The Okavango Delta in Botswana is one of the richest wildlife ecosystems in Africa. Its unique mix of permanent waterways, seasonal floodplains and dry woodland supports an incredible diversity of animals, making an Okavango Delta safari one of the most rewarding wildlife experiences on the continent.
From iconic Big Game to rare and endangered species, this guide highlights the top wildlife you can see in the Okavango Delta and where your chances of sightings are highest — especially on a mobile safari with Wild Africa Safaris.
Elephants: Giants of the Delta
The Okavango Delta is home to some of Africa’s largest elephant populations. Huge breeding herds move between islands and floodplains, particularly during the dry season.
Best places to see elephants: – Permanent water channels – Open floodplains – River crossings during peak dry months
Lions: Masters of the Floodplains
Okavango Delta lions are famous for adapting to wet environments, often hunting in shallow water and floodplains.
Best sightings: – Open grasslands – Seasonal floodplains – Early morning and late afternoon game drives
Leopards: Elusive and Elegant
Leopards thrive in the Delta’s riverine forests and woodland edges, offering some of the best leopard sightings in Botswana.
Where to find leopards: – Tree-lined channels – Island woodlands – Near permanent water sources
African Wild Dogs: The Delta’s Rarest Predators
The Okavango Delta is one of the best places in Africa to see African wild dogs, thanks to protected habitats and low tourism pressure.
Best chances of sightings: – Open floodplains – During denning season – Morning game drives
Buffalo: Powerful Herds on the Move
Large buffalo herds roam the Delta, particularly in areas with rich grazing during the dry season.
Where buffalo are commonly seen: – Floodplains – Seasonal grazing areas – Near permanent water
Giraffe and Plains Game
Giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, impala and kudu are widespread across the Delta and provide vital prey for predators.
Best viewing areas: – Woodland edges – Grassland plains – Transitional habitats
Hippos and Crocodiles: Rulers of the Waterways
The Delta’s waterways are home to dense populations of hippos and Nile crocodiles.
Best viewing experiences: – Mokoro safaris – Boat cruises – River channels and lagoons
Rare Antelope Species
The Okavango Delta is famous for its rare and water-adapted antelope species.
Species include: – Red lechwe – Sitatunga – Tsessebe
These animals are most often seen in wetland and floodplain habitats.
Birdlife: A Paradise for Birdwatchers
With over 400 recorded species, the Okavango Delta is one of Africa’s premier birding destinations.
Highlights include: – African fish eagle – Pel’s fishing owl – Kingfishers and herons – Migratory species during the green season
Why Mobile Safaris Offer the Best Wildlife Sightings
Mobile safaris allow camps to move between prime wildlife areas, increasing the variety and quality of sightings.
At Wild Africa Safaris, our mobile safari routes are planned around seasonal wildlife movements, ensuring guests experience the best the Okavango Delta has to offer.
Experience Okavango Delta Wildlife with Wild Africa Safaris
An Okavango Delta safari offers unmatched wildlife diversity and intimate encounters with nature. From powerful predators to rare antelope and abundant birdlife, every day brings new discoveries.
Contact Wild Africa Safaris today to plan your Okavango Delta mobile safari and experience Botswana’s wildlife at its finest.
