The perfect tailor-made Okavango Delta safari
The Okavango Delta is the world’s largest inland delta, and houses a diverse range of wildlife in its many ecosystems
The Okavango Delta is the crown jewel of Botswana safari holidays - a vast inland wetland where crystal-clear channels, floodplains, and lagoons provide sanctuary to extraordinary wildlife. Fed by seasonal rains from Angola, the Delta fans out across the Kalahari sands, creating one of Africa’s most dynamic and beautiful safari destinations.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site supports an exceptional diversity of species, from elephant herds and hippos to leopards, painted wolves, and over 400 species of birds. Wildlife is most concentrated during the annual flood (typically May to October), when animals are drawn to the Delta’s life-giving waters.
A safari in the Okavango Delta is defined by its variety of experiences. Glide silently through the reeds in a traditional mokoro, explore hidden islands on foot, or venture out on expertly guided game drives. Helicopter flights and boat safaris offer new perspectives over this shifting mosaic of water and land.
The delta has been split into numerous private concessions, which are leased and managed by safari operators, all of whom adhere to strict environmental standards, ensuring the region remains unspoiled and exclusive. As these concessions are considered private land, many lodges and camps can offer bush walks and night drives on a luxury Okavango Delta holiday, which would not be available in a national park.
I've lived in Botswana — I’d love to help you plan your trip.
Okavango Delta Trip Inspiration
Best places to stay in Okavango Delta
Top places to visit in Botswana
Types of Botswana vacations
Speak to a Botswana expert today
and start planning your tailor-made vacation
Alistair
Ruth
FAQs About Your Okavango Delta Holiday
Planning a holiday to Okavango Delta? Our experts share advice on everything from what to pack, when to go, to tips for families, covering the questions we get asked the most.
When is the best time to visit the Okavango Delta?
The Delta offers year-round safari, but the best time is generally June to October, when the floodwaters peak and wildlife viewing is superb. Water-based activities are at their best, and the cooler, dry season makes travel comfortable. November to March is the green season with dramatic skies, fewer visitors, and excellent birdwatching opportunities.
How does the seasonal flood affect a safari in the Delta?
The flood transforms the Delta into a patchwork of lagoons, islands, and channels. In high-water months, you can explore by boat and mokoro. When the waters recede, game drives cover more ground, reaching areas that were previously inaccessible. This constant change means no two visits are ever the same, and it’s what makes the Delta so unique.
Can I do both land and water safaris in the Okavango Delta?
Yes. Most camps offer a mix of activities depending on the flood levels. Typically, you can combine game drives with mokoro trips or boating excursions. Some areas remain accessible to vehicles even during the flood, while others focus more heavily on water. The dual experience is part of the Delta’s appeal, letting you see wildlife from different perspectives.
What is the Okavango Delta flood?
The Delta’s annual flood is a natural wonder where waters from Angola transform the dry plains into a vast oasis. Arriving between May and July, it brings life to the region and attracts incredible wildlife. This unique seasonal event allows for mokoro safaris, boating, and a mix of land and water activities unlike anywhere else in Africa.
