The Okavango Delta is an oasis that offers travellers an immersion into a world of wetland island and waterways, which are teeming with wildlife and luscious vegetation. The Okavango is a UNESCO World Heritage Site as well as one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Africa.
The delta covers between 6,000 and 15,000 square kilometres of the Kalahari Desert in northern Botswana and owes its existence to the Okavango River which flows from the Angolan highlands across Namibian Caprivi Strip and into the harsh Kalahari Desert.
The Okavango Delta is an important wildlife area protected by both the Moremi Game Reserve on its eastern edge and the numerous wildlife concessions within Ngamiland. However, the Delta is known for its superb wildlife with a large population of mammals and excellent birding, particularly in the breeding season.
The Delta is home to a huge number of elephant, buffalo, lion, hippo, Black rhino and White rhino, giraffe, zebra, Red lechwe, shy antelope, as well as predators such as cheetah, leopard, African wild dogs and bird species.
Hippo inhabit the deeper channels and lagoons, while honey badgers can be seen in broad daylight. Experience the delicate details of the glistening waterways on a mokoro ride where iridescent dragonflies, frogs of every colour and jewels such as kingfishers live in the papyrus-lined banks.
Yet, despite the water activities. You’ll also get a close-up view on a guided game drives, bush walks and boat trips. Plan your Botswana safari to explore these activities.
Romantics will love the intimate and exclusive nature of its remote fly-in lodges and an Okavango Delta honeymoon is the natural choice for those seeking undiluted romance in beautiful locations. Without a doubt, the Delta is an ideal destination for safari lovers and nature photographers.
The Okavango Delta features some of Africa’s premier camps and lodges including:
1. Xaranna Okavango Delta Camp
The Xaranna is a delight camp with just nine ensuite safari tents that combine canvas and bleached timber. The overall atmosphere of the camp is cool, light and airy in keeping with the gentle beauty of its environment. Visit this website to read more.
2. Xudum Okavango Delta Lodge
The Xudum consists of nine playfully crafted split-level safari suites and each suite includes a lofty rooftop hideout with magnificent Delta views as well as a private plunge pool.
3. Camp Okavango
The Camp Okavango sits in the heart of the heart of the Okavango Delta and Nxaragha Island.
All game viewing activities are conducted by experienced guides and include exploring the Delta by mokoro or motorboat as well as tracking the larger game species on guided nature walks on the many surrounding islands.
5. Nxabega Okavango Tented Camp
The Nxabega Okavango Tented Camp is located in a 25,000-hectare exclusive wildlife concession on the edge of the Okavango Delta, bordering the Moremi Game Reserve.
Ideally positioned to explore the magnificence of the Okavango, the camp is known for its elegant tented accommodation, which boasts breathtaking views of the ever changing Delta.
5. Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge
Situated on a private concession, Sandibe has exclusive traversing rights over 22,500 hectares of wildlife land adjacent to the Moremi Game Reserve.
Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge looks out onto the delta through a maze of brilliant green papyrus. However, behind the lodge – golden floodplains stretch into the distance, framed by lush palm islands and the spires of giant termite mounds.
Botswana is undoubtedly the jewel of Africa with its glittering waterways and ample wildlife to enjoy. Low volume tourism is at the heart of Botswana, ensuring that its natural bounty is preserved and protected for generations to come.
Author: Megan Warrington
Published: 8 May 2018