Moremi Game Reserve

Overview

Moremi Game Reserve lies at the heart of the Okavango Delta, one of the world’s largest inland wetlands and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Known for its lush floodplains, islands, and lagoons, Moremi offers a unique blend of land and water safaris in a pristine wilderness. It’s one of Africa’s most biodiverse safari destinations, home to the Big Five, endangered wild dogs, and a huge variety of birdlife. With limited access and intimate lodges, Moremi delivers a truly wild yet exclusive safari experience.

Fun Facts

  • The Okavango Delta floods annually, bringing life to the region from June to October.
  • Moremi was the first African reserve created by a local tribe—the BaTawana—in 1963.
  • It covers about 30% of the Okavango Delta.
  • Mokoro (dugout canoe) safaris offer silent, immersive wildlife viewing.

Things to Do

  • Take a mokoro safari through the Delta’s channels.
  • Go on game drives to spot lions, leopards, elephants, and buffalo.
  • Enjoy birdwatching for herons, storks, kingfishers, and African fish eagles.
  • Visit Chief’s Island, one of the best places in Botswana for predator sightings.
Oryx stands in a dry, desert landscape. It has long, straight horns, and black and white markings.
Oryx standing in a grassy savanna with a clear blue sky and scattered trees.
Oryx with long, straight horns stands in dry grass field under a blue sky.
Oryx resting in dry grass, with long horns and grey fur.
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Where It’s Located

  • Region: Northern Botswana, Okavango Delta
  • Distance: ~1 hour by flight from Maun or 6–7 hours by 4x4
  • Nearest Entry Point: Maun (gateway town) or Khwai area
  • Access: By air (charter flight) or overland by 4WD from Maun; internal access by mokoro or game vehicle

Wildlife Highlights

  • African wild dogs
  • Elephants and buffalo
  • Lions, leopards, and cheetahs
  • Hippos and crocodiles
  • Sitatunga and red lechwe
  • Over 400 bird species

FAQs

  • What makes Moremi different from other parks?

    Moremi offers both land and water-based safaris, making it one of the most varied and immersive wildlife experiences in Africa.

  • Can I reach Moremi by road?

    Yes—but a 4x4 is essential. Most travelers arrive by charter flight from Maun for quicker access.

  • Are mokoro safaris safe?

    Yes—mokoro excursions are led by trained polers and offer silent, low-impact wildlife viewing in shallow Delta channels.

  • Is Moremi part of a private concession?

    Moremi is a public reserve, but many of the surrounding camps operate on exclusive private concessions with low visitor numbers.

At a Glance

  • Country: Botswana
  • Location: Okavango Delta, northern Botswana
  • Established: 1963
  • Size: ~5,000 km²
  • Known For: Water & land safaris, predator sightings, Delta ecosystem
  • Best Time to Visit: June to October (dry season & Delta flood)
Discover Moremi’s Wild Heart