Okavango Delta
Located in the northwestern part of Botswana, the Okavango Delta occupies an area of 15,000 sq. kms and is one of the largest inland deltas in Africa.
The waters of the Okavango River spread out very slowly over the Kalahari sands as a result of fault lines that inhibit its flow and force it to choose channels that constantly change. This dynamic system is affected by rainfall and tectonic movement. Other factors include vegetation that blocks the flow, hippos that open them up and termites that cause slow but constant change by building mounds that can start new islands. Like any ecosystem, every organism has a role to play in the Okavango Delta and the result is magical.
Many people imagine the Okavango Delta to be a large body of water with small islands but the opposite is true.There are 3 main rivers or channels that control the wetland system. In the north one finds permanent water in the form of large lagoons that rise after summer rains and further movement southwards is delayed by the slow flow over the Kalahari sands. In the south there are floodplains that are dry at certain times of the year and fill up slowly, only reaching capacity by the end of July or August.
Despite the remarkable beauty of the Okavango Delta, it is the abundant and diverse wildlife one finds here from July to October that provides the thrill. That being said, although many large mammals move to the outer fringes of the Delta during summer to take advantage of fresh pastures, wildlife experiences in the Delta are good all year round. The Okavango Delta has it all – sheer beauty, tranquillity and an irresistable wildness – it is the place for a dream safari. And to be poled on a mokoro slowly down a channel like a piece of driftwood while taking in this magical, serene atmosphere is a truly wonderful experience.
The Okavango Delta is the jewel in Botswana’s crown. While diamonds keep the country’s coffers well stocked, the Okavango Delta’s unparalleled beauty and biodiversity never fail to attract those hungry for one of the most authentic safari experiences in Africa.
There are many luxury lodges in the Okavango Delta that offer land-based and /or water-based safari activities and a visit to this awesome destination can easily be combined with thrilling mobile safaris and lodges in other destinations such as Moremi, Khwai, Savute, Linyanti and the Chobe Riverfront, as well as visits to Victoria Falls, Hwange National Park and Caprivi.
The Okavango Delta should be included on any visit to Botswana and can be combined with a classic safari from Maun to Kasane as well as visits to Victoria Falls, Caprivi and northern Namibia.