The vast and thinly populated north of Botswana is home to two legendary safari destinations: the watery Okavango Swamp and drier Chobe National Park.
Many would rank the 12,000-square-kilometre Okavango Swamp as one of Africa’s top five safari destinations. A vast inland delta formed by the Kavango River as it is swallowed by the Kalahari sands, this lushly vegetated wetland – best explored in a type of dugout canoe known as a mokoro – possesses a peaceful and intimate atmosphere. It is also home to an excellent range of wildlife, from lions and African wild dogs to a veritable infestation of crocs and hippos. And the birding is simply superb, whether you are seeking out the localised slaty egret and coppery-tailed coucal or just want to enjoy the colourful parade of bee-eaters, kingfishers and other water-associated species.