What sort of weather can I expect in the Okavango?

A year in the Okavango is divided between two seasons: one hot and wet, and one dry and mild. Summer, runs from November through to April, and features sunny, clear-sky, hot days with cloudier, stormier afternoons. Afternoons are humid, and temperatures vary between the early to mid-20s °C (high 60s – high 70s °F). Daytime temperatures in Winter (from May through October) are around 20°C, with these dry, sunny and somewhat cool days yielding to temperatures as low as 5°C (41° F) at night. Note that October can be very hot, as the temperature climbs steeply in the change from “winter” to “summer”.

When would be the very best time for me to go?

The months from May through to October offer unparalleled exposure to animals, as they move en mass from the dry interior into the Delta to feed and drink. The Delta also rises to its highest level at this time of year, swelled by rains upriver. Peak season in Botswana is from July to October.
Birding enthusiasts are best advised to visit between November and March, when African and Arctic migration birds arrive.

Could I explore the Delta all by myself, or do I really need to be in expert hands?

The Delta is large, wet and packed with dangerous wildlife.  It is strongly recommended that you tackle the network of roads and mass of private concessions with a professional operator – both for the planning of your trip, and for once you are there.

Can I see the Big Five in the Okavango?

Yes.  Following decades of poaching, Rhinoceroses have been re-introduced into the region, and have adapted well.  Lion, Buffalo, Elephant and Leopard are all plentiful too.

What shall I wear?

Wear comfortable clothing in natural, neutral shades that won’t make you stand out in the bush. It is recommended not to wear camouflage (“camo”) gear that resembles a military unimform.

Would this be a memorable place to spend my honeymoon?

Definitely. The indulgent luxury of the Delta’s lodges combines perfectly with the rare beauty of the Okavango.  The Delta is an increasingly popular honeymoon destination.

Would my children be made to feel welcome in the Delta’s lodges?

Some lodges cater extensively for children, with familiy facilities and children’s programmes on offer. However, these lodges tend to require that game drives for under-12s be taken in private vehicles, which are an added cost. Also, some lodges restrict access to guided walks to over-16s due to the high degree of potential contact with wildlife.

What activities are on offer in the Okavango Delta?

Different lodges offer different activities according to the season: land-based camps in the Delta offer morning and afternoon game drives. Meanwhile, water-based camps offer special trips in the unique local canoes.  Depending on which camp you stay at you may also have a choice of walking or fishing.

Will my guide be armed?

No. Your highly skilled, extensively qualified guide will respond knowledgeably and intuitively to the environment s/he is showcasing to you; rifles are unnecessary, and Botswana outlaws them from its national parks.

Can I take night game drives in the Delta?

Night drives take place at lodges or camps that are in private concession areas.  Should you be staying in the Moremi Reserve you will not be able to do night drives.

What does accommodation cost in the Delta?

The key factor in pricing is season: winter peak rates can amount to more than double summer low-season rates. Depending on the priority of luxury and the season you go, accommodation can cost from USD 400-USD1500 per person per night, sharing.

What extras are included in the rates I pay for accommodation?

Accommodation rates in the Delta tend to include all meals, usually 2 activities per day and sometimes your local drinks  (except premium brands and imported alcohol).

How easy is it to get to the Okavango?

The Delta is best reached by air; Maun Airport is the gateway to the region.  Direct flights from Johannesburg to Maun operate twice a day. Most lodges have airstrips and can be reached directly by charter flights.  Some lodge-to-lodge transfers within the Delta are done by boat.

What do I need to know about luggage?

Always travel with soft bags to the Delta.  The weight of bags varies depending on the charter company used, but will be between 15- 20kg.

What currency is in use in Botswana?

US Dollars are usual, and you should carry some smaller bills with you as a matter of course. The Botswana currency is the pula, divided into 100 thebe. Credit cards are widely excepted.

How should one tip?

Tipping is your own choice entirely. The following are mere guidelines:
• Transfers – US $2 per person
• Game Lodge Staff – US $25 per stay
• Rangers/ trackers – US $10 per person per day

Is all the accommodation electrified?

Yes. All establishments in the Delta have power, whether mains, solar or a generator. Botswana plugs have a voltage of 231 V and a frequency of 50 Hertz, with plugs involving 3 round-pins.

Can I drink the water?

Please check first with the lodge, but bottled water is always supplied.

What about malaria?

The Okavango lies in the malaria zone. Please consult your physician about malaria prophylaxis (anti-malarial medication) before leaving home.