The Okavango Delta

The Okavango Delta, situated in the north-west of Botswana is particularly unique. The largest inland delta in the world, at around 17 000 square kilometres, the Okavango is an extraordinary wetland labyrinth of lagoons, channels and islands surrounded by the strikingly flat and arid Kalahari Desert, the world’s largest expanse of sand. The Delta holds 95% of Botswana's total surface water, which is supplied by the Okavango River. Known as the panhandle, it varies in size throughout the year, being dependant largely on the rains which fall to the north.

The combination of permanent water and open, grassy plains creates a suitable habitat for large herds of elephants, antelope and buffalo along with the predators; the lion, leopard and hyena. The area teems with wildlife and supports several diverse ecosystems which are home to vast numbers of game and thousands upon thousands of birds.

Although the flood arrives in the panhandle in March, it only reaches Maun in the south of the delta towards August.

Occupying a large portion of this pristine wilderness area is the Moremi Wildlife Reserve. Covering 4 871 km² of diverse habitat from Mopane woodlands, acacia forests, flood plains and lagoons, islands and large areas of dry land including 'Chiefs Island' and the 'Mopane Tongue' of dry scrub and Kalahari sands, Moremi is home to prolific diversity of bird and animal life.

The months between July to September are arguably the best period to visit the Moremi Reserve as game viewing peaks over this period. The seasonal pans dry up during this time and the wildlife converges on the sources of permanent water.