The Okavango Delta channels are patrolled by hippos, and gliding past their pools in a mokoro dugout canoe is one of Africa's most atmospheric wildlife moments. Reached by light aircraft into remote fly-in camps, the delta trades crowds for pristine wilderness where poled canoes and boats bring you quietly to the water. The dry season from May to October, when floodwaters peak and animals concentrate, is the time to go.
The Okavango Delta channels are patrolled by hippos, and gliding past their pools in a mokoro dugout canoe is one of Africa's most atmospheric wildlife moments. Reached by light aircraft into remote fly-in camps, the delta trades crowds for pristine wilderness where poled canoes and boats bring you quietly to the water. The dry season from May to October, when floodwaters peak and animals concentrate, is the time to go.
Up to 86% sighting chance in Okavango Delta (Moremi), Botswana. Best months: August, July, September.
Experienced polers know the pods and keep a wide, careful line around them, since hippos are dangerous and channels are chosen to avoid disturbing them.
Most camps are fly-in only, by light aircraft from Maun, though budget mokoro trips also run from Maun into the eastern delta.
Fly-in camps run roughly 400 to 1,800 USD per person per night (2026 prices); budget mokoro trips from Maun are far cheaper.
