Okavango Delta

About this place

The world's largest inland delta, where the Okavango River flows into the sands of the Kalahari instead of the sea and spreads into a green maze of channels, lagoons, islands and swamps. UNESCO listed it as World Heritage in 2014, and it is one of Africa's richest wildlife areas. The wonder is that the flood arrives in the dry season: rain falls in the Angolan highlands in summer, then the water travels hundreds of kilometres slowly, reaching and filling the delta between June and August, when the land around is dry and animals gather from everywhere. The finest experience is a trip by mokoro, a traditional wooden canoe poled quietly by a guide between reeds and water lilies, bringing you close to elephants, hippos and birds. In the east of the delta is the famous Moremi reserve, known for lions, wild dogs and leopards, with open-vehicle game drives. Visitors reach the camps by light aircraft or 4x4 from Maun, and fees are usually included in camp prices. Parks are unfenced and wild animals roam near camps, so stay in the vehicle on drives, never walk at night and follow your guide. October and November are very hot, rains fall from November to March, and wildlife viewing is best in the dry season.