This trip provided a very varied experience showcasing both the animals and the scenery of the countries we passed through. We weren’t sure what to expect from camping in Africa and the facilities on offer, although basic at times, surpassed our expectations. We did the trip from 16 June – 5 July, and benefitted from seeing Victoria Falls in full flow, uncrowded campsites and great weather (though a couple of nights and early mornings were cold until the sun was up). Not sure if we were just lucky, but we saw no rain until Cape Town. Every day provided a new adventure and made the early starts and long journeys on some days absolutely worth it. We couldn’t have asked for a better ‘introduction’ to Africa.
![Okavango Delta Tours](https://res.cloudinary.com/enchanting/q_80,f_auto,c_lfill,g_auto,w_360,h_270/exodus-web/2022/07/Delta-wildlife.jpeg)
Okavango Delta Tours
Okavango Delta Holidays
Top 5 Animals to Spot on Okavango Delta Tours
African Elephant: Africa’s largest population of elephants can be found in Botswana, namely the Okavango Delta, however, in the rainyseason the herds migrate. Elephants are integral to the area’s rich ecosystem as they carve out essential channels in the water to allow it flows more freely and provide other animals with open grassland by breaking down trees in the forests. The African elephant is the largest land mammal on the planet, and it has become an iconic symbol of Africa. To see them close up in their natural environment Is a humbling and extraordinary experience.
Hippos: These humungous creatures might be a little scary with their massive gaping mouths that show off their huge teeth, but to see them in the Okavango Delta is incredible. They also play a large part in maintaining the water flow in the Okavango, which is why they’re so vital to the ecosystem. This giant beast can weigh up to a whopping two tonnes but despite their size, they can hit speeds of over 30kph. The reason you’re likely to see hippos submerged in water during the day is because they need to keep cool from the heat. In the evenings when the temperatures have cooled down, they’ll then go onto dry land to graze.
Red Lechwe: Not quite as famous around the world as other African wildlife, the Red lechwe is a colourful antelope found mainly in woodland, swamps and wetlands such as the Okavango Delta. You’ll see them bounding through the river and often lying low in deep water to escape from predators. But when on land, they can reach surprisingly high speeds that they can maintain for long distances, unlike many other land mammals. As well as their speed they’re also very agile which comes in useful when being chased by a predator.
Rhino: The Rhino has certainly earned its status as it can weigh up to a mind-blowing 7,700lbs, with huge horns that can grow up to five feet in length. Next to the African elephant, the rhino is the second largest land mammal and since being reintroduced into the area, the Okavango Delta is one of the few places where you can see the Big Five in Botswana. Despite its hefty size, the rhino can reach speeds of up to 40mph and can be heard thundering across the land.
Wild Dogs: Also known as painted wolves due to their distinctive mottled coats, African wild dogs are often spotted in the Okavango Delta, since much of their natural habitat has been destroyed elsewhere and they have become highly endangered. Unlike domestic dogs, they only have four toes, large ears, and they are found in close-knit packs. They are known for their agility and ruthlessness, which makes them elusive and respected predators in the animal kingdom.
Katie Illingworth Victoria Falls to Cape Town – Camping
Tim Fowler Wildlife & Wilderness of BotswanaThis trip isn’t for everyone. You have to be prepared for camping in the wild: sleeping in a tent to the sounds of lions, hyenas and hippos; rising with the sun in the early morning; and the joys of “bushy bushy” (if you know, you know). But with this trip comes some of the most exceptional wildlife viewing experiences I’ve had. And the unique experience of being among the wilderness made this feel like one of the most authentic safari holidays out there.
Tim Jukes Wildlife & Wilderness of BotswanaThis is my 9th Exodus tour and can honestly say it was one of the best. Wild camping in Africa is such an awesome experience – night skies, dawn and dusk safaris, animals everywhere, plus a visit to Victoria Falls. This is an incredible trip to an incredible country – you won’t be disappointed! It is well-named: if “Wildlife and Wilderness” appeals, this is a trip for you.
The Adventure Begins Here
Get regular inspiration straight to your inbox from Exodus' experts.