Moremi Game Reserve (Okavango Delta)

The Moremi Game Reserve, located in the heart of Botswana’s Okavango Delta, is a wildlife haven covering 5,000 square kilometres. This vast reserve is a sanctuary for a rich and diverse range of animal species, making it a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Key Takeaways:

The Moremi Game Reserve is a stunning area in the Okavango Delta, spanning 5,000 square kilometres.
It was the first wildlife sanctuary to be created by an African tribe on their land.
The reserve is known for its incredible wildlife, including large herds of impala, buffalo, and zebra.
Over 400 species of birds can be found in the reserve, delighting birdwatchers.
Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or a nature lover, the Moremi Game Reserve offers an unforgettable experience.

Wildlife and Landscapes in the Moremi Game Reserve

The Moremi Game Reserve is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and diverse population of African game. Visitors to the reserve are treated to an immersive experience surrounded by the wonders of nature.

During the dry season, large herds of African game, including impala, tsessebe, buffalo, wildebeest, elephant, and zebra, migrate from the arid Kalahari Desert for food and water. These majestic creatures create a spectacle as they traverse the expansive grasslands and floodplains of the reserve.

However, it is not just the herbivores that call Moremi home. Predators such as lions, cheetahs, and packs of wild dogs roam the open grasslands, showcasing their exceptional hunting skills. Witnessing these incredible creatures in action is a sight that will both captivate and awe visitors.

The reserve’s unique ecosystem also supports a wealth of birdlife. With over 400 species of birds, including the majestic African fish eagle, elegant crested crane, and graceful sacred ibis, birdwatchers will be enthralled as they spot rare and beautiful specimens in their natural habitat.

The wetland areas and swamp conditions of the Moremi Game Reserve provide a haven for unique species, such as the sitatunga and lechwe, which thrive amidst the lush vegetation and papyrus banks of the waterways. Exploring these marshy landscapes allows visitors to appreciate the rich diversity of the reserve’s wildlife.

From the sweeping grasslands to the tranquil waterways, the Moremi Game Reserve offers a harmonious balance between an enchanting, diverse population of African game and stunning natural landscapes. It is an unparalleled destination for nature lovers and safari enthusiasts seeking an unforgettable adventure in the heart of the Okavango Delta.

Planning Your Visit to the Moremi Game Reserve

Proper planning is essential for experiencing the incredible wildlife and landscapes of the Moremi Game Reserve. To access the reserve, you have two options: by air or by road. Light aircraft fly to the lodges’ airstrips, providing a convenient and scenic way to arrive. Alternatively, you can reach the reserve by road via Maun. If you choose to self-drive, having experience in 4×4 driving and visiting during the dry months is recommended.

The reserve operates within specific hours, allowing visitors to maximise their time there. The park is open from 6 am to 6.30 pm from April to September. The reserve extends its opening hours from 5.30 am to 7 pm from October to March. Keep these timings in mind when planning your activities within the reserve.

Park fees are necessary for your visit to the Moremi Game Reserve. A lodge usually includes these fees, making it a convenient option. If you are driving in, you will need to organise the necessary paperwork in advance and pay the fees. It is also essential to book the designated campsites if you plan on camping within the reserve. While campfires and firewood collection are permitted, remember that bringing in or taking out wood is prohibited.

The best time to visit the Moremi Game Reserve depends on personal preferences. Wildlife is present all year round, but the dry season is particularly enticing, as it attracts animals searching for water. If you’re a bird enthusiast, the green season offers fantastic birdwatching opportunities and the chance to witness animal breeding. Accommodation options in the reserve range from luxury lodges to more affordable camps, ensuring every visitor’s comfortable and welcoming stay.

Per Person per Day	International	SADC resident	Botswana citizen
Adults (18 year and older)	BWP 270	BWP 205	BWP 30
Camping (excl accommodation)	BWP 60	BWP 45	BWP 20
Per vehicle per day	International	Botswana registered
<3500 kg	BWP 115	BWP 30

Whether you’re an avid safari-goer or a first-time explorer, the activities in Moremi Game Reserve offer something for everyone.

From thrilling safari tours to immersive nature walks, bird watching to wildlife photography, Moremi Game Reserve has it all. The best part is that the activities are usually included in the fully inclusive rates of the luxury camps, ensuring a seamless and memorable experience for you.

Embark on traditional canoe safaris, known as mokoro safaris, and glide through the crystal-clear waterways of the Okavango Delta. Take game drives in search of the Big Five, or indulge in birding and walking safaris for a closer look at the unique ecosystem of the delta. For breathtaking views of the landscape, hop on a boat cruise or a thrilling helicopter ride. At select camps, you even have the opportunity for unforgettable elephant interactions and horseback safaris.

Whether you’re captivated by the beauty of nature or crave thrilling encounters with wildlife, the activities in Moremi Game Reserve are sure to exceed your expectations. So, pack your bags and get ready to discover the wonders of this magnificent reserve in South Africa.

Traditional Canoe Safaris in Moremi Game Reserve

One of the unique activities offered in Moremi Game Reserve is the traditional mokoro canoe safari. Traditionally, a mokoro is a dug-out canoe made from hard wood and used by the Batswana people to navigate the channels of the Okavango Delta. Nowadays, mokoros are made with fibreglass to reduce the impact on the environment. This activity allows you to explore the scenic waterways and observe the abundant birdlife and wildlife that call the delta home. Not every lodge or camp offers mokoro safaris, so it’s important to check with your accommodation if this activity is a priority for you. Embarking on a mokoro safari provides a peaceful and relaxing way to connect with nature and immerse yourself in the beauty of the Okavango Delta.

Mokoro Canoe Safaris in Moremi Game Reserve

Traditional dug-out canoes used by the Batswana people
Fibreglass canoes to reduce environmental impact
Explore the scenic waterways of the Okavango Delta
Observe abundant birdlife and wildlife
Not available at every lodge or camp, check with accommodation
Immerse yourself in the peaceful beauty of the delta

Pros	Cons
Unique and authentic experience	Not suitable for those with mobility issues
Opportunity to see wildlife up close	Dependent on water levels in the delta
Relaxing and peaceful excursion	May not be available at all lodges or camps
Environmentally friendly with fibreglass canoes	Can be restricted by time or season

Game Drives and Wildlife Photography in Moremi Game Reserve

No safari experience is complete without a game drive, and Moremi Game Reserve offers excellent opportunities to spot a wide variety of wildlife. Game drives are typically included in the activities offered by the camps and lodges in the reserve. Depending on the water levels in the Okavango Delta, game drives may be limited in certain areas during certain times of the year. However, even if the water levels are high, safari vehicles are equipped to navigate the channels and bridges to offer thrilling wildlife sightings.

Moremi Game Reserve is home to the iconic Big Five, as well as other unique plains game species found only in this region. Wildlife photography enthusiasts will be delighted by the abundance of photo opportunities, from stunning landscapes to close encounters with Africa’s majestic animals. With expert guides who know the reserve inside out, you’ll have the best chance to capture those perfect shots and create lasting memories of your safari adventure in Moremi Game Reserve.

So whether you’re a seasoned photographer looking to add to your portfolio or a wildlife enthusiast eager to witness nature’s wonders up close, Moremi Game Reserve has it all. Embark on a game drive and let the diverse wildlife and breathtaking scenery captivate your senses. Don’t forget to bring your camera along – you never know when the perfect moment will present itself.

Park Managed by:

DWNP