Many people ask me why Botswana is such an incredible safari destination. Having traveled to over 120 countries and been on more than ten safaris in Botswana, my answer is simple: The Okavango Delta. This remarkable place is an oasis in the middle of the Kalahari Desert, a haven like no other for wildlife and the natural world.
The Magic of the Okavango Delta
Imagine a vast, pristine wilderness, filled with water that travels thousands of kilometers from the highlands of Angola to flood a desert plain. The Okavango Delta is the largest inland delta in the world, offering a unique and breathtaking spectacle of life. It is often described as the river that never finds the sea, as its waters spread across the Kalahari Desert instead of flowing into an ocean. Under a cloudless blue sky, the swamp fills from rains that fell months earlier, transforming the arid landscape into a lush, verdant paradise.
The Okavango Delta is special because it offers wide open spaces, unparalleled wildlife viewing, and a deep sense of tranquility. There are no fences here, just pure, untouched nature. The thrill of seeing animals roam freely, hunting, and living in their natural habitat is unmatched. This is where I feel closest to nature, sharing incredible sunsets and starry skies in the bush.
6 Reasons Why the Okavango Delta is Unique, Amazing, and a Treasure of the World
Largest Inland Delta: The Okavango Delta is the world’s largest inland delta, spreading over 15,000 square kilometers in the heart of the Kalahari Desert.
Unique Flooding Mechanism: Unlike typical deltas, the Okavango floods not from local rainfall but from distant rain in the Angolan highlands.
Exceptional Biodiversity: Home to over 160 species of mammals, 530 species of birds, and countless reptiles, amphibians, and fish, making it one of the most biodiverse places on the planet.
Seasonal Transformation: The Delta undergoes a dramatic transformation with seasonal flooding, attracting a variety of wildlife and offering different experiences throughout the year.
Remote and Exclusive: With limited access and low visitor numbers, the Delta offers an exclusive safari experience, far from the crowded game parks of other countries.
Adventure and Exploration: The Delta offers unique safari experiences like boat and walking safaris as well as helicopter rides.
Getting to the Okavango Delta
To reach this paradise, you’ll need to fly into Maun, the gateway to the Delta. While there are no direct international flights from Europe or the USA to Botswana, Airlink offers reliable flights from Johannesburg and Cape Town to Maun. Avoid flying on Cernair and Botswana Air as they are often late and have poor customer service.
Flights to Maun
From Johannesburg (JNB): Airlink offers multiple flights per day to Maun.
From Cape Town (CPT): Airlink provides one direct flight per day to Maun.
Other options is to fly to Victoria Falls (VFA)
From Europe: Lufthansa offers direct flights to Victoria Falls from Frankfurt.
From Victoria Falls, you can take a drive (1 hr) to Kasane, which offers charter flights directly to airstrips in the Delta but this needs to be booked ahead of time and coordinated with your lodge.
Transportation from Maun
Maun's airport is known for its efficiency in handling numerous daily flights. From here, small aircraft from companies like Mack Air will take you to various airstrips in the Delta.
Accommodations in the Okavango Delta
The Okavango Delta boasts some of the most over the top luxurious small lodges in the world, with accommodations running up to $10,000 per night , one lodge even featuring original Picasso paintings in their rooms. For most travelers, a decent budget of at least $1,000 per night is necessary to enjoy the Delta if you are staying in a lodge or mobile glamping.
Types of Accommodations
High-End Lodges: Luxury with all amenities, catering to the world's elite.
Mobile Camping: Adventurous, close-to-nature experiences with basic comforts, amazing food and service.
Glamping: A blend of luxury and camping, offering comfortable amenities in a natural setting.
Self-Drive: For the experienced traveler, allowing freedom and flexibility.
Why the Okavango Delta is Expensive
The Okavango Delta is pricey due to its exclusivity, high-end tourism focus, and commitment to conservation. Here, you’ll find fewer tourists, ensuring a more intimate experience. The high-quality lodging, expert guides, gourmet food, and drinks contribute to the overall cost. The pristine environment and lack of crowds make it a truly special place, comparable to none.
Internet in the Delta
While I advocate for minimal intervention and disconnection, I can confirm that during my visit in June 2024, I brought my own Starlink Gen 3 which provided excellent internet speeds of around 200 Mbps. Starlink was approved by the Botswana government in 2024.
Best Time to Visit the Okavango Delta
January to March
Wildlife: Excellent birdwatching, newborn animals.
Weather: Lush landscapes, occasional thunderstorms, high temperatures.
Prices: Lower rates, fewer tourists.
April
Wildlife: Increasing wildlife sightings as water arrives.
Weather: Green, beautiful scenery.
Prices: Mid-range prices, moderate tourist numbers.
May to June
Wildlife: Animals start congregating around water sources.
Weather: Cooler, clear skies, and dry conditions.
Prices: Higher rates as the dry season begins, more tourists.
July to October
Wildlife: Peak game viewing, large concentrations of animals.
Weather: Dry, cooler temperatures, clear skies.
Prices: Highest rates, peak tourist season.
November to December
Wildlife: Dramatic thunderstorms, fewer tourists, good for birdwatching.
Weather: Beginning of wet season, lush landscapes, flooding, high temperatures
Prices: Lower rates, fewer tourists.
Planning a safari at least a year in advance is recommended to secure the best spots, with some top lodges booked over two years in advance.
Health Precautions
You do not need special vaccines to visit Botswana. Malaria risk is low in safari areas and can be managed with prophylaxis like Malarone. During the dry season, mosquitoes are minimal, making the risk even lower. There is no yellow fever in Botswana, but if traveling from a yellow fever country, a vaccine is required.
The Ultimate Group or Family Trip
Safaris are the perfect group or family trip. Being in the bush allows for uninterrupted time together, creating core memories. Enjoying nature, sharing stories around the fire, and witnessing the wonders of wildlife together are unparalleled experiences.
Connecting with Nature: Why Go on Safari Now
A safari is more than a trip; it’s a transformative experience. At DoctorPassport, we curate personalized journeys with trusted guides, exceptional food, wine, and dramatic settings. From helicopter rides to bushman encounters, each moment is crafted to bring you closer to nature.
In the bush, the entertainment is fine wine, gin and tonics, starry skies, and deep conversations. The true "TV" is the awe-inspiring sunsets and sunrises, the sounds of the wild, and the knowledge shared by expert naturalists. Safaris offer a sensory feast, challenging your senses and continually giving back.
Conclusion
The time to go on safari is now. Africa is waiting for you, offering unforgettable adventures that will change you forever. We at DoctorPassport are ready to plan your next African bush adventure, with upcoming trips to the Okavango and private curated experiences available. Join us and create the best memories of your life.
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