Moremi Game Reserve ranks among the finest game reserves in Botswana. The Moremi Game Reserve originally comprised primarily the Mopane Tongue region, but in the 1970s, the royal hunting grounds, referred to as Chief’s Island, were incorporated. We would like to present additional information about this area to ensure an appropriate beginning. The Moremi serves as a sanctuary for some of the most endangered large mammals, including the cheetah, white rhinoceros, black rhinoceros, African wild dog, and lion. Moremi is home to more than 500 bird species, ranging from water birds to forest dwellers, as well as over 1,000 species of plants. This ecosystem ranks among the most abundant in Africa. Thanks to effective protection, the flora and fauna remain relatively undisturbed.
Moremi encompasses approximately 40% of the Okavango within the expansive UNESCO listed Okavango Delta Game Reserve. The Moremi and the Okavango Delta represent one of the rare interior delta systems that do not have a direct flow into the ocean or sea. The yearly flood creates a stunning interplay between water and wildlife, as animals align their rhythms with this seasonal inundation. Explore a distinctive landscape while residing in one of the cozy lodges in the Moremi, allowing the river to guide you on an adventure. The Okavango River serves as the essential lifeline for both the Okavango Delta and the Moremi Game Reserve. Originating from the Angola Mountains, it travels 1,600 kilometers to the west, flowing deep into Botswana on its journey to the Indian Ocean. Fortunately for the wildlife in Botswana, these fresh, clear waters do not reach the ocean, as they disappear into the dry sands of the Kalahari Desert. However, prior to that occurring, it forms the largest oasis in Africa.
What to do in Moremi National Park
Nature walks through the reserve
Nature walks through the reserve typically occur in the morning or evening, particularly during the driest months. This is because the walking trails are more accessible during this time, in contrast to the green season when they tend to be muddy and flooded. When embarking on nature walks, it is essential to accompany a knowledgeable tour guide who is familiar with all the safe routes, ensuring you steer clear of any potentially dangerous animals.
The various paths designated for nature walks also guide you to the nearby villages, allowing you to encounter the locals who reside in the area. The locals possess a deep understanding of the area, as they are the ones who established the game reserve. Engaging with them offers a unique opportunity to learn about the reserve’s origins, savor local cuisine, and experience traditional songs and dances, all while gaining insight into their rich culture and traditions.
Enjoy helicopter rides within the reserve
Helicopter rides are available to numerous tourists, and while they are considered quite costly, they provide the most exceptional opportunity to view the entire Moremi Game Reserve from above. The helicopter rides provide excellent opportunities for photo safaris, offering a unique perspective of the animals and birds throughout the entire reserve.
The helicopter rides are typically organized by various camps situated within the reserve. One of the most advantageous aspects of these helicopter rides is their speed, allowing you to explore the Moremi Game Reserve in a shorter timeframe compared to traditional game drives.
Horse-back riding through the reserve
Horseback riding is an activity offered within the Moremi Game Reserve, primarily conducted by the camps located there. Horse trainers are available to assist those who are unfamiliar with riding, providing valuable knowledge related to horseback riding. It is one of the numerous ways to connect with the animals and birds that inhabit the reserve, but it is essential to adhere to the marked horse trails.
Ride the Mokoro canoe
The Mokoro canoe, a traditionally crafted vessel by the locals of Botswana, is one of the activities you can partake in when visiting the Moremi Game Reserve. Locals utilize these to navigate various water bodies, particularly swamps, and during fishing activities. Additionally, it has become a popular trend among tourists to experience a Mokoro ride, as it offers one of the finest ways to explore the reserve. The Mokoro are crafted from sturdy hardwood and accommodate just two individuals: the person who propels it through the water and the passenger. The individual poling employs a lengthy pole while standing to propel the Mokoro, making it an excellent method for observing the various bird species that inhabit the reserve, as well as other aquatic wildlife such as hippos and crocodiles. Please be aware that the Mokoro canoe ride is not frequently available, so if you wish to participate, it is essential to notify your tour operator in advance to ensure arrangements can be made.
Moremi Game Drive Safari
A visit to the Moremi game reserve feels incomplete without embarking on a game drive through its stunning landscapes. It’s essential to plan your trip according to the season, choosing between the wet or dry months for the best experience. Its location in the Okavango Delta can lead to occasional flooding, which may hinder game drives in the reserve. The ideal time to visit is when the vegetation remains lush, yet the rainy season has concluded. During your game drive, you may encounter a variety of animals, including buffalos, giraffes, zebras, lions, hyenas, the red Lechwe, jackals, black rhinos, hippos, impalas, cheetahs, and many other species.
Enjoy the boat cruises in the reserve
The boat cruises in the Moremi Game Reserve typically occur when the water levels are elevated, which usually takes place during the green season. Boats are readily available for hire at a modest fee. However, before boarding, ensure you have a life jacket for safety reasons. While enjoying a boat cruise, you can engage in activities such as fly fishing, animal viewing, and birding. Please be aware that participation in any of these activities is not permitted without the presence of a tour guide.
Experience elephant trekking
The Moremi Game Reserve’s strategic location within the Okavango Delta has enabled the possibility of elephant trekking. The Okavango Delta is home to a significant population of elephants, and because the park is unfenced, these majestic creatures roam freely into the game reserve. Elephant trekking in the Moremi Game Reserve takes place in the mornings, and it is essential to have a tour guide accompany you. Elephants are highly sensitive creatures, and if they detect that they are being observed, they often move away. Their primary method of sensing this is by sniffing the air with their trunks. Ensure that you stay on the designated paths and adhere to the instructions of the tour guide.
Birdwatching in the Moremi Game Reserve
Birding in the Moremi Game Reserve primarily occurs during the green season, as this is when the majority of migratory birds arrive in the country. These can be experienced while driving through the reserve, enjoying a Mokoro ride, or walking through the area, particularly in the mornings. Various bird species inhabit the Moremi game reserve, including the African fish skimmer, slaty egret, green-winged Pytilia, African fish eagle, marabou storks, lesser jacana, greater painted snipes, gray herons, pelicans, African pygmy geese, and goliath herons.
Embark on a self-driving adventure in the reserve.
The landscape of the Moremi game reserve is ideal for a self-drive adventure; all you need is a map and GPS to navigate to every corner of the reserve without losing your way. Driving yourself within the reserve offers the best experience, allowing you to explore the park at your own pace while enjoying wildlife viewing and all the various activities available in the reserve.
