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Mababe is a private sector of the Okavango Delta in northern Botswana where massive herds of buffalo stretch out over the plains and impressive prides of lions hunt their prey. During Botswana’s summer, the Mababe Depression – a key feature of this region – fills up, creating a must-visit site for wildlife enthusiasts. The habitats here include grasslands, mopane woodlands, and wetlands, which support a wide array of wildlife and create extraordinary safari experiences for travellers to Botswana.
Top Destinations in Mababe
When in the Mababe region, don’t miss out on these wildlife-rich spots:
Mababe Depression: A Popular Waterhole
The Mababe Depression is a seasonal floodplain. During the rainy summer months, this depression becomes a wetland and a main attraction for the animals in this area. Never fully dissipating, the remaining water is still a hot spot for game viewing during the dry season as animals gather around the last remaining water sources.
Surrounding Woodlands: The Place to Spot Leopards
The surrounding woodland areas of Mababe are excellent for spotting predators like lions and leopards. During night and day game drives, make sure to look up into the trees to see if there are any leopards draped over the branches.
When’s the Best Time to Visit Mabebe?
The dry season, from May to October, is an ideal time of the year for a luxury Botswana safari. There is little to no rain to dampen your game drives and activities, and wildlife is easier to spot as they gather around the remaining water sources. For lush scenery and excellent birding, you may want to book your safari during the wet season, which runs from November to March. This time of the year also sees migratory species coming into the region.
Animals Found in Mababe
This area of Botswana is known for its elephant herds congregating around the water, as well as large groups of zebras and buffaloes. It’s also an area that’s ideal for spotting predators like lions, leopards, African wild dogs, and hyenas.
The Mababe Depression is also a fantastic birding area, with a range of species including the crested francolin, yellow-billed oxpecker, spotted flycatcher, and swamp nightjar, to name a few.
How to Get to Mababe
Mababe is set between Chobe National Park and the Okavango Delta, making it perfectly positioned for stops during Botswana safaris.
This region is easily accessible via 4×4 vehicle from the Savute Airstrip, which serves Chobe National Park, as well as from Maun International Airport, which is the main gateway to the Okavango Delta.
