Botswana: Okavango Delta & Moremi Game Reserve

The delta is fed by the Okavango River, flowing all the way from moist and fertile Central African highlands over 1,300km (800 miles) away in neighbouring Angola. The Okavango Delta fluctuates in size according to a complex relationship between local rainfall and floodwaters from Central Africa, both of which create a life-giving source in a country that is 80% arid.

The arteries of the Okavango are its meandering river channels lined by dense reed and papyrus thickets. These channels have a deceptively strong current, which all but disappear in the tranquil water-lily lagoons and knee-deep swamps.

From the air, the rich mosaic of land and water is a perfectly constructed puzzle. Palm tree islets, savannah grasslands and forest glades are chain-linked by ox-bow river loops, lily ponds and winding watercourses. Great herds of Antelopes, Buffalo and Elephants roam through the pastures and Lions and Leopards are well fed. Game viewing whether by vehicle, mokoro (dug-out canoe) or on foot is rarely interrupted by the sight of other visitors.

The Angolan floodwaters should push their way into the Okavango Delta in January each year and water levels usually reach a peak in the central delta by June or July. Rain is not expected in these winter months, so it is the perfect time for game viewing. During the hot dry months of September to November, channels shrink to their narrowest and many pastures dry out. Waterways begin to look more like footpaths guiding the animals towards the permanent rivers in Moremi Game Reserve and the northern reaches of the Okavango.

Moremi Game Reserve lies within the Okavango Delta, and is surrounded by strictly controlled, privately managed wildlife concessions. This arrangement creates an ideal situation for sustainable wildlife management.

Many of Botswana's safari camps are situated in these private reserves around Moremi and often cater for no more than 20 guests at a time. There are also many camps on and around Chief's Island within Moremi Game Reserve. Light aircraft is the best way to reach these exclusive hideaways and although you may be sleeping in safari tents, you will be surprised just how much luxury is possible in the heart of the African bush.

Your bush guide and mokoro poler are likely to be descendants of the Bayei people who arrived in Botswana from the north nearly 400 years ago. They have been born and bred in the Okavango region and instinctively know where to find animals and how to read animal behaviour. If they tell you to be silent or stand still on a bush walk, it is wise to listen as you never know what might be around the next Jackalberry tree!

Click Here to view Lodges in the Okavango

Climate:

Dry season:

Most people visit the Okavango between April to October as this is the dry season and animals remain around permanent waterholes and reduced foliage increases visibility. By October much of the Okavango has dried out and the channels are narrow. There are however, permanent rivers in Moremi Game Reserve and in the northern reaches of the Okavango. Heat builds up from October onwards and temperatures peak at over 30°C (86°F).

Wet Season:

It is hot and rainy anytime from November to March and roads can become quite muddy. The Delta starts to fill up with rainwater and turns lush and green again with many wildflowers. Animals take advantage of the season to give birth all at the same time.