About Eagle Island Lodge
One of the Okavango Delta's first photographic camps was built on Xaxaba Island, very close to the present-day ...
... Eagle Island Lodge. Expert Africa’s MD, Chris McIntyre, first visited the original Xaxaba Camp over 20 years ago, and although the lodge here has changed immeasurably since, resulting in standards akin to those of a smart hotel, the surrounding landscape – which is 'classic' Okavango – is still just as beautiful.
Eagle Island Lodge feels more like a hotel in the bush than a camp; and it's much more substantial and imposing on the environment than many of the Delta's other options – so it's not a natural choice for those seeking a place to stay in sympathy with its setting. That said, it is a very solid, well-built and luxurious option, so if you're concerned about being in the 'wilds', and want the reassurance of a very solid camp with air conditioning, perhaps this is the right one for you.
Our view
Eagle Island Lodge feels more like a hotel in the bush than a camp; and it's much more substantial and imposing on the environment than many of the Delta's other options – so it's not a natural choice for those seeking a place to stay in sympathy with its setting. That said, it is a very solid, well-built and luxurious option, so if you're concerned about being in the 'wilds', and want the reassurance of a very solid camp with air conditioning, perhaps this is the right one for you.
Botswana expert
Accommodation
12 luxury tents
Children
Best for 12+
Open
All year
Activities
4WD Safari
Birdwatching
Boat trip
Fishing
Guided walking safari
Helicopter
Mokoro
Night drive
Private activities
Expert Africa's gallery
When we travel we take lots of photos ourselves to give you a real and un-edited view of the safaris. See our 25 pictures of Eagle Island Lodge to get the candid view.
View galleryEagle Island Lodge: Our full report
One of the Okavango Delta's first photographic camps was built on Xaxaba Island, very close to the present-day ...
... Eagle Island Lodge. Expert Africa’s MD, Chris McIntyre, first visited the original Xaxaba Camp over 20 years ago, and although the lodge here has changed immeasurably since, resulting in standards akin to those of a smart hotel, the surrounding landscape – which is 'classic' Okavango – is still just as beautiful.
The former Eagle Island Camp, was re-built in 2015, when its name was changed to Eagle Island Lodge. Marketed as Belmond Eagle Island Lodge, it is now similar in style to its sister camps in Botswana, Savute Elephant Camp and Khwai River Lodge. Like them, it strives to meet almost hotel-like standards of luxury, including air conditioning and an internal phone system, despite its remote wilderness setting.
Eagle Island's 11 luxury tents are raised on wooden platforms under thatched roofs. The size, grandeur and style of these vast tents can be a little overwhelming at first glance: these rooms wouldn’t be out of place in an expensive London, New York or Paris hotel. If they feel a little out of place in the bush, perhaps this stems from the fact that the owners have properties all over the world.
Inside, the décor is modern, cream canvas contrasting with shades of grey and black, enlivened by copper features. Luxury is indeed key here, from the comfortable king-size bed and mosquito net, to the minibar with cocktail shaker and mixing kit, along with a hairdryer, safe, WiFi and air conditioning. The large en-suite bathroom comes complete with dressing room, bath, separate toilet cubicle and both indoor and outdoor showers, and plenty of classy toiletries.
To the front of the tents is a large deck, also under thatch and overlooking the lagoon. Here you’ll find chairs, a coffee table, sunloungers and a box of towels – important after you’ve cooled off in your private infinity plunge pool.
The thatched main area is extensive, with a dining area at one end, a bar in the middle and a lounge area down a few steps at the other. The whole building is open fronted, looking out over the floodplains towards Chief’s Island. Tucked away behind are a small curio shop and an even smaller TV/internet lounge.
A raised sandy causeway leads past the lodge’s firepit to the Fish Eagle Bar, and beyond to a jetty. In the evenings, guests will often congregate at the bar for post-sundowner drinks, or around the fire before dinner.
During the flood (in the ‘dry’ season, around April–September) the area around Eagle Island Lodge is dominated by water, so activities are predominantly water-based, focusing on the scenery, birdlife and fishing rather than game viewing. When the flood recedes (generally October–March), game drives are offered, although game viewing can be patchy.
Most of the time the choice is between trips by mokoro (dug-out canoe) or motorboat and walking safaris (see our note in Health & Safety about walking with armed guides). Fishing, and village visits are also possible, and the lodge is well located for birdwatching, with classic Delta species such as Pel’s fishing owl seen periodically. We were lucky enough to spot one flying into a tree above us while we were eating dinner. The lodge also has its own helicopter, so guests can get an aerial view of the Delta, albeit at additional cost.
When we visited we were a little disappointed by the standard of activities here. The evening cruise seemed to focus more on guest entertainment than the wildlife viewing and our guide on the game drive (the first of the season) didn’t overly impress us with his knowledge or communication skills. That said, we did have some interesting sightings, especially of a wild dog hunt, and during the sundowner cruise a talk on how the Delta formed was reasonably informative and interesting.
Geographics
- Location
- Okavango Delta Safari Reserves, Botswana
- Ideal length of stay
- We recommend a 2–3 night stay here. Consider it as part of an upmarket safari in combination with Savute Elephant Camp and Khwai River Lodge.
- Directions
- Eagle Island Lodge is reached by light aircraft, taking about 20 minutes from Maun and roughly 90 minutes from Kasane. The airstrip is adjacent to the lodge, within walking distance.
- Accessible by
- Fly-and-Transfer
Food & drink
- Usual board basis
- Full Board & Activities
- Food quality
- During our last stay we were impressed by the range and quality of the food served.
Breakfast consisted of a classic buffet of cereals, cold meats, muffins, fresh bread and fruit, followed by a hot breakfast cooked to order.
Alongside the daily offering of freshly made wood-fired pizza, the lunch menu changes daily. We had the choice of Thai fish curry with egg noodles, or a spinach and artichoke fritter served with a poached egg and tomato salsa. This was rounded off by apple crumble, a selection of ice-creams or fruit salad.
On our visit we happened to be at Eagle Island on the anniversary of Botswana’s independence (30th September). In celebration, dinner was a traditional braai (barbecue) with singing and dancing by the lodge staff. Our starter of butternut soup was followed by chicken curry, oxtail stew and pounded beef served with a variety of salads, pumpkin, pap, green beans and creamed spinach. Dessert was a malva pudding with custard.
The lodge is happy to cater for vegetarians and other dietary requirements with advance notice. - Dining style
- Individual Tables
- Dining locations
- Indoor and Outdoor Dining
- Further dining info, including room service
- Private dinners can be arranged on request for special occasions.
- Drinks included
- All drinks are included other than imported champagne and other premium brands.
Children
- Attitude towards children
- Children over eight are welcome.
- Property’s age restrictions
- Eagle Island Lodge has a minimum age limit of eight years.
- Special activities & services
- Child-minding is also available on request, though note that children are looked after by staff members who are not professionally qualified or trained in childcare.
- Equipment
- None
- Generally recommended for children
- Eagle Island Lodge as an adult feel, and as such we would not recommend the lodge for children under 12.
- Notes
- This is an unfenced camp in a wilderness area where wild animals can and do pass through, so children should be under parental supervision at all times.
Communications
- Power supply notes
- The lodge runs on both solar and generator power.
- Communications
- Eagle Island Lodge has an inter-camp phone system linking rooms and reception. A satellite phone is available in an emergency. WiFi is available throughout.
- TV & radio
- A satellite TV is located in the main area.
- Water supply
- Other
- Water supply notes
- Water is drawn from the Delta and filtered, so it is fine for washing but not recommended for drinking.
Sustainability
Redesigned to follow sustainability principles
Established in the 1900s, Belmond Eagle Island Lodge came to transform an area that was the playground of crocodile hunters into one of the most eco-friendly lodges along the Okavango Delta. As the pioneer of sustainable establishments in Botswana, in 2015 the lodge went through a complete renovation, aiming for a structure with the lightest environmental footprint, and a design that is aligned with the Okavango Management Plan, requiring no permanent structures. As a result, all concrete structures have been demolished, and all the buildings have been constructed on timber-based platforms, using materials certified by the Forestry Stewardship Council. Moreover, the rooves were built with local thatching grass bought from communities in Northern Botswana, and guests’ tents were insulated with fibre mesh and wool to keep them at a constant temperature and eliminate the need of ventilation. Most importantly, the renovation process was seen by Eagle Island Lodge as a chance to provide employment opportunities for the local community. Therefore, the lodge appointed a local Botswanan construction company to carry out the work, where 98% of the building crew was local to the area.
Similarly, the lodge has completely changed the way it operates. Relying completely on solar energy, pumping water from the Kavango River during high water periods and from a borehole in times of low water, removing the village waste and sending it for recycling are just a few examples of initiatives of a lodge that is now 95% eco-friendly, and a leading example for many other African camps.
See more great sustainability projects in Botswana
Health & safety
- Malarial protection recommended
- Yes
- Medical care
- Please note that it is only possible to fly out of camp during daylight hours as the bush airstrips do not have any lighting at night. The nearest doctor is in Maun.
Walking safaris from Eagle Island Lodge are available in two locations: Moremi Game Reserve, typically on Chief’s Island, and an island within a private concession near the lodge. Due to Botswana's anti-poaching laws, guides in Moremi cannot carry rifles.
At Expert Africa, we believe that walking safaris in these areas need to be accompanied by a trained and armed guide for your safety. While the risks are low, the consequences can be severe.
For this reason, we only recommend walking in the private concession with an armed guide. Be sure to confirm this before setting out, as guides may not always carry a rifle. - Dangerous animals
- High Risk
- Security measures
- Guests are escorted to/from their chalets after dark as dangerous wildlife wanders through the camp.
- Fire safety
- Fire extinguishers are positioned outside each tent and around the main areas of the lodge.
Activities
4WD Safari
Birdwatching
Boat trip
Fishing
Guided walking safari
Helicopter
Mokoro
Night drive
Private activities
Extras
- Disabled access
- On Request
- Laundry facilities
- Full Laundry Service - Included
- Money
- Each room has a small safe for valuables.
- Accepted payment on location
- Visa, Amex and Mastercard are all accepted here. Cash payments may be made in US dollars, GB pounds, rand, euro and Botswana pula, but please note that all change will be given in pula.
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Eagle Island Lodge's location
Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Eagle Island Lodge.
Excursions from Eagle Island Lodge
Optional extra day-trips and excursions possible whilst you're staying at Eagle Island Lodge. Talk to us: these are usually best arranged 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 FlightOther lodges in Okavango Delta Safari Reserves
Alternative places to stay in this same area.
Kwara Camp
Kwara Camp's private reserve boasts land and water activities year-round, with excellent game-viewing opportunities and access to permanent channels of the north-east Okavango Delta.
Little Vumbura
On a secluded island within a private reserve, Little Vumbura combines superb game viewing with a broad diversity of habitats in a truly picturesque setting.
Shinde Camp
With experienced staff and a wealth of activities, Shinde offers a traditional safari in an exceptionally varied and wildlife-rich environment.
Splash Camp
Set in the Kwara Reserve, offering superb wildlife viewing year-round, Splash offers both land and water activities led by guides with a particular knack for tracking big game.
Chitabe Lediba
Chitabe Lediba, in Botswana's southern Okavango Delta, is a small family friendly safari camp; it offers great dry-land safaris and in our experience consistently delivers good game sightings.
Kanana
In a beautiful part of the Delta, Kanana focuses on fantastic water activities and birding – including exclusive access to an impressive heronry.
Sandibe Safari Lodge
The luxurious Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge lies in a private concession in the heart of the Okavango Delta, beside Moremi Game Reserve, with superb big-game viewing.
Chitabe Camp
In the southern Okavango Delta, the excellent Chitabe Camp concentrates on dry-land safaris in an area that we've found particularly good for wild dog sightings.
Shinde Footsteps
Small and simple, but comfortable, Shinde Footsteps focuses on walking safaris as well as game drives; it also runs a special children's programme so is particularly suitable for families.
Nxabega Tented Camp
Nxabega offers a selection of both land- and water-based activities, plus very good guiding, food and service, but game viewing can be somewhat erratic.
Gomoti Plains
Overlooking a tributary of the Gomoti River, Gomoti Plains Camp is a classically designed camp with very comfortable tents in a good game-viewing area.
Tubu Tree Camp
A traditional tented camp with a distinctive tree-house feel, Tubu Tree offers some of the best game viewing in the Jao Reserve.
Vumbura Plains
Indulgently stylish and luxurious, Vumbura Plains offers superb game viewing and birding on an exceptionally varied private reserve.
Jacana Camp
Jacana Camp is a small safari camp with an informal island feel; it is ideal for water-based activities in the Delta and offers excellent birdwatching.
Duba Explorers Camp
Intimate and elegant, Duba Explorers Camp promises a firm safari focus in a remote corner of the Okavango, led by a team who value the highest guiding and hosting standards.
Kwetsani Camp
Deep in the Delta, overlooking a floodplain, Kwetsani Camp is a small, high-end camp with good access to areas for land and water-based activities.
Mma Dinare
Beautifully located in a private concession overlooking the Gomoti River, the traditional Mma Dinare is very well-priced for the Okavango Delta.
Pom Pom Camp
Amidst stunning Okavango Delta scenery, Pom Pom offers idyllic mokoro trips in season, great birdwatching, and increasingly good big-game sightings, especially leopards.
Mapula Lodge
For an affordable yet varied safari encompassing a range of eco-systems, the traditional Mapula Lodge takes a lot of beating.
Duba Plains Camp
Duba Plains Camp is a traditional yet luxurious safari camp, best known for the thrilling lion behavior interaction that is often see during the day.
Baines' Camp
Baines' Camp is a well-run, intimate camp in a pretty part of the Okavango, offering a range of activities and the option to spend a morning walking with elephants.
Stanley's Camp
In a private concession south of Moremi Game Reserve, Stanley's Camp offers 4WD game drives, seasonal water activities and a superb elephant interaction.
Little Tubu
Little Tubu is a new, traditional camp with just three tented chalets and a distinctive tree-house feel. The areas around it can be explored by water and land-based activities year round.
4 Rivers
4 Rivers is a new camp in a previously in accessible area of the excellent Kwara concession.
Pelo Camp
In a pristine wilderness environment deep in the Okavango Delta, the seasonal Pelo Camp is tented yet comfortable, with activities focusing on excursions by mokoro.
Rra Dinare
Located in a private concession in the southern reaches of the Okavango Delta, overlooking the Gomoti River, Rra Dinare is a traditional-style, well-priced camp.
Xaranna
Xaranna is a plush tented camp amongst the idyllic waterways and islands of the Delta. Each air-conditioned tent has a plunge pool. Water activities and pampering are the focus here.
Jao Camp
In a beautiful area with fantastic water activities, Jao combines an idyllic location with high levels of luxury and service, and a top-end spa.
Setari Camp
Setari Camp stands on an island dotted with palm trees, close to the base of the Okavango’s ‘Panhandle"
Okavango Explorers
The traditional, tented Okavango Explorers Camp offers a mix of walking, canoeing and game drives led by great guides in a wildlife-rich area.
Kiri Camp
Kiri Camp is the latest Okavango offering from the excellent team behind Machaba. In an exciting new location in the heart of the Delta we cannot wait to visit this new camp.
Karangoma
New for 2024, Karangoma is a classic, tented camp offering walking, canoeing and game drives, in partnership with the local Bukakwe San clan.
Duke’s Camp
On a remote island within a large concession, the romantic Duke's Camp and smaller Duke’s East are nestled among mature trees overlooking wildlife-rich plains and waterways of the Okavango.
Okavango Walking Safari
The Okavango Delta Walking Safari camps in a secluded Okavango Delta Reserve where there are few roads; the ideal location for a walking trail led by an expert guide.
Sitatunga Island Camp
Tucked away in a pristine corner of the Okavango Delta, the exclusive Sitatunga Private Island is a water-based camp offering boating, mokoro trips and fishing.
Atzaro Okavango
With a high level of tasteful luxury promised at Atzaro, we think it will be best suited to travellers seeking a touch of pampering alongside their safari.
Mokolwane
Deep in the heart of the Okavango, the simple Mokolwane focuses on wildlife viewing in a large, untouched area.
North Island Okavango
Deep in quintessentially “Okavango” territory, between deep-water and dry-land habitats, North Island focuses on a luxury safari experience with very good wildlife viewing opportunities.
Mbamba
Deep within the northern Okavango, the classically styled Mbamba is set to open in a wildlife-rich private concession in April 2025.
Qorokwe Camp
Luxurious and contemporary, the relatively new Qorokwe Camp is a gem in the Okavango Delta, offering land- and occasionally water-based activities in a prime wildlife area.
When to go to Okavango Delta Safari Reserves
Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit Eagle Island Lodge in Okavango Delta Safari Reserves
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Okavango Delta Safari Reserves in January
January marks the peak of the rainy season in the Okavango Delta. Evening rains are often short but heavy, accompanied by occasional dramatic thunderstorms. Temperatures remain high, although cooler than the preceding months of October to December. Wildlife can be harder to spot as animals spread out across the lush floodplains.
This month is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with migratory species in abundance over flooded areas. Rising water levels in parts of the Delta make mokoro safaris possible, offering serene and immersive experiences. The vibrant greenery and dramatic skies provide stunning opportunities for photography. With relatively low rates and fewer visitors, January is ideal for those seeking a quieter, budget-conscious Botswana safari.
- Warm temperatures with frequent evening showers
- Birdlife at its most spectacular in the Delta
- Wildlife dispersed, but insects and smaller creatures abound
- Excellent availability in Delta lodges and camps
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in January
Okavango Delta Safari Reserves in February
February mirrors January’s weather patterns, with heavy rains and slightly cooler temperatures. The Delta’s landscape is at its greenest and teeming with life. Smaller animals, insects, and vibrant birdlife dominate, as many species raise their young. The rains create temporary pools and waterholes, further dispersing larger game, while thick vegetation and tall grass adds to the challenge of spotting big wildlife.
However, Moremi Game Reserve and select areas of the Delta still offer excellent game viewing opportunities. Rising water levels enhance water activities, with boat safaris providing unique access to the Delta’s watery beauty. February is particularly rewarding for photographers seeking lush landscapes and dramatic skies and birdwatchers, with many migratory species present.
- Warm with occasional thunderstorms
- Many animals with young in the Delta
- Big game dispersed throughout wetlands
- Big game dispersed, but viewing improves in drier areas
- Lower visitor numbers and great lodge availability
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in February
Okavango Delta Safari Reserves in March
March marks the gradual end of the main rainy season in the Okavango Delta. Sunny days become more frequent, with occasional afternoon thunderstorms. The Delta remains lush and vibrant, with wildlife activity increasing as animals finish raising their young and begin congregating around permanent water sources.
Rising water levels make boat safaris a highlight, offering intimate access to the Delta’s waterways. Birdwatching is excellent, with both resident and migratory species thriving. With fewer visitors, March offers a quieter, more personal safari experience.
- Rains taper off but temperatures remain warm
- Occasional small thunderstorms in Delta
- Wildlife begins congregating around water sources
- Ideal conditions for boat safaris
- Few tourists and attractive rates at camps
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in March
Okavango Delta Safari Reserves in April
April brings clearer skies to the Okavango Delta, with the landscape remaining green and lush. Night temperatures begin to drop, especially in the southern Delta. The annual floods from Angola start to flow through the northern Delta, filling channels and lagoons, creating ideal conditions for water-based activities like boat safaris.
Wildlife viewing improves as vegetation thins and predator activity increases with cooler evenings. Moremi Game Reserve and the private concessions offer rewarding game drives, and walking safaris on the larger islands, such as Chief’s Island, become popular during this time. Birdwatching remains excellent, with many migratory species still present. April’s combination of pleasant weather, wildlife activity, and relatively low rates makes it a rewarding time to visit.
- Cooler evenings and occasional light showers
- Floodwaters begin to fill Delta channels
- Predator-prey interactions increase
- Ideal for walking safaris and boat trips
- Popular shoulder season, rates fairly low
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in April
Okavango Delta Safari Reserves in May
May is a popular time to visit the Okavango Delta, marking the last month of the shoulder season. The annual floods continue to spread through the Delta, transforming the landscape. Cooler mornings and evenings encourage predator activity, while thinning vegetation makes wildlife spotting easier, though some tall grasses may still obstruct views.
May offers excellent photographic opportunities with clear, crisp air. It's a favourite time for many visitors, combining good wildlife sightings with pleasant weather. Camp bookings throughout the Delta fill up quickly during this period.
This is a perfect month for scenic flights, offering breathtaking views of the advancing floodwaters. Mokoro trips through the Delta’s tranquil waterways provide a unique perspective on the environment. Camps start to fill quickly as the Delta’s combination of pleasant weather and excellent wildlife sightings makes it a favourite among safari-goers.
- Cool mornings and evenings with little rain
- Improved game viewing as Delta grasses thin
- Predator activity increasing in drier areas
- Scenic flights and water activities highly recommended
- Last month of shoulder season for camps
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in May
Okavango Delta Safari Reserves in June
June signals the start of the dry season in the Okavango Delta. Days are warm, with clear skies, while mornings and evenings can be cold, occasionally reaching freezing temperatures. The annual floods reach their peak, creating spectacular conditions for water-based activities like boat safaris along the Khwai River and in private concessions.
Wildlife concentrates around permanent water sources as surface water dries up, improving game viewing. The thinning vegetation and crisp, clear air make June perfect for photography. High demand for camp bookings reflects its popularity, as this month combines great game viewing and pleasant weather.
- Warm days, cold mornings and nights
- Peak floodwaters make boat safaris unforgettable
- Wildlife congregates around permanent water sources
- Excellent conditions for photography
- High demand for camps and lodges
Our view
Fantastic: the very best time to visit
Weather in June
Okavango Delta Safari Reserves in July
July offers cool mornings and evenings with warm, sunny days, making it ideal for wildlife viewing. The floodwaters remain at their peak, providing excellent opportunities for boat safaris. Vegetation continues to thin, enhancing visibility on game drives in Moremi Game Reserve and the Okavango’s private reserves.
Large herds of elephants and buffalo are common sights as they gather near water sources. Predator sightings, including lions and leopards, increase as prey concentrates. Birdwatching is rewarding, and the crisp winter air creates stunning photographic conditions. July is one of the most popular months to visit, with many lodges fully booked well in advance.
- Comfortable days, cold mornings and nights
- Excellent game viewing and predator activity
- Moremi and Khwai areas become busy
- Private concessions offer exclusivity
- High season rates; advance bookings essential
Our view
Fantastic: the very best time to visit
Weather in July
Okavango Delta Safari Reserves in August
August remains a highly sought-after month for visiting the Okavango Delta. Nights are cool, while daytime temperatures rise gradually. Wildlife viewing is exceptional as animals concentrate near water sources, while the Delta’s floods are typically at their peak, offering picturesque settings for excellent boat safaris.
Walking safaris and game drives in areas like Moremi Game Reserve and Chief’s Island are particularly rewarding. Large herds of elephants and buffalo are common sights, and predator activity is high, with increased chances of seeing lions, leopards, and wild dogs hunting. The clear skies and lack of humidity create excellent stargazing conditions. With many travellers visiting during European and North American holidays, lodge availability can be challenging.
- Dry, warm days and cool nights in the Delta
- Fantastic wildlife viewing near water sources
- Excellent opportunities for game drives and boat safaris
- Cloudless skies, spectacular stargazing
- High demand for accommodation – book early
Our view
Fantastic: the very best time to visit
Weather in August
Okavango Delta Safari Reserves in September
September is a favourite for many safari-goers in the Okavango Delta. Daytime temperatures rise, but nights remain cool. The landscape transforms as greenery fades, and hazy conditions create dramatic sunsets. Wildlife viewing peaks as animals cluster around permanent water sources, with especially large numbers of elephants and buffalo. This concentration of prey attracts predators, increasing chances of witnessing exciting hunts.
The return of migratory birds enhances birdwatching. Water levels begin to recede, but boat cruises are still possible. Dusty conditions may challenge photographers, but the stunning landscapes and wildlife action more than make up for it.
- Warm days, cool nights in the Delta
- Prime month for Okavango wildlife viewing
- Migratory birds return, enriching birdwatching
- Spectacular sunsets and dramatic scenery
- High season rates, many Delta camps full
Our view
Fantastic: the very best time to visit
Weather in September
Okavango Delta Safari Reserves in October
October is the hottest and driest month in the Okavango Delta. Wildlife concentrates around the last remaining water sources, creating some of the most dramatic game viewing opportunities of the year. Predator-prey interactions are frequent and visibility is excellent, making for thrilling safaris.
Walking safaris are particularly rewarding, especially on smaller islands, but early starts are essential to avoid the midday heat. Towards the end of the month, the first rains may bring relief and begin rejuvenating the parched landscape. Despite the heat, October offers excellent big-game viewing and dramatic photographic moments of animal interactions.
- Hot days, with late-month chances of rain
- Outstanding big-game viewing near water sources
- Water activities limited as floods recede
- Walking safaris provide unique experiences
- Final month of the peak safari season
Our view
Fantastic: the very best time to visit
Weather in October
Okavango Delta Safari Reserves in November
November marks the start of the green season in the Delta. Rising humidity and temperatures often lead to the first heavy rains; these are typically short, heavy showers in the late afternoon or night, creating spectacular scenes and bringing a flush of green to the parched landscape. Wildlife begins to disperse as waterholes refill, but game drives still offer rewarding sightings.
Water levels may be low, limiting boat activities, but November is exceptional for birdwatching, with the arrival of many migratory species. Scenic flights highlight the contrast between dry and wet areas. The first two weeks are popular for travellers seeking good game viewing at lower rates as the Delta transitions into its shoulder season.
- Hot, humid days in the Delta
- Dramatic rain showers , increasing as month progresses
- Migratory birds arrive in abundance
- Wildlife watching good, but less predictable
- Shoulder season offers mid-range rates
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in November
Okavango Delta Safari Reserves in December
December sees the rainy season in full swing across the Okavango Delta, bringing some respite from high temperatures. Game viewing becomes more challenging as wildlife disperses, but great sightings can still be had. The landscape transforms dramatically, with lush vegetation sprouting across the Delta. This period is excellent for birdwatching, with numerous migratory species present.
Water levels begin to rise, gradually improving conditions for boat safaris. The green season offers unique photographic opportunities, with dramatic skies and newborn animals. December is ideal for visitors seeking a more intimate Delta experience, with fewer tourists and lower rates at many camps and lodges. The combination of wildlife, birdlife, and scenic beauty makes it a rewarding time to visit.
- Warm temperatures
- High chance of rain in short, heavy storms
- Wildlife more dispersed across Delta
- Game viewing more challenging in wetlands
- Low-season rates and fewer visitors in most Delta camps
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in December
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