Okavango Delta

The miraculous Okavango Delta, whose crystal clear waters, palm studded islands and golden floodplains is an immense wilderness of untold beauty. Situated deep within the Kalahari basin, the Okavango Delta is often referred to as the "jewel" of the Kalahari.

The Okavango Delta is rightly considered to be one of the most incredible wilderness sanctuaries in Africa. It is the largest inland delta system in the world, an area of 16,000km² filled with water channels, lagoons and islands. The Okavango floods are six months out of sync with the annual summer rains so in winter the Okavango River, swollen with rainwater from the Angolan Highlands spills over into the vast fan shaped delta. The winter month of June usually heralds the start of the flood in the inner delta - a time of celebration for both humans and the animal kingdom.

Depending on the height of the "flood" the Delta region of the Okavango can vary tremendously in size from 16,000km² during dry periods to an enormous 22 000km². A good flood can completely transform vast areas which results in the game dispersing as they seek refuge on dry land away from the flood waters.

The only officially protected area of the Okavango Delta is the approximately 3900km² Moremi Game Reserve situated in the central and eastern areas of the Delta. A picturesque and fantastically varied combination of floodplains, riverine forests, waterways, pans, grasslands and channels, Moremi boasts one of the richest ecosystems in Africa.

The Okavango Delta as a whole provides a truly remarkable safari experience as it supports a staggering variety of animal, plant, fish and birdlife. Vast herds of elephant, buffalo and hippo make this fertile region their home, as well as numerous antelope, giraffe and zebra, followed by lion, leopard, cheetah and the stealthy crocodile. This area is a stunning destination for keen birders with over 450 species recorded, including many Okavango specials and lots of migrants during the summer months.

There are a number of wonderful safari camps in the Okavango Delta but it's important to understand they do not all offer the same safari activities. Generally speaking activities include both land and water activities i.e. game drives, walking in the company of a professional guide, fishing and exploring the waterways and channels of the Delta by boat and mokoro. Due to their location there are a few camps that are only able to offer walking and water activities (no game drives). Camps in what is known as the semi-permanent Delta may cease water activities towards the end of the season once water levels start to drop whereas the camps situated in what is known as the permanent Delta offer all year round land and water activities. This is an important factor when planning your safari.

Most Recent Okavango Delta Blogs

Paul Moleseng - Leading Young Explorers into the Wilderness Posted by Gary Smith on 11 July 2011 Inspiring, passionate, friendly, dedicated, energetic and, above all, an excellent guide and host, Paul Moleseng is one of those special people who li...More

Abu Camp, Okavango: The Ultimate Elephant Experience Posted by Gary Smith on 4 July 2011 The recently refurbished Abu Camp in the 180 000 hectare Abu Concession of the Okavango Delta of northern Botswana, is certainly looking modern, fresh...More

The Lions of Duba Plains Posted by Gary Smith on 8 June 2011 In the northern regions of the world-renowned Okavango Delta of Botswana there exists a private 77000 acre stretch of pristine wilderness known as Dub...More