One of Africa’s most singular safari destinations, the 5,800-square-mile Okavango is an inland delta formed by the Kavango River as it fans out into the sands of the otherwise semi-arid Kalahari. One of two UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Botswana, Okavango is the largest and wildest geographic feature of its kind on the planet, a vast labyrinth of narrow channels, lushly vegetated islands and sprawling swamps whose compelling wilderness aura is complemented by plentiful wildlife and an exceptional variety of birds.

Discover the Okavango Delta

Okavango is a byword for exclusive safari experiences. Operating on a high cost, low impact tourism model, the delta has been carved into several dozen different concessions, each of which effectively functions as an exclusive private reserve. Expect small upmarket lodges and camps that offer full safari packages inclusive of guided activities. Each concession has its own character, so it is worth dividing your time between one in the central delta and another with a more outlying location. 

The most exciting and atmospheric way to explore the delta’s waterways is in a wobbly mokoro dugout propelled by an experienced local poler. Hair-raising encounters with hippos and crocodiles are part of the mokoro experience, and you might also see the localized semi-aquatic sitatunga antelope.

The birdlife is the central delta is stunning. More than 400 species have been recorded, with the main specialty being aquatic birds such as the lily-trotting African jacana, the exquisite African pygmy goose, the magnificent wattled crane and the near-endemic slaty egret. Other birds to look out for include Pel’s fishing owl, coppery-tailed coucal and rosy-throated longclaw.

General game viewing is best in outlying concessions that include significant tracts of permanent land. Of the Big Five, elephant, buffalo and lion are all quite common, leopard and black rhino rather less so. Okavango it is a good place to look for African hunting dog and the splendid eland and sable antelope.