The only part of the Okavango Delta formerly protected by law, Moremi Game Reserve consists of a mix of savanna grassland, tree-lined shrubland, and the permanent waterways which have helped make the Okavango Delta famous throughout the world.
Set aside in 1963, three years before Botswana’s independence from the United Kingdom, and named after a chieftain of the BaTawana tribe and his wife, Moremi spans approximately 1,900 square miles (or six times the size of New York City).
Divided roughly into two-thirds delta waters and one third dry land, the reserve provides habitats for a huge variety of species, from the Big Five to almost 500 birds. For the former, head to the area of Mopane Tongue or Chief’s Island (added to the reserve in the 1970s). Their golden grasses blend with the thick bush loved by Cape wild dogs, some of the rarest animals in Africa. Elephants are a regular sighting, alongside giraffe and antelope, while rhino (both black and white species), lion, and leopard usually make an appearance on a multi-night stay.
Moremi’s birds can be found at their densest where dry land meets the Okavango river’s channels. Purple gallinules, wattled cranes, and malachite kingfishers are just some examples of the avian families spotted.
Lodges dot Moremi, ensuring that whether by traditional canoe, motorboat, vehicle, or on foot, you’re never far from your next wildlife sightings, but unlikely to encounter any other tourist traffic.
Botswana Travel Guide
Botswana Tours & Safaris / Botswana FAQ / Botswana Weather / Botswana Accommodations
Top Botswana Travel Destinations
Central Kalahari Game Reserve / Chobe National Park / Kwando, Selinda, & Linyanti Reserves / Makgadikgadi Pans & Nxai Pan National Parks / Maun / The Okavango Delta
The Big Five
African Elephant / Cape Buffalo / Leopard / Lion / Rhino
