From roughly 1 200 kilometres away in the Planalto Highlands in Angola, the waters of the Okavango Delta have finally started trickling into Maun in Botswana. As one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Africa and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Delta is alive again!
What makes this yearly spectacle even more unique, is that this interior delta is one of only a handful that doesn’t empty flow into a sea or an ocean. In Angola a number of tributaries form the Cuito River that then make their way to the Cubango River in Namibia before eventually becoming the Okavango River in Botswana.
During Botswana’s drier months between June and August, the Okavango Delta swells to three times its permanent size and attracts one of the continent’s greatest concentrations of wildlife. And along with it, countless travellers who are keen to experience it first hand.
Here is Destination Africa’s guide for the best time to visit the Okavango Delta.
June
The Okavango Delta’s waterways are at their peak, perfect for canoe safaris and ideal for catching predator activity. The annual zebra migration at the Makgadikgadi Pans adds excitement.
July
The high waters and lush flora make for a magical setting. In Chobe, wildlife sightings along the riverbanks are almost guaranteed as animals depend on these water sources.
August
The Okavango Delta remains an excellent spot for vibrant wildlife activity, with plenty of water channels to navigate. It is prime time for boat safaris, with elephants frequently spotted cooling off in the river.
September
Makgadikgadi’s salt pans are dry and striking, providing unique opportunities for quad biking and other adventurous activities. The conditions are perfect for capturing stunning wildlife photography.
Destination Africa offers fantastic trips and safaris to Botswana, with the Okavango Delta featuring prominently. Get in touch for more information.
