Is Okavango Delta Safe?

Hippos are the greatest danger, especially during mokoro excursions on narrow channels. Always follow your poler's instructions and remain seated in the mokoro. Elephants are common and can be aggressive, particularly bulls in musth. At camp, never walk unescorted at night. Lions and leopards roam freely through unfenced camps. Buffalo are unpredictable and should be given wide clearance.

Malaria is a serious risk throughout the Delta, especially during the wet season (November to March). Antimalarial prophylaxis is strongly recommended. Bilharzia is present in the water, so avoid prolonged skin contact with Delta waterways. Ensure hepatitis A, typhoid, and yellow fever vaccinations are current. Drink only bottled or purified water.

Crime against tourists in the Okavango Delta is virtually non-existent. Maun, the main gateway town, is safe but take standard precautions with valuables. Camps are located in private concessions with controlled access. Botswana is one of Africa's most stable and well-governed countries.

Most Delta camps are accessed by small bush planes flying from Maun onto grass or dirt airstrips. These flights are generally safe but weight limits are strictly enforced. Mokoro trips carry some inherent risk from hippos and crocodiles. Boat transfers on larger channels are well-managed. Road access to the Delta's eastern areas is possible but requires a 4WD vehicle.

The flood season (June to August) brings peak water levels and cooler temperatures. Summer (November to March) is hot with temperatures above 35 degrees Celsius, and afternoon thunderstorms can be intense. Lightning is a risk on open water. Winter nights can be surprisingly cold, dropping below 5 degrees Celsius.

Crocodiles and hippos inhabit the Delta's waterways. Never swim unless your guide explicitly confirms it is safe. Bilharzia is present in standing water. Life jackets are provided on motorboat transfers but not always on mokoros. Drink only treated or bottled water.