The protected heart of the Okavango Delta — a mosaic of permanent water, seasonal floodplains and dry woodland that combines outstanding year-round game viewing with the water-based experiences that define the Okavango. Chief’s Island within Moremi has the highest density of leopard, lion and wild dog in Botswana. The deep sand tracks of the Mopane Tongue require serious 4×4 capability, but the rewards for self-drive adventurers are exceptional.
Ratings
Wildlife Density: ★★★★★ Infrastructure: ★★☆☆☆ Photography: ★★★★★
Adventure: ★★★★★ Exclusivity: ★★★★☆ Price: $$$$ Scenery: ★★★★★
Key wildlife: Lion, leopard, wild dog (Chief’s Island), elephant, buffalo, hippo, crocodile, red lechwe, sitatunga, zebra, giraffe, hyena, 480+ birds
Best for: Experienced 4×4 self-drivers, wild dog and leopard, Okavango water-land combination
Best time: June–October (dry season, best access); July–September (peak flood for water activities)
Guides & articles
Wildlife & Ecology
Moremi protects the eastern Okavango’s meeting point of permanent water, seasonal floodplain, mopane woodland and dry savanna. It supports elephant, buffalo, lion, leopard, cheetah and wild dog, with wildlife shifting between Chief’s Island, the Khwai River and the drier east as water levels change.
Best Time to Visit
July to October is dry, with high wildlife concentrations and the broadest road access, though this is also peak season. November to March is hot and green with excellent birding; rain and standing water can make tracks difficult, and some areas become inaccessible.
Conservation & Community
Moremi was established in 1963 following an initiative led by the Batawana community, making its origin a specific African-led conservation story. The wider ecosystem today connects the public reserve with community areas and private concessions.
Activities
Game drives are combined with boating and mokoro excursions where channels permit; activities may start from camps inside Moremi or from adjacent private and community areas.
How to Get There
Light aircraft from Maun serve the reserve’s and concessions’ airstrips. Self-drive access from Maun through South Gate or Khwai requires a capable 4×4, recovery equipment and advance campsite bookings; deep sand and seasonal water crossings are normal.