Situated in the southern reaches of Africa, Botswana is renowned for its pristine wilderness areas characterised by deep lagoons, wetlands, lush palms, rugged hills and desert plains. The country’s primary tourist drawcard is undoubtedly the vast red expanse of the Kalahari Desert and its remarkably beautiful Okavango Delta, the largest inland delta in the world. These natural wonders provide a tranquil haven for an abundance of African wildlife to thrive. Other highlights include the impressive Makgadikgadi Salt Pans, where visitors are privy to massive zebra migrations during the flood season; the Savuti plains, which host a significant pride of lions; and the Tsodilo Hills, where 4500 rock paintings form a unique record of human settlement over many millennia.
Situated in the east of the Okavango Delta, Moremi Game Reserve ranks as one of the most beautiful reserves in Africa.
It covers more than 4871 square kilometres of pristine wilderness, and this varied terrain includes savannah, winding waterways, and dense forest. The diverse ecosystem supports an incredibly wide spectrum of wildlife, ranging from large herds of buffalo, wildebeest and zebra, to the rare sitatunga and lechwe antelope, lion, cheetah and packs of wild dog in the open grasslands. The birdlife is prolific and includes most of the 550 bird species recorded on Botswana’s national bird list. A range of luxury lodges in the reserve offers visitors the perfect base to experience this corner of paradise.
Located in the northwest of Botswana, the Okavango Delta spans an area of around 15,000 square kilometers. It is the largest inland delta in the world, consisting of a sprawling network of waterways, lagoons, islands, reed-covered plains, and lush grasslands. This unique ecosystem, often referred to as the "Jewel of the Kalahari," is a haven of biodiversity and a paradise for nature lovers, adventurers, and photographers.
The Delta is home to an impressive array of wildlife, including elephants, buffalo, lions, leopards, cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, and many others. The waterways teem with a variety of waterbirds, crocodiles, and hippos. During the rainy season, the plains transform into a blooming paradise, while in the dry season, waterholes form, attracting numerous animals.
The combination of scenic beauty, diverse wildlife, and authentic nature experiences makes the Okavango Delta one of Africa's most exciting and breathtaking destinations. The pristine environment and tranquil surroundings provide the perfect setting for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Things to Do
Mokoro Rides: Explore the Delta in traditional dugout canoes, known as mokoros, and gently glide through the waterways while observing wildlife and aquatic plants up close.
Game Drives: Discover the rich wildlife of the Delta on game drives in a 4x4 safari vehicle. Experienced guides will take you to the best viewing spots to witness unforgettable wildlife encounters.
Guided Walks: If available, participate in guided walks to experience the fascinating flora and fauna of the Delta up close.
Bird Watching: The Delta hosts an astonishing variety of bird species, from colorful bee-eaters to majestic eagles, offering excellent opportunities for bird watching.
In north-eastern Botswana, the Boteti River winds its way along the edge of the Makgadikgadi Pans National Park – a region that was once covered by a vast ancient lake. Archaeological findings show that some of the earliest Homo sapiens lived here, giving this landscape a unique cultural and historical significance.
Today, the Boteti is an essential part of the great annual migration. Visitors can witness immense herds of oryx, wildebeest, impala, zebra, and springbok moving across the open plains, while elephants and hippos are often seen along the riverbanks. Bird lovers are equally rewarded, as flocks of flamingos and countless other species make this area their home.
Beyond traditional safari activities, the region offers truly exceptional experiences. A scenic flight in a light aircraft gives breathtaking aerial views of the migrating herds. For adventure seekers, quad biking across the shimmering salt flats and sleeping out under the vast starry skies is unforgettable. Those interested in culture can join guided tours to ancient tribal sites, gaining insight into the traditions and heritage of the area.
The Makgadikgadi Pans themselves rank among the largest salt flats in the world – a seemingly endless expanse that transforms dramatically with the rains, turning into a vibrant mix of oasis and wilderness.
Leroo La Tau cultural excursions
The Chobe River forms the northern boundary of the Chobe National Park which is renowned for its diverse and abundant game viewing opportunities. This section of the park is best known for its dense concentration of wildlife, including elephant and hippo populations, but the waters attract all manner of game including large herds of buffalo and the lions that prey on them - a visit to the Chobe River Front guarantees close encounters with an array of African wildlife. Visitors can look forward to a range of exciting activities such as 4WD along the banks; motorboat cruises; and rare birdlife spotting. For a unique, luxury safari experience, hire a houseboat.
