Okavango Delta, Botswana Travel Guide

Discover the Okavango Delta, Botswana's pristine wilderness where the Kalahari Desert meets a lush oasis teeming with wildlife and breathtaking landscapes.

Home
Travel Guides
Botswana
Okavango Delta

The Okavango Delta is a vast inland river delta in northern Botswana. Known for its stunning beauty, it is one of the world's largest inland deltas, creating an oasis of life in the midst of the Kalahari Desert. The delta's waters spread out to form a maze of lagoons, channels, and islands, providing a habitat for a diverse range of wildlife and plants. This makes the Okavango Delta a prime location for safaris and nature experiences. Visitors to the Okavango Delta can explore the area by traditional mokoro canoes, which offer a peaceful way to navigate the waterways and get up close to the wildlife. The delta is home to large populations of elephants, lions, leopards, and a variety of bird species. Each year, the seasonal floods transform the landscape, creating a unique environment that changes with the water levels. This dynamic ecosystem is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its outstanding natural value. Accommodations in the Okavango Delta range from luxury lodges to more rustic campsites, all offering a unique way to immerse yourself in the natural surroundings. Guided game drives, bush walks, and boat trips are popular activities that allow visitors to experience the delta's rich biodiversity. The best time to visit is during the dry season, from May to October, when the wildlife is most concentrated around the water sources and the weather is more predictable.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Okavango Delta.

Travel during the dry season (May to October) for the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
Explore the delta on a mokoro canoe for an authentic and serene experience.
Book accommodations well in advance, as lodges and campsites fill up quickly.
Pack lightweight, neutral-colored clothing to blend in with the surroundings and protect against the sun.
Bring binoculars and a good camera to capture the incredible wildlife and scenery.

Top City Travel Guides in Okavango Delta

The cities of Okavango Delta, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Maun

Destinations in Okavango Delta

Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.

Moremi Game Reserve

Tsodilo Hills

Explore Okavango Delta: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Okavango Delta

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

Browse the full guide

All Attractions

Moremi Game Reserve

Explore Botswana's premier wildlife reserve, offering diverse ecosystems and unparalleled safari experiences in the heart of the Okavango Delta.

4.7

African Horseback Safaris, Macatoo Camp

Experience the Okavango Delta on horseback at Macatoo Camp. Luxurious tented accommodations and thrilling wildlife encounters await in Botswana.

4.2

Kadizora Camp

Experience an unforgettable Okavango Delta safari at Kadizora Camp, with diverse wildlife, luxury accommodations & unique activities.

4.6

Okavango Delta Safari

Discover Camp Okavango on Nxaragha Island: An exclusive water wilderness safari in the heart of Botswana's Okavango Delta.

4.7

Best landmarks in Okavango Delta

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

Browse the full guide

All Landmarks

Moremi Game Reserve

Explore Botswana's Moremi Game Reserve: a stunning Okavango Delta sanctuary with diverse wildlife, lush landscapes, and unforgettable safari experiences.

4.6

Sanctuary Chief's Camp

Experience unparalleled luxury and exceptional wildlife viewing in the heart of Botswana's Okavango Delta at Sanctuary Chief's Camp.

4.8

Delta Camp

Experience the Okavango Delta's tranquility at Delta Camp: eco-friendly chalets, walking safaris, and mokoro excursions await in this pristine wilderness.

4.8

Duba Explorers Camp

Experience an authentic 1920s-style safari in Botswana's Okavango Delta at Duba Explorers Camp, surrounded by wildlife and stunning landscapes.

5.0

Best restaurants in Okavango Delta

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

Browse the full guide

All Restaurants

Dusty Donkey Café

Experience local flavors and warm hospitality at Dusty Donkey Café in Maun—a culinary gem for all travelers.

4.4

Marc's Eatery

Experience the vibrant flavors of Botswana at Marc's Eatery - your go-to spot for delightful breakfasts and freshly baked goods in Maun.

4.6

Island Safari Lodge

Discover the tranquil allure of Island Safari Lodge in Maun - where comfort meets adventure amidst Botswana's stunning landscapes.

3.8

Il Pomodoro Maun/ Poms Beer Garden- Pizzeria

Discover authentic Italian flavors at Il Pomodoro Maun, where delicious pizzas meet local charm in Botswana's vibrant dining scene.

4.0

Best bars in Okavango Delta

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

Browse the full guide

All Bars

Shakawe River Lodge

Discover the beauty of Botswana at Shakawe River Lodge, a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and exquisite dining along the Okavango Panhandle.

4.1

Island Safari Lodge

Discover the charm of Island Safari Lodge in Maun, where adventure meets comfort amidst the stunning landscapes of Botswana.

3.8

The Duck Café

Experience the vibrant flavors of Botswana at The Duck Café in Maun, where culinary delights and local crafts come together in a charming setting.

4.6

Drotsky's Cabins

Discover the serenity and adventure of Drotsky's Cabins, a self-catering retreat nestled in Botswana's breathtaking wilderness.

4.6

Best nightclubs in Okavango Delta

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

Browse the full guide

All Nightclubs

Wilderness DumaTau

Explore the wild beauty of Botswana at Wilderness DumaTau Lodge, where luxury meets adventure in the stunning Linyanti region.

4.9

Base Lounge Night Club

Discover the energetic nightlife at Base Lounge Night Club in Maun, where music, dance, and local culture come alive.

3.6

Disakopaneng tarven

Discover the essence of Botswana's nightlife at Disakopaneng Tarven, a lively night club in Maun offering music, dance, and local culture.

NG/15 (Linyanti Sable Safaris)

Discover the raw and breathtaking wildlife of Botswana at Linyanti Sable Safaris, a premier destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.

Best shops in Okavango Delta

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

Browse the full guide

All Shops

Riverwalk Mall

Explore Riverwalk Mall: Gaborone's premier shopping destination with diverse stores, delightful dining, and entertainment for all ages.

4.1

Choppies Boseja

Discover Choppies Boseja in Maun, Botswana - your go-to grocery store for fresh produce, snacks, and essentials during your travels.

3.6

Sefalana Shoppers Boseja

Discover the heart of Maun shopping at Sefalana Shoppers Boseja, where local culture meets modern retail.

3.6

SPAR Safari (maun)

Explore SPAR Safari in Maun for a diverse selection of groceries, local products, and fresh produce in a friendly shopping environment.

3.8

Explore Okavango Delta on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Okavango Delta, mapped for you.

Okavango Delta Essentials

The Okavango Delta is located in the north-western part of Botswana. The nearest international airport is Maun Airport (MUB), which is the primary gateway to the delta. From Maun, you can take a charter flight or a 4x4 vehicle to reach various lodges and camps within the delta. Flights from major African cities like Johannesburg and Cape Town frequently service Maun Airport. Alternatively, you can also enter the delta from Kasane, which is accessible via road and air.
Transportation within the Okavango Delta typically involves charter flights, boat transfers, and 4x4 vehicles, as the area is largely inaccessible by standard roadways due to its unique landscape. Many lodges and camps offer their own transportation services, including game drives and boat safaris. For those looking to explore on their own, it is advisable to hire a local guide or join an organized tour.
The official currency in Botswana is the Botswana Pula (BWP). Credit cards are widely accepted in Maun and at most lodges and camps within the delta, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller transactions and tips. ATMs are available in Maun, but they can be scarce in more remote areas, so plan accordingly.
The Okavango Delta is generally a safe destination for tourists, but it is essential to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night, particularly in wildlife areas. Petty crime such as pickpocketing can occur, so keep an eye on your belongings. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but always stay vigilant and follow the guidance of local authorities and guides.
In case of emergency, contact the local authorities or your lodge's management, who are trained to handle emergencies. The emergency number in Botswana is 999 for police, 998 for fire, and 997 for medical emergencies. Make sure to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Lodges and camps are equipped with first aid kits, and there are medical facilities in Maun for more serious health issues.
Fashion: Do wear light, breathable clothing and comfortable shoes. Avoid bright colors that could attract wildlife. Religion: Do respect local customs, even though the delta is not heavily populated with religious sites. Public Transport: Do use the transportation services provided by your lodge or camp. Don't expect public transport in the traditional sense. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake and a smile. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Don't drink tap water; always opt for bottled or purified water.
To experience the Okavango Delta like a local, consider partaking in traditional mokoro (dugout canoe) rides to explore the waterways. Engage with local guides who can provide insights into the flora and fauna of the region. Visit local villages to gain a deeper understanding of the culture and lifestyle of the people who live in and around the delta. Sunrise and sunset are the best times for wildlife viewing, so plan your activities accordingly.

When is the best time to visit Okavango Delta?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Okavango Delta

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Okavango Delta. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloDumelang
  [Doo-meh-lang]
- GoodbyeSala hantle
  [Sah-lah hahn-tleh]
- YesEe
  [Eh]
- NoNna
  [Nnah]
- Please/You're welcomeTsamaya sentle
  [Tsah-mah-yah sen-tleh]
- Thank youKe a leboga
  [Kay ah leh-boh-gah]
- Excuse me/SorryNtshwarele
  [Nts-hwah-reh-leh]
- How are you?O kae?
  [Oh kah-eh?]
- Fine. And you?Ke teng. Wena o kae?
  [Kay ten-g. Weh-nah oh kah-eh?]
- Do you speak English?A o bua Sekgoa?
  [Ah oh bwah Sehk-goh-ah?]
- I don't understandKe sitwa go tlhaloganya
  [Kay si-twah go th-lah-loh-gah-nyah]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseKe batla go bona menu, tsweetswee
  [Kay bah-tlah go boh-nah men-oo, tswee-tswee]
- I don't eat meatKe sitwa go ja nama
  [Kay si-twah go jah nah-mah]
- Cheers!Re a leboga!
  [Ray ah leh-boh-gah!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseKe batla go lefa, tsweetswee
  [Kay bah-tlah go leh-fah, tswee-tswee]
- Help!Thusa!
  [Too-sah!]
- Go away!Tlhola!
  [Tlh-oh-lah!]
- Call the Police!Bua borai!
  [Boo-ah boh-rah-ee!]
- Call a doctor!Bua ngaka!
  [Boo-ah ngah-kah!]
- I'm lostKe a latlhegile
  [Kay ah la-tlhay-ghee-leh]
- I'm illKe a bolawa
  [Kay ah boh-lah-wah]
- I'd like to buy...Ke batla go reka...
  [Kay bah-tlah go reh-kah...]
- I'm just lookingKe ntse ke lebelela
  [Kay n-tseh keh leh-beh-leh-lah]
- How much is it?Ke bokae?
  [Kay boh-kah-eh?]
- That's too expensiveGo a feta theko
  [Go ah feh-tah teh-koh]
- Can you lower the price?A o ka kgona go fokotsa theko?
  [Ah oh kah kho-nah go foh-koh-tsah teh-koh?]
- What time is it?Nako e kae?
  [Nah-koh eh kah-eh?]
- It's one o'clockKe ngwaga e le ngwaga
  [Kay ngwah-gah eh leh ngwah-gah]
- Half past (10)Ntswe e le borai
  [Nts-weh eh leh boh-rah-ee]
- MorningMosong
  [Moh-song]
- AfternoonMotlhala
  [Mote-lah-lah]
- EveningMantsiboya
  [Mahn-tsee-boh-yah]
- YesterdayMaabane
  [Mah-bah-neh]
- TodayGompieno
  [Gom-pee-eh-no]
- TomorrowBorai
  [Boh-rah-ee]
- 1Ngwaga e le
  [Nwah-gah eh leh]
- 2Pedi
  [Pe-dih]
- 3Tharo
  [Thah-roh]
- 4Nne
  [Neh]
- 5Bonnye
  [Boh-nyay]
- 6Ntsatsi
  [Ntsah-tsee]
- 7Ntshebe
  [Ntsheh-beh]
- 8Borai
  [Boh-rah-ee]
- 9Borai
  [Boh-rah-ee]
- 10Borai
  [Boh-rah-ee]
- Where's a/the...?Kgang go...?
  [Kgah-ng go...?]
- What's the address?Ke mang adres?
  [Kay mahng ah-dres?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?O ka ntlhopho (mo mapeng)?
  [Oh kah nt-lhoh-poh (moh mah-pehg)?]
- When's the next (bus)?Nako ya borai e kae?
  [Nah-koh yah boh-rah-ee eh kah-eh?]
- A ticket (to ....)Tikit (go ....)
  [Tee-kit (go ....)]

History of Okavango Delta

The Okavango Delta, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a vast inland delta formed where the Okavango River meets the tectonic trough of the Kalahari Desert. The delta is a result of centuries of tectonic shifts and climatic changes, creating a unique and fertile habitat for a diverse array of wildlife.
The Okavango Delta has been home to indigenous peoples for thousands of years. The San people, also known as the Bushmen, were among the earliest inhabitants. They lived as hunter-gatherers, relying on the delta's rich resources for sustenance. Their rock paintings and ancient artifacts provide a glimpse into their way of life and deep connection to the land.
Around 2,000 years ago, Bantu-speaking tribes began migrating into the region, bringing with them new agricultural practices and iron-working skills. These tribes, including the Tswana, gradually settled in the delta, coexisting with the San and contributing to the region's cultural tapestry.
The first European to explore the Okavango Delta was David Livingstone in the mid-19th century. His reports of the delta sparked interest among European colonizers. By the late 19th century, Botswana, including the Okavango Delta, became a British protectorate. The establishment of colonial rule impacted the indigenous cultures and traditional ways of life in the region.
Botswana gained independence from British rule in 1966. Since then, the government has prioritized conservation, recognizing the ecological and economic importance of the Okavango Delta. Efforts to protect the delta's unique biodiversity have led to the establishment of national parks and conservation areas, ensuring the preservation of this natural wonder for future generations.
In 2014, the Okavango Delta was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site. This recognition highlighted the delta's outstanding universal value as one of the world's largest inland deltas and a crucial habitat for diverse wildlife species. The designation has boosted conservation efforts and increased global awareness of the delta's ecological significance.
Today, the Okavango Delta remains culturally significant to the people of Botswana. Local communities, including the BaYei and Hambukushu, have adapted their lifestyles to the delta's seasonal rhythms. Traditional fishing, basket weaving, and other cultural practices continue to thrive, contributing to the region's vibrant cultural heritage.