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The Okavango Delta is a paradise that fluctuates between wetlands and lush greenery in the wet seasons, and a desert oasis in the dry seasons; giving life to all aspects of the natural world in Botswana. Can you see yourself there? Picture the vast expanse of water shimmering in the warm African sun, a verdant oasis within the heart of Africa. The Okavango Delta is not just a mirage of the Kalahari desert, it is a masterpiece sculpted by nature. It is a place where the ordinary becomes extraordinary, the secrets of nature’s beauty are revealed, and an opportunity to ground yourself and connect with the African wilderness. From the moment you lay your eyes upon the charm that the Delta has to offer, you’ll be captivated by its uniqueness. The labyrinths of waterways, lush islands, and floodplains that create the habitat for many species of different animals and plants alike is the perfect African oasis for your family getaway. Whether you’re an avid wildlife enthusiast, or just an everyday adventurer with a valued safari tour package, the Okavango Delta promises an experience unlike any other.
1. Wonderous wetlands
Imagine yourself drifting upon the far stretching wetlands in green and blue of Africa’s third largest river — the Okavango Delta. It is a watery delight hidden deep within the warm heart of the Kalahari, and every bend in the river reveals a new chapter of the extraordinary natural world. The Okavango Delta, unlike other rivers, is a landlocked body of water that does not flow into the sea. The river’s magnificence lies within its ability to create a safe haven for wildlife during wet seasons, and also a sanctuary for the adventurer at heart. This sparkling jewel is truly a sight to behold (ironically) within the desert’s midst.
The Okavango Delta is not just a sight to merely survey. Deep within lies a complex ecosystem that houses hundreds of species that rely on the river to sustain them. Above you is a canopy of palm trees beaming with life, but below the surface is where the natural balance is maintained. The water is filled with tiny creatures and fish that are preyed upon by the larger animals, such as crocodiles and birds — it’s a delicate balance that has been perfected over thousands of years.
Don’t forget the spectacle of wildlife that teems the Okavango Delta. From the gentle giants of the savanna — elephants who glide through the water without ease, caring for their young and maintaining their place in the environment – to the ghost of the bush, the leopard who stealthily catches their prey in the shadows of the plains. You can rest assured that the Okavango Delta will have you in constant awe of nature’s magic.
2. Wildlife in the Delta
The Okavango Delta is the wildlife enthusiast and adventurer’s dream come true. As the floodwaters rise and fall throughout the year, they create a dynamic habitat that supports all the species of the Delta in their drive to reproduce and survive for generations to come. During the dry season, the Delta shrinks, pushing wildlife into more concentrated and smaller areas. This makes it easier to spot creatures on the hunt for prey, like lions, hyenas, and cheetahs. As the Earth continues its orbit of the Sun and the wet season comes around again, the floodwaters return and bring with them a bounty of aquatic plants and fish — attracting water-loving animals such as hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of different bird species.
One of the most sought-after sights would be the African elephant, the behemoth of the Okavango Delta. They can often be seen traversing through shallow waters, their large bodies stomping the surrounding vegetation, leaving an imprint behind them. Elephants are very social animals, thus where there is one, you can be sure that a herd will follow. Another marvellous animal to look out for in the Okavango Delta is the leopard. Coined as the ghost of the bush, these remarkable cats are expert hunters, often using the dense vegetation of the Delta to their advantage. Leopards can also be seen in trees, as they are swift climbers, where they go to feast on their prey and protect their prize hunt to avoid other scavengers.
Nevertheless, be it wildlife on the vast plains or up in the sky, the Delta is a birdwatcher’s paradise, too. The skies and tree tops of the Okavango Delta sport various bird species, including herons, egrets, kingfishers, and hundreds more. It is life-changing to experience the annual migration of thousands of waterbirds to the Delta. These majestic birds come from every corner of the continent, all drawn to the Delta’s abundant food supply during the wet seasons.
3. Adventure awaits
The Okavango Delta is a playground for all different types of adventure seekers — whether you’re a thrill seeker, a nature lover, or simply looking for a unique experience far away from everyday life — there is something for everyone in this wondrous wetland. One of the best ways to explore the wetlands would be by mokoro. These traditional canoes are perfect for navigating the shallow waters of the Delta — taking you up close and personal to the wildlife. As you float through the river, surrounded by sounds of lush water and nature abound, keep your eyes peeled for the fantastical, local fauna and flora.
For more of an adrenaline rush, look into game drives. As you explore the vast plains of the Okavango Delta in a 4×4 vehicle, you’ll have the chance to see all of these aforementioned animals in their natural habitat. And not to mention if you like fishing, the Delta waters are teeming with fish, including catfish, bream, and tilapia. Whether you are a beginner fisherman or an experienced angler, you are sure to have a memorable fishing experience in these lush wetlands.
And if none of the latter interests you, the Okavango Delta has a variety of watersports for its visitors to partake in. You can go swimming, kayaking, or even wakeboarding. Whether you are looking for relaxation, adventure, or simply a chance to connect with nature — the Delta will exceed your expectations. The Okavango Delta is a diverse destination that will have any traveller, solo or with your family, to yearn for a trip back to these awe-inspiring landscapes.
4. Meeting the locals
The Okavango Delta is not only considered a natural wonder, it is also a treasure of deep cultural landscapes. For many years the people of the Delta have developed a connection with their environment; living in harmony with the water and the land. The Okavango Delta is home to many different indigenous communities, including the San, the Bayei, and the Hambukushu — their rich cultural heritage can be viewed through their music, art, and traditional ceremonies. Visiting the Okavango Delta offers not only a pleasurable viewing of the natural world, but also a type of interconnectedness that comes with experiencing the different cultures of the area.
Meeting the locals of the Okavango Delta is one of the most rewarding experiences during your visit to this destination. The San is an indigenous community known for their excellent tracking skills and their incredibly extensive knowledge of the Delta environment that they inhabit. Spending time with a tracker from the San can truly be an enlightening experience. The Bayei are masters of the water — they are skilled boat builders and fishermen. Historically this community has lived on the waterways, mastering every aspect of the wetlands and its fluctuations during wet and dry seasons.
As a visitor to the Okavango Delta, it is important to support the local businesses and communities of the area. This in turn helps the community to sustain themselves, and help to conserve the beauty of this awe-inspiring destination for generations to come. Purchasing hand crafted goods from the local artisans, or staying in a community-run lodge are some of the simplest things you can do to support the community.
How Can I Find Myself in the Beautiful Plains of the Okavango Delta?
Now that you have been there in your mind’s eye and envisioned yourself at this dream-like getaway destination, the wildlife, and the local communities — you might be thinking, “How can I get my hands on a safari tour package straight to the Okavango Delta?” With Travel Republic Africa, that dream is closer to reality than you might think. If you feel the blue and green of the wetlands in the warm heart of Africa calling your name, “Africa” by Toto might even be the soundtrack to this daydream — contact us here today!
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