The Best 6 Things to Do in the Okavango Delta

The Best 6 Things to Do in the Okavango Delta

The best 6 things to do in the Okavango Delta include mokoro rides, game drives in the Okavango delta, fishing safaris in the Okavango delta, walking safaris in the Okavango delta and boat cruises in the Okavango Delta.


Imagine gliding silently through crystal-clear channels as elephants wade nearby and fish eagles soar overhead this is just a glimpse of the extraordinary experiences awaiting you in Botswana's crown jewel. The things to do in Okavango Delta create memories that will last a lifetime, offering adventures unlike anywhere else on Earth. The things to do in Okavango Delta combine incredible wildlife encounters with pristine wilderness in this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Whether you're seeking adrenaline or tranquility, the things to do in Okavango Delta cater to every type of traveler while showcasing the planet's largest inland delta.

Here Are the Best 5 Things to Do in the Okavango Delta

1. Fishing Safari in the Okavango Delta

The fishing safari ranks among the most rewarding things to do in the Okavango Delta, offering both novice and experienced anglers an unforgettable experience. The things to do in Okavango Delta certainly must include testing your skills against the legendary tigerfish, which can reach up to 15 pounds in these waters. The things to do in the Okavango Delta become even more exciting when you're reeling in bream, catfish, and African pike while hippos and crocodiles observe from a respectful distance.


This unique activity takes place primarily in the Panhandle region in the northwestern section of the delta, where deeper, permanent channels provide ideal fishing conditions. A fishing safari typically costs between $120-$200 per person for a half-day excursion, including equipment and expert guidance from local fishermen. While suitable for all ages, this activity particularly appeals to teenagers and adults with basic fishing experience. Most lodges practice catch-and-release policies, ensuring sustainable enjoyment of this premier activity among the things to do in Okavango Delta.


2. Boat Cruise in the Okavango Delta

Exploring by motorboat offers one of the most relaxing things to do in the Okavango Delta while covering significant distances through this aquatic wonderland. The things to do in Okavango Delta should always include these serene water journeys, allowing visitors to penetrate deeper into the maze of channels than would otherwise be possible. The things to do in Okavango Delta become truly magical during sunset cruises when the golden light transforms the landscape and wildlife gathers along the shorelines.


Boat cruises typically operate from camps in permanent water areas like the Jao and Vumbura concessions, costing approximately $75-$150 as part of a package or $200-$300 for private excursions. This activity suits all age groups, making it perfect for families with small children or elderly travelers seeking comfortable wildlife viewing. Experienced guides navigate the waterways pointing out tiny reed frogs, crocodiles, and the delta's exceptional birdlife—over 500 species have been recorded here. Among the many things to do in the Okavango Delta, boat cruises offer perhaps the best combination of comfort and immersive wilderness experience.


3. Traditional Mokoro Experience in the Okavango Delta

No list of things to do in the Okavango Delta would be complete without mentioning the iconic Mokoro canoe excursion. The things to do in the Okavango Delta centre around this traditional dugout canoe experience, where local polers propel you silently through shallow lagoons and papyrus-lined channels. The things to do in Okavango Delta reach their most authentic expression in this ancient mode of transportation that connects visitors to centuries of local tradition.


Available throughout the central and eastern regions of the delta, particularly in areas like Moremi and Khwai, mokoro trips cost approximately $50-$100 when booked independently or come included with most safari packages. This peaceful activity suits travelers aged 6 and above who can remain relatively still during the journey. What makes this among the most special things to do in Okavango Delta is the unique perspective—at water level, you'll spot tiny painted reed frogs, marvel at delicate water lilies, and potentially glide past elephants bathing just meters away. The silence allows for incredible wildlife encounters impossible with motorized transportation.


4. Safari Game Drive in the Okavango Delta

For encountering big predators, few things to do in the Okavango Delta compare to traditional game drives in specialized 4x4 vehicles. The things to do in the Okavango Delta must include these excursions into the savanna woodlands where lions, leopards, and wild dog’s hunt. The things to do in the Okavango Delta become particularly exciting during game drives in wildlife-rich areas like Chief's Island and the Moremi Game Reserve.


Game drives operate from virtually all safari camps but are especially productive in eastern and southern regions with higher concentrations of game. Typically included in safari packages, standalone game drives cost $100-$300 depending on duration and exclusivity. Suitable for all ages (though children under 6 may have restrictions at some camps), this activity offers something for everyone. What distinguishes game drives among the things to do in Okavango Delta is the opportunity to venture into diverse habitats from mopane woodlands to open plains, maximizing wildlife encounter possibilities. Expert guides track predators and explain complex ecosystem interactions, enriching the experience beyond mere wildlife spotting.


5. Scenic Helicopter Flight over the Okavango Delta

For a truly spectacular perspective, few things to do in Okavango Delta match the breathtaking experience of a helicopter flight over this natural wonder. The things to do in Okavango Delta reach new heights literally when you soar above the maze of channels and islands in a doors-off helicopter. The things to do in the Okavango Delta become unforgettable when witnessing the famous "water in the desert" phenomenon from above, with elephants and giraffes appearing like miniatures below.


Operating from Maun and select luxury lodges throughout the delta, helicopter flights range from $350 for a 30-minute flip to $1,200+ for extended photography-focused excursions. While suitable for all ages, this premium activity particularly appeals to photographers and special occasion celebrations. The "doors-off" option allows for unobstructed photography while pilots skilled in positioning for wildlife viewing ensure you capture elephants crossing channels or hippo pods from above. Among all the things to do in Okavango Delta, helicopter flights offer the most comprehensive understanding of this remarkable ecosystem's scale and complexity.


6. Walking Safari in the Okavango Delta

For those seeking authentic wilderness immersion, walking safaris provide some of the most thrilling things to do in the Okavango Delta. The things to do in Okavango Delta take on new meaning when experienced on foot, where all your senses engage with the environment. The things to do in Okavango Delta become more intimate during walks, as you learn to identify tracks, plants, and insect life often overlooked during vehicle safaris.


Specialized walking safari camps in the Shinde and Duba Plains areas offer this experience for approximately $100-$200 as an activity or included in premium walking-focused safari packages. Due to safety considerations, this activity is generally restricted to guests aged 16 and above. Armed professional guides lead small groups during cooler morning hours, focusing on tracking skills and ecosystem understanding rather than pursuing dangerous games. While walking safaris might not offer the quantity of wildlife sightings compared to other things to do in the Okavango Delta, they provide unmatched quality in connecting visitors to Africa's natural rhythms.

What is the Best Time to Visit the Okavango Delta?

The best time to visit the Okavango Delta is during the dry season (September to November) as it provides exceptional game viewing as animals concentrate around permanent water sources, making game drives among the best things to do in Okavango Delta during this period. The green season (December to March) offers lower rates, fewer tourists, and spectacular birdlife, though some areas become inaccessible and certain things to do in the Okavango Delta may be limited.

How to Get There to the Okavango Delta

Accessing these remarkable things to do in Okavango Delta begins with international flights to Maun International Airport, Botswana's safari hub. From there, the things to do in Okavango Delta become reachable via light aircraft transfers to airstrips near your chosen lodge. The things to do in the Okavango Delta are spread across different regions, with each camp offering access to specific activities. Charter flights between camps allow visitors to experience diverse ecosystems and maximize the variety of things to do in the Okavango Delta during a single visit. Alternatively, self-drivers with 4x4 experience can access the eastern delta through Moremi Game Reserve, though this limits the water-based things to do in the Okavango Delta.

Where to Sleep Eat and Drink in the Okavango Delta

The accommodation options enhance the incredible things to do in Okavango Delta, with each property specializing in different activities. From luxury lodges like Mombo Camp and Jao to mid-range options such as Pom Pom and Kwara, the things to do in Okavango Delta are often included in all-inclusive packages. The things to do in Okavango Delta become even more memorable when returning to exquisite dining experiences featuring local and international cuisine. Mobile-tented safaris offer more adventurous travelers access to various things to do in the Okavango Delta at a lower price point.


For comprehensive information on selecting the perfect base for your adventure, read our recent blog on the best places to sleep in the Okavango Delta here.

Booking an Okavango Delta Safari with Dav Safaris

Let our expert team craft your perfect itinerary highlighting the best things to do in Okavango Delta based on your interests, budget, and travel dates. The things to do in Okavango Delta require careful planning to maximize experiences while navigating seasonal changes and logistical considerations. The things to do in Okavango Delta become seamlessly accessible with our end-to-end service handling flights, transfers, accommodations, and activity bookings.


Contact Dav Safaris today to begin planning your journey to experience these remarkable things to do in the Okavango Delta, and discover why this destination tops Africa's must-visit wilderness areas!

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