Linyanti Concession: A Comprehensive Guide to Botswana's Premier Safari Destination

Overview & Location

The Linyanti Concession stands as one of Northern Botswana's most exclusive and remote safari destinations. Tucked along the southern banks of the Linyanti River, this private reserve spans an impressive 482 square miles (1,250 square kilometers), encompassing 308,000 acres of pristine wilderness. Strategically positioned where Botswana meets Namibia, the Linyanti Concession is sandwiched between the Okavango Delta to the south and west and Chobe National Park to the east, creating a unique geographical advantage for wildlife viewing.

The concession area is actually divided into three distinct zones: the Linyanti Reserve (NG15), the Kwando concession (NG14) to the north, and the Selinda concession (NG16) in the center. This arrangement ensures that visitors experience a truly secluded safari, as the limited number of private lodges and camps creates an unrivaled atmosphere of remoteness and seemingly unlimited expanse for exploration.

Wildlife & Natural Features

Diverse Habitats and Landscapes

The Linyanti Concession is renowned for its remarkable habitat diversity. The reserve encompasses dry woodlands and grasslands, lush marshes, riverine forests, and winding lagoons that collectively create breathtaking scenery. The mopane woodland dominates much of the landscape, offering a striking contrast to the Okavango Delta's waterways. This varied terrain supports an extraordinary array of wildlife and creates distinct ecological zones throughout the concession.

Elephant Population and Large Mammals

Linyanti is among the best places in Botswana to see elephants. With no borders between the concession and neighboring Chobe National Park, animals pass freely between regions, resulting in substantial elephant populations throughout the area. The reserve's diverse habitats also support abundant populations of other large mammals, including zebras, lions, buffalo, and various antelope species. The prolific wildlife presence makes every game drive an exciting opportunity for close encounters.

Exceptional Birdwatching Destination

The Linyanti Concession is an outstanding all-year African birding destination. The reserve hosts an impressive array of species ranging from Okavango specials such as Hartlaub's babbler, wattled crane, slaty egret, African skimmer, and Allen's gallinule, to drier mopane woodland species including racket-tailed roller, Bradfield's hornbill, white-breasted cuckoo-shrike, Bennett's woodpecker, swallow-tailed bee-eater, and Arnott's chat. Bird enthusiasts will also encounter kori bustards, ostriches, and various owl species, including Verreaux's eagle-owl.

Best Time to Visit

Dry Season (May to October)

Wildlife watching in Linyanti reaches its peak during the drier months from May to October. This period offers the best opportunities for viewing elephants and other large mammals, as animals concentrate around remaining water sources. The cooler temperatures and reduced vegetation make game spotting more rewarding, and night drives become particularly productive for observing nocturnal species.

Green Season (November to April)

The wetter months from November to April transform the landscape into lush, vibrant scenery. January marks the height of summer, with warm daytime temperatures around 30°C. The afternoon rains replenish plants, waterholes, and rivers, creating refreshed surroundings. This season attracts numerous migratory birds and large herds of zebra to the region, making it ideal for birdwatchers and those seeking diverse wildlife experiences.

Activities & Experiences

Traditional Game Drives

Game drives form the cornerstone of the Linyanti safari experience. Day drives allow visitors to traverse the varied habitats and observe wildlife in their natural environment. Night drives in the private concession provide a rare chance to spot nocturnal wildlife in action, revealing species and behaviors invisible during daylight hours. The exclusivity of the private concession ensures intimate wildlife encounters without the crowding found in national parks.

Walking Safaris

Walking safaris offer an immersive, ground-level perspective of the bush. Guided by experienced local trackers, visitors can explore the region's diverse flora, track animals on foot, and experience the African wilderness in a more intimate manner. This activity provides opportunities for detailed observation of smaller creatures, insects, and plant species while enjoying the tranquility of the landscape.

Mokoro Excursions

Traditional mokoro safaris through the shallow waterways of the Linyanti Wetlands offer a unique perspective on the aquatic ecosystem. Expert local polers navigate these waterways, providing silent passage that allows for close observation of water birds, fish, and aquatic mammals. This peaceful activity contrasts beautifully with the excitement of game drives.

River Activities

When water levels permit, river activities provide additional opportunities for exploration and wildlife viewing from a different vantage point. These activities showcase the importance of the Linyanti River to the region's ecosystem and the animals that depend upon it.

Getting There

Air Access

Most visitors access the Linyanti Concession via Maun, Botswana's primary safari hub. From Maun Airport, charter flights transport guests directly to the concession's airstrips, typically requiring 1-2 hours of flight time. This air access is the most practical option for international travelers and ensures efficient transfers to lodge accommodations.

Lodge Operations

The lodges operating within Linyanti are primarily run by Wilderness Safaris, a company renowned for delivering exclusivity, impeccable service, and superb guiding. Some camps operate on a seasonal basis, offering authentic safari experiences in the style of mobile camps with light environmental footprints while maintaining perfect comfort standards.

Practical Information

Accommodation Options

Linyanti offers a range of accommodation options from luxury lodges to comfortable tented camps. The limited number of facilities ensures exclusivity and reduces environmental impact. Many camps provide dining tents with communal settings, fostering connections among guests while enjoying meals in the African bush.

Tour Packages and Pricing

Various tour operators offer curated safari packages to the Linyanti Concession. Typical offerings include 7-day authentic Botswana safaris combining Linyanti with neighboring concessions like Khwai. Pricing varies based on season, accommodation level, and included activities, with mid-range options starting around $4,773 per person and extending to $7,318 per person for premium experiences.

What to Expect

Visitors should prepare for variable terrain and wildlife viewing conditions. While the mopane woodland may require more effort for wildlife sightings compared to open plains, the rewards are exceptional. The concession's remoteness means limited infrastructure outside lodges, but this isolation is precisely what creates the unparalleled sense of adventure and authenticity that defines a Linyanti safari.

The Linyanti Concession represents an exceptional choice for discerning travelers seeking an authentic African safari experience. Its combination of diverse habitats, abundant wildlife, exceptional birdwatching opportunities, and exclusive atmosphere creates memories that endure long after departure from this remarkable wilderness.