Following the Flood: How the Okavango Delta Transforms Through the Seasons

The life-giving waters of the Okavango Delta originate in the highlands of Angola. During the Angolan rainy season (January–February), the Okavango River swells with rainfall. This surge embarks on a slow journey southward, taking approximately one month to traverse the first 1,000 kilometers to the delta’s entrance in Botswana. Upon reaching the delta, the waters fan out over the floodplains, a process that unfolds over the next four months (March–June). Consequently, the flood typically peaks between June and August, coinciding with Botswana’s dry winter months.

The Delta’s Seasonal Pulse

The Okavango Delta experiences a fascinating paradox: it floods during the dry season. As the floodwaters arrive, they transform the arid savannas into a lush, water-rich habitat. This annual inundation causes the delta to swell to three times its permanent size, creating a mosaic of waterways, lagoons, and islands. The influx of water attracts wildlife from surrounding regions, leading to one of Africa’s most remarkable concentrations of animals.

Wildlife Movements: Following the Water

The arrival of floodwaters triggers significant wildlife migrations. Elephants, buffalo, and various antelope species, such as the red lechwe and the elusive sitatunga, move into the delta to access fresh grazing and water. Predators like lions, leopards, and African wild dogs follow, drawn by the abundance of prey. This dynamic interplay offers unparalleled wildlife viewing opportunities, as animals congregate in the newly flooded areas. ​

Seasonal Highlights: What to Expect

• Dry Season (May–October): As floodwaters peak, the delta becomes a labyrinth of channels and islands. This period is ideal for water-based activities like mokoro (dugout canoe) excursions and boat safaris. Wildlife is highly concentrated, making for exceptional game viewing. Cooler temperatures and clear skies enhance the experience.​

• Wet Season (November–April): The delta receives local rainfall, rejuvenating the vegetation and dispersing wildlife into broader areas. This season is marked by the birth of many animal species, offering sightings of newborns and predator interactions. The landscape is vibrant and green, and birdwatching is particularly rewarding, with numerous migratory species present.

A Year-Round Destination

The ever-changing nature of the Okavango Delta ensures that no two visits are alike. Each season offers distinct experiences, from navigating flooded plains during the dry season to witnessing the renewal of life in the wet season. This perpetual transformation invites travelers to return, each time discovering new facets of this extraordinary wilderness.

Experience the Delta’s Rhythm with Untouched Safaris

At Untouched Safaris, we specialize in immersing you in the heart of the Okavango Delta’s seasonal wonders. Whether it’s gliding silently through reed-lined channels in a mokoro, tracking wildlife on foot across sunlit islands, or witnessing breathtaking sunsets from our comfortable houseboat, we tailor each safari to align with the delta’s natural rhythms. Join us to experience the magic of the Okavango Delta, where nature’s ebb and flow create an ever-unfolding tapestry of life. Ready to follow the flood? Let the Delta show you something unforgettable.