The Okavango Delta is a natural wonder—a vast oasis of water, life, and wilderness in the heart of the Kalahari. Every year, seasonal floodwaters transform the landscape, turning arid sand into a lush paradise for wildlife and adventure. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Delta is truly the jewel of Botswana’s wilderness.
Land of Plenty: Okavango Delta, Botswana
In the Okavango Delta, Botswana’s wild heart, life flourishes in pristine channels, palm-fringed islands, and thriving wetlands. Adventurers and nature lovers alike are drawn to these untouched reaches—home to the last great wetland wilderness on Earth.
Atzaró Okavango’s private concession, nestled between the iconic Moremi Game Reserve and Gomoti Plains, offers unrivalled access to nature and seclusion for the ultimate Botswana safari destination.
A Year-Round Safari in the Okavango Delta
With two main weather patterns—but three distinct travel seasons—the Okavango Delta is a paradise for nature lovers year-round.
The dry season (May–October) brings legendary wildlife sightings and clear skies. The emerald season (November–April) transforms the Delta into a lush, vibrant wonderland—perfect for birding, dramatic skies, and photographic safaris.
Every visit is unique, and for safari planning, we divide the year into three magical phases: May–August (cool, flooded, best for wildlife), September–November (hot, peak action), and December–April (green, dramatic, and alive with birds).
No matter when you visit, each season offers its own magic in Botswana’s Okavango Delta.
May to August: (Dry/winter/high wildlife season; ideal for most safaris)
The dry season is peak safari in the Okavango Delta—sunny days, cool nights, and wildlife gathering near water.
The arrival of the floodwaters occurs in May each year and will slowly rise over the coming winter months, bringing with it a flourish of new life and an evolving landscape. This time of year has the most pleasant temperatures, with sunny, clear afternoons of around 20°C or 68°F. Occasionally, a cool change might lead to a slight temperature drop. May to August is comfortable for outdoor activities. Early mornings and nights can be cold, with temperatures around 7°C or 44.6°F, so we advise packing warm clothing that can be layered for ease.
September to November: (Hot/dry—intense game viewing)
The hot, dry months in the Okavango Delta bring incredible game viewing as wildlife gathers at shrinking water sources—expect peak action and dramatic sunsets in Botswana.
Temperatures rise in late September, while October and November are the hottest months of the year. During this time, the landscape dries out and animals congregate in large numbers around water sources. In early summer, temperatures can range between 28°C or 82.4°F and 36°C or 96.8°F. To stay comfortable during the heat of the day, we recommend packing lightweight, loose-fitting clothing, and sun protection for day-time activities.
December to April: (Green/wet season—lush, dramatic, best for birds and scenery)
The green season transforms the Okavango Delta, Botswana into a lush paradise—expect dramatic thunderstorms, vibrant birdlife, and breathtaking scenery ideal for photography and adventure.
At this time of year, you can expect the annual summer rainfall to begin. Afternoon thunderstorms are common and create a dramatic, yet beautiful experience over the vast plains. From December onwards, temperatures gradually cool. Daytime averages range from 28°C or 82.4°F to 32°C or 89.6°F, creating a pleasant climate for a host of activities and comfortable conditions for explorations on land and water. We advise packing light clothing that can be layered in neutral shades.
