Okavango Delta - Discovering Botswana

Travelling to Okavango Delta

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Okavango Delta, a pretty good destination in Botswana (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Okavango Delta and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Okavango Delta, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Botswana, here's everything to know about Okavango Delta for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Okavango Delta

The Okavango Delta is a vast inland delta located in Botswana, Southern Africa. The Delta is formed by the Okavango River which flows into the Kalahari Desert and creates a unique ecosystem of wetlands, lagoons, and islands supporting a diverse range of plant and animal species. The Okavango Delta is one of the world's largest wetlands and is a popular tourist destination for wildlife viewing, bird watching, and water-based activities like boating and fishing. The best time to visit the Okavango Delta is during the dry season from May to September when the wildlife is concentrated around the water sources.

What to visit in Okavango Delta

1. Maun: A vibrant town and major gateway to Okavango Delta, Maun offers a range of activities such as shopping, dining, and cultural experiences. It also serves as a base for safaris and expeditions into the delta.
2. Moremi Game Reserve: One of the main protected areas inside Okavango Delta, Moremi Game Reserve is home to diverse wildlife such as lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras, and over 400 bird species. Visitors can enjoy game drives, guided tours, and camping trips.
3. Okavango Delta waterways: The winding water channels of Okavango Delta offer scenic boat rides, mokoro (traditional canoe) excursions, and fishing trips. It's a great way to see the delta's unique ecosystem and witness wildlife from a different perspective.
4. Tsodilo Hills: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Tsodilo Hills is a sacred place for the San (Bushmen) people and features over 4,500 rock paintings dating back over 20,000 years. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about the spiritual significance and cultural history of the area.
5. Chobe National Park: While technically outside of Okavango Delta, Chobe National Park is easily accessible from Maun and offers some of Africa's best wildlife sightings, especially for elephants and hippos. Game drives, boat safaris, and sunset cruises are popular activities in the park.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Botswana, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Okavango Delta.

When to go on holiday to Okavango Delta

The best time to visit the Okavango Delta in Botswana is during the dry season from May to September. During this time, the water levels are lower, which means that the wildlife congregates around the remaining water sources, making it easier to spot them on game drives and boat safaris. Also, the weather is cooler during the day and pleasant for outdoor activities. However, it is important to note that this is the peak season, which means that the tourist crowds are higher, and rates for accommodation and activities may be more expensive. The wet season from November to March can also be a good time to visit as the landscapes are lush and green and birdlife is abundant. However, the humidity and heat can be challenging, and some lodges may be closed during this time.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Okavango Delta

To get to the Okavango Delta in Botswana, you can usually fly into Maun Airport which is the main gateway to the Delta. From there, you can take a charter flight, a light aircraft or a helicopter to various lodges or camps within the Delta. Alternatively, you can also take a road transfer to one of the Delta's southern access points such as Seronga, Khwai or Moremi Game Reserve. Once you're inside the Delta, travel between lodges and camps is usually by boat, mokoro (traditional dug-out canoe) or on foot. It's important to note that the delta is quite remote and accessible only by air and water, so make sure you plan ahead and organize your transportation and accommodation in advance.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Okavango Delta, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Okavango Delta

Here are some typical foods of Okavango Delta in Botswana and their short descriptions: 1. Seswaa - A beef dish that is slow-cooked with onions and seasoning until it is very tender.
2. Pap - A starchy porridge made from maize meal that is commonly eaten with soups and stews in Botswana.
3. Morogo - Leafy green vegetables that are cooked with onions, tomatoes, and sometimes peanuts.
4. Vetkoek - A fried dough bread that is often filled with curry or minced meat.
5. Biltong - A type of dried meat that is similar to jerky, typically made from beef but also from game meats like ostrich and kudu.
6. Mopane Worms - A traditional snack made of dried and fried caterpillars from the mopane tree. They are crunchy and have a nutty flavor.
7. Boerewors - A type of sausage made from beef or game meats, typically spiced with coriander and another mixture of spices.
8. Chotlho - A traditional dip made of sour milk, dried fish, and ground nuts. It is usually served as an accompaniment to porridge or pap.
9. Ting - A drink made from fermented sorghum or maize, similar to beer but with a sour taste. These dishes are a must-try for anyone visiting Okavango Delta in Botswana.
You can find general info about typical foods in Botswana here.

Is Okavango Delta an expensive destination for tourists?

Yes, Okavango Delta is generally considered to be an expensive destination for tourists. This is because it is a highly sought-after destination due to its stunning natural beauty, diverse wildlife and exclusive, remote locations. Visitors must also often pay for transportation, meals, and lodgings in addition to park fees and safari activities. However, there are ways to lower costs such as visiting during low season, booking in advance, and choosing more affordable accommodations.

Where to find accomodation in Okavango Delta

There are several areas where you can find accommodation to visit the Okavango Delta in Botswana. The most popular areas include: 1. Maun: This is the gateway to the Okavango Delta and is the starting point for most safaris. There are many lodges and hotels in Maun that offer easy access to the delta.
2. Moremi Game Reserve: This is a protected wilderness area in the heart of the Okavango Delta. It is known for its wide variety of wildlife and offers both camping and lodge accommodations.
3. Khwai Concession: This is a community managed reserve located on the eastern boundary of the Moremi Game Reserve. It is known for its abundant wildlife and offers both tented and lodge accommodations.
4. Okavango Panhandle: This is a narrow strip of land that runs along the northern edge of the delta. It is known for its fishing opportunities and offers both camping and lodge accommodations.
5. Delta Island: This is a private island located in the Okavango Delta. It offers luxurious accommodations and a secluded setting for a truly unique safari experience.
You can check hotel prices at Okavango Delta here:
Booking.com

Is Okavango Delta a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, the Okavango Delta in Botswana is generally considered a safe place for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, it's always best to take certain precautions to ensure your safety. Make sure to adhere to any safety guidelines or instructions provided by your tour operator or accommodation provider, avoid going out alone at night, and always be aware of your surroundings. It's also a good idea to keep your valuables secured in a safe or lockbox. Additionally, be sure to get travel insurance before you go, in case of any unforeseen circumstances.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Botswana here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Okavango Delta.

What type of travelers will enjoy Okavango Delta the most?

The Okavango Delta is a great destination for those seeking an authentic safari experience in Africa. It is an amazing place to discover wildlife, nature, and remote landscapes.
The Delta offers a wide range of activities such as game drives, bush walks, mokoro rides, and bird watching. These activities are ideal for couples that are looking for a romantic getaway, families with children that want to discover wildlife in a unique way, and even groups of young people that want to learn about nature and conservation.
However, keep in mind that the Okavango Delta is a remote location, and some of the lodges might not be suitable for children under a certain age. So, it's always best to check with your preferred lodge before booking. Additionally, due to the cost of the lodges in the region, it might not be suitable for budget travelers.

How to get around Okavango Delta

One of the best ways to move around the Okavango Delta is by taking a mokoro ride (a traditional dugout canoe) with a local guide. This is a great way to explore the waterways and see wildlife up close. Alternatively, you can also take a boat cruise or enjoy a game drive in specially adapted 4x4 vehicles. Helicopter and light aircraft tours are also available for those who want to get a bird's eye view of the delta.

What to see around Okavango Delta

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Okavango Delta, Botswana: 1. Moremi Game Reserve - a beautiful wildlife sanctuary with diverse flora and fauna.
2. Tsodilo Hills - a UNESCO World Heritage site with ancient rock paintings.
3. Chobe National Park - a popular destination for wildlife spotting, especially elephants.
4. Makgadikgadi Pans - a vast expanse of salt flats offering a unique, otherworldly landscape.
5. Shakawe Village - a scenic village located by the Okavango River, offering opportunities to interact with the local community.
6. Nxai Pan National Park - a wildlife reserve with open grasslands, baobab trees and many species of animals, including zebras, wildebeest and elephants.
7. Ghanzi - a town located on the fringe of the Kalahari Desert, offering visitors a chance to experience the traditional cultures of the San people. These are just some recommendations, and there are many other places you can visit. Be sure to check transportation options and plan your trip accordingly.
For every travel information about Botswana you can click here.

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