BOTSWANA
Okavango Delta
Lush, labyrinthine, and alive with water – the Okavango Delta is Africa’s great inland oasis, where the desert meets a dream of wetlands. Each year, the flood transforms parched earth into a shimmering world of islands, channels, and endless wildlife.
Here, lion prides stalk golden reeds, herons glide above mirror-pools, and mokoros slip silently past papyrus groves. Life flows with the water – rhythmic, raw, and unpredictable. The Okavango doesn’t just dazzle the eye; it stirs something deep, reminding you what it means to feel truly alive in nature.
OKAVANGO DELTA
Key Facts
Size
20.000 km²
Bird Species
+/- 530
Mammal Species
+/- 160
Best Time to Visit
All year round
EXPERIENCES
OKAVANGO DELTA
Safari in the Okavango Delta is a journey through water, wilderness, and wonder. Glide through lily-covered channels in a mokoro as frogs croak and herons take flight, or cruise wider waterways by boat, where hippos wallow and fish eagles call from above. Head out on guided game walks to trace animal tracks in the sand and feel the bush up close, or try your hand at catch-and-release fishing in hidden backwaters.
Each activity reveals a different rhythm of the Delta – from quiet mornings on the water to golden afternoons spent exploring island trails. And for a view like no other, take to the skies on a scenic flight or helicopter safari and watch this watery world unfold beneath you in all its wild, breathtaking beauty.
OKAVANGO DELTA
MOKORO
Mokoro safaris in the Okavango Delta are a timeless way to explore this watery wilderness. Pushed gently through the floodplains in a traditional dugout canoe, you float among reeds and lilies, eye-level with kingfishers, frogs, and grazing lechwe. There’s no engine, no rush – just the soft swish of water and the hum of the bush around you.
Your poler-guide stands with quiet confidence at the stern, navigating hidden channels and sharing knowledge passed down through generations. It’s not just a mode of travel – it’s a way of being present, of seeing the Delta as it truly is: calm, alive, and endlessly beautiful.
OKAVANGO DELTA
SCENIC FLIGHTS
Scenic flights over the Okavango Delta offer a breathtaking new perspective on one of Africa’s most extraordinary landscapes. From above, the mosaic of channels, lagoons, and islands unfolds like a living painting – elephants wade through shimmering floodplains, hippos trace watery paths, and herds gather in the golden light.
Whether by small plane or helicopter, flying over the Delta reveals its vastness, patterns, and pulse in a way no ground safari can. It’s quiet, awe-inspiring, and deeply moving – a chance to witness the scale and wild beauty of this ecosystem from the sky.
OKAVANGO DELTA
BOAT SAFARI
Boat cruises in the Okavango Delta offer a front-row seat to life on the water. As you drift along deep channels and open lagoons, you’ll pass hippos grunting in the shallows, crocodiles sunning on sandy banks, and elephants crossing with slow, deliberate grace.
The pace is gentle, the scenery ever-changing, and the light—especially at sunrise or sunset—pure magic. With birds overhead, the scent of water lilies in the air, and your guide sharing the stories of the Delta, a boat cruise is both peaceful and full of surprise. It’s one of the most relaxing and rewarding ways to explore this watery paradise.
OKAVANGO DELTA
FISHING
Fishing in the Okavango Delta is as much about the setting as the catch. Cast your line from a boat or the banks of a quiet channel, surrounded by reeds, birdsong, and the soft ripple of water. It’s a chance to slow down and connect with the rhythm of the Delta – where every tug on the line feels like a conversation with the wild.
Catch-and-release fishing is offered seasonally, with species like tilapia, catfish, and African pike providing both a challenge and a thrill. Whether you’re experienced or just curious, it’s a peaceful, rewarding way to spend time on the water.
OKAVANGO DELTA
Information
WEATHER
The Okavango Delta’s seasons are shaped not just by local rains, but by distant waters flowing down from Angola – creating a unique rhythm of rising floods, dry islands, and lush transformation. Whether green and vibrant or golden and open, the Delta offers beautiful contrasts throughout the year.
Green Season (November – March):
The rains arrive, bringing dramatic skies, blooming waterlilies, and rich, green landscapes. Expect warm days (30–35°C / 86–95°F) and mild nights (18–25°C / 64–77°F). It’s calving season for antelope, a great time for birdwatching, and the bush is alive with new life.
Shoulder Season (April – May):
The rains ease, but the Delta remains lush. Floodwaters from Angola begin to rise, filling the channels and renewing the wetlands. Temperatures become more comfortable, with cooler mornings and evenings – a lovely time for game viewing and photography.
Dry Season / Flood Peak (June – October):
While local rains have stopped, the Delta floods, creating a spectacular water world. Days are warm and clear (25–30°C / 77–86°F), while nights can drop to 5–10°C (41–50°F) in winter months (June–August). Wildlife gathers at the water’s edge, and the scenery is at its most iconic. This is peak safari season.
What to Pack:
Light, breathable layers for warm days
A warm jacket or fleece for mornings and nights
Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
Comfortable walking shoes
Insect repellent, especially in the green season
HOW TO GET TO THE OKAVANGO DELTA
The magic of the Okavango Delta begins long before you arrive – getting here is part of the adventure. With no major roads cutting through the wetlands, access is exclusively by light aircraft or boat, making the journey feel as wild and immersive as the destination itself.
To reach our Okavango Delta houseboat, you can travel overland to Sepopa or Seronga – both small villages on the northern edge of the Delta. Sepopa is accessible by standard vehicle, while a 4×4 is recommended for the scenic drive to Seronga. From either point, we’ll meet you with a tender boat transfer, gliding through the Delta’s channels straight to the houseboat.
For a faster and more spectacular arrival, you can also fly directly into Seronga Airstrip via chartered light aircraft – a short, breathtaking flight over the Delta’s winding waterways. We’re happy to assist with flight bookings and transfers to make your journey smooth and seamless.
COMMUNITY
The Okavango Delta is not only a natural wonder – it’s also a cultural landscape, shaped for generations by the people who live alongside its waters. Along the northern fringes of the Delta, in villages like Seronga, Beetsha, Gunotsoga, and Sepopa, life moves with the floodwaters, the seasons, and the pulse of the wild.
The region is home to several traditional ethnic groups, including the Bayei, Hambukushu, and San (Basarwa) communities – each with their own deep-rooted relationship to the Delta. The Bayei are known for their expert mokoro (dugout canoe) skills, navigating the channels with quiet precision. The Hambukushu have long farmed, fished, and lived along the riverbanks. The San, Botswana’s First People, are skilled trackers and storytellers, holding ancient knowledge of the land.
Today, many members of these communities work in conservation and tourism – as guides, polers, chefs, and camp staff – bringing with them generations of wisdom, warm hospitality, and a true connection to place.
By travelling through the Delta, you’re not just exploring a pristine wilderness – you’re stepping into a living, breathing cultural landscape, where nature and community thrive side by side.
FAQ
Where is the Okavango Delta, and what makes it so special?
The Okavango Delta lies in northern Botswana – a vast inland river system that flows into the Kalahari and disappears into the sand. It’s one of the world’s most unique ecosystems, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and home to an incredible diversity of wildlife, birds, and water-based landscapes.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see?
From elephants, hippos, and crocodiles to red lechwe, buffalo, and rare species like African wild dogs – the Delta offers a rich mix of game. Birdlife is exceptional, with over 500 species including kingfishers, herons, and fish eagles.
When is the best time to visit the Delta?
The Delta offers year-round beauty:
May to October (dry season): Peak flood, with the most iconic water experiences and excellent wildlife viewing.
November to March (green season): Lush and full of life, with dramatic skies, fewer vehicles, and abundant birdlife.
Each season brings something different – from dramatic predator sightings to peaceful mokoro rides through blooming lilies.
How do I get to the Delta?
The Okavango Delta is accessed by light aircraft or boat. For our houseboat, you can drive to Sepopa or Seronga (a 4×4 is recommended for Seronga), where we will transfer you by tender boat to the houseboat. You can also fly into Seronga Airstrip via charter flight – which we’re happy to help arrange.
Can I self-drive to the Delta?
Yes – you can reach Sepopa in a regular vehicle or Seronga with a 4×4. From there, we’ll handle the boat transfer to your floating safari base.
Where should I stay in the Okavango Delta?
For a truly unique and immersive experience, we recommend a stay on our Okavango Delta houseboat – a peaceful, water-based safari with direct access to remote channels, incredible wildlife, and ever-changing scenery.
What is the houseboat like?
Our houseboat is a comfortable, fully equipped floating lodge. You’ll enjoy cozy ensuite cabins, open-air decks, delicious meals, and incredible views of the Delta around you – from sunrise to starlight.
What activities are included?
Depending on the season and water levels, you can enjoy:
Mokoro excursions (traditional dugout canoe)
Guided boat cruises through remote channels
Catch-and-release fishing
Scenic flights (available as an add-on)
Game walks on nearby islands (with a qualified guide)
Is the houseboat stationary or does it move?
Yes! The houseboat cruises slowly along the quieter waterways of the Delta, anchoring at carefully chosen spots each day. It’s a moving safari base – offering new views, fresh surroundings, and ever-changing encounters with the wild.
Is the houseboat family-friendly?
Yes! The calm, slow rhythm of the Delta makes it perfect for couples, families, or small groups looking for a peaceful and personal safari.
What should I pack?
Light, breathable clothing
A warm layer for mornings and evenings
Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
Comfortable shoes and insect repellent
Camera and binoculars – you’ll want them!
Seasons
Rainy Season (November – March)
Mid Season (April– May)
Dry Season / Flood Season (June – October)
This is the rainy season in Botswana – a time of dramatic skies, vibrant greenery, and new life. Afternoon showers refresh the land, and young antelope attract predators. Expect warm days (30–35°C / 86–95°F) and mild nights (18–25°C / 64–77°F). Birding is exceptional, with many migratory species in residence.
The rains ease, and the first floodwaters begin to trickle into the Delta. The landscape is still green but more accessible, and the light is soft and golden – ideal for photography and quiet exploration. Wildlife starts to gather near deeper channels.
While the rains have long stopped, the Delta is in full flood. Channels swell, floodplains fill, and water-based safaris are at their peak. Days are clear and sunny (25–30°C / 77–86°F), with chilly nights and early mornings (5–10°C / 41–50°F) from June to August. Wildlife viewing is superb, with animals congregating around permanent water.
VISITING THE OKAVANGO DELTA
JANUARY
- Peak of the rainy season – the Delta is green, lush, and alive.
- Afternoon thunderstorms are common but brief.
- Excellent birding, with many migratory species present.
VISITING THE OKAVANGO DELTA
FEBRUARY
- Still warm and wet, with vibrant landscapes and dramatic skies.
- Water levels begin to rise in some areas, though floods haven’t peaked yet.
VISITING THE OKAVANGO DELTA
MARCH
- Rains begin to taper off; wildlife viewing improves with thinning vegetation.
- The bush is beautifully green, with cooler mornings and golden light.
- A great time for photography and quieter safari experiences.
VISITING THE OKAVANGO DELTA
APRIL
- The landscape remains lush, but with minimal rain.
- The first floodwaters start to arrive from Angola.
- A peaceful, scenic time with good wildlife sightings and comfortable weather.
VISITING THE OKAVANGO DELTA
MAY
- The dry season begins, but the Delta is starting to fill.
- Cooler temperatures, especially in the evenings.
- Game begins to concentrate near permanent water sources – wildlife viewing picks up.
VISITING THE OKAVANGO DELTA
JUNE
- The Delta is now in full flood; perfect for mokoro safaris and boat excursions.
- Cool, crisp mornings and sunny, pleasant days.
- Animals gather along the channels – excellent for water-based game viewing.
VISITING THE OKAVANGO DELTA
JULY
- Peak flood levels and exceptional water scenery.
- One of the best months for scenic flights and houseboat safaris.
- Mornings can be cold, so warm layers are essential.
VISITING THE OKAVANGO DELTA
AUGUST
- Wildlife is densely concentrated along waterways.
- Clear, dry weather with longer days and warm afternoons.
- Fantastic predator sightings and water-based activity.
VISITING THE OKAVANGO DELTA
SEPTEMBER
- Temperatures begin to rise; landscapes remain dry outside the Delta.
- Excellent game viewing as animals stay close to water.
- Ideal month for combining land and water-based safaris.
VISITING THE OKAVANGO DELTA
OCTOBER
- Water levels begin to drop; animals are drawn to shrinking channels.
- Dramatic wildlife activity, especially around waterholes and riverbanks.
VISITING THE OKAVANGO DELTA
NOVEMBER
- First rains bring relief and a flush of green to the Delta edges.
- Birdlife increases as migratory species return.
VISITING THE OKAVANGO DELTA
DECEMBER
- The Delta is lush and green again, with scattered rain and stormy skies.
- Newborn animals and rich vegetation create a sense of renewal.
- A beautiful, quieter time to visit – full of life and colour.
Ecosystems
LOCATION
OKAVANGO DELTA
The Okavango Delta lies in the north of Botswana – a vast, seasonal floodplain where the waters of the Okavango River spread out and disappear into the Kalahari sands. Surrounded by iconic regions like Moremi, Khwai, and the Panhandle, it forms the heart of one of Africa’s richest ecosystems.
This remote, roadless wilderness is best reached by light aircraft or boat, with flights offering breathtaking views of winding channels, lagoons, and wildlife below. Whether you begin your journey in Maun, Kasane, Seronga or Sepopa, reaching the Delta is part of the magic – a gentle transition into a world where land and water blend, and time slows to the rhythm of nature.
WILDLIFE OF OKAVANGO DELTA
The Okavango Delta is a haven for wildlife, especially for bird lovers and those seeking rare species. With over 500 bird species, it’s one of Africa’s top birding destinations – from fish eagles and bee-eaters to the elusive Pel’s fishing owl. Kingfishers dart through the reeds, herons stalk the shallows, and flocks of wattled cranes grace the open skies.
Among the Delta’s more unusual residents is the shy sitatunga antelope, perfectly adapted to life in the swamps, often seen wading through deep water with only their ears and horns above the surface. Alongside them, red lechwe splash through the floodplains, while elephants, hippos, and crocodiles are ever-present. Whether it’s a rare bird in the canopy or a quiet moment with a sitatunga in the reeds, the Delta reveals its secrets to those who move slowly and look closely.
EXPERIENCE
UNTOUCHED OKAVANGO DELTA
To experience the Okavango Delta in its purest form, a stay aboard our moving houseboat offers something truly unforgettable. Drifting gently through remote channels and floodplains, the houseboat becomes your floating safari base – surrounded by water, wildlife, and endless sky.
Comfortable cabins with panoramic views, peaceful decks, and the gentle rhythm of the river create a deep sense of stillness and connection. Each day brings new scenes: elephants on the banks, fish eagles overhead, mokoro rides through lily-lined waters, or island walks at sunrise. Evenings are for stargazing, fresh-cooked meals, and the soft sounds of the Delta all around you. It’s relaxed, immersive, and unmistakably Okavango.
OKAVANGO ENDEAVOUR
OKAVANGO DELTA, BOTSWANA
Anchored deep within the Okavango Delta, the Okavango Endeavour sets a new standard for floating safaris—combining refined comfort with uninterrupted views of Botswana’s wild waterways.
Cruise through remote channels, watch elephants bathe on the banks, and savour the stillness of this extraordinary, water-bound wilderness.
NGWESI HOUSEBOAT
OKAVANGO DELTA, BOTSWANA
Moored in the heart of the Okavango Delta, Ngwesi Houseboat offers a unique floating safari with breathtaking waterway views and incredible wildlife encounters.
Drift through pristine channels, spot elephants along the shore, and immerse yourself in the tranquility of this untouched wilderness.
CONTACT
Contact us for questions or inquiries.
