Undisputedly the most visited nature reserve in Botswana
The world-famous Okavango Delta is one of Africa's most fascinating and wildlife-rich areas. A labyrinth of lagoons with crystal-clear water covered with water lilies, islets with palm trees, bird-rich swamps and meandering waterways, a true oasis for wildlife. This part of Botswana is inhabited by an almost endless list of animal species: buffalo, giraffes, lions, leopards, wild dogs, warthogs, zebras, wildebeests, red lechwes, hippos, hyenas and more than 550 bird species.
In the heart of the Okavango Delta lies Chiefs' Island, one of the largest and most fertile islands, due to its abundant supply of water. Chances are you are going to see a wide variety of wildlife on the open grassy plains and under the Marula and Ilala palm trees.
By mokoro through the delta
The most amazing lodges are in the heart of the Okavango Delta, and these can only be reached by charter plane or helicopter. Departure point is usually Maun, but other approach routes are possible. The flight over the Okavango Delta is breathtakingly beautiful, from the air you will see herds of game roaming around, elephants bathing in one of the many waterways and lechwes jumping through the water. You can explore the delta by motorboat or you can go on a walking safari accompanied by a professional guide and scout. Classic safaris in an open vehicle are possible only if water conditions permit. Make at least one trip by mokoro, a canoe propelled by a punting boom. Traditionally, these mokoros are made from a hollowed-out tree trunk, but more and more people are opting for a polyester version that is not only more stable, but also avoids cutting down the largest trees for this purpose.
The largest inland delta in the world
From the north, the waters of the Okavango River flow into Botswana from Angola to fan out into the largest inland delta in the world. A pulsating ecosystem dependent on river and stormwater. A special fact is that the greatest supply of water occurs long after the rains have fallen. The extremely flat land is thirsty, the gullies filling rapidly, heralding a new beginning of the Okavango Delta's life cycle. As the land slowly withers, grasses and reeds sprout along the banks of the waterways, the first water lilies bloom. Then even the last dry beds fill up with water, breaking up large tracts of land into smaller islands. Big game and waterfowl flock to the swampy wetlands. The water reaches its highest in the months of June and July, the size of the delta is now at its maximum. Eventually, much of the water will also evaporate, but most of it quietly disappears into the sands of the Kalahari Desert. Then, when fresh supply from the river also decreases, the water recedes. The size of the inner delta decreases, foothills and marshes dry up, only the deepest channels continue to flow. Between December and March the rains come, which will rejuvenate the land vegetation until a new cycle begins.
Paradise for bird lovers
With more than 400 bird species, the Okavango Delta is a fantastic destination for bird lovers. Your mokoro (canoe) glides silently through the water, so birds are not easily startled. You will see numerous waterfowl and waders, such as the African jacana or Lilybird, which seems to walk deftly across the water. Look out for Saddle-billed Stork, Papyrus Warbler, Masked Curlew, Red-throated Claw, Bateleur, Ospreys and so much more. The best time to observe as many species as possible is during the rainy season (November to March/April) when migratory birds temporarily settle here. However, there is also plenty to enjoy in the dry months.
