The Okavango Delta is an inland delta in northern Botswana fed by the Okavango River from Angola, with a flooded area that changes by season. It was inscribed as a World Heritage Site in 2014, and most camps are reached by light aircraft.
- Country
- Botswana
- Type
- Wetland
- Best time
- July to October
- Suggested stay
- 3–5 days
- Main gateway airport
- Maun Airport (MUB)
- Big Five
- Not all five
- Malaria
- Malaria area: see a travel doctor
Why go to Okavango Delta
- UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Traditional mokoro dugout canoe trips
- Inland delta that floods in the dry season
- Camps in private concessions
- Scenic flights over the Delta
Best time to visit Okavango Delta
Based on average weather and wildlife seasons, the best period to visit Okavango Delta is July to October.
Floodwater from the Angolan highlands peaks in the dry season, channels widen and mokoro trips are at their best.
Animals concentrate near permanent water; this is the peak period for viewing and demand.
Green season: afternoon rains, newborn animals and abundant birds, with lower rates at many camps.
| Month | Temp (°C) | Rain | Experience | Crowds |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 21–33 | rainy season | ★★★★★ | quiet |
| February | 21–33 | rainy season | ★★★★★ | very quiet |
| March | 20–32 | rainy season | ★★★★★ | quiet |
| April | 16–31 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | moderate |
| May | 12–29 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | moderate |
| June | 9–27 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | busy |
| July | 9–26 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | busy |
| August | 12–30 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | busy |
| September | 16–34 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | busy |
| October | 20–36 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | busy |
| November | 21–35 | some rain | ★★★★★ | moderate |
| December | 21–34 | rainy season | ★★★★★ | moderate |
What you can see
Wildlife you may see in Okavango Delta includes lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, buffalo, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, hippos, crocodiles, African wild dogs, hyenas, lechwe, sable antelope, kudu and birdlife.
Things to do
Getting there
Maun is the main gateway, with light aircraft flying guests to camp airstrips in the Delta. Moremi Game Reserve can also be reached by 4x4.
Trips to Okavango Delta
No trips are listed for this destination yet. Send a request and we will check with providers.
Plan by travel style
- Okavango Delta for families
- Okavango Delta for a honeymoon
- Okavango Delta for photographers
- Okavango Delta for a first safari
- Okavango Delta on a budget
- Okavango Delta for luxury travel
Compare with
- Okavango Delta vs Chobe
- Okavango Delta vs Central Kalahari
- Okavango Delta vs Lower Zambezi
- Okavango Delta vs Mana Pools
- Okavango Delta vs Hwange
- Okavango Delta vs Kruger
Travelling to Okavango Delta from
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit Okavango Delta?
Generally July to October. Floodwater from the Angolan highlands peaks in the dry season, channels widen and mokoro trips are at their best.
How many days do I need in Okavango Delta?
Most visitors spend 3 to 5 days there, not counting travel days.
How do I get to Okavango Delta?
Maun is the main gateway, with light aircraft flying guests to camp airstrips in the Delta. Moremi Game Reserve can also be reached by 4x4.
Is there malaria in Okavango Delta?
Yes, it is in a malaria-risk area. See a doctor or travel clinic well before your trip.
Sources: Botswana Tourism - Okavango Delta · UNESCO World Heritage Centre - Okavango Delta · Climates to Travel (1991-2020 normals) - Maun · Weather Spark - Maun
Figures are approximate averages and vary from year to year.