Moremi Game Reserve, Central District Travel Guide

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Explore Moremi Game Reserve: a Botswana wildlife sanctuary with diverse ecosystems, abundant species, and unforgettable safari experiences in the Okavango Delta.

Moremi Game Reserve, located in the eastern Okavango Delta, is a protected area boasting diverse ecosystems and abundant wildlife. Established in 1963 by the Batawana people, it's the first reserve in Africa created by local residents. Explore its varied landscapes of mopane woodland, floodplains, lagoons, and forests, home to a vast array of mammals and birds.

A brief summary to Moremi Game Reserve

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Moremi Game Reserve.

The best time for wildlife viewing is during the dry season (May to October) when animals congregate around water sources.
A 4x4 vehicle is essential for navigating the sandy and sometimes waterlogged roads within the reserve.
Book accommodations and campsites well in advance, especially during peak season.
Bring binoculars for enhanced wildlife viewing and birdwatching.
Be aware of the potential dangers of crocodiles and hippos when near water bodies.

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Explore Moremi Game Reserve on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Moremi Game Reserve, mapped for you.

Getting There

Air

The most convenient way to reach Moremi is by flying into Maun International Airport (MUB), the gateway to the Okavango Delta. From Maun, take a charter flight to one of the airstrips within or near Moremi, such as Xakanaxa or Khwai. These flights offer stunning aerial views of the delta. Prices for a one way seat on a charter flight range from $210 to $240 per person.
Road

For adventurous travelers, driving to Moremi is possible in a 4x4 vehicle. From Maun, the drive to the South Gate takes approximately 4-5 hours, depending on road conditions. Be prepared for deep sand, seasonal water crossings, and rough tracks. Park entry fees are approximately BWP 270 (around $21 USD) per person per day for international non-residents, plus BWP 115 (around $9 USD) per vehicle.

Discover more about Moremi Game Reserve

Moremi Game Reserve, a jewel in Botswana's crown, lies in the eastern part of the Okavango Delta, encompassing approximately 5,000 square kilometers. This diverse reserve combines permanent water sources with drier land, creating startling contrasts and a haven for wildlife.Established in 1963, Moremi holds the distinction of being the first reserve in Africa initiated by local residents. The Batawana people, concerned about the decline of wildlife due to hunting and cattle encroachment, took the initiative to protect their ancestral lands. The reserve is named after Chief Moremi III of the Batawana tribe.Moremi's habitats are incredibly diverse, encompassing mopane woodland, acacia forests, floodplains, and lagoons. This variety supports a remarkable array of wildlife, including a high density of predators and herbivores. Visitors can spot elephants, buffalo, wildebeest, zebra, giraffe, and various antelope species. Predators such as lions, leopards, cheetahs, African wild dogs, hyenas, and jackals also thrive in the reserve.Birdwatchers will be delighted by the nearly 500 species of birds found in Moremi, from water birds to forest dwellers. The reserve is also home to a variety of reptiles, amphibians, and fish.Key areas within Moremi include Chief's Island, the largest island in the Okavango Delta and a prime location for spotting predators , and the Xakanaxa Lagoon, where mopane woodland meets waterways and floodplains. The Khwai River area, in the northeast, is known for its evergreen trees and diverse wildlife, including large lion prides.Moremi offers a range of safari experiences, including game drives in 4x4 vehicles and boat trips on the waterways. While night drives and walking safaris are restricted within the reserve, nearby private concessions offer these activities.