Moremi Game Reserve

Moremi Game Reserve is one of Africa's most rewarding wildlife destinations, located on the northeastern edge of the Okavango Delta in Botswana. Covering approximately 5,000 square kilometers, this reserve encompasses a unique blend of ecosystems that create exceptional safari experiences. The landscape features a stunning mosaic of permanent swamps, seasonal floodplains, papyrus-lined channels, wooded islands, palm-fringed lagoons, and open grasslands. The reserve merges seamlessly with Chobe National Park to the north and includes the legendary Chief's Island, formerly the royal hunting grounds of Chief Moremi. This diverse habitat supports one of Africa's highest concentrations of wildlife, making it the predator capital of southern Africa with outstanding populations of lion, leopard, cheetah, and wild dog. The reserve was created in 1962 by the local BaTawana people to protect its teeming wildlife, and it remains the most accessible corner of the Okavango Delta. Moremi offers the best of both worlds within the Delta: extensive wetlands perfect for traditional mokoro (dugout canoe) trips through reed-fringed waterways, and dry peninsulas ideal for classic game drive safaris in open 4WD vehicles. The heart of the park—including Mboma Island, Third Bridge, and Xakanaxa—represents where the savannah meets the delta, offering the best of both ecosystems. The reserve is home to all Big Five species, including recently reintroduced rhino populations, though rhino sightings remain rare. Large herds of buffalo and elephant are common, and the reserve is particularly renowned as an important stronghold for African wild dog populations. Birding in Moremi is exceptional, with over 400 bird species recorded, including waterbirds, carmine bee-eaters, lilac-breasted rollers, and African fish-eagles. The reserve's accessibility compared to other Delta areas, combined with its wildlife density and diverse habitats, makes it a premier safari destination. However, this accessibility means it can become busy during peak season, particularly at campsites. The reserve offers a wide range of accommodation options, from exclusive fly-in luxury lodges like Mombo, Vumbura, Duba Plains, and Eagle Island on Chief's Island, to government campsites that offer rustic wilderness experiences. Most lodges and camps are accessible to self-drive visitors, making Moremi unique within the Okavango Delta.

Stunning mosaic of permanent swamps, seasonal floodplains, papyrus-lined channels, wooded islands, palm-fringed lagoons, open grasslands, mopane woodland, fan palm islands, and sandy forest floors. Mix of wetlands and dry peninsula habitats.

The reserve was created in 1962 by the local BaTawana people to protect wildlife. Chief Moremi's hunting grounds form the heart of the reserve. Local guides and staff provide cultural insights and wildlife expertise.

Excellent for wildlife photography, especially predators. Best light during early morning and late afternoon. Mokoro trips offer unique water-level perspectives. Sunset photography at Xakanaxa Lediba is spectacular. Bring telephoto lenses for distant wildlife. Polarizing filters useful for water reflections. Expect dusty conditions on game drives.