Safaris Botswana Okavango Delta
Okavango Delta |
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Okavango Delta safaris conjure up images of vast waterways and beautiful papyrus-lined water systems in the middle of the vast Kalahari Desert. The Okavango Delta is in fact one of the world's largest inland water systems, starting in Angola's western highlands, flowing through Namibia and finally entering Botswana. Millions of years ago, the Okavango River flowed into a large inland lake called Lake Makgadikgadi (now Makgadikgadi Pans). Tectonic activity and faulting interrupted the flow of the river, causing it to backup and from what is now known as the Okavango Delta.
The Okavango is a labyrinth of lagoons, lakes and hidden channels covering an area of over 17 000 square kilometres and the largest inland delta in the world. It contains about 95% of all surface water in Botswana from the pan handle section in the north, spreading across the Eastern Delta, Moremi and as far south to Maun, incorporating various islands along the way.
It supports large numbers of rare animals such as sitatunga, red lechwe, wild dog and wattled crane, as well as other more common mammals and bird life such as crocodile, elephant and buffalo. The best time for Botswana wildlife viewing in the delta is during the May to October period, as the animal life is concentrated along the flooded areas and the vegetation has dried out. The best time for birding and vegetation is during the rainy season from November to April, when the migrant bird population’s return and the plants are flowering and green. Botswana safari tours by water are the primary speciality of the Okavango. These tours use mokoros, which are dugout canoes and are 'poled' along by your guide, and offer the best way of exploring the numerous waterways. Boats also travel on the main waterways and lagoons. Attractions within the Okavango area include night drives in private concession areas, walking safaris and game viewing flights.
A number of safari lodges and camps have been established in and around this water wilderness. Private lodges and camps are either situated within the National Park or in private concessions, and most can only be accessed by light aircraft from Maun or Kasane. The Okavango does not cater for the budget traveller - this is deliberate policy on the part of the Botswana Government to avoid the mass tourism that has been allowed to spoil other areas of Africa, and also to protect the fragile eco-system of the Okavango Delta. For travellers wanting to explore the beauty of the Okavango, there are plenty of luxurious travel options that will create an ideal, unforgettable African safari. |
