About Xaranna Okavango Delta Lodge
Xaranna Okavango Delta Lodge, like its sister lodge Xudum, occupies an island within 62,000 acres of private ...
... reserve amidst the seasonal and permanent waterways of the Okavango Delta. The idyllic channels, lagoons and floodplains are explored mainly by mokoro (traditional dugout canoe) and by motorboat when water levels permit. The lack of sizeable dry land restricts lengthy game drives, particularly during the annual flood from around March to September, and limits stable wildlife concentrations. With only nine tents, Xaranna focuses on exclusivity, pampering and offering its guests a memorable water and wilderness experience.
We do not recommend that you come to Xaranna Okavango Delta Lodge to search out big game, but instead come to experience the idyllic waterways of the Okavango Delta; for its spectacular birdlife and its smaller creatures such as the pretty painted reed frogs; and for the pampering service and the plush accommodation. Most of our safari-goers agree that a change of pace and scene, cruising along the tranquil waterways of the Delta, is a welcome interlude and highlight to any Botswana game viewing safari.
Our view
We do not recommend that you come to Xaranna Okavango Delta Lodge to search out big game, but instead come to experience the idyllic waterways of the Okavango Delta; for its spectacular birdlife and its smaller creatures such as the pretty painted reed frogs; and for the pampering service and the plush accommodation. Most of our safari-goers agree that a change of pace and scene, cruising along the tranquil waterways of the Delta, is a welcome interlude and highlight to any Botswana game viewing safari.
Botswana expert
Accommodation
9 tented suites
Children
Best for 12+
Open
All year
Activities
4WD Safari
Birdwatching
Boat trip
Fishing
Guided walking safari
Helicopter
Mokoro
Night drive
Private activities
Traveller reviews of Xaranna Okavango Delta Lodge
8 real, un-edited reviews from Expert Africa's travellers.
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 47 pictures and 1 videos of Xaranna to get the candid view.
View galleryXaranna Okavango Delta Lodge: Our full report
Xaranna Okavango Delta Lodge, like its sister lodge Xudum, occupies an island within 62,000 acres of private ...
... reserve amidst the seasonal and permanent waterways of the Okavango Delta. The idyllic channels, lagoons and floodplains are explored mainly by mokoro (traditional dugout canoe) and by motorboat when water levels permit. The lack of sizeable dry land restricts lengthy game drives, particularly during the annual flood from around March to September, and limits stable wildlife concentrations. With only nine tents, Xaranna focuses on exclusivity, pampering and offering its guests a memorable water and wilderness experience.
Due to its remote location and watery surroundings, getting to Xaranna requires an approximately one hour transfer by 4WD vehicle and boat from the nearest airstrip. This provides an introduction to the beauty of the area and a chance to see some wildlife. On our most recent transfer to Xaranna we spotted a variety of birdlife and shared the channel with a wallowing elephant who was feeding on waterlily roots. Depending on water levels, guests usually arrive at the lodge by boat.
A floating jetty leads up to the lodge’s split-level main area, with dining room to one side and an elevated lounge to the other. Both have wooden floors, canvas roofs and are open-sided to maximise the sweeping views out across the channels, fringed with classic Delta tree lined silhouettes. Steps off the dining room lead to a sandy open air firepit with camp chairs, and a well-stocked curio shop is reached via a walkway to the rear.
The nine tented rooms are well spaced along sandy pathways either side of the main area, providing privacy and unhindered views of the surroundings. It’s about five minutes walk to reach the furthest rooms so those needing to be closer must please advise us in advance. The spacious rooms are of a wood, canvas and mesh construction, each with a private outdoor shower, sala (day bed) and plunge pool. Internally they have air conditioning and heating, a bedroom area, en suite with indoor shower and a luxuriously deep bath, and a separate toilet. The bedroom is furnished with a plush four-poster bed draped in a mosquito net, bedside tables and lamps, fans, a round cushion covered sofa and writing desk. Additional amenities include a digital safe, international 220 volt plug points, hairdryer, bathrobes, slippers, insect repellent and spray, umbrella and toiletries (soap, conditioner, shampoo, body lotion and washing powder for underwear). Snacks and drinking water are also provided. There is no tea and coffee station but hot and cold drink requests can be noted on a chalkboard or ordered by intercom and a cool box is provided to keep drinks cold.
The décor throughout the lodge is an unusual blend of contemporary, rustic and industrial styles. The waterlily inspired colour scheme combines soft greens, pinks and browns with whitewashed wood. The overall effect is light, airy, colourful and a little quirky in places.
Guided activities available from Xaranna Okavango Delta Lodge include mokoro excursions, boat trips (water levels permitting), walks on the islands with an armed guide and game drives in open 4WD safari vehicles. Spinner fishing (catch and release) is offered between March and December. Scenic helicopter flights and massages can also be arranged, for an additional cost. There is a massage menu and pricelist in each tent which details the options, from foot to full body massages.
This region of the Okavango offers beautiful scenery and a true sense of the inner Deltas myriad of waterways, lagoons and floodplains. The lush environment attracts a spectacular range of birdlife and aquatic loving animals such as painted reed frogs, hippos, reedbuck and red lechwe. The islands are also home to baboon, warthog, leopard, steenbok and small numbers of impala, tsessebe, kudu, wildebeest and zebra but those expecting to see a wide variety and large concentrations of big game are likely to be disappointed. There are big game sightings in this area, such as elephant, giraffe, lion and buffalo, but most seasonally migrate through here in search of larger tracts of dry land which supports greater grazing or prey populations.
On our most recent visit in June 2012 we found the typically high standard of service and guiding we’ve come to expect of &Beyond lodges such as Xaranna. Overall the service is friendly and very attentive, with each guest assigned a housekeeper and a butler. The only minor dissatisfaction was that during our game drives the guide was more focused on trying to locate big game at the expense of passing by some of the smaller but equally interesting sights, but to be fair this was due to the pressure of guests who were under the misconception that they would see plenty of big game here.
Geographics
- Location
- Okavango Delta Safari Reserves, Botswana
- Ideal length of stay
- We recommend a stay of two nights at Xaranna Okavango Delta Lodge or three nights for those seeking time to just relax and enjoy the tranquil setting. The lodge often forms part of a trip with Sandibe Safari Lodge, and Nxabega Safari Camp – which are also owned by the same company, &Beyond.
- Directions
- Xaranna Delta Lodge is accessible only by light aircraft; about 25 minutes from Maun or 1½ hours from Kasane, followed by a combination 4WD vehicle and boat transfer of about one hour, depending on wildlife sightings on the way. Helicopter transfers directly to the lodge can also be arranged at additional cost.
- Accessible by
- Fly-and-Transfer
Food & drink
- Usual board basis
- Full Board & Activities
- Food quality
- During our latest visit to Xaranna we found the food to be of the usual high standard we’ve enjoyed here previously. Special dietary requirements and private meal requests are catered for on request.
For breakfast we were served delicious muesli with yoghurt and fresh sliced pineapple, papaya and guava. This was accompanied by toast, ham and herbed cheese. Our choice of eggs with bacon was cooked to order and to drink we were offered juice, tea and coffee.
Following the morning activity, lunch was tasty chicken kebabs with naan bread and a spicy butternut and red cabbage salad.
An assortment of sweet and savoury snacks, fresh fruit and hot and cold drinks filled any gaps for afternoon tea.
The day was rounded off with a satisfying dinner of panzanella salad to start; a choice of springbok steak and green pepper sauce or fish with pesto sauce, along with potatoes, baby carrots and courgettes for the main; and a strawberry and yoghurt mousse to finish. - Dining style
- Individual Tables
- Dining locations
- Indoor and Outdoor Dining
- Drinks included
- Xaranna Okavango Delta Lodge has a well-stocked bar where almost all the drinks are included in the price (bottled water, soft drinks, local beers, spirits and a selection of (generally) South African wines). Excluded are premium brand imported whiskies, French champagne and a selection of vintage wines.
Special interests
- Solo Travel
- Solo travellers on holiday will love Xaranna’s policy of no single supplements. It’s a place for exploring waterways by mokoro, perhaps for chatting to like-minded people on a 4WD game drive and for enjoying spectacular birdlife when you’re on a solo safari holiday.
- See ideas for Solo Travel in Botswana
- Luxury
- The opulent rooms at Xaranna Okavango Delta Lodge offer a plush retreat in the bush, with four-poster beds, private plunge pools and luxuriously deep bathtubs. The team provide attentive service and an opportunity to change pace and enjoy the beautiful surroundings on a luxury safari.
- See ideas for Luxury in Botswana
Children
- Attitude towards children
- Children are welcome at Xaranna.
- Property’s age restrictions
- Children aged 5 years and younger cannot join in any of the scheduled activities for safety reasons. At the discretion of the lodge manager, children aged 6 to 11 can participate in game drives. Children aged 16 may join in mokoro activities. It may be possible to arrange a private vehicle for short drives with younger children on request, at additional cost. Only children aged 16 and over can participate in nature walks.
- Special activities & services
- A child minder can be arranged, if requested in advance, for an additional cost.
- Equipment
- An extra single bed can be added to create a triple room for a child to share with the parents. There is only one triple room permitted at the lodge at any one time.
- Generally recommended for children
- We’d recommend Xaranna for children aged 12 and over as potentially dangerous animals do roam through this unfenced camp. Children must constantly be under their parent's supervision.
Our travellers’ wildlife sightings from Xaranna
Since mid-2018, many of our travellers who stayed at Xaranna Okavango Delta Lodge have kindly recorded their wildlife sightings and shared them with us. The results are below. Click an animal to see more, and here to see more on our methodology.
100% success
100% success
100% success
100% success
100% success
100% success
100% success
100% success
100% success
50% success
50% success
50% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
Communications
- Power supply notes
- The generator is usually run from about one hour before guests get up until one hour after they go to bed, but it can be run overnight on request. A battery and inverter system provides limited power (i.e. for lights) when the generator is off.
- Communications
- WiFi is available in the lodge’s main area for guests who have their own laptop or internet device. There is no guest computer, though the lodge’s office computer can be used on request. Contact can be made with reception and between rooms via an intercom system. There is no guest telephone or cellphone coverage for external calls. The lodge has a satellite phone to contact Maun in an emergency.
- TV & radio
- None
Sustainability
A quick guide on how to reduce carbon footprint
A commitment to reduce their impact on the environment and a desire to protect biodiversity are key issues for Xaranna Okavango Delta Camp.
The camp’s history in protecting the local environment can be traced back until 2013, the first year when it was awarded the highest rating for responsible tourism in Botswana. To keep this legacy alive, an entire team is behind the efforts to reduce carbon footprint.
Xaranna Okavango Delta Camp has now fully operational hybrid energy solutions installed and in use, showing significant savings in non-renewable energy consumption. One advantage is that despite the high cost of implementing hybrid systems, once invested and implemented it saves operational cash which would have been spent on generator fuel.
Electrical equipment was replaced with more modern energy efficient options, such as inverter air-conditioning systems in guest rooms, LED light bulbs across the camp and timers on all heavy-use equipment to manage energy consumption.
These measures led to a reduction in carbon footprint of 4,500,000kg per year, and more than 80% of the energy consumed is generated from renewable energy sources, while still maintaining the high levels of service and luxury treatment for guests.
See more great sustainability projects in Botswana
Health & safety
- Malarial protection recommended
- Yes
- Medical care
- A comprehensive first-aid kit is kept at the lodge and guides carry field kits on activities. Both managers and guides are first-aid trained. In an emergency, medical evacuation to Maun can be arranged. 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.
- Dangerous animals
- High Risk
- Security measures
- Guests are escorted to their rooms after dark as potentially dangerous wildlife does pass through this unfenced lodge. Alarms are provided in the rooms for use in case of an emergency.
- Fire safety
- There are fire extinguishers in the common areas and outside each tent.
Activities
4WD Safari
Birdwatching
Boat trip
Fishing
Guided walking safari
Helicopter
Mokoro
Night drive
Private activities
Extras
- Disabled access
- Not Possible
- Laundry facilities
- A full laundry service is included.
- Money
- Each room has a digital safe. The lodge does not offer any money-exchanging facilities.
- Accepted payment on location
- Cash payments may be made in GB pounds, US dollars, euros, South African rand and Botswanan pula. MasterCard and Visa credit cards are accepted; Amex is not.
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Xaranna Okavango Delta Lodge's location
Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Xaranna.
Excursions from Xaranna
Optional extra day-trips and excursions possible whilst you're staying at Xaranna. 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.
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.
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 Xaranna 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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