Game Drives (Okavango Delta)

While many people's Delta dream consists of lush waterways lapping peacefully against a mokoro as it weaves between hippo pods, game drives still represent the best possible chance of getting close to the Okavango's huge range of animals. Extended game drives with top guides are almost always included in your Delta safari in the private concessions. It's usually an early start for breakfast before setting off on a drive as the sun slowly rises: a cool but utterly enchanting time to be on the road, as the bush slowly wakes up and wildlife emerges to face the day. There are frequent stops to view animals, learn about the flora and fauna from your guide, take photographs and enjoy refreshments.

Many of the Delta's most exclusive camps boast a network of routes that you will have entirely to yourself. Unlike the Moremi Reserve, there are few restrictions on off-road driving and night activities. The animals you will see can depend on the concession, but it is worth remembering that Botswana has a wildlife diversity to match anything in Africa, with lion, cheetah, leopard, wild dog, elephant, buffalo and abundant birdlife all present in the Delta.