Imagine drifting through quiet waterways in a traditional dugout canoe, wildlife whispering nearby, and falling asleep under the stars in a basic yet comfortable tent — that’s exactly what this 2-night Mokoro WildCamping Tour in the Okavango Delta promises. It’s a unique chance to see one of Africa’s most iconic landscapes from the water, on foot, and through the eyes of local guides who genuinely call this place home.
What makes this tour stand out? First, it’s led by guides born and raised in the Delta, offering authentic insights you won’t find in standard safaris. Second, it’s all-inclusive, meaning your meals, camping gear, and activities are covered, so you can relax without worrying about extra costs. Third, the tour supports the local community, with guides and polers supplied by the Okavango Mokoro Community Trust, ensuring your money benefits the people who live here.
That said, this isn’t a luxury experience — the tents are basic, and you’ll spend the nights in the wild. It’s best suited for travelers with moderate fitness levels who crave real adventure and a connection to nature. If you’re after a polished, lodge-based safari, this might not be your cup of tea. But for those seeking authenticity, wildlife, and a sense of discovery, it’s hard to beat.
Key Points
- Authentic local guides and polers provide genuine insights into the Delta’s ecosystem.
- All-inclusive pricing covers meals, camping gear, and activities, simplifying your budget.
- Wildlife encounters are frequent, with opportunities for game walks and mokoro safaris.
- Camping is comfortably basic, with a focus on the outdoor experience and sounds of nature.
- Tour operates mainly from May to October, the dry season, when game viewing is best.
- Limited to 15 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.
Exploring the Itinerary in Detail
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Day 1: Arrival and Mokoro Ride into the Heart of the Delta
The adventure kicks off with a pickup from your accommodation in Maun, around 09:00. From there, you’ll enjoy a speedboat cruise (or a 4×4 transfer during dry season) across the waters to the Buffalo Fence, a well-known border of the Delta’s wilderness. This transition from land to water marks the start of your authentic bush journey.
Once you arrive at the poler, who is a local born and raised in the Delta, you’ll hop into a traditional mokoro — a narrow dugout canoe carved from a single tree. The guides’ knowledge is evident from their stories and shared passion as they glide through the serene channels. Reviewers often mention how “their guides show you their home,” emphasizing the value of local insight.
Lunch is served on an island camp, where you’ll also get a chance to freshen up before exploring the waterways further. The feeling of floating in silence, surrounded by wildlife, is often described as “peaceful” and “unforgettable.” Expect to see a variety of birdlife, aquatic animals, and possibly some wildlife on the banks.
Day 2: Wildlife on Foot and Water
Early mornings are when the Delta reveals its true magic. After a warm greeting and light breakfast, you’ll go either on a guided bushwalk or another mokoro trip, depending on the day’s schedule. The guides’ expertise is a major highlight here; one reviewer described how “Master, a very experienced tracker and local wise man, showed us the best of the game reserve and its inhabitants.”
Throughout the day, you’ll experience game viewing both on foot and from the water. The walking safaris are carefully led by guides who know the area intimately, making encounters with elephants, lions, leopards, and smaller creatures like antelope or bird species more accessible. Reviewers note that the guides do a great job of tracking game and sharing their knowledge, making each sighting meaningful.
In the late afternoon, when the sun dips below the horizon, you’ll enjoy another game activity, often described as “thrilling,” with the chance to spot wildlife in a different setting. Dinners are cooked over a bushfire, creating a cozy, communal atmosphere.
Day 3: Final Safari and Return to Maun
Your last morning begins with a final mokoro ride and bushwalk, giving ample opportunities for wildlife sightings and photography. The experience is described as “more spectacular than words,” with reviews highlighting the quiet beauty of the waterways and the chance to connect with nature.
For lunch, you’ll unwind riverside before heading back to Maun, arriving in the late afternoon. The journey back is a perfect time to reflect on your days in the wilderness.
Transportation, Group Size, and Pricing
Transportation is straightforward: you’re picked up from your Maun accommodation, with transfers included in the package. The tour is designed for a small group of up to 15 travelers, ensuring intimacy and personalized attention.
Priced at $850 per person, this may seem steep at first glance, but it includes everything — meals, camping gear, activities, taxes, and community support. Reviewers frequently mention the value, especially considering the quality of guides and the authenticity of the experience. Many book about 25 days in advance, reflecting its popularity.
It’s worth noting that the best time for this experience is during the dry season, from May to October, when wildlife congregates around water sources and visibility is at its best. During the rainy season (November to April), tours may be canceled due to weather, and the landscape becomes greener, making wildlife sightings less predictable.
The Camping Experience: Comfort in the Wilderness
Camping in the Delta is designed to keep you close to nature. The tents are described as basic but very comfortable, with sturdy construction and enough space for a good night’s sleep. The emphasis is on waking up to the sounds of animals and the natural surroundings rather than luxury amenities.
Shared bush toilets and outdoor showers are part of the experience, with reviewers mentioning “wild bathrooms,” which add to the feeling of adventure. The guides take care of meal preparation, offering delicious, hearty bush dinners cooked over fire, which many describe as a highlight.
Wildlife and Landscape Highlights
Many reviews praise the diversity of wildlife encounters. You might see elephants bathing in the water, lions resting on a distant bank, or a secretary bird stalking prey — a sight that a reviewer eagerly anticipated and found thanks to their guide Thata. Birdwatchers will appreciate the variety of species, from kingfishers to fish eagles.
The landscape itself is a mosaic of small islands, winding channels, and open floodplains, best appreciated during the mokoro rides or guided walks. Reviewers often describe it as “spectacular,” “peaceful,” and “more beautiful than I could have imagined.”
Food and Support for Local Communities
All meals are included, with breakfast, lunch, and dinner served in the wilderness. Many travelers rave about how well-cooked and hearty the food is, often prepared by experienced bush chefs. The tour supports the Okavango Mokoro Community Trust, meaning your participation actively benefits local guides and polers.
Potential Drawbacks or Considerations
While the adventure is authentic and rewarding, the basic camping setup might not suit everyone. If you prefer more luxurious lodges or amenities, this tour could feel too rustic. Also, the schedule is weather-dependent, and during the rainy season, tours might be canceled or postponed.
Some reviewers mention the importance of moderate physical fitness — walking in the bush and managing basic facilities require resilience and adaptability. The tour’s focus on small group sizes limits the number of travelers, which is great for intimacy but less ideal for those seeking a large, social experience.
Final Thoughts
This 3-day Okavango Delta WildCamping Tour offers a rare, genuine peek into life in one of Africa’s most iconic wetlands. It’s perfect for travelers who want more than just game drives, seeking to understand local culture, wildlife, and landscape through immersive activities. The combination of expert local guides, authentic bush experience, and community support makes it a meaningful choice.
If you’re after a raw, enchanting adventure in the wilderness, with the ability to witness wildlife up close and enjoy the serenity of the Delta, this tour ticks all the boxes. Just pack your sense of adventure, a moderate level of fitness, and an open mind ready for nights under the stars.
FAQ
What is included in the tour price?
All transfers from and to your Maun accommodation, all meals, camping gear, guides, and park fees are covered.
Can I book this tour during the rainy season?
The most ideal period is May to October. During late November to April, the tour might be canceled due to weather, and game viewing could be less predictable.
How many people will be on the tour?
The maximum group size is 15 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and personalized.
Is the camping comfortable?
Tents are described as basic but very comfortable, with sturdy construction. Expect outdoor showers and bush toilets as part of the experience.
What wildlife might I see?
Many guests see elephants, lions, leopards, and various bird species. Guides are skilled at tracking and locating animals, enhancing your chances of sightings.
What should I bring?
Travelers should bring essentials like a torch, sun hat or scarf, sun glasses, sun screen, insect repellent, and closed shoes for walking safaris.
This tour is a fantastic pick for those craving an authentic slice of Botswana’s wilderness, supported by passionate local guides, and eager to step off the beaten path into the heart of the Okavango Delta.