Moremi Game Reserve
Moremi Game Reserve
An enchanting patchwork of shimmering channels, grasslands, shady woodlands, lagoons and extraordinary wildlife, Moremi Game Reserve is the very heart of the Okavango Delta.
Proclaimed a protected area by the BaTawana people in the early 1960s, Moremi was Africa’s first community-led conservation initiative. Today, its iconic mopane woodlands and meandering channels remain home to some of Botswana’s most captivating wildlife experiences. Ageing pole bridges hint at the early days of overland safaris, while game-viewing by boat and vehicle deliver superb sightings and experiences.
The Mopane Tongue, a broad finger of dry land that extends into the Delta’s watery core, forms the backbone of the reserve. Its fringes spill into the Khwai River to the northeast, with its lush floodplains and gallery forests, and westwards into a labyrinth of reed-fringed channels, seasonal pans and islands. Within this mosaic lie some of Moremi’s most celebrated locations: Xakanaxa Lagoon, Third Bridge, and the remote reaches of Chief’s Island and Paradise Island.
While night drives and walking safaris are not permitted within the reserve, travellers looking for a more flexible safari experience can head to the exclusive private concessions. The Khwai River Reserve (NG19), Khwai Private Reserve (NG18) and Mababe Private Reserve (NG41) all offer off-road driving, guided walking and after-dark safaris.
Yet even within its regulated boundaries, Moremi is endlessly rewarding. Lions stretch in the shade before the hunt, hippos surface with a grunt, wild dogs race across floodplains and elephants emerge quietly from the reeds. Birdlife thrives in every habitat, from flooded channels to forest canopy.
To explore Moremi is to encounter the Delta at its most elemental - a wild, ever-shifting theatre of light, water and wildlife that remains among Africa’s most treasured safari landscapes.
The best safaris in Moremi Game Reserve
With extensive floodplains, numerous channels and two main land masses: the Mopane Tongue and Chief ’s Island, we’ve crafted the best safaris in Moremi Game Reserve to combine superb water and land-based activities.
To discover Moremi’s idyllic waterways, try our Tsessebe Safari, or combine Moremi with Chobe National Park on the thrilling, predator-rich Wild Dog Safari; or indulge in the ultra-luxurious Reedbuck Safari, which incorporates the reserves of Kwando-Linyanti and Okavango Delta.
We’ve created a selection of exciting Moremi safaris here, but all our trips are tailor-made, so have a look, then contact us to start planning your perfect safari.
Ground Squirrel Safari
7 days • 2 locations
MAUN AIRPORT TO MAUN AIRPORT
Experiencing the wilderness with an engaging guide whilst staying in a private mobile camp is often the highlight of a safari. Combine that with a charming camp overlooking the Okavango Delta and you’re onto a winner!
US$8,840 - US$11,190 per person
Porcupine Safari
11 days • 4 locations
MAUN AIRPORT TO MAUN AIRPORT
Visit dramatically contrasting landscapes boasting a variety of species during this exploration of Botswana’s top-safari destinations. A combination of national parks and private reserves allows for a range of activities.
US$11,780 - US$16,860 per person
Red Lechwe Safari
9 days • 3 locations
MAUN AIRPORT TO MAUN AIRPORT
Superb guiding from three fabulous camps full of character in three contrasting areas for a fabulous safari to the Okavango Delta and Kalahari Desert.
US$17,600 - US$28,240 per person
Aardwolf Safari
5 days • 2 locations
MAUN AIRPORT TO MAUN AIRPORT
Two sister-camps within private concessions bordering Moremi Game Reserve offer access to excellent game, varied landscapes and a range of land and water-based safari activities. A great-value safari in one of Botswana’s best wildlife regions.
US$5,830 - US$9,430 per person
Steenbok Safari
9 days • 3 locations
MAUN AIRPORT TO MAUN AIRPORT
A classic Botswana safari exploring the Moremi, Chobe National Park and Okavango Delta. Excellent wildlife viewing and a variety of activities from three of our favourite traditional tented camps.
US$8,920 - US$13,480 per person
Wild Dog Safari
13 days • 5 locations
KASANE AIRPORT TO MAUN AIRPORT
An in-depth discovery of northern Botswana’s wilderness, from Chobe and the private Kwando Reserve to the Moremi and iconic Okavango Delta with a great variety of activities and wildlife.
US$12,930 - US$21,350 per person
Tsessebe Safari
7 days • 3 locations
MAUN AIRPORT TO MAUN AIRPORT
Visit three sister-camps in and around Moremi Game Reserve during this thorough exploration of the Okavango Delta. A range of activities provide excellent opportunity to observe the local birdlife, mammals and fauna.
US$8,520 - US$11,410 per person
African Jacana Safari
7 days • 3 locations
MAUN AIRPORT TO MAUN AIRPORT
An adventurous introduction to Botswana blending prolific wildlife, incredible landscapes and varied activities staying at relaxed camps in the Chobe Enclave, a community-owned reserve bordering the Moremi, and Makgadikgadi Pans.
US$8,550 - US$12,280 per person
Our Travellers' Reviews of Moremi safaris
Expert Africa travellers come from all over the world, each with unique perspectives and priorities. Yet, they all seek a high-quality, well-planned, and good-value African safari.
We know we’re the best in the business at creating memorable Moremi safaris, but nothing speaks louder than our travellers' feedback:
“This is the most amazing experience I've had in my life.” “Our safari was perfect, topping and tailing the excitement of the mobile safari with some more conventional lodges.”
Browse the reviews of our tailor-made Moremi safaris below, each one genuine, full, and unedited. With a 99% Excellent rating, we're dedicated to making the planning process as enjoyable as the safari itself.
Luxury lodges & Mobile safari camps in Moremi
All of the Moremi camps and lodges recommended by Expert Africa are supremely comfortable - whether they sit beneath shady leadwoods along the Khwai River or overlook the sweeping floodplains of Chief’s Island. From cutting-edge eco-lodges to classic canvas safari camps, Moremi offers a rich diversity of places to stay.
You might be drawn to a luxurious lodge with bold contemporary design, private plunge pools and fine dining, or prefer the romance of a traditional tented camp, with lantern-lit paths, campfire suppers and the sounds of the bush all around. There are also adventurous mobile safaris with excellent private guiding, making for an immersive and flexible way to experience this wildlife-rich region.
Wherever you stay, you’ll be in the heart of one of Africa’s finest game-viewing areas. And best of all, our Botswana team has visited every camp and can help you find the one that’s just right for your own Moremi safari.
Private Mobile
The Botswana Private Mobile Safari has no fixed location; it's exclusive to your group and comes with a top professional guide. Expect comfortable camping, great food, and a superb wildlife experience wherever you decide to go.
Machaba Camp
Overlooking the Khwai River to Moremi Game Reserve beyond, the classic Machaba Camp combines comfort with excellent game viewing.
Xigera Safari Lodge
Located deep in Botswana's Okavango Delta, Xigera Camp normally focuses on mokoro excursions and motorboat trips, with 4WD game drives when water levels permit.
Khwai Lediba
Khwai Lediba offers a traditional African safari experience, with very comfortable tented accommodation, in a fantastic game area north of the Moremi Game Reserve.
Xakanaxa
Camp Xakanaxa is a well-established traditional camp beside a huge lagoon within the Moremi Game Reserve, with access to some superb wildlife viewing.
Sable Alley
Smart, independent and well-run, Sable Alley overlooks a beautiful, hippo-filled lagoon within the diverse Khwai Private Reserve.
Okuti
With an innovative design and good service, Okuti Camp offers game drives and boat trips in a beautiful, game-rich part of Moremi Game Reserve.
Mombo Camp
Mombo is one of Botswana's most exclusive safari camps, set in a beautiful, remote location within the Moremi Game Reserve and with exceptional game densities.
Little Machaba
Overlooking the Khwai River and Moremi Game Reserve beyond, Little Machaba is a classically designed camp with very comfortable tents in a great game-viewing area.
Chief's Camp
Chief's Camp is situated on Chief's Island, within the Okavango Delta's Moremi Game Reserve. Experience one of Botswana's top game-viewing areas by 4WD and mokoro.
Skybeds
Situated in a private reserve close to Moremi Game Reserve, Skybeds offers a simple yet wonderful opportunity to sleep under the stars and watch wildlife from your bed.
Elephant Pan
Fairly rustic, and relatively inexpensive, Elephant Pan overlooks a natural waterhole that attracts an almost constant parade of animals.
Camp Moremi
In one of the best locations for game viewing in Botswana, Camp Moremi sits at the tip of the Mopane Tongue, overlooking Xakanaxa Lagoon.
Little Mombo
One of Botswana's top safari camps, Little Mombo stands on the north side of Chief's Island, in the heart of the Okavango Delta's Moremi Game Reserve.
Little Sable
Little Sable camp is located in the Khwai Private Reserve – which borders the Moremi Game Reserve and Chobe
Tuludi
Tuludi is a brand new luxury camp, within the Khwai Private Reserve, built on a site under giant leadwood trees and overlooking the Okavango Delta floodplains.
Sango Safari Camp
Sango offers comfortable tented accommodation, without some of the frills often found in Botswana's camps, with an area that's scenic and gets excellent, consistent game sightings.
Mokete Camp
New for July 2023, Mokete has 9 luxurious tents, raised on platforms above the surrounding bush and offers an experience of the Kalahari Wilderness.
Khwai Leadwood
Khwai Leadwood is a luxurious lodge located in the heart of the Khwai Community Concession, offering guests exceptional service, stunning scenery, and unforgettable wildlife experiences.
Tawana
An exclusive new lodge on the banks of the Gomoti River, Tawana has just eight very spacious suites.
Monachira
A new lodge in Moremi Game Reserve, with a focus on water-based activities, the family-friendly Monachira will be opening in May 2025.
Our traveller’s wildlife sightings in and around Moremi
Moremi Game Reserve is a wildlife enthusiast's paradise, home to a dense variety of predators and herbivores, and over 400 bird species.
Elephants and buffalo roam the area year-round, while blue wildebeest, Burchell’s zebra, giraffe, and various antelope, including tsessebe and red lechwe, graze the grasslands. Predators like lions, leopards, cheetahs, and endangered African wild dogs thrive here, along with spotted hyenas and jackals, making for exciting 4x4 game drives. Nocturnal creatures, such as aardvarks, honey badgers, and African wildcats, are often spotted returning to camp at sundown.
Birdlife is equally remarkable, with iridescent kingfishers, rare slaty egret and the striking wattled crane found in Moremi’s wetlands. For keen birdwatchers, brown firefinch, coppery-tailed coucal, and Bradfield’s hornbill, make Moremi a must-visit destination.
Our interactive map will guide you to prime wildlife spots in Moremi for key species. To find out more, click on an animal species below or . read how this survey works.
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The Best time to visit Moremi Game Reserve
Moremi Game Reserve has two distinct seasons.
The dry season (May to October) offers cooler temperatures, clear skies, and excellent game viewing as wildlife congregates around dwindling water sources, particularly near the Khwai River and Xakanaxa Lagoon. This is the prime time to spot large predators and herds of elephants and buffalo.
The wet season (November to April) brings warmer temperatures and occasional thunderstorms, transforming the landscape into a lush, green paradise. While wildlife can be harder to spot due to dispersed animals and thicker vegetation, birdwatching is exceptional with many migratory species. Water-based safaris, including mokoro excursions, are highlights during this season in Moremi.
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Moremi Game Reserve in January
January is the height of the rainy season in Moremi Game Reserve. Evening showers and occasional thunderstorms cool the air, making temperatures more comfortable than the peak heat of October to December. Wildlife disperses across the landscape, but the Khwai River area still offers good sightings of lions and elephants.
January is also an exceptional time for birdwatching, with migratory species abundant and breeding activity in full swing. The lush greenery creates stunning photographic opportunities, while mokoro excursions allow for tranquil exploration of waterways. Despite the rain, Moremi’s diverse ecosystems, including mopane forests and waterways, offer unique wildlife viewing opportunities. Lower visitor numbers mean better rates at camps and lodges.
- Warm with occasional heavy thunderstorms
- Spectacular birdlife throughout the reserve
- Wildlife dispersed in the floodplains and woodlands
- Good availability in camps and lodges
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in January
Moremi Game Reserve in February
February in Moremi Game Reserve sees the wet season continue, with heavy evening rains and cooling temperatures. The reserve is green and vibrant, alive with insects, smaller animals, and many animals are raising their young. The Xakanaxa Lagoon area is particularly rich in wildlife diversity at this time.
While thicker vegetation makes spotting larger animals more challenging, patient observers may encounter leopards or antelope species. Birdwatching remains a highlight, with over 500 species, including many in colourful breeding plumage. High water levels make boat trips a wonderful way to explore the intricate waterways of the Delta. Visitor numbers are low, offering a more intimate safari experience and better availability at luxury camps.
- Warm temperatures with some thunderstorms
- Abundant birdlife, including breeding species
- Wildlife raising young across the reserve
- Game viewing improving in central areas
- Low visitor numbers and good camp availability
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in February
Moremi Game Reserve in March
March marks the end of the rainy season, with fewer storms and more sunny days. The landscape remains lush, and wildlife activity increases as animals finish raising their young. This is an ideal time for photography, with the green scenery providing dramatic backdrops.
While thick vegetation can still make wildlife spotting challenging, patient observers may be rewarded with sightings of predators like lions and leopards, especially in the Khwai River area. Birdwatching continues to be exceptional, with many migratory species still present. Water-based activities like boat cruises offer unique perspectives on the delta's wildlife. With fewer visitors, March provides a quieter, more exclusive safari experience in Moremi’s mopane forests to expansive floodplains.
- Variable weather, rains easing off with occasional thunderstorms
- Many animals finishing raising their young
- Excellent birdwatching and photography opportunities
- Few visitors and lower rates in camps
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in March
Moremi Game Reserve in April
April in Moremi Game Reserve typically signals the end of the rainy season, with clearer skies and a vibrant green landscape. Night temperatures begin to drop, particularly in the southern areas of the reserve. Game viewing improves as vegetation starts to thin, making it easier to spot wildlife. This is also an excellent time for boat excursions, offering intimate encounters with aquatic wildlife and bird species.
Birdwatching remains highly rewarding, with many species still nesting or breeding. The Xakanaxa Lagoon area is especially rich in wildlife diversity during this period. With the shoulder season underway, visitors can enjoy better value at top camps. April strikes a wonderful balance of pleasant weather, diverse wildlife sightings, and fewer tourists.
- Cooler evenings with occasional showers
- Lush green landscapes after the rains
- Improved predator-prey interactions
- Quiet period with relatively low rates
- Water levels rising - ideal for boat safaris
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in April
Moremi Game Reserve in May
May is one of the best months to visit Moremi Game Reserve. The annual floodwaters from Angola start to reach the Delta, creating ideal conditions for water-based safaris. Cooler mornings and evenings heighten predator activity, although tall grasses in some areas may still obstruct views.
The Khwai River and Chief’s Island are prime locations for spotting large herds of elephants and buffalo. Birdwatching remains excellent, with over 500 species recorded in the reserve. May is perfect for combining game drives and boat excursions, offering a diverse and rewarding safari experience. Clear, crisp evenings also provide outstanding stargazing opportunities. As shoulder season ends, value-conscious travellers should book early to secure availability at camps and lodges before peak rates apply.
- Cool mornings and evenings with little rain
- Game viewing improves as grasses thin
- Increased predator activity in the reserve
- Final month of shoulder season - rates still reasonable
- Availability becomes limited as demand rises
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in May
Moremi Game Reserve in June
June marks the start of the dry season in Moremi Game Reserve. Mornings and evenings are cool, sometimes reaching freezing at night, while daytime temperatures rise to 25-30°C/77-86°F with clear skies. The air clarity is excellent for photography. As surface water diminishes, wildlife starts to congregate around remaining water sources.
Game viewing improves significantly throughout Moremi, but especially in the Khwai River area and around Xakanaxa Lagoon. June is perfect for night drives, which are possible in areas outside the reserve. Birdwatching remains excellent, with many water birds concentrated around permanent water bodies. With peak season approaching, many camps and lodges are becoming much busier and so booking well in advance is wise.
- Warm days, cold nights in Moremi
- Excellent conditions for wildlife photography
- Animals congregating around water sources
- Vegetation thinning, improving visibility
- Peak season starts, rates increase
Our view
Fantastic: the very best time to visit
Weather in June
Moremi Game Reserve in July
July in Moremi Game Reserve offers cool mornings and evenings, combined with excellent game viewing. The thinning vegetation and concentration of wildlife around water sources make this one of the best months for safari experiences. The Khwai River area and Chief's Island are particularly rewarding, with high chances of spotting big cats and large herds of elephants and buffalo.
Water-based activities like motorboat cruises on the permanent waterways provide unique wildlife viewing perspectives. Birdwatching remains excellent, with large concentrations of water birds. July is ideal for photography, with clear skies and animals gathering at waterholes. Night drives offer opportunities to spot nocturnal species.
- Comfortable days, cold nights in the reserve
- Excellent game viewing as vegetation recedes
- Khwai area becomes busy with visitors
- Private concessions offer exclusive experiences
- Peak season with high rates in most camps
Our view
Fantastic: the very best time to visit
Weather in July
Moremi Game Reserve in August
August is a popular time to visit Moremi Game Reserve, coinciding with peak safari season. Temperatures are generally cold at night and comfortable during the day, rising towards month-end. Wildlife congregates around remaining water sources, making game viewing exceptional.
The Khwai River area offers excellent predator sightings, though can be very busy with travellers. August is one of the best times to experience the delta floods at their peak, ideal for boating safaris. Birdwatching is rewarding, with large concentrations of water birds. The clear, dry conditions create spectacular sunsets and stargazing opportunities.
- Dry, warm days and cool nights in Moremi
- Fantastic wildlife watching, especially in the Delta
- Okavango flood waters typically at their peak
- Stargazing opportunities on clear nights
- High rates and limited availability in camps
Our view
Fantastic: the very best time to visit
Weather in August
Moremi Game Reserve in September
September in Moremi Game Reserve sees warming daytime temperatures while nights remain cool. The dry conditions create a hazy atmosphere, resulting in stunning sunsets. Game viewing is excellent, with large numbers of elephants and buffalo congregating in the Khwai River area and around Xakanaxa Lagoon. Predator sightings are frequent, especially around water sources.
September is ideal for walking safaris and night drives, offering unique wildlife encounters outside the borders of the reserve. Birdwatching remains rewarding, with migrant birds beginning to return. Water-based activities provide close encounters with aquatic wildlife whilst the clear night skies offer excellent stargazing opportunities.
- Warmer days, cool nights in the reserve
- Prime month for wildlife viewing in Moremi
- Large elephant herds visible near water
- Hazy conditions create dramatic sunsets
- Peak season rates, many lodges fully booked
Our view
Fantastic: the very best time to visit
Weather in September
Moremi Game Reserve in October
October is one of the hottest and driest months in Moremi Game Reserve. The lack of water and vegetation results in excellent big-game viewing, particularly around the remaining water sources. Water levels are lower, limiting some water-based activities, but concentrating wildlife for easier viewing.
October is excellent for walking safaris and night drives, both possible outside the park, which provide unique perspectives on the Okavango’s ecosystems. Birdwatching remains rewarding, with many migrant species arriving. The dry, hazy conditions create dramatic landscapes and stunning sunsets, ideal for photography. The most luxury provide comfortable and cool bases for exploring the reserve during this intense wildlife period.
- Hot days, chance of rain late in the month
- Excellent big game viewing opportunities
- Water activities limited as flood waters recede
- Last month of peak season in Moremi camps
- Migratory birds begin to arrive in the reserve
Our view
Fantastic: the very best time to visit
Weather in October
Moremi Game Reserve in November
November usually marks the end of the dry season in Moremi Game Reserve, with increasing temperatures and humidity often culminating in the first rains. These short, heavy showers bring a flush of green to the landscapes. Wildlife begins to disperse as water becomes more available, but game viewing still remains very good.
November is fantastic for birdwatching, with the arrival of many migrant species. The first rains create spectacular skyscapes and rainbows, offering unique photographic opportunities. Water levels start to rise, gradually improving conditions for mokoro excursions. The prices at luxury camps reduce to shoulder-season levels, offering bargains for value-conscious travellers wanting to balance of wildlife viewing and comfort.
- Hot days, sometimes humid in Moremi
- Increasing likelihood of rain as month progresses
- Wildlife less concentrated but still good viewing
- Arrival of migratory birds enhances birdwatching
- Shoulder season begins, rates become lower
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in November
Moremi Game Reserve in December
December in Moremi Game Reserve sees the continuation of the rainy season, bringing some relief to the high temperatures. While game viewing becomes more challenging as wildlife disperses, great sightings can still be had in key areas. The landscape transforms with lush vegetation, creating beautiful scenery. December is excellent for birdwatching, with migratory birds in full attendance and many species breeding.
The rejuvenated waterways enhance boat safari experiences, offering unique perspectives on the Delta's ecosystem. Afternoon thunderstorms create dramatic skies, perfect for landscape photography. Luxury camps offer lower season rates, providing excellent value for experiencing Moremi's diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes during this vibrant time of year.
- Temperatures cooling from October-November highs
- High chance of rain, usually short heavy storms
- Birds in breeding plumage and often including migrants
- Wildlife more dispersed
- Low-season rates available in most camps
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in December
Choosing your perfect location
Moremi & the Private Reserves
This is one of Africa’s most wildlife-rich regions, with varied habitats ranging from lagoons and floodplains to woodland and savannah. Highlights include Chief’s Island, the Khwai River, Xakanaxa, and Third Bridge within the reserve, and Khwai Private Reserve, Xigera, and Mababe in the surrounding concessions. Together, they offer exceptional game viewing, stunning scenery, and a broad range of safari experiences.
Several renowned camps lie within Moremi, but many of the Delta’s most rewarding safaris now take place in the private reserves that border it. These concessions offer greater flexibility, such as off-road driving, night drives and walking safaris, not permitted inside the national park.
Inside Moremi - Xakanaxa Lagoon & Third Bridge
Landscape and Environment
Situated near the tip of the Mopane Tongue, Xakanaxa Lagoon marks the transition between permanent swamp and seasonally flooded plains. Here, reed-fringed waterways weave through islands and mopane woodland, creating a patchwork of habitats that support a wide range of species.
A short drive west, Third Bridge lies within a maze of channels, open plains and riverine thickets. Known for its scenic beauty and changing seasonal character, this area offers an engaging mix of flooded terrain and dryland, ideal for both predator tracking and peaceful boat excursions when water levels allow.
Flora
Here, the botanical diversity reflects the meeting of ecosystems. Mopane dominates higher ground, forming dense or open stands depending on soil and drainage. Waterways support swamp vegetation, including reeds, bulrushes, and papyrus, while old islands host hardwoods such as sausage trees and leadwoods. Palm-ringed islets and grassy plains add to the visual richness.
Wildlife
Wildlife densities around Xakanaxa and Third Bridge are among the highest in Moremi. Lechwe, impala, and zebra graze the floodplains, while predators like lion, leopard, and wild dog are often tracked through open grasslands or shady woodland.
The waterways are home to hippos and crocodiles, and the birdlife is outstanding. Expect to see jacanas, herons, and storks, alongside forest and raptor species such as ground hornbills, bateleurs, and fish eagles.
Getting There & Around
Fly-in safaris and guided mobile safaris are the main ways to access Xakanaxa and Third Bridge. Within Moremi, all activities are regulated, so no night drives or off-road tracking is permitted. However, boat trips are possible from some camps, adding a different perspective to your safari.
Privately guided mobile safaris are especially popular here, offering exclusive access to some of the park’s most scenic routes and the opportunity to sleep out on remote islands during extended itineraries.
The Best Camps and Lodges
A handful of excellent camps offer privileged access to Xakanaxa’s game-rich landscapes. Camp Moremi combines classic tented elegance with sweeping views over the surrounding floodplains and Xakanaxa Lagoon. Nearby, Xakanaxa, one of the Delta’s longest-established lodges, offers a blend of heritage charm, excellent guiding, and access to both land and water activities. Okuti stands out for its distinctive arched suites and peaceful riverside setting, providing a stylish, contemporary base with year-round boating opportunities.
Khwai River Reserve (NG19)
Landscape and Environment
The Khwai River marks the boundary between Moremi Game Reserve and the community-managed Khwai Concession (NG19), a lush corridor of life in the northeastern Delta. This region transitions from tall riverine forests and broad floodplains to seasonally flooded marshes and mopane woodland further south. The river itself is lined with sausage trees, jackalberries, wild date palms and fan palms, providing both shade and forage for wildlife.
Around North Gate, expansive floodplains stretch out westwards, punctuated by seasonal pools and sedge-fringed pans. The dynamic mix of wetland and savannah habitats makes Khwai one of the most ecologically rich zones in northern Botswana.
Flora
Along the Khwai, the vegetation is notably varied. Evergreen gallery forests hug the riverbanks, while swamp flora like hippo grass, papyrus and bulrushes thrive in wetter areas. Seasonally dry floodplains are dominated by sedges and imperata grass. Higher ground and old termite mounds support marula, knobthorn and rain trees. Mopane woodland, in both dense and open forms, dominates to the south.
Wildlife
Khwai is renowned for high game densities and relaxed animals, making it ideal for game viewing. Elephants, buffalo, red lechwe, reedbuck and waterbuck gather around the river during the dry season. Lion, leopard and wild dog are frequently seen, and hyena are a constant nocturnal presence.
Hippos and crocodiles inhabit the channels, while birdlife is prolific year-round. Saddle-billed storks, pygmy geese, jacanas, egrets and herons are commonly spotted. Raptors like African fish eagles and bateleurs soar overhead, while the surrounding woodland is alive with rollers, hornbills and bee-eaters.
Getting There & Around
Most travellers arrive via fly-in safaris or guided mobile safaris from Maun. The Khwai Community Concession offers off-road driving and night drives—activities not permitted within Moremi—making it an attractive choice for those seeking flexible, immersive safaris. That said, it’s one of the Delta’s busiest regions and can feel well-trodden during high season.
The Best Camps and Lodges
A wide range of camps line the Khwai River, offering everything from elegant lodges to relaxed tented camps. Khwai Leadwood and Khwai Lediba sit side by side, offering stylish, solid chalets with sweeping views and a sociable, family-friendly atmosphere. Machaba Camp delivers timeless safari charm under jackalberry trees, while Little Machaba offers a more intimate version with just four tents and consistently strong guiding. Closer to the village, Sango Safari Camp keeps things simple and traditional, with warm hospitality and excellent game viewing. Khwai River Lodge one of the area’s oldest properties, remains closed at present, but its prime location and legacy make it one to watch when it reopens.
Mombo and Chief’s Island (NG28)
Lying at the heart of the Okavango Delta, Chief’s Island is one of the most celebrated wildlife areas in Africa. Despite the Delta’s watery reputation, many areas within it are largely dry. Chief’s Island, by contrast, is both expansive and seasonally inundated, arguably the Delta’s most iconic island. Once the royal hunting ground of Chief Moremi, the traditional leader of the local tribes, the island was formally incorporated into the Moremi Game Reserve in the 1970s.
Elevated on a geological fault line, the island rises just enough above the surrounding floodplains to offer refuge to wildlife during the annual flood. It’s here that the Okavango’s seasonal rhythms play out most vividly: water spilling through reedbeds, red lechwe grazing the shallows, and lion prides patrolling the palm-dotted grasslands.
Landscape and Environment
Chief’s Island stretches for over 60km along the eastern edge of the Delta’s permanent swamp. The island’s slightly raised terrain ensures that it remains accessible year-round, even during the peak of the flood, and creates ideal habitat for a remarkable diversity of wildlife. Along the margins, open floodplains and papyrus channels give way to stands of wild date palms and tall riverine woodland. Inland, the habitat transitions to dry Kalahari sandveld dotted with leadwoods, sausage trees, jackalberry and marula, and interspersed with grasslands and shallow pans.
To the north lies Mombo: an area famed for its productive game viewing and classic Delta scenery. Shimmering lagoons, thick treelines and open plains make it both picturesque and ecologically rich, offering exceptional wildlife densities with consistently strong predator sightings. While much of the Delta can vary in accessibility and animal movements, Mombo remains reliably rewarding throughout the year.
Flora
Flora across Chief’s Island ranges from swamp-loving species along the island’s fringe to drier savannah species inland. The margins support reedbeds, water lilies, papyrus and hippo grass, while riverine forests are dominated by tall ebony, fig, and mangosteen trees. The interior of the island features mixed woodland, including acacia, mopane and broadleaf woodland, interspersed with palm groves and grass clearings.
Termite mounds, a common feature of the landscape, host dense thickets of shrubs and trees, acting as miniature ecological hotspots. This diversity of vegetation supports a wide range of herbivores and provides ideal hunting terrain for predators.
Wildlife
Chief’s Island is a magnet for wildlife. During the dry season animals from surrounding floodplains are drawn to its permanent water sources, whilst in the wet season when the floodwaters rise, they concentrate on its raised land. During this time, it supports some of the highest concentrations of game in Botswana, with large herds of elephant, buffalo, impala and zebra often seen, alongside red lechwe, tsessebe and giraffe.
Predators are abundant. Lion sightings are frequent, and the large open plains make it one of the best places to see active hunts. Leopard, hyena and cheetah are all regularly encountered, and wild dogs move through the area as they follow prey. The island is also one of the best places in Botswana to spot rhino – both black and white – thanks to reintroduction efforts that have made Chief’s Island a stronghold for these endangered species.
Birdlife is exceptional too, particularly along the water margins and in the seasonally flooded grasslands. Wattled cranes, slaty egrets, Pel’s fishing owls, bee-eaters, rollers and numerous raptors are all common.
Getting There & Around
Chief’s Island is only accessible by light aircraft, with flights arriving into airstrips near Mombo or Chief’s Camp. Game drives are conducted in open 4WD vehicles, and because this is within Moremi Game Reserve, all activities are conducted under park rules - no off-roading or night drives are permitted. However, the abundance of wildlife and relatively low visitor numbers ensure a rich and unpressured safari experience.
The area around Mombo in particular is renowned for its exclusivity and photographic appeal. With high standards of guiding, beautiful light, and often extraordinary proximity to wildlife, this is a favourite among professional photographers and experienced travellers alike.
The Best Camps and Lodges
Chief’s Island is home to just a handful of high-end camps, each offering front-row access to this exceptional environment. In the south, Chief’s Camp blends elegance and comfort with sweeping views across the Piajio floodplain, where lion and leopard regularly prowl and mokoro trips are sometimes possible during peak flood. To the north, Mombo Camp and Little Mombo are celebrated for their extraordinary wildlife viewing and timeless safari luxury. Set beside open plains teeming with game, these camps offer some exceptional game drives, where every outing holds the potential for remarkable predator encounters.
Khwai Private Reserve (NG18)
Landscape and Environment
Khwai Private Reserve spans over 2,000km², stretching north from the Khwai River to the edges of the Linyanti. The landscape begins with wide, open floodplains and tall riverine forest along the southern boundary, an extension of the ecosystems that define Moremi. Here, papyrus channels and lily-covered lagoons trace old Delta waterways, and shallow pools feed the seasonal movement of game.
Further north, the terrain gradually transitions into mopane woodland. Though initially uniform, this woodland is broken by patches of open grassland and pans that serve as important dry-season refuges. At its heart are quieter, more remote corners of the reserve – landscapes that offer a sense of space and solitude, and host both resident game and seasonal visitors.
This ecological range allows the reserve to support diverse wildlife movements, and its positioning between Chobe, Moremi and the Kwara Concession gives it a valuable role in regional conservation.
Flora
Along the Khwai River and its offshoot lagoons, the vegetation is rich and varied. Fever trees, jackalberries and leadwoods form dense gallery forests that provide both cover and food for many species. Seasonal floodplains are dominated by grasses and sedges, while deeper channels brim with hippo grass, reeds and water lilies.
Further into the reserve, mopane trees become more dominant – sometimes forming cathedral-like stands, at other times closing in as dense thicket. Occasional pans support patches of sweet grasses and broad-leaved woodland, where marula, knobthorn and wild fig can be found.
The diversity of plant life creates a shifting tapestry throughout the year, with flowering trees, fruiting bushes and leafy cover responding visibly to seasonal rains and dry spells.
Wildlife
Game viewing in Khwai Private Reserve has improved significantly since the end of hunting. Animals are now notably more relaxed around vehicles, and sightings are increasingly reliable. Herds of elephant and buffalo move through the area in large numbers, particularly as the pans dry up from July to October. Zebra, waterbuck, red lechwe, sable and kudu are all present, with giraffe and impala common in the southern zones.
Predators include lion, leopard and spotted hyena, with wild dogs regularly seen and even denning in the reserve. Hippos and crocodiles are found along the river margins, and the water sources attract a variety of smaller species as well – from civets and genets to bushbabies and porcupines on night drives.
Birdlife is equally prolific: pelicans, kingfishers, and herons line the waterways, while raptors such as fish eagles and bateleurs patrol the skies. Carmine bee-eaters and lilac-breasted rollers are common during the green season, adding vibrant colour to the landscape.
Getting There & Around
Travellers arrive by light aircraft into the reserve’s private airstrip, with short transfers from there to most camps. Distances within the reserve are significant, with Sable Alley about 10 minutes from the airstrip, Elephant Pan around an hour’s drive, and Skybeds a further 30 minutes beyond. All exploration is by guided vehicle, on foot, or by mokoro (water levels permitting), with no self-driving permitted in the reserve. The experience here is more private and remote than in neighbouring concessions.
The Best Camps and Lodges
The most luxurious of the five camps in the reserve, Tuludi lies furthest west, overlooking floodplains and a large waterhole backed by towering leadwoods. Its vast, treehouse-style suites each include a plunge pool, sunken lounge and high-canopy bedroom. The main lodge has its own bar, lounge, dining deck and even a library accessed by slide. Activities include game drives, walking safaris, and mokoro excursions when water levels allow – all from a camp that fuses bold design with immersive natural surroundings.
Sable Alley sits at the heart of the reserve beside a deep, lily-filled lagoon where hippos and elephants are a near-constant presence. The lodge has twelve spacious, elevated tents and a wide central deck under thatch, offering views across to the Moremi boundary. Its cool, contemporary interiors and broad range of safari activities make it a reliable all-rounder.
A short distance away, Little Sable offers a more relaxed atmosphere. Originally built as a photographic camp, it has since been reimagined as a warm, affordable retreat with a thatched main area, spacious Meru tents, and views over the plains. It’s an ideal complement to more elaborate camps, with particularly good guiding and game-viewing access.
Tucked deep in the mopane forest to the north, Elephant Pan (formerly Hyena Pan) sits beside one of the reserve’s few year-round water sources. It’s a rustic, colourful camp full of character, where wildlife often comes to drink just metres from the dining deck or the underground photographic hide. Nights here are lively and full of atmosphere, especially in the dry season.
Linked to Elephant Pan, the nearby Skybeds offer an entirely different experience. This minimalist fly-camp comprises three elevated platforms set beside a waterhole, where guests sleep beneath the stars. The upper level holds an open-air bed, while the lower deck includes a flushing toilet and private shower. Game often gathers at the pan below, and evenings are spent around a fire under open skies – making this one of the most unusual and memorable ways to experience Botswana.
Xigera Private Reserve
Landscape and Environment
Xigera sits on what was formerly known as Paradise Island, a slightly elevated area bordered by floodplains and seasonal channels fed by the Jao and Boro Rivers. Historically one of the few places in the Delta where deep-water activities were guaranteed year-round, the environment here has changed significantly in recent years thanks to tectonic movements and shifting water patterns. The once-permanent papyrus channels have given way to grassier floodplains and shallower waterways, meaning land access is now easier, and the area supports a richer density of land-based wildlife.
The lodge is perched on a small island, surrounded by a network of game paths and tranquil pans. Though water levels still fluctuate annually, Xigera now offers the best of both habitats: expansive views across wide, open terrain and the possibility of mokoro when water levels permit.
Flora
The island and surrounding floodplains support a mix of aquatic and savannah flora. Channels are lined with miscanthus reeds, common reedbeds (Phragmites), and delicate stands of water fern. Fan palms and sausage trees dot the islands, and the tree cover includes confetti trees, mangosteens, jackalberries, and the occasional fig and baobab.
To protect the island’s vegetation, Xigera has installed an elephant-proof perimeter fence, allowing baobabs and strangler figs to flourish while permitting all other wildlife to move freely. The result is a lush, rejuvenated island landscape immediately around the lodge with a varied and maturing treescape.
Wildlife
Though best known for its tranquil setting, Xigera also delivers excellent wildlife. Leopards have long been successful here; in 2024, eight individuals were resident, with several more seen passing through. Four lion prides, totalling 22 animals, regularly move through the area, and spotted hyenas are seen almost nightly crossing the bridge into camp.
Game is drawn to the floodplains just beyond the lodge veranda, where lechwe, impala, zebra, tsessebe and warthog are often seen grazing. Elephants are frequent visitors, sometimes in herds of up to 50, and buffalo also move through. Water-based sightings include kingfishers, herons, jacanas and wattled cranes, with raptors such as bateleurs and fish eagles overhead. The birdlife is especially rich during the green season, when water levels rise and migratory species return.
Getting There & Around
There is no overland access to Xigera; all guests arrive via light aircraft at the lodge’s private airstrip. From there, it’s a short transfer into camp. Game drives are conducted by day only, in keeping with Moremi’s regulations, while mokoro trips and seasonal motorboat excursions offer an alternative perspective on the Delta’s waterways. Walking safaris are sometimes arranged in adjacent concessions where armed guides are permitted.
Xigera’s position in a private part of Moremi ensures a quiet, controlled experience with no self-drive visitors and very few other vehicles, making it ideal for those seeking both seclusion and diversity.
Camps and Lodges
Xigera Safari Lodge is the sole property in this area, and one of the most luxurious in the Delta. Reimagined and reopened in 2020, it blends unapologetic comfort with deep immersion in nature. Its 11 individually themed cedarwood-and-canvas suites are perched above the floodplain, each with a private deck, daybed, and wildlife often wandering below.
The main lodge includes a stylish lounge, spa, gym, wine cellar, boutique and bar, as well as a treehouse library and outdoor boma. Mokoro trips, seasonal double-decker boat cruises, game drives and a dramatic steel baobab treehouse sleepout complete the experience. Whether you're captivated by wildlife, design, or Delta scenery, Xigera offers an opulent base at the heart of the Okavango.
Mababe Private Reserve (NG41)
Landscape and Environment
Mababe is a land of extremes and striking contrasts. Its southern boundary merges with floodplains and marshy fingers that extend northwards from the Khwai River, while much of the reserve itself is defined by expansive mopane woodland and old floodplains, punctuated by grassy pans, seasonal waterholes, and the winding ribbon of the Mababe Depression - a fossil riverbed once connected to the Savuti Channel.
During the dry months, the reserve’s few waterholes become magnets for wildlife, drawing large herds of elephant and buffalo. In the rainy season, the land transforms dramatically. The pans fill, grasslands flourish, and woodland thickets become lush and verdant, revealing a very different side to the landscape. Much of the terrain is relatively flat, but it’s this simplicity that allows for long, clear views across golden plains and tangled bush.
The Mababe Depression itself is a critical topographic feature: a broad, low-lying basin where water occasionally pools after heavy rains, attracting a concentration of herbivores and predators in its wake.
Flora
Dominated by mopane woodland, the reserve is also dotted with acacia thickets, grasslands, and riverine trees along the ephemeral drainage lines. Cathedral mopane forests offer vital browse for elephants and cover for leopards, while lower-lying areas support grasses, sedges and seasonal wildflowers that attract grazers such as zebra, wildebeest, and tsessebe.
Along watercourses and near the Depression, you’ll find towering leadwoods, fig trees, and sausage trees - prime habitat for both birdlife and arboreal mammals. The rainy season brings bursts of colour and scent, with flowering combretum, bushwillows and wild basil painting the air with seasonal fragrances.
Wildlife
Wildlife sightings in Mababe are surprisingly rich, particularly given the relatively recent shift from hunting to photographic tourism. The concession is known for excellent elephant and buffalo densities year-round, and game-viewing is especially productive in the dry months from June to October.
Predators feature prominently. Lion prides patrol the open plains, while leopard and wild dog sightings have become increasingly common as the animals have habituated to safari vehicles. Mababe has also emerged as one of the best places in Botswana to see cheetah, particularly in the wide grasslands in the north. Spotted hyena and jackals are also regulars, often heard during the night or seen on morning drives.
Herbivores are abundant and varied: zebra, giraffe, kudu, tsessebe, and impala are common, with occasional sightings of sable, roan and even eland. During the green season, thousands of white-faced whistling ducks and other migratory waterbirds flock to the pans and wetlands, turning Mababe into a birdwatcher’s paradise. Raptors, including martial eagles, bateleurs, and African hawk-eagles, patrol the skies, while the bush echoes with the calls of cuckoos, hornbills, and starlings.
Getting There & Around
Mababe can be accessed by both air and overland safaris. It’s a particularly attractive option for those travelling between Moremi, Savuti, and Chobe, offering an uncrowded stop in a game-rich environment. The relative scarcity of camps and vehicles means that guests often have wildlife sightings to themselves, and guiding is often of a very high calibre.
Importantly, Mababe is a private reserve, so it offers greater flexibility in activities, including night drives, walking safaris, and off-road tracking - elements not permitted in Botswana’s national parks.
Camps and Lodges
Mokete Camp stands alone in Mababe, overlooking the vast plains of the Mababe Depression. Opened in 2024, it’s already gaining a reputation for extraordinary wildlife encounters, particularly the lion-and-buffalo interactions that play out dramatically during the dry season. With sweeping views, a hide beside the marsh, and stylish raised chalets, Mokete offers an immersive, off-the-beaten-track safari experience in one of Botswana’s wildest corners.
Why safari in the private reserves around Moremi?
While each area has its own character, what they share is the opportunity to explore the Delta in greater depth and freedom than is possible within the national park boundaries.
Unlike in Moremi Game Reserve, where driving is restricted to daylight hours and vehicles must remain on established tracks, the private reserves allow for a broader range of activities. In these areas, there are only a few safari camps and visitor numbers are tightly controlled, so you can often enjoy wildlife sightings entirely to yourself – a real privilege!
Key advantages of staying in these private reserves include:
Off-road game drives: Guides are permitted to leave the tracks to follow animals, allowing for close-up sightings of predators and more dynamic tracking experiences – particularly valuable in areas with big cats and wild dogs.
Night drives: Once the sun sets, game drives can continue, revealing a different side of the bush. Nocturnal species such as spring hares, civets, and porcupines become active, and it’s often after dark that lions and hyenas are at their most vocal and visible.
Walking safaris: Many camps offer guided bush walks, led by trained walking guides. These provide a slower, more intimate way to understand the ecosystem – focusing on tracks, insects, birds and the subtle signs often missed from a vehicle.
Exclusivity: With no self-drive access and just a few small camps operating across thousands of hectares, these concessions feel truly wild. Whether you're watching elephants crossing the floodplain or following leopard tracks at dawn, you’re unlikely to see another vehicle – allowing for a deeper connection with the landscape.
For travellers seeking a flexible, immersive and low-impact safari, the private reserves bordering Moremi offer some of the finest experiences in northern Botswana.
Map of Moremi Game Reserve
Moremi sits within the eastern section of the Okavango Delta and was the first reserve in Africa created by local people for conservation. It protects a core area of the Delta’s wetlands and dryland habitats, including the well-known Mopane Tongue and Chief’s Island. The reserve and its bordering private concessions form one of the richest wildlife regions in southern Africa.
This map highlights Moremi’s key safari areas, such as Xakanaxa, Third Bridge, and Chief’s Island, alongside neighbouring concessions like Khwai Private Reserve (NG18), Mababe (NG41), and Xigera. These regions are known for their varied habitats and flexible safari offerings.
Located around 300 kilometres from Maun, Botswana’s main safari gateway, this map offers a useful overview of where the best camps are positioned, whether within the reserve itself or in adjacent areas offering off-road and private safaris.
Moremi Game Reserve: Safaris
Safari holidays in the Moremi Game Reserve will take you into a lush environment with superb, relaxed game in high densities. This reserve encompasses about a third of the Okavango Delta’s flooded forests, wetlands and lagoons – plus a large dry peninsula. Most safari holidays here last at least about one week and tend to include a stay in other parts of the Okavango Delta or the Kwando-Linyanti area as well.
Wild Dog Safari
13 days • 5 locations
KASANE AIRPORT TO MAUN AIRPORT
An in-depth discovery of northern Botswana’s wilderness, from Chobe and the private Kwando Reserve to the Moremi and iconic Okavango Delta with a great variety of activities and wildlife.
US$12,930 - US$21,350 per person
Tsessebe Safari
7 days • 3 locations
MAUN AIRPORT TO MAUN AIRPORT
Visit three sister-camps in and around Moremi Game Reserve during this thorough exploration of the Okavango Delta. A range of activities provide excellent opportunity to observe the local birdlife, mammals and fauna.
US$8,520 - US$11,410 per person
Ground Squirrel Safari
7 days • 2 locations
MAUN AIRPORT TO MAUN AIRPORT
Experiencing the wilderness with an engaging guide whilst staying in a private mobile camp is often the highlight of a safari. Combine that with a charming camp overlooking the Okavango Delta and you’re onto a winner!
US$8,840 - US$11,190 per person
Porcupine Safari
11 days • 4 locations
MAUN AIRPORT TO MAUN AIRPORT
Visit dramatically contrasting landscapes boasting a variety of species during this exploration of Botswana’s top-safari destinations. A combination of national parks and private reserves allows for a range of activities.
US$11,780 - US$16,860 per person
Red Lechwe Safari
9 days • 3 locations
MAUN AIRPORT TO MAUN AIRPORT
Superb guiding from three fabulous camps full of character in three contrasting areas for a fabulous safari to the Okavango Delta and Kalahari Desert.
US$17,600 - US$28,240 per person
Aardwolf Safari
5 days • 2 locations
MAUN AIRPORT TO MAUN AIRPORT
Two sister-camps within private concessions bordering Moremi Game Reserve offer access to excellent game, varied landscapes and a range of land and water-based safari activities. A great-value safari in one of Botswana’s best wildlife regions.
US$5,830 - US$9,430 per person
African Jacana Safari
7 days • 3 locations
MAUN AIRPORT TO MAUN AIRPORT
An adventurous introduction to Botswana blending prolific wildlife, incredible landscapes and varied activities staying at relaxed camps in the Chobe Enclave, a community-owned reserve bordering the Moremi, and Makgadikgadi Pans.
US$8,550 - US$12,280 per person
Reedbuck Safari
8 days • 3 locations
MAUN AIRPORT TO MAUN AIRPORT
Focussing on the Okavango Delta and combining the crème de la crème of Botswana’s camps – Zarafa, Vumbura Plains and Mombo – this is one of the finest safari experiences in Africa.
US$23,410 - US$36,280 per person
Steenbok Safari
9 days • 3 locations
MAUN AIRPORT TO MAUN AIRPORT
A classic Botswana safari exploring the Moremi, Chobe National Park and Okavango Delta. Excellent wildlife viewing and a variety of activities from three of our favourite traditional tented camps.
US$8,920 - US$13,480 per person
Wattled Crane Safari
5 days • 2 locations
MAUN AIRPORT TO MAUN AIRPORT
A good-value Botswana safari staying at comfortable lodges in prime wildlife-viewing areas – Chobe National Park and the Moremi Reserve in the Okavango Delta.
US$6,120 - US$8,090 per person
Luxury lodges & mobile safari camps in Moremi
All of the Moremi camps and lodges recommended by Expert Africa are supremely comfortable - whether they sit beneath shady leadwoods along the Khwai River or overlook the sweeping floodplains of Chief’s Island.
You might be drawn to a luxurious lodge with bold contemporary design, private plunge pools and fine dining, or prefer the romance of a traditional tented camp, with lantern-lit paths, campfire suppers and the sounds of the bush all around. There are also adventurous mobile safaris with excellent private guiding, making for an immersive and flexible way to experience this wildlife-rich region.
Wherever you stay, you’ll be in the heart of one of Africa’s finest game-viewing areas. And best of all, our Botswana team has visited every camp and can help you find the one that’s just right for your own Moremi safari.
Private Mobile
The Botswana Private Mobile Safari has no fixed location; it's exclusive to your group and comes with a top professional guide. Expect comfortable camping, great food, and a superb wildlife experience wherever you decide to go.
Machaba Camp
Overlooking the Khwai River to Moremi Game Reserve beyond, the classic Machaba Camp combines comfort with excellent game viewing.
Xigera Safari Lodge
Located deep in Botswana's Okavango Delta, Xigera Camp normally focuses on mokoro excursions and motorboat trips, with 4WD game drives when water levels permit.
Xakanaxa
Camp Xakanaxa is a well-established traditional camp beside a huge lagoon within the Moremi Game Reserve, with access to some superb wildlife viewing.
Khwai Lediba
Khwai Lediba offers a traditional African safari experience, with very comfortable tented accommodation, in a fantastic game area north of the Moremi Game Reserve.
Sable Alley
Smart, independent and well-run, Sable Alley overlooks a beautiful, hippo-filled lagoon within the diverse Khwai Private Reserve.
Okuti
With an innovative design and good service, Okuti Camp offers game drives and boat trips in a beautiful, game-rich part of Moremi Game Reserve.
Mombo Camp
Mombo is one of Botswana's most exclusive safari camps, set in a beautiful, remote location within the Moremi Game Reserve and with exceptional game densities.
Little Machaba
Overlooking the Khwai River and Moremi Game Reserve beyond, Little Machaba is a classically designed camp with very comfortable tents in a great game-viewing area.
Chief's Camp
Chief's Camp is situated on Chief's Island, within the Okavango Delta's Moremi Game Reserve. Experience one of Botswana's top game-viewing areas by 4WD and mokoro.
Elephant Pan
Fairly rustic, and relatively inexpensive, Elephant Pan overlooks a natural waterhole that attracts an almost constant parade of animals.
Skybeds
Situated in a private reserve close to Moremi Game Reserve, Skybeds offers a simple yet wonderful opportunity to sleep under the stars and watch wildlife from your bed.
Excursions in & around Moremi Game Reserve
Optional extra day-drips and excursions whilst staying in and around Moremi. Talk to us: these are often best organised before you go.
Helicopter Flight - Botswana
Various: from 30 minutes to half a day.
Low-flying, agile and offering superb views, helicopters are an ideal way to move around the Okavango Delta.You can use them instead of fixed-wing inter-lodge transfers or as an addition to other wildlife watching activities, and of course, helicopters can hover to allow that perfect pic, whereas fixed-wings can’t.
More about Helicopter Flight
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Inspire meFREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Planning your Moremi safari
Moremi Game Reserve sits at the heart of the Okavango Delta and is surrounded by some of Botswana’s most rewarding private safari areas. Whether you’re planning your first safari or looking to explore a quieter corner of the Delta, these frequently asked questions cover the essentials, from wildlife and activities to logistics and and how Moremi compares to other top parks like Chobe.
What sets Moremi apart for wildlife diversity?
Large herds of elephants and buffalo roam the reserve year-round, while antelope species like impala, red lechwe, and the elusive sitatunga thrive in the wetlands. Roan and sable antelope are harder to spot but occasionally seen.
Predators are also abundant, with lions, leopards, cheetahs, and thriving populations of spotted hyenas. Moremi is a key stronghold for African wild dogs, one of the continent's most endangered carnivores, frequently sighted in the area.
Additionally, the reserve is a birdwatcher's paradise, with over 400 species including rarities like the slaty egret and wattled crane. The sheer density and variety of wildlife make every safari in Moremi a thrilling experience, and its pristine condition ensures sightings of animals in their natural, undisturbed habitats
What’s the best time of year for wildlife viewing in Moremi?
In contrast, the Green Season (December to March) is a paradise for birdwatchers and botanists. Migrant bird species flock to the region, and resident birds, such as the colourful bee-eaters and kingfishers, show off their vibrant breeding plumage. The lush vegetation and dramatic skies provide a stunning backdrop for photographs, though wildlife can be harder to spot in the dense bush. This is also the calving season for many herbivores, leading to more predator activity. If you prefer fewer crowds and are okay with occasional rain, the green season offers a more tranquil and more affordable experience
What activities can I do in Moremi and the Private Reserves?
1. Game Drives: Morning and afternoon game drives are the most popular activities in Moremi, allowing guests to explore the reserve's varied landscapes. Sable Alley and Xakanaka Camp are known for their excellent game drives, providing opportunities to see elephants, lions, and a variety of antelope species. The Khwai area, with its high density of predators and prey, is particularly good for game viewing.
2. Mokoro Excursions : Mokoro trips, or traditional dugout canoe rides, offer a unique way to explore the waterways of the Okavango Delta. These trips allow you to glide silently through the channels, providing close-up views of aquatic wildlife and birds. Camps like Xigera, Tuludi and Okuti are well-known for their mokoro excursions, especially when water levels are high.
3. Walking Safaris: Althought game drives are most popular here, guided walking safaris are available in certain areas of the reserve. These are led by knowledgeable guides who provide insights into the ecosystem and wildlife.
4. Boat Trips: Some camps, like Camp Moremi and Okuti, offer motorboat trips that allow you to explore the lagoons and channels of Moremi. This is a fantastic way to see hippos, crocodiles, and a wide variety of birdlife. Early morning or late afternoon trips provide excellent lighting for photography.
5. Cultural Experiences: Some lodges provide opportunities for cultural interactions with local communities, camps like Khwai Leadwood and Khwai Lediba often facilitates visits to nearby villages, offering insights into the local culture and traditions.
Each activity in Moremi and the surrounding Private Reserves is designed to immerse visitors in the stunning wildlife and landscapes of this unique reserve, making it an unforgettable destination for any nature lover. To ensure that you select the best camp for your preferred activities, its best to talk to us about the options during different safari seasons and across these various Reserves.
Can I mokoro in Moremi?
Taking a mokoro trip from your camp is one of the most iconic and serene ways to experience the Okavango Delta, allowing you to glide silently through the channels and lagoons. It's the perfect opportunity to get close-up view of the intricate ecosystem, observing aquatic life, birds, and animals such as sitatunga and red lechwe that thrive in these wetlands. It's an almost meditative experience as you drift along in near silence, listening only to the calls of fish eagles, spotting wading herons and marvelling at hovering pied kingfishers.
Mokoro excursions are best experienced - and in some areas only possible - during the high-water season, which typically runs from May to August. During this time, the Delta is flooded with waters from the Angolan highlands, transforming it into a labyrinth of waterways. In some areas, mokoro trips are possible year-round, but water levels can be too low outside the peak season. Always check with us to see if mokoro trips are available during your safari.
How do I get to Moremi Game Reserve?
The nearest international airport is Maun, located about 100km from Moremi. Maun has regular flights from major cities, including Johannesburg (South Africa), Livingstone (Zambia) and Addis Ababa (Ethiopia). From Maun, you can then take small charter flights to airstrips within Moremi, such as Xakanaxa or Khwai, and directly into the surrounding private reserves. These flights which offer stunning aerial views across the Okavango Delta en route. Many safari camps, including Camp Moremi, Chief's Camp, and Okuti, provide direct transfers from Maun to their lodges’ airstrips.
Alternatively, some travellers prefer privately-guided, mobile safaris that include transportation in overland 4x4 game-drive vehicles which depart from Maun and head into Moremi. This is a real, though often luxurious, experience and adds an added sense of African adventure. We often combine these trips with visits to other national parks, such as Chobe, enhancing the breadth of the wildlife and scenic experience.
Regardless of the mode of travel, planning ahead is crucial to secure accommodations at top safari camps, the best overland guides and seats on bush planes over the Delta, particularly during peak season.
How does Moremi compare to Chobe National Park?
Moremi lies within the Okavango Delta, where seasonal flooding transforms the landscape into a mosaic of waterways, islands, and palm-dotted floodplains. Game densities are high, especially in areas like Xakanaxa, Khwai River and Chief’s Island, and the mix of wetland and dry terrain supports a wide range of species. Leopard sightings are particularly strong, and wild dogs are regularly seen.
It is also worth remembering that the Okavango Delta surrounding Moremi is comprised of many exceptional Okavango Private Reserves. Game viewing in these areas tends to be a more intimate experience, with limited guest numbers, fewer vehicles and no self-drivers allowed in these areas. Access is typically by air, and safaris are often based out of small, well-run camps with terrific guiding.
Chobe, by contrast, is vast and varied. The park extends from the riverfront in the north - famous for its elephant herds - to the dry hinterlands of Savuti and the remote Linyanti marshes. The Chobe Riverfront is easily reached from Kasane and often busy with day visitors, particularly in peak season. Wildlife is abundant here though, especially elephants, which gather in huge numbers along the river during the dry season. However, the public road network can mean a more crowded experience.
In Savuti, a sector of Chobe further south, game viewing is excellent, especially for predators. But here too, park regulations prohibit off-road driving and night safaris, and all visitors must be in camp by sunset.
In summary:
• Moremi offers a quieter, more exclusive safari experience, particularly in its private areas. It combines land and water activities and has strong predator concentrations.
• Chobe delivers impressive scale and easy access, with especially large elephant numbers, but the northern sector can feel busier, and the safari experience is more structured due to park regulations and public access.
Both parks are superb, but for those seeking a slower, more immersive safari, Moremi may have the edge, especially when paired with one of the private Okavango Delta concessions.
