Best times to visit the Okavango Delta in Botswana
The Okavango Delta in Botswana is one of the world’s most unique and biodiverse regions and is known for its expansive network of waterways and lagoons. However, the water flow of the delta varies significantly throughout the year, and this significantly impacts the types of wildlife and activities available to visitors.
The Okavango River, which is the source of the delta, begins in the highlands of Angola and flows southwards into Namibia before turning eastwards and entering Botswana. The river typically reaches the delta between June and August, depending on the rainfall in the catchment area. During this time, the delta is at its widest and most expansive, and visitors can experience the full range of activities, including mokoro (dugout canoe) trips, boat safaris, and fishing. This is also the time when large numbers of mammals and birds migrate to the delta to take advantage of the food and water resources.
As the dry season begins, typically starting around October to December, the water in the delta begins to recede, and the delta becomes more fragmented. This is when many channels and lagoons dry up, and the game concentrates around the remaining water sources. Visitors to the delta during this time will have the opportunity to see large numbers of elephants, hippos, and crocodiles, as well as a wide range of bird species. This is also a great time for a land-based safari, as the vegetation has thinned out, and it is easier to spot wildlife.
As the dry season continues, the water resources continue to dry up around January to April and wildlife tends to concentrate around permanent water sources. This also means that many of the land-based safari opportunities are quite good, however, water-based activities become limited. This is also the hottest time of year, so visitors should be prepared for hot temperatures.
Finally, as the rainy season starts around May, the delta begins to fill up once again and the water flow starts to increase. This is a great time for birdwatching as migrants return and breeding season begins. However, moving around the delta during this time can be difficult due to the high water levels and muddy conditions, and many areas accessible during the dry season may be flooded.
Overall, the best time to visit the Okavango Delta depends on the type of experience you are looking for. If you want to experience the full range of water-based activities, including mokoro trips and boat safaris, then the best time to visit is between June and August, when the delta is at its widest and most expansive. If you are interested in seeing large numbers of wildlife, including elephants, hippos, and crocodiles, then the best time to visit is between October and April, when the water is scarce, and the game is concentrated around permanent water sources.
Furthermore, if you are into birdwatching it would be best to visit during the months of May and September, when the migration and breeding seasons are at their peak.
When deciding on accommodation, it’s important to keep in mind the water levels at the time of your visit, as this will affect the availability of water-based activities and the accessibility of different areas of the delta. During the peak flood season, it may be best to base yourself at a land-based safari lodge, whereas during the dry season, a water-based safari camp may offer a more unique and immersive experience.
To work with an expert company that is based in Maun, gateway to the Okavango Delta, then contact me on gw@kusaglobal.com and I will arrange an introduction to the fabulous Olorato at House of Safari.
