of the calving season and the zebra migration to the Makgadikgadi and Nxai Pans. Birdlife explodes with the arrival of migratory species. Wildlife disperses with new water sources.

    We love November for witnessing the rebirth of the bush, the arrival of new life, and the spectacular zebra migration, offering a different kind of safari magic.

    Makgadikgadi Pans National Park
    Nxai Pan National Park
    Okavango Delta

    December

    low

    Green Season

    December is warm and humid, with regular afternoon thunderstorms that bring life to the bush. The air is fresh and clean after the rains, and the landscape is brilliantly green.

    Calving season is in full swing, providing excellent opportunities to see young animals and the predators that follow them. Birding is outstanding, with many species in breeding plumage.

    We recommend December for birding enthusiasts and those seeking a quieter, more intimate safari experience, enjoying the lush scenery and vibrant new life.

    Central Kalahari Game Reserve
    Nxai Pan National Park
    Okavango Delta

    January

    Now
    low

    Green Season

    January brings heavy rains, transforming the landscape into a lush, vibrant green. Days are warm and humid, with spectacular afternoon thunderstorms that clear to reveal crisp air.

    This is calving season, so we see many young animals, especially impala and wildebeest, which in turn attracts predators. Birding is exceptional with migratory species in full plumage.

    We love exploring the Central Kalahari Game Reserve this month, where the usually arid pans burst with life and offer incredible predator sightings.

    Central Kalahari Game Reserve
    Nxai Pan National Park
    Makgadikgadi Pans National Park

    February

    low

    Green Season

    Rains continue, often in short, intense bursts, leaving the air fresh and the vegetation dense. Temperatures remain warm, making for comfortable safari conditions between showers.

    Predators are active, taking advantage of the abundant young prey. The zebra migration is often still in full swing across the Makgadikgadi and Nxai Pans, a truly magnificent sight.

    We recommend focusing on the Kalahari parks to witness the zebra migration and the incredible interactions between predators and their vulnerable young.

    Nxai Pan National Park
    Makgadikgadi Pans National Park
    Central Kalahari Game Reserve

    March

    low

    Green Season

    The rains begin to lessen towards the end of March, but the landscape remains wonderfully green and vibrant. Days are warm, and the air is often clear after the last of the seasonal downpours.

    With water still widely available, wildlife is dispersed, offering a more intimate viewing experience. Birdlife remains phenomenal, and the Okavango Delta's water levels start to rise.

    We find March perfect for photography, with dramatic skies and lush backdrops, especially in the southern Okavango Delta as it begins to fill.

    Okavango Delta
    Moremi Game Reserve
    Chobe National Park

    April

    moderate

    Shoulder Season

    April marks a beautiful transition as the rains largely cease, and the bush slowly begins to dry out. Days are warm and sunny, with cooler evenings, making for very pleasant weather.

    Water levels in the Okavango Delta are noticeably rising, attracting more animals to its fringes. Game viewing improves as the vegetation thins, and migratory birds prepare to depart.

    We love April for its excellent value and the chance to experience both the lushness of the green season and the beginnings of the dry season's concentrated wildlife.

    Okavango Delta
    Moremi Game Reserve
    Chobe National Park

    May

    moderate

    Shoulder Season

    The dry season is firmly setting in, with clear, sunny days and comfortably warm temperatures. Nights become noticeably cooler, requiring an extra layer for early morning game drives.

    The Okavango Delta is now at its highest water levels, creating stunning waterways for mokoro excursions. Wildlife starts to concentrate around permanent water sources, improving sightings.

    We recommend May for those seeking the magic of the Delta's floodwaters without the peak season crowds, offering superb game viewing and beautiful scenery.

    Okavango Delta
    Moremi Game Reserve
    Linyanti Concession

    June

    high

    Dry Season

    June brings classic dry season weather: clear, sunny days, virtually no rain, and mild temperatures. Mornings and evenings are cool, sometimes chilly, perfect for safari activities.

    Wildlife viewing is excellent as animals are increasingly drawn to the shrinking water sources. Large herds of elephants and buffalo are common in Chobe and Linyanti, and predators are active.

    We find June to be an ideal month for traditional game drives and water-based activities in the Delta, as the conditions are perfect and wildlife is abundant.

    Okavango Delta
    Moremi Game Reserve
    Chobe National Park
    +1

    July

    high

    Dry Season

    July is characterized by dry, sunny, and pleasant weather. Days are warm, and nights are cool, offering perfect conditions for spending long hours on safari.

    This is prime game viewing. Wildlife concentrations around waterholes are at their peak, making for consistent and spectacular sightings, especially of large herds and their predators.

    We consider July one of the best months for a classic Botswana safari, particularly for those focused on big game and predator action in the Delta and Chobe.

    Okavango Delta
    Moremi Game Reserve
    Chobe National Park
    +1

    August

    peak

    Dry Season

    August is very dry and warm, with virtually no rain. The bush is sparse, offering excellent visibility. Mornings are cool, quickly warming up to pleasant daytime temperatures.

    Wildlife viewing remains phenomenal, with animals congregating at permanent water sources. Predator sightings are frequent as they stalk the concentrated herds. Elephant numbers in Chobe are immense.

    We recommend August for serious wildlife enthusiasts who prioritize intense game viewing and don't mind the higher prices and busier lodges.

    Okavango Delta
    Moremi Game Reserve
    Chobe National Park
    +1

    September

    peak

    Dry Season

    September is the hottest and driest month of the dry season, with temperatures soaring, especially in the afternoon. Water is extremely scarce, intensifying wildlife interactions.

    This is arguably the most dramatic month for wildlife viewing. Animals are desperate for water, leading to incredible predator-prey dynamics around the remaining waterholes. Elephant herds are colossal.

    We advise September for those seeking the raw, intense drama of the African bush, where every waterhole is a stage for survival.

    Okavango Delta
    Moremi Game Reserve
    Chobe National Park
    +1

    October

    high

    Shoulder Season

    October is incredibly hot and dry, often with the first pre-rain thunderstorms building in the afternoons, bringing a sense of anticipation. Humidity starts to rise.

    Wildlife remains concentrated around water, offering excellent viewing despite the heat. The first rains can trigger some animal movements, and migratory birds begin to return.

    We suggest October for experienced safari-goers who appreciate the intense wildlife action and don't mind the heat, often finding it a rewarding challenge.

    Okavango Delta
    Moremi Game Reserve
    Chobe National Park

    November

    moderate

    Green Season

    The first significant rains arrive, breaking the dry spell and transforming the parched landscape into a vibrant green. Days are warm and humid, with refreshing afternoon showers.

    This is the start of the calving season and the zebra migration to the Makgadikgadi and Nxai Pans. Birdlife explodes with the arrival of migratory species. Wildlife disperses with new water sources.

    We love November for witnessing the rebirth of the bush, the arrival of new life, and the spectacular zebra migration, offering a different kind of safari magic.

    Makgadikgadi Pans National Park
    Nxai Pan National Park
    Okavango Delta

    December

    low

    Green Season

    December is warm and humid, with regular afternoon thunderstorms that bring life to the bush. The air is fresh and clean after the rains, and the landscape is brilliantly green.

    Calving season is in full swing, providing excellent opportunities to see young animals and the predators that follow them. Birding is outstanding, with many species in breeding plumage.

    We recommend December for birding enthusiasts and those seeking a quieter, more intimate safari experience, enjoying the lush scenery and vibrant new life.

    Central Kalahari Game Reserve
    Nxai Pan National Park
    Okavango Delta
    Planning & reference

    The Okavango Delta is a place where water breathes life into the desert, creating an unparalleled wetland paradise. We love the serene mokoro trips, gliding silently through lily-pad-filled channels, offering an intimate perspective on its incredible birdlife and smaller creatures. It's a truly immersive experience that feels both wild and deeply peaceful.

    Gate Times

    Access to the Okavango Delta is primarily via light aircraft to private concession airstrips or designated entry points for Moremi Game Reserve. We recommend booking your entire safari package, including flights and lodge stays, well in advance, as availability is limited. Permits for Moremi are typically arranged by your safari operator, while private concessions manage their own access. There are no fixed 'gate times' in the traditional sense, but daily activities are scheduled around sunrise and sunset, maximizing wildlife viewing opportunities.

    Tipping

    Tipping is customary and a valued way to show appreciation for excellent service. We recommend budgeting around $10-20 USD per guest, per day, for your safari guide, given their extensive knowledge and dedication. For general camp staff (allocated to a communal tip box), $5-10 USD per guest, per day, is appropriate. You can tip your guide directly at the end of your stay, and camp staff via a central box. Always tip in local currency (Botswana Pula) or US dollars, and do so discreetly.

    Dress Code

    We advise packing neutral, earthy colours like khaki, olive, and beige to blend into the environment and avoid attracting insects. Layers are essential; mornings and evenings can be surprisingly cool, even in warmer months, so a fleece or light jacket is a must. For game drives and walks, comfortable, closed-toe shoes are vital. Don't forget a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and a light, long-sleeved shirt for sun protection during the day.

    Photography

    The Okavango Delta offers sensational photographic opportunities. We recommend bringing a camera with a good zoom lens (at least 200-400mm) for wildlife, and a wider-angle lens for landscapes and sunsets. Low-light performance is crucial for early morning and late afternoon shots. Keep your gear protected from dust and moisture, especially on mokoro trips. Drones are generally prohibited in Botswana's national parks and private concessions without special, hard-to-obtain permits, so we advise leaving them at home.

    Etiquette

    We encourage quiet observation to enhance your wildlife encounters and avoid disturbing the animals. Always remain in your vehicle unless instructed by your guide during a supervised bush walk. Never attempt to feed or approach wildlife. In camp, maintain a respectful volume, especially during early mornings and late evenings, and always follow your guide's instructions regarding moving around after dark. This ensures both your safety and the tranquility of the wilderness.

    What to Bring

    High-quality binoculars (8x42 or 10x42)
    Camera with telephoto lens and spare batteries
    Wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses
    High-SPF sunscreen and lip balm
    Insect repellent with DEET
    Lightweight, quick-drying neutral-coloured clothing (long sleeves/pants for evenings)
    Warm fleece or jacket for cool mornings/evenings
    Comfortable closed-toe walking shoes
    Small backpack for day trips
    Personal first-aid kit (including any prescription medications)
    Power bank or portable charger
    Swimsuit (many lodges have pools)

    Temperature

    24.29°C

    76°F · Range: 19.74–29.59°C

    Rainfall

    166.8 mm

    Heavy rains · 15.8 rainy days

    Humidity

    70.6%

    Sunshine

    10.6 hrs/day

    Wind Speed

    4.47 m/s

    16.1 km/h

    Based on 5 years of weather data · Data source: Open-Meteo Archive API

    Okavango Delta Reviews