Destinations / Tanzania / Serengeti
Okavango Delta
Africa’s Water Wilderness
Each year, rain that falls in the highlands of Angola travels hundreds of miles to flood the Kalahari, transforming it into a labyrinth of channels, lagoons and palm-fringed islands. The result is the Okavango Delta, one of Africa's great wildlife sanctuaries. Explored by game drive, on foot and by traditional mokoro canoe, it is safari at its most serene and most exclusive.
A Wilderness Like No Other
A Flood in the Desert
The floodwaters arrive in Botswana's dry winter, peaking between June and August, just when wildlife needs water most. In 2014, the Delta became the 1,000th site inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Wildlife on Land and Water
Elephants wade between islands as lions, leopards and wild dogs hunt the floodplains. Hippos, crocodiles and water-loving antelope such as red lechwe and the elusive sitatunga complete a remarkable cast.
Private, Pristine and Remote
The Delta swells to cover nearly 6,000 square miles (15,000 km²). Much of it is divided into private concessions reached only by light aircraft, where a handful of small camps share vast areas of untouched wilderness.
Unforgettable Experiences
Silent waterways, untouched islands and wildlife at every turn.
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Mokoro Excursions
Glide through papyrus-lined channels in a traditional dugout canoe, poled by a local guide.
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Game Drives in Private Concessions
Follow predators off-road, with few other vehicles and the freedom to stay with a sighting.
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Walking Safaris
Explore remote islands on foot with an expert guide, reading tracks along the way.
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Boating Safaris
Cruise the deeper channels and lagoons in search of elephants, hippos and fish eagles.
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Doors-Off Helicopter Flights
See the full intricacy of the Delta's channels and islands from above.
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Night Drives
Discover the Delta after dark, from leopards on the hunt to bushbabies and owls.
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Sleep-Outs Under the Stars
Spend a night on a raised platform or star bed, deep in the wilderness.
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Family Adventures
Create unforgettable memories with safari experiences designed for all ages.
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Honeymoon Moments
Combine thrilling wildlife encounters with exceptional lodges, secluded camps and memorable experiences together.
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Conservation Experiences
Gain insight into the people and projects helping to protect Africa's wildlife and wild places.
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Sleep Under Canvas
Stay in luxury tented camps that bring you closer to the sights and sounds of the bush.
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Birding
Look out for more than 400 species, including Pel's fishing owl, wattled cranes and carmine bee-eaters.
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Fishing
Cast for tigerfish and bream in select permanent-water camps.
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Natural Spa Experiences
Unwind with treatments inspired by local botanicals, in the privacy of your suite or overlooking the floodplains.
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Intimate & Remote Camps
Stay in a remote, private camp of just a handful of spacious suites, often for no more than 12 guests, many with their own plunge pool.
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Fly-In Exclusivity
Arrive by light aircraft at camps with no road access, where the only traffic is wildlife.
When to visit
The Delta follows the rhythm of its floodwaters, and each phase offers a different safari.
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The Flood Arrives
The waters begin spreading through the Delta as the rains end. Landscapes are still lush, and visitor numbers are lower. -
High Water Season
The flood peaks during the cool, dry winter. Water levels are ideal for mokoro and boating, and wildlife gathers on the islands. -
Peak Dry Season
Warm, dry days concentrate wildlife around the remaining water, creating some of the year's finest predator sightings. -
Green Season
Summer storms bring newborn antelope, migrant birds and dramatic skies. It is an excellent time for photography and exceptional value.
Premier Stays
Private concessions and secluded islands, with the Delta to yourself.
Private Concession Camps
Intimate camps in vast private reserves, where off-road driving, walking and night drives are part of the experience.
Water Camps
Camps set on permanent channels and lagoons, where mokoro and boating are possible year-round.
Exclusive Use Villas
Your own villa or private camp, with dedicated guides, safari vehicles, chef, butler, and staff.
Pairs Perfectly with…
Because the best safaris rarely stop at one destination.
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The Makgadikgadi Pans
Trade the water for vast, shimmering salt pans, meerkats and the stark beauty of the desert.
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Sossusvlei
Contrast the Delta's channels with Namibia's towering red dunes for a classic desert-and-delta safari.
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Victoria Falls
Witness the thundering spectacle of one of the world's greatest waterfalls, just a short flight away.
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Rwanda
Add an unforgettable gorilla trekking experience to your East African adventure.
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Cape Town
End among mountains, vineyards and the Atlantic, in one of the world's most beautiful cities.
Frequently Asked Questions
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June to October is the most popular time, when the floodwaters are high and wildlife is concentrated. The green season from November to March offers newborn animals, superb birding and excellent value.
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In many areas, yes. Camps on permanent channels offer water activities all year, while those on seasonal floodplains offer them mainly when the water is high.
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Most travelers connect through Johannesburg to Maun, then fly by light aircraft to their camp's airstrip. Luggage is limited to a soft-sided bag of around 44 lb (20 kg), including hand luggage.
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Yes, at the right camps. Each camp sets its own age policy, often 8 or 12 and above, and many families book a private vehicle so they can set their own pace.
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US citizens don't currently need a visa for short tourist visits. Antimalarial medication is recommended for the Delta, and a yellow fever certificate is only required if you arrive from a country with yellow fever risk.
