Moremi Game Reserve Travel Guide - Free Web & App

Your ultimate guide to Moremi Game Reserve. Discover top landmarks, proposed trips, and local tips. Free on the web or via the Evendo companion app.

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Moremi Game Reserve in Botswana offers mokoro waterways, elephant-rich floodplains, big-cat sightings and wild Okavango Delta safari camps and lagoons.

Okavango Landscapes

Moremi Game Reserve occupies the eastern stretches of Botswana’s Okavango Delta, where permanent channels, seasonal floodplains, woodland and open grassland form a shifting mosaic of habitats. The reserve is not the whole delta, but one of its best-known protected areas, extending across a broad landscape of lagoons, islands and flood-prone plains. Water levels vary through the year, shaping both the scenery and the movement of wildlife.

Wildlife and Safari Country

Moremi is recognised for its strong populations of elephant, buffalo, hippopotamus and many antelope species, alongside predators including lion, leopard, cheetah and African wild dog. Sightings remain genuinely wild and cannot be guaranteed. Game drives reveal contrasting environments, from the waterways and reedbeds around Xakanaxa to drier woodland and grassland around the reserve’s eastern and southern sectors. Birdlife is particularly prominent near water, with sightings changing according to season and habitat.

Exploring the Reserve

Most visitors enter through safari camps, lodges or organised mobile expeditions, travelling by four-wheel-drive vehicle or, in wetter areas, by boat and mokoro where conditions and local operating arrangements permit. Third Bridge, Xakanaxa and the Khwai region are familiar safari bases, although Khwai lies beside the reserve in a community-managed area rather than within Moremi itself. Maun is the principal gateway, while light aircraft connect the reserve with remote camps. Days are structured around wildlife viewing, changing light and the practical rhythms of a remote wilderness rather than fixed urban sightseeing.

When is the best time to visit Moremi Game Reserve?

Best: June–August · 25–31°C

35° Temperature Range for JanuaryLow: 20.3°C, High: 35.4°C Precipitation Range for JanuaryLow: 0 mm, High: 140 mm J

35° Temperature Range for FebruaryLow: 20.1°C, High: 35.2°C Precipitation Range for FebruaryLow: 0 mm, High: 150 mm F

35° Temperature Range for MarchLow: 19.4°C, High: 34.6°C Precipitation Range for MarchLow: 10 mm, High: 170 mm M

32° Temperature Range for AprilLow: 16.6°C, High: 32.4°C Precipitation Range for AprilLow: 20 mm, High: 180 mm A

28° Temperature Range for MayLow: 12.1°C, High: 28.3°C Precipitation Range for MayLow: 30 mm, High: 200 mm M

Best 25° Temperature Range for JuneLow: 8.1°C, High: 25.1°C Precipitation Range for JuneLow: 30 mm, High: 140 mm J

Best 26° Temperature Range for JulyLow: 8°C, High: 26.2°C Precipitation Range for JulyLow: 30 mm, High: 100 mm J

Best 31° Temperature Range for AugustLow: 10.3°C, High: 31.1°C Precipitation Range for AugustLow: 30 mm, High: 90 mm A

34° Temperature Range for SeptemberLow: 14.5°C, High: 34.3°C Precipitation Range for SeptemberLow: 10 mm, High: 70 mm S

37° Temperature Range for OctoberLow: 17.6°C, High: 37°C Precipitation Range for OctoberLow: 0 mm, High: 60 mm O

39° Temperature Range for NovemberLow: 19.2°C, High: 39.2°C Precipitation Range for NovemberLow: 0 mm, High: 80 mm N

40° Temperature Range for DecemberLow: 20°C, High: 39.6°C Precipitation Range for DecemberLow: 0 mm, High: 120 mm D

Average daytime high and rainfall by month
Month	High (°C)	Rainfall (mm)
January	35	70
February	35	80
March	35	90
April	32	100
May	28	100
June (best)	25	70
July (best)	26	50
August (best)	31	40
September	34	30
October	37	30
November	39	40
December	40	60

Getting to and around Moremi Game Reserve

How to get there

Maun is the principal gateway to Moremi Game Reserve and is connected to the reserve by safari vehicles, charter flights and organised tours. Visitors commonly arrange complete safari packages from Maun, including transfers, guides and accommodation. Light aircraft serve airstrips associated with individual camps, although routes depend on the chosen operator and camp. Some itineraries approach the wider Okavango region from Kasane or connect Moremi with Chobe National Park and other northern Botswana destinations. Road access is demanding, with deep sand, water crossings and seasonal conditions, so self-drive visitors should confirm current routes, permits and vehicle requirements before departure.

Transportation

Inside Moremi, travel is primarily by guided four-wheel-drive vehicle, with road conditions and water levels determining routes and journey times. Boating and mokoro excursions may be available in suitable waterways through organised camps or operators, but access varies by season, location and local arrangements. The reserve is extensive, and attractions are not connected by a conventional public transport network. Self-drive travel requires an appropriately equipped vehicle, careful preparation and experience with remote sandy tracks; many visitors instead use guided mobile safaris or fly between camps. Air transfers reduce road travel but do not provide independent transport within the reserve.

Best attractions in Moremi Game Reserve

Moremi’s attractions are shaped by the meeting of water and dry land. The Xakanaxa area is known for lagoons, channels, wooded islands and boat-based exploration where conditions allow, while Third Bridge provides access to a mixture of floodplain, woodland and open country. Chief’s Island, one of the larger islands in the Okavango, supports varied wildlife habitats and is visited through safari operations rather than conventional public sightseeing. The southern and eastern parts of the reserve offer different combinations of grassland, mopane and other woodland, with seasonal water influencing animal movements. Birdwatching is especially rewarding around channels and floodplains, and sightings may include waterbirds, raptors and migratory species. The Khwai region, often included in Moremi itineraries, lies adjacent to the reserve in a community-managed area and should not be described as part of Moremi itself. There are no sizeable towns or museum complexes inside the reserve; the principal attractions are its habitats, wildlife and changing waterways.

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Best landmarks in Moremi Game Reserve

Moremi’s defining landmarks are natural rather than architectural. The Okavango channels, lagoons and floodplains create a constantly changing water landscape, while islands such as Chief’s Island form elevated ground within the delta’s seasonal inundation. Xakanaxa is associated with waterways, papyrus-fringed channels and mixed woodland, and Third Bridge is a recognised safari area where floodplain habitats meet dry tracks. The Khwai River and surrounding community-managed landscape lie adjacent to the reserve and are often visited on combined itineraries, but they should be distinguished geographically from Moremi. There are no major urban monuments within the reserve; its significance lies in the protected relationship between water, wildlife and woodland, and in the reserve’s origin through Batawana leadership. Seasonal flooding is itself a defining feature, determining where vehicles can travel, where boats can operate and how animals use the landscape.

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Explore Moremi Game Reserve on the map

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Best restaurants in Moremi Game Reserve

Dining in Moremi is centred on safari camps, lodges and mobile expeditions rather than independent restaurants. Meals are usually arranged as part of the safari stay, with camp kitchens serving a mixture of international dishes and familiar southern African ingredients; menus and meal arrangements vary by operator. In Maun, visitors find the widest range of cafés, takeaway outlets, supermarkets and restaurants, making the town the practical place to eat independently and buy provisions before entering the reserve. Botswana’s broader food culture includes beef, chicken, seasonal vegetables, maize-based staples and locally influenced home cooking, although remote camps may adapt menus for international guests. Picnic breakfasts and lunches are common features of guided game drives, subject to camp procedures and wildlife-safety rules. There is no continuous restaurant scene within Moremi, and visitors should not rely on finding food outside their booked camp or safari arrangement.

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Best bars in Moremi Game Reserve

Moremi has no conventional nightlife district, and evenings are organised around the rhythm of remote safari camps. After dark, visitors may gather in a camp lounge or dining area for conversation and drinks, though facilities, licensing and atmosphere differ between properties. Some camps offer a bar as part of their hospitality service, while mobile expeditions provide a simpler bush-camp experience. Evening activity is constrained by wildlife, darkness and conservation practices, so independent wandering is not appropriate. Maun has the region’s broadest choice of informal bars, hotel lounges and social venues, but it remains a safari gateway rather than a major clubbing centre. In the reserve, the characteristic evening experience is a guided or supervised camp setting, with attention to the sounds and conditions of the bush rather than late-night entertainment.

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Best nightclubs in Moremi Game Reserve

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Best shops in Moremi Game Reserve

Shopping inside Moremi is extremely limited and is generally confined to items available through individual camps, such as small gifts or locally produced crafts where offered. The main retail centre is Maun, where visitors can purchase food, practical safari supplies, clothing, toiletries and locally made arts and crafts before travelling into the reserve. Botswana is associated with basketry, woodwork, beadwork and other handmade products, but availability varies by shop and community initiative, so products should not be assumed to come from Moremi itself. Buying directly from reputable local producers or community projects can help retain value in the region, while visitors should avoid purchasing wildlife products or anything whose origin and legality are unclear. There is no extensive high street, permanent market district or specialist shopping area within the game reserve.

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Moremi Game Reserve essentials

Currency and Payment

Botswana’s currency is the pula, with the international code BWP. In Maun, cards and cash can both be useful, while remote camps generally manage payments through the booking arrangement and may accept major cards, foreign currency or other methods subject to their own conditions. Cash machines and banking services are concentrated in established towns rather than inside the reserve. Carrying some pula for incidentals, tips and purchases before entering remote areas is sensible, but avoid carrying excessive cash and confirm payment arrangements with the operator or camp before travelling.

Safety

Moremi is a remote wildlife environment rather than a conventional park for independent walking. Dangerous animals are present, and visitors should remain in vehicles or follow a guide’s instructions at all times; never approach, feed or provoke wildlife. Heat, dehydration, sun exposure, insects, uneven ground, deep sand and changing water levels can affect outings. Mobile coverage may be limited, and weather can alter tracks and crossings. Camp boundaries and movement rules are important because animals may pass close to accommodation. Follow guide instructions, use designated facilities and check current conditions before self-driving or undertaking any water-based activity.

Emergency Situations

Botswana’s emergency services can generally be reached on 112 from a mobile phone, while commonly cited direct numbers include 999 for police, 997 for ambulance and 998 for fire; confirm local procedures with your accommodation or operator because remote response arrangements vary. In Moremi, guides and camps are usually the first point of coordination for medical, vehicle or wildlife incidents. Provide the camp name, airstrip, route, recent landmark or GPS position as precisely as possible. Comprehensive travel insurance with medical evacuation cover is particularly important for a remote safari destination.

Do's and Don'ts

Respect wildlife by keeping quiet, remaining inside vehicles where required and never attempting to attract animals for photographs. Do not walk away from camp or approach waterways without following local instructions. Keep food and waste secure, use established tracks and camps, and avoid damaging vegetation or disturbing birds and other animals. Ask before photographing guides, staff or local residents. Dress practically and respectfully in gateway communities, and follow the conservation rules of both the reserve and neighbouring community-managed areas. Tipping practices vary, so ask your operator about customary arrangements rather than assuming.

Local Tips

Maun is the most practical place to organise supplies, transfers and last-minute preparations, while the best safari base depends on whether the itinerary prioritises waterways, predators, birdlife or longer overland routes. Dry and wet seasons can create markedly different experiences, but exact conditions vary annually. Early starts are normal because wildlife is often most active in cooler periods, and drives may be slow across sand or flooded ground. Travellers combining Moremi with Chobe, the Okavango’s private concessions or the Khwai Community Area should check which reserve or management area each activity belongs to.

From Eve

Local phrases worth knowing

You don't need to get them perfect. A few words go a long way, and locals appreciate the effort.

6 phrase groups · English, local and pronunciation

Basics

English	Local	Say it
Hello	Dumela	[doo-meh-lah]
Goodbye	Tsamae	[tsah-mah-eh]
Yes	Ee	[ee]
No	Nnyaa	[nyah]
Please/You're welcome	Pula	[poo-lah]
Thank you	Ke a leboga	[keh ah leh-boh-gah]
Excuse me/Sorry	Ke kopa tshegetso	[keh koh-pah chay-get-so]
How are you?	Le kae?	[leh kah-eh]
Fine. And you?	Ke teng. Le wena?	[keh teng. leh weh-nah]
Do you speak English?	O bua se setswana?	[oh boo-ah seh set-swah-nah]
I don't understand	Ga ke itse	[gah keh eet-seh]

Eating & Drinking

English	Local	Say it
I'd like to see the menu, please	Ke kopa go bona sebaka, le kamoso	[keh koh-pah goh boh-nah seh-bah-kah, leh kah-moh-soh]
I don't eat meat	Ga ke itse nyama	[gah keh eet-seh nyah-mah]
Cheers!	Pholo e ntle!	[poh-loh eh uhn-tleh]
I would like to pay, please	Ke kopa go dira thoko, le kamoso	[keh koh-pah goh dee-rah toh-koh, leh kah-moh-soh]

Emergencies

English	Local	Say it
Help!	Boitumelo!	[boy-too-meh-loh]
Go away!	Ika!	[ee-kah]
Call the Police!	Bontsha Porofeti!	[boh-ntshah poroh-feh-tee]
Call a doctor!	Bontsha Morwa!	[boh-ntshah moh-ruh]
I'm lost	Ke a thusa	[keh ah too-sah]
I'm ill	Ke kgotsofala	[keh koh-tsoh-fah-lah]

Shopping

English	Local	Say it
I'd like to buy...	Ke kopa go rekela...	[keh koh-pah goh reh-keh-lah]
I'm just looking	Ke bone ka go bona fela	[keh boh-neh kah goh boh-nah feh-lah]
How much is it?	E bokae?	[eh boh-kah-eh]
That's too expensive	Se ke tlhokahalang	[seh keh tlhoh-kah-hah-lang]
Can you lower the price?	O ka ikarabela setlhako?	[oh kah ee-kah-rah-beh-lah set-lah-koh]

Time & Numbers

English	Local	Say it
What time is it?	Ke nako mang?	[keh nah-koh mah-ng]
It's one o'clock	Ke nako ya mo	[keh nah-koh yah moh]
Half past (10)	Nako ya lelemele	[nah-koh yah leh-leh-meh-leh]
Morning	Bogale	[boh-gah-leh]
Afternoon	Dipuo	[dee-pwoh]
Evening	Bontsi	[boh-nt-see]
Yesterday	Gaele	[gah-eh-leh]
Today	Namane	[nah-mah-neh]
Tomorrow	Ngwaga	[ngwah-gah]
1	Nngwe	[nng-weh]
2	Pedidi	[peh-dee-dee]
3	Tharo	[tah-roh]
4	Nne	[nn-neh]
5	Tlhano	[tlhah-noh]
6	Tlhabelo	[tlhah-beh-loh]
7	Supa	[soo-pah]
8	Roborobo	[roh-boh-roh-boh]
9	Nkwe	[ng-kweh]
10	Lesome	[leh-soh-meh]

Transport & Directions

English	Local	Say it
Where's a/the...?	Kae...?	[kah-eh]
What's the address?	Ke kae le aterese?	[keh kah-eh leh ah-teh-reh-seh]
Can you show me (on the map)?	O ka nka sebele (ka maping)?	[oh kah ng-kah seh-beh-leh (kah mah-peeng)]
When's the next (bus)?	Ke nako efe eo (basi) e le teng?	[keh nah-koh eh-feh eh-oh (bah-see) eh leh t-eh-ng]
A ticket (to ....)	Litshepe (mo ....)	[li-tsheh-peh moh]

History of Moremi Game Reserve

Delta Formation and Human Settlement

The Okavango landscape developed through long-term geological and hydrological processes that created a low, inland delta fed by the Okavango River. Seasonal waters spread across channels, islands and floodplains before largely disappearing into the Kalahari sands. Human communities adapted to this fluctuating environment through fishing, hunting, gathering and livestock keeping, developing a close relationship with the delta’s waterways and grazing areas. The wider region has long been associated with the Batawana and other communities whose histories are tied to the Okavango and its surrounding settlements.

Batawana Stewardship and the Reserve

Moremi Game Reserve was established in 1963 through the initiative of the Batawana people, led by Moremi III, the regent of the Batawana. The decision created one of southern Africa’s notable examples of a protected area established through local community action rather than solely by a colonial administration. It reflected concern about uncontrolled hunting and the pressure that expanding settlement and livestock could place on wildlife. The reserve was named after Moremi III and became a protected core within the eastern Okavango landscape.

Tourism and Conservation

As Botswana developed a wildlife-based tourism industry, Moremi became an important destination for guided safaris, combining dry-land game viewing with the delta’s distinctive waterways. Access remained relatively limited because of seasonal flooding, sandy roads and the absence of large urban infrastructure. Camps, lodges and mobile safari operations consequently developed as low-density bases rather than as a continuous settlement. Conservation management has had to balance wildlife protection, tourism, local livelihoods and the ecological importance of maintaining natural flood patterns.

A Changing Protected Landscape

Moremi’s modern identity is shaped by collaboration and tension between formal reserve management, neighbouring communities, safari businesses and broader Okavango conservation initiatives. Areas adjoining the reserve, including the Khwai Community Area, demonstrate different models of land and wildlife management while remaining part of the same ecological system. Contemporary conservation concerns include habitat protection, anti-poaching work, responsible tourism and the effects of changing water availability. The reserve’s history is therefore not static: it continues to reflect changing relationships between Botswana’s communities, wildlife and the delta environment.

Moremi Game Reserve in Photos

Browse through our photo collection highlighting the charm and character of the destination.

Cities in Moremi Game Reserve

The towns and cities of Moremi Game Reserve, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Maun Discover Maun, Botswana: Your Gateway to the Okavango Delta, a vibrant town with rich culture, modern amenities, and unparalleled access to stunning wildlife adventures.

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Moremi Game Reserve Travel Guide - Free Web & App

Okavango Landscapes

Wildlife and Safari Country

Exploring the Reserve

When is the best time to visit Moremi Game Reserve?

Getting to and around Moremi Game Reserve

How to get there

Transportation

Best attractions in Moremi Game Reserve

Helicopter Horizons

Sanctuary Chief's Camp

Afro-Trek

Sango Safari Camp

Best landmarks in Moremi Game Reserve

Helicopter Horizons

Audi Camp Safaris

Khwai River Lodge, Botswana

Camp Moremi

Explore Moremi Game Reserve on the map

Best hotels in Moremi Game Reserve

Best restaurants in Moremi Game Reserve