Best Time to Visit – Okavango Delta

Anthony Ham
Expert
By Anthony Ham

Anthony is a renowned Africa expert and author of many Lonely Planet guidebooks, including the 'Botswana & Namibia' guide.

Anthony is a renowned Africa expert and author of the 'Botswana & Namibia' Lonely Planet guide.

Anthony is the author of the 'Botswana & Namibia' Lonely Planet guide.

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A visit to the Okavango Delta is rewarding any time of the year, but the best time for wildlife viewing is from July to October. The wet months, from January to March, are less ideal because some areas become inaccessible. Due to the time it takes for the water to reach the delta, the flooding is highest in the dry months, which is ideal for mokoro (dugout canoe) trips.

Best Time July to October (Best wildlife viewing)
High Season July to October (High season rates may apply, small exclusive lodges never get busy)
Low Season November to June (Low-season rates may apply)
Best Weather May to August (Less hot during the day)
Worst Weather October (It gets extremely hot)

April to October –Dry Season

  • Wildlife viewing is better as the Dry season progresses
  • Water levels are highest – good for mokoro trips
  • July to October are high season months, and lodges charge higher rates
  • September and October are very hot

Wildlife Photos

View Photos (20)
+18 Photos Want to Visit

November to March –Wet Season

  • A lot of wildlife remains in the heart of the delta, which has permanent water
  • There are plenty of baby animals, which attract predators
  • Best bird watching time as migrants are present
  • There is less wildlife in the delta
  • Water levels in the delta can drop too low for mokoro trips
  • It is very hot
  • Afternoon rainstorms can interfere with delta activities
  • Parts of the delta can become inaccessible
  • Some lodges close from January to March

Wildlife Photos
+18 Photos

Best Time to Go to Botswana by Major Park

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