The Okavango Delta is one of Botswana’s most iconic regions. The vast UNESCO World Heritage site is home to one of the world’s most extraordinary ecosystems.
While the unrelenting sunshine may leave the region parched between June and October, the waterways of the Okavango Delta run full during this time, thanks to floodwaters from neighbouring Angola. The country’s highlands experience heavy rains at this time of year, with the runoff journeying thousands of miles into northern Botswana to create the planet’s largest inland delta.
The miraculous event attracts hundreds of thirsty animals from far and wide, from huge herds of elephants to more than 500 different bird species. Witnessing this phenomenon firsthand is a sensory delight. There are multiple ways to do this, too — from a classic game drive through the bush to a more traditional adventure in a dug-out canoe.
We’ve rounded up six outstanding safari experiences that you can include as part of your tailor-made holiday to Botswana.
Go on a guided game drive
Watch majestic wildebeest dip their heads in the cool waters of the Okavango Delta during a game drive. Both 4×4 safaris and closed vehicle drives feature on most of our Botswana tours, including our Luxury Botswana Safari, which gives you plenty of opportunities to enjoy morning and evening game drives through the delta’s pristine wilderness.
There’s something undeniably thrilling about cruising across miles of tough terrain while scanning the vast horizon for signs of life. Luckily, your game drive guide is an expert at seeking out animals, whether that’s by pointing out vultures circling a possible hunt or correctly identifying an approaching lion from the wails of distant baboons.
Besides the excitement of seeing creatures in their natural habitat, an Okavango Delta safari is also exclusive. Many of the region’s camps and luxury lodges sit on private reserves, which is perfect if you’re looking for a crowd-free holiday. Get ready for a front-row seat to the action as you set off on an exhilarating drive past stunning landscapes.
Spot wildlife as you soar above the delta
Cruise over the delta in a small charter plane and enjoy a bird’s eye perspective of its impressive waterways that appear to shimmer in the African sunshine. You may spot some spectacular wildlife during your journey, from trails of elephants slowly making their way between watering holes to zebras galloping across the verdant grasslands.
Plane trips across the Okavango Delta can last up to an hour, giving you ample time to soak up the scenery. You’ll additionally witness the land change colour as you glide over huge areas of arid savannah which slowly transform into the flourishing floodplains of the Cubango River. Air travel is also a necessity as many accommodations are nestled in far-flung locations.
Enjoy a walking safari
A bush walk is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience, with nothing but the open wilderness sprawled out in front of you. Walk along with your guides, who not only ensure your safety but also reveal the many secrets and fascinating habits of the creatures that live around your camp. From identifying big cat footprints to spotting mud pits where hippos have snoozed overnight, your guides will enlighten you on the intricacies of this incredible ecosystem.
Glide across the wetlands on a boat
While it’s possible to immerse yourself in the delta’s expansive savannah on foot or by car, it’s also well worth booking a boat safari along the Okavango River.
Also known as the Cubango River, it’s the delta’s main waterway and a crucial life source for thousands of hungry and thirsty creatures — many of which travel hundreds of miles across the unforgiving Kalahari Desert to reach it. A guided boat trip will see you meander through countless channels enveloped on both sides by lush papyrus plants and towering reeds.
Nature is at its most diverse by the river. Keep an eye out for hippos peeping out from the water or crocodiles sliding silently by in search of prey. Catfish commonly migrate to the delta in the dry season and make certain sections bubble with activity, while dozens of egrets and herons hover above in the hopes of scoring a catch.
Take to the skies on a helicopter
A helicopter safari gives you a fantastic perspective of the Okavango Delta’s immense size and sheer variety of flora and fauna. Whether you keep your helicopter doors closed or opt for them to stay open to allow for even better photo opportunities mid-flight, you’ll no doubt be astounded by the views. If you’d like a closer view, your pilot will even dip the helicopter down low over the land so you can observe families of elephants by the river or lions stalking herds of antelope across the plains.
A helicopter safari is also highly educational. Listen through your headset as your pilot shares fascinating facts with you about the delta and the creatures that call it home.
Experience the magic of a mokoro ride
One of the most memorable ways to experience the Okavango Delta is by traversing its waterways and swamplands on a mokoro. Exquisitely carved from African sausage tree trunks, these traditional canoes are commonly used to navigate the region’s rivers.
Embark on a blissful mokoro ride on our Botswana Victoria Falls Adventure Tour and see the Cubango River’s diverse range of wildlife up close. Glide past giant lily pads and keep your eyes peeled for a variety of birds, including Egyptian geese and African skimmers. Spot wildebeest, zebras and giraffes by the river as you sail along. It’s not uncommon to spot families of elephants cooling each other off with jets of water from their trunks. Your mokoro guide will always keep you at a safe distance from the river’s inhabitants while ensuring you feel at one with your surroundings.
Feeling inspired to experience the Okavango Delta firsthand? Chat with our experts today about creating a bespoke Botswana holiday itinerary that matches your travel dreams.
Check out these sample itineraries
Luxury Botswana Safari Tour
Botswana Victoria Falls Adventure Tour
Cape Town and Botswana by Belmond
Victoria Falls Tours Zimbabwe
Botswana inspiration
For more exciting destination ideas, browse these Botswana pages and start planning your next adventure.
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