About North Island Okavango
Tucked away in the north-west of the Delta, the exclusive North Island is nestled within the wonders of the Okavango.
This is quintessential Delta territory, the floodplains and savannah intersected by channels and lagoons dotted with small, wooded islands. With so little disturbance, wildlife abounds, and birders will be in their element.
With their wide lagoon frontage, four vast suites (with three more due in 2025) guarantee superb views – from their four-poster beds, their baths and outdoor showers, their cosy lounges and sundecks, their intimate plunge pools.
Indulgence is enhanced by in-room spa treatments, but this is only the start. The air of sophisticated exclusivity continues into the heart of the camp.
Surrounded by venerable old trees, settle down in comfort with a book from the library, or dine in top safari style – always with that view to hand, and wildlife never far away.
With highly qualified guides, you'll explore the wonders of the Delta from open-topped game-drive vehicles or in tranquil meanders along the waterways by boat or mokoro. Or gain an entirely different perspective from the air, revelling in a bird's eye view of herds of buffalo or elephant from a helicopter or hot-air balloon.
Returning to camp, the sounds of hippo from the lagoon combine with an orchestra of frogs to complete each day's safari as you settle down to sleep.
Our view
This is an exciting camp for those looking for exclusivity and for small groups sole use. We just loved the idyllic island setting, yet easy access to the main game viewing areas over two wooden bridges. Despite our very brief visit we felt that the game viewing in the surrounding area was very good.
Botswana expert
Accommodation
4 tented suites; 7 from 2025
Children
Best for 12+
Open
All year
Activities
4WD Safari
Birdwatching
Boat trip
Cultural excursion
Fishing
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 1 pictures of North Island Okavango to get the candid view.
View galleryNorth Island Okavango: Our full report
Opened in June 2023, North Island Okavango introduces an air of exclusivity to the north-west corner of the Delta.
As the name suggests, the new camp is set on a private island, and with just four tented suites, its footprint is both small and extremely personal. We understand that an additional two suites and a family suite are to be built in 2025.
Our last visit in January 2024 was a fleeting one, but we loved what we saw.
The water-rich setting is typical of this area of the north-west of the Okavango Delta, a network of channels and lagoons broken up by individual islands – of which North Island is one. Floodplains, open savannah and woodlands are home to the full range of Okavango wildlife, while more than 350 species of bird await the keen birdwatcher.
Shaded by a ring of mature trees, from ebony and leadwood to mangosteen and wild fig, North Island Okavango’s four tented suites look out across a hippo-filled lagoon which promotes a high level of privacy.
The tents are enormous, their wide frontage guaranteeing views from each area. Taking centre stage is a four-poster bed, flanked by a serious but contemporary bathroom (with indoor and outdoor showers and a bathtub) and an understated lounge that has its own bathroom. This lounge can be converted to a second bedroom by configuring the sofa as a sleeper couch, which would work well for families; there are also plans for a family suite in 2025, along with two further tented suites.
Step out on to the deck for a dip in the private plunge pool or relax with a book or binoculars on the sunken sundeck. On cooler evenings, a fireplace will add warmth, and Wi-Fi is standard in the suites.
In-room spa treatments (at additional cost) could prove another reason to stay in your suite, but you're only a short wander from a lounge and separate dining area, along with a well-stocked library and even an outdoor gym.
Throughout the camp the aim is to “celebrate the modern Africa” – with traditional craftsmanship offset by bold colours, smart design and a sense of sophistication.
When it comes to activities, guests are spoilt for choice, on land, on water and in the air. Along with traditional guided game drives, there are seasonal boat trips and mokoro excursions and in season the opportunity for fishing. Scenic helicopter flights add a very different perspective (again, at additional cost). There's also the opportunity to visit a nearby village or to find out about the importance of wildlife conservation in the area.
While we did not stay at North Island during our visit, we did share one fascinating sighting with a vehicle from the camp. While we were watching a pair of male lions, a leopard suddenly popped its head up out the grass on the other side of a small channel. The lions, sensing the competition, stalked towards the leopard, only to pause their dominance display as a pod of hippos in the channel between the two apex predators started grunting loudly at the lion’s intrusion. Just as quickly, the leopard vanished into the grass.
Not to be confused with the famous North Island in the Seychelles, this 'North Island' is a sister-camp to Jack's Camp in the Kalahari, Duke's Camp in the Okavango Delta and Tuludi in Khwai Private Reserve, North Island Okavango adds an additional dimension to this elite safari family.
Geographics
- Location
- Okavango Delta Safari Reserves, Botswana
- Ideal length of stay
- 3–4 nights, depending on activities
- Directions
- Okavango North Island is approximately 40 minutes by light aircraft from Maun, followed by an estimated 15-minute game drive into camp. The duration of the drive depends on the wildlife you see along the way and the water levels.
- Accessible by
- Fly-and-Transfer
Food & drink
- Usual board basis
- Full Board & Activities
- Food quality
- Although we did not stay at this camp on our last trip, we expect the food at North Island to be very good and, in general, lighter and healthier than the usual safari meals. Dietary requirements and food intolerances can be catered for, but please advise us in advance so we can give the camp prior notice.
A full breakfast is offered in the morning before going on game drives. This usually consists of a cooked breakfast with fresh muffins, pancakes, and a selection of cereals, fruit and yoghurts, along with tea, coffee and fruit juice. There is also an option to take a bush breakfast out on your game drive.
Lunch is served plated, and because it is individual dining, guests have the flexibility to eat between 12 noon and 2.00pm. You can expect a good array of dishes, including buttermilk fried chicken, Cajun kingklip, lamb koftas with quinoa or other salads, and build-your-own pizzas. For dessert, options could include fruit platters, homemade lemon sorbet or frozen fruit lollies.
If a full-day game drive is planned, the camp can provide a packed lunch (usually sandwiches, fruit and biscuits).
Afternoon tea, served just before the afternoon activity, normally consists of a light savoury snack and some form of cake. Options include chocolate brownies, churros, carrot cake, banana bread, vegetable tartlets, bruschetta and frittatas, all served with smoothies, iced teas, coffees and fresh fruit juices.
Dinner, like lunch, is plated and usually served at individual tables unless requests are made to dine with other guests. If you would like to try all the dishes, we suggest the harvest table. We have been informed that a sample dinner might start with a soup, followed by Moroccan beef tagine or a fish and vegetable curry, all served with mushroom risotto, lentils or basmati rice. To finish, there could be crème caramel with whipped cream, a fruit compote and crushed nuts. - Dining style
- Individual Tables
- Dining locations
- Indoor and Outdoor Dining
- Drinks included
- Bottled water, soft drinks, local beers and spirits and a limited selection of (usually) South African red and white wines are included. Champagne and imported wines and spirits cost extra and may need to be requested in advance.
Guests can help themselves to tea and coffee in the main area throughout the day.
Special interests
- Family holidays
- North Island Okavango is ideal for exclusive use, especially for multi-generational travel with older children, on a Botswana family safari.
- See ideas for Family holidays in Botswana
- Honeymoons
- The size of North Island Okavango allows the staff to provide lots of small romantic surprises – a big plus on a honeymoon in Botswana. This is accentuated by the honeymoon special, where one spouse receives 50% off the nightly accommodation rate.
- See ideas for Honeymoons in Botswana
- Wildlife safaris
- North Island Okavango is in an area is renowned for its predator interactions, especially wild dogs and leopard with very good general game viewing.
- See ideas for Wildlife safaris in Botswana
Children
- Attitude towards children
- Children aged 6 and over are welcome at North Island Okavango.
- Property’s age restrictions
- Minimum age 6 years
- Equipment
- Each suite can accommodate a sleeper couch for two children, who will also have their own bathroom.
- Generally recommended for children
- Although the camp accepts children from the age of 6, it has an adult feel that is not in keeping with young children. It is also in an area where dangerous animals are free to roam, so it's best suited to much older children.
- Notes
- The camp is surrounded by tracts of water and has dangerous wildlife roaming through. Children must be supervised by a parent or carer at all times.
Communications
- Power supply notes
- There are battery-charging facilities in the suites. Hairdryers are available.
- Communications
- WiFi is available only in the suites. There is no cellphone signal in the area.
- TV & radio
- None
- Water supply
- Other
Health & safety
- Malarial protection recommended
- Yes
- Medical care
- The nearest doctor is in Maun. All management and guides are first-aid trained and there is a nurse on call (via radio) 24 hours a day. Medical evacuation is available in case of emergency, but 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.
Swimming pool warning: Please be aware that the plunge pools do not have depth markings. Bathers need to be careful when entering the pool. - Dangerous animals
- High Risk
- Security measures
- Guests are escorted to their suites after dark as dangerous wildlife is known to wander through the camp. A safety briefing is given on arrival. “Foghorns” are provided in the suites to attract attention in case of emergency.
- Fire safety
Activities
4WD Safari
Birdwatching
Boat trip
Cultural excursion
Fishing
Helicopter
Mokoro
Night drive
Private activities
Extras
- Disabled access
- On Request
- Laundry facilities
- A complimentary laundry service is in place, with the exception of undergarments, for which washing powder is provided in each bathroom.
- Money
- There is a safe in each suite. No exchange facilities are offered.
- Accepted payment on location
- Visa and Mastercard are accepted, as are cash payments in US dollars, euros, GB sterling, South African rand and Botswana pula.
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North Island Okavango's location
Look closer at the environment and surroundings of North Island Okavango.
Excursions from North Island Okavango
Optional extra day-trips and excursions possible whilst you're staying at North Island Okavango. 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.
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.
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.
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.
Seba Camp
Seba Camp is a luxury camp in a lovely location that offers the full range of water and land safari activities, depending on the time of year. This camp is particularly suitable for families.
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.
Abu Camp
Abu Camp is an exclusive safari camp on the western side of the Botswana's Okavango Delta - offering superb elephant-back safaris and opportunities to walk with them too.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Eagle Island Lodge
Eagle Island Lodge is a luxurious camp with international-style facilities including air conditioning and intercom in each room; offering water based activities in the Okavango Delta.
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 North Island Okavango 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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