] Located in northern Botswana, the Okavango Delta is a must-see destination on any trip to southern Africa. The fan-shaped wetland boasts one of the most pristine habitats in the world and is home to a wide number of both plant and animal species. You won’t be disappointed!
In 2014, UNESCO officially confirmed the Okavango Delta’s impressive natural beauty when it was named a World Heritage Site. Since then, it has become a very popular eco-tourism destination for safari enthusiasts from around the world, with around 50,000 tourists visiting the Delta each year.
In this article, we will immerse you in the breathtaking beauty and unparalleled wildlife encounters of the Okavango Delta, Botswana’s crown jewel. We’ll unveil the secrets of this unique ecosystem, a shimmering oasis amidst the vast expanse of the Kalahari Desert.
The Fascinating Story of the Delta’s Formation
The Delta is a hydrological marvel where the mighty Okavango River defies the odds, transforming the desert landscape into a lush paradise teeming with life. With its close proximity to the Kalahari Desert, the Delta’s lush vegetation and thriving wetlands are nothing short of miraculous.
So, where does all the water come from? The wetlands of the Okavango Delta are fed by the Okavango River system, which originates in Angola. Two flooding periods occur each year. The first floods take place between January and March and are caused by local rainfall. The second round of floods occurs between April and June and is caused by floodwaters coming down from Angola.
Spanning over 16,000 square kilometres, the Okavango Delta is one of the world’s largest inland waterways! While most other deltas empty into the ocean, the Okavango is special in that it empties into open land, essentially flooding the savannah. This unique landscape is made up of 150,000 islands of varying sizes.
The Diverse Wildlife of the Okavango Delta
Safari enthusiasts love the Okavango Delta because of the many animals that reside in the region. There are plenty of wildlife viewing opportunities, so be sure to bring your camera and binoculars along with you.
Mammals
The wetlands of the Okavango Delta are home to a wide variety of local herbivores, including elephant, buffalo, zebra, giraffe, wildebeest, tsessebe, and kudu. Herds of these animals can be seen drinking from the large pools of water.
Some of the most prominent predators in the region include lions, hyenas, wild dogs, leopards and cheetahs, all of which have adapted to the unique way of life in the Delta.
Birds
Birding enthusiasts will think they’ve landed in paradise when visiting the Okavango Delta. Not only is the Delta home to more than 400 different bird species, but it’s also not uncommon to spot over 100 species in a single day.
Some of the birds to look out for include the Pels Fishing Owl, African Jacana, Slaty Egret, Malachite Kingfisher, Wattle Crane, Pygmy Goose, and many more. You can book guided birding trips to see as many species as possible.
Reptiles
Crocodiles are the largest reptiles that inhabit the Delta. It is a truly incredible sight to see a croc taking down a large herbivore. In addition to crocodiles, other reptiles include snakes, lizards, and tortoises. The wetlands are also home to plenty of fish, insects, and amphibians. There is truly no shortage of interesting creatures.
How to Explore the Okavango Delta Wonderland
Make the most of your time in the Okavango Delta by exploring the region with an experienced guide. There are a few different types of safari experiences you can book, including safaris by traditional Makoro, walking safaris, and your traditional game drives.
Traditional Makoro
Glide silently through the tranquil waterways of the Okavango Delta on a traditional mokoro, a type of wooden canoe. A guide will stand on the stern of the dugout boat and use a pole to propel it through shallow water. Plenty of animals can be seen as you explore the waterways with your professional guide, and you will have many opportunities to take amazing photos.
Game Drive
Embark on thrilling game drives, day or night, across the Savannah and enjoy magnificent views over the Delta. Make the most of your experience by asking your guide questions about the local fauna and flora.
Keep a look out for rhinos, elephants, leopards, lions, and buffalo, as the Delta is proudly home to the ‘Big Five’. Game drives allow you to cover more ground than walking safaris, so you’ll gain a general overview of the region.
Walking Safari
Get up close to nature on a guided walking safari led by an experienced local guide who is keen to share their knowledge about the region’s fauna and flora. The extra benefit is that you’ll get to stretch your legs and get in some exercise while you’re at it.
Walking safaris allow you to observe the local ecosystems more intimately, and there are plenty of walking-friendly areas to explore! Your guide will keep you safe and ensure you don’t stumble upon any predators.
Concessions of the Okavango Delta
The Okavango Delta is not a nature reserve as such, but it is made up of several concessions, including the Kwara Concession, Nxabega Concession, Ranns Concession, and Stanley’s Concession.
Because the area is so remote, most safari guests are flown. This ensures a private and relaxing experience that allows you to truly connect with the natural world. Despite the remoteness of the area, the concessions have everything you need for a comfortable stay. While some camps may be more ‘rustic’ than others, you’ll enjoy hot water, comfortable beds, and delicious food!
Experience the Okavango Delta for Yourself
No Botswana safari holiday is complete without spending at least a few days at the Okavango Delta. The best time of year to visit is usually between April and August, when the conditions are drier, and more animals can be seen.
Our recommendation is to spend at least a few days in the Okavango Delta, so you can experience everything this incredible region has to offer.
Some of the best places to stay include Little Kwara Camp, Pom Pom Camp, and Xaranna Camp. No matter your budget, needs, or preferences, there is the perfect accommodation option in the Okavango Delta for you. Most of these camps are located on private islands with all the amenities you need for a comfortable and memorable trip.
Do you want to witness the countless wonders of the Okavango Delta for yourself? Tailormade Africa is your go-to travel partner, fully tailoring your trip to Botswana to ensure it aligns with your specific preferences. Whether you are travelling in a group, with your spouse, or going solo, you are in for a trip of a lifetime! Contact us to begin the exciting planning process today!
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