Moremi Game Reserve Travel Guide 2026: Safaris, Best Time to Visit, Costs & Tips
The Moremi Game Reserve (Moremi-Wildreservat) is one of Africa's finest wildlife destinations. Covering nearly 5,000 km² on the eastern side of the Okavango Delta, it combines permanent waterways, lagoons, floodplains, mopane woodlands and grasslands, creating diverse habitats for an extraordinary range of animals. Moremi is famous for its predators, including lions, leopards, cheetahs and the endangered African wild dog, as well as large herds of elephants, buffalo and antelope such as the water-loving red lechwe and sitatunga. It was the first reserve in Africa created by a local community, the BaTawana people, in 1963. Visitors can explore by game drive, boat and mokoro. This Moremi Game Reserve travel guide covers the best time to visit, the top areas, where to stay, how to get there and around, costs, entry rules and practical tips.
Best Time to Visit Moremi
Dry season (July–October) is the best time for wildlife viewing. Vegetation thins, animals gather around water sources and the Okavango flood fills the channels, creating ideal conditions for boat and mokoro trips. September and October are the peak months for predator sightings, but it gets very hot.
Early dry season (May–June) offers pleasant weather and good wildlife.
Wet season (November–April) is green and lush, with newborn animals and excellent birdwatching. Some roads become muddy and difficult, and wildlife is more dispersed. Prices are lower.
Top Areas and Things to Do in Moremi
1. Third Bridge
One of Moremi's most famous areas, with a classic campsite beside a log bridge, surrounded by floodplains with frequent lion, leopard and wild dog sightings.
2. Xakanaxa
A beautiful area of lagoons and channels, known for its birdlife, boat trips and heronries, as well as elephants and predators.
3. Khwai
The northern area of Moremi along the Khwai River, famous for its elephants, hippos, leopards and wild dogs. The neighbouring Khwai Community Concession allows night drives and walking safaris.
4. Mboma Island
A large island with grasslands and channels, accessible by road and boat, offering scenic drives and wildlife.
5. Chief's Island
The largest island in the delta, accessible mainly from luxury camps, known for its high concentrations of wildlife, including predators and, at times, rhinos reintroduced to the area.
6. Boat and Mokoro Safaris
Explore the channels by motorboat or traditional mokoro, spotting hippos, crocodiles, elephants and birds such as the African fish eagle, pel's fishing owl and wattled crane.
7. Birdwatching
Moremi has more than 400 bird species, making it one of Africa's top birding destinations.
Beyond Moremi
- Maun: The gateway town, about 2 hours south by road.
- Chobe National Park and Savuti: To the northeast via the Khwai and Savuti routes.
- Okavango Delta private concessions: Exclusive safari camps.
- Makgadikgadi Pans: Salt pans and meerkats.
Suggested 4-Day Moremi Safari Itinerary
Day 1 – South Gate to Xakanaxa: Enter through South Gate, game drive to Xakanaxa and take a sunset boat trip on the lagoons.
Day 2 – Xakanaxa: Morning game drive, afternoon mokoro or boat trip.
Day 3 – Third Bridge: Drive to Third Bridge and Mboma Island for predator sightings.
Day 4 – Khwai: Explore the Khwai River area before heading to Chobe or back to Maun.
Wild Dogs of Moremi
The African wild dog, also known as the painted wolf, is one of Africa's most endangered carnivores, with only around 6,000 left in the wild. Northern Botswana, including Moremi and its surrounding concessions, holds one of the largest remaining populations. Wild dogs live in packs and are highly successful hunters. Seeing a pack, especially with puppies in their den (usually around June–August), is one of the highlights of a Moremi safari.
Self-Drive vs. Guided Safari
Moremi is one of the few top African reserves where self-drive safaris are possible. Self-drivers must book campsites in advance, carry all supplies and have experience with deep sand and water crossings. Many travellers prefer guided mobile safaris or lodges, which offer expert guides, logistics and better wildlife spotting.
Safari Food
Lodges and mobile safaris serve hearty meals, bush breakfasts and sundowner snacks. Try seswaa, pap, grilled meat and freshly baked bread around the campfire.
What to Pack for a Botswana Safari
- Neutral-coloured clothing: Khaki, olive and beige; avoid bright colours, white and dark blue (which attracts tsetse flies in some areas).
- Layers: Mornings and evenings in winter (June–August) can be close to freezing on open vehicles, while afternoons are warm.
- Soft-sided bag: Required for light aircraft transfers, usually with a 20 kg limit.
- Binoculars and camera: A zoom lens of 200–400 mm is ideal.
- Sun protection: Hat, sunglasses and high-SPF sunscreen.
- Insect repellent and malaria tablets: For northern Botswana.
- Headlamp, adaptor and power bank: Many camps run on solar power.
Botswana's Conservation Model
Botswana is known for its high-value, low-volume approach to tourism, limiting visitor numbers in sensitive areas while charging higher prices to fund conservation and community development. Around 40% of the country is protected as national parks, reserves or wildlife management areas. Many safari concessions are run in partnership with local communities, who receive a share of tourism revenue. Botswana has also been a leader in rhino conservation, relocating rhinos to safer areas and running anti-poaching programmes.
Where to Stay in Moremi
- Public campsites: Third Bridge, Xakanaxa, South Gate and Khwai (booked in advance through private operators).
- Lodges inside Moremi: Such as Camp Moremi, Camp Okuti and Mombo Camp on Chief's Island.
- Khwai Concession: Tented camps with night drives and walking safaris.
- Mobile safaris: Tented camps that move with the safari.
Compare hotel prices and availability in Moremi here.
Getting There & Around
Flying to Moremi
The gateway is Maun Airport (MUB), with flights from Johannesburg, Cape Town and Gaborone. From Maun, light aircraft fly to airstrips inside and near Moremi, such as Xakanaxa, Khwai and Chief's Island. Search and compare cheap flights to Maun for Moremi to find the best fares.
By Road
From Maun, it's about 2 hours to South Gate by 4x4. Roads are sandy and can flood; a high-clearance 4x4 is essential.
Getting Around
- Game drives: With lodges or guides.
- Self-drive: For experienced 4x4 drivers with supplies.
- Boats and mokoros: In the water areas.
- Light aircraft: Between camps.
Travel Costs in Moremi
The currency is the Botswana pula (BWP), though safari prices are usually quoted in US dollars. Park fees are charged per person and per vehicle per day.
| Travel style | Accommodation | Food & activities | Park fees & transport | Daily total (per person) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Budget | US$40–80 (campsite) | US$30–50 (self-catering) | US$50–150 (park fees, 4x4) | US$120–280 |
| Mid-range | US$300–600 (mobile safari) | Included | Included or extra | US$300–600 |
| Luxury | US$1,000–4,000 (fly-in camp) | Included | Light aircraft extra | US$1,000–4,000+ |
Visa & Entry Requirements
- Visa-free: Citizens of the EU, UK, US, Canada, Australia and many other countries can visit Botswana without a visa for up to 90 days per year.
- e-Visa: Other nationalities can apply through Botswana's online e-Visa portal.
- Tourism Development Levy: Most foreign visitors pay a levy of around US$30.
- Passport validity: At least 6 months, with at least two blank pages.
- Yellow fever: A certificate is required if arriving from a country with yellow fever risk.
Always check official Botswana immigration sources before travelling.
Local Tips for Moremi
- Book early: Campsites and lodges fill up months ahead for the dry season.
- Malaria: Moremi is a malaria area; consult a doctor.
- Wildlife safety: Campsites are unfenced; never walk around at night, and keep food secured.
- Water crossings: Check depth before crossing; seasonal flooding changes routes.
- Luggage: Light aircraft usually allow 20 kg in soft bags.
- Tipping: Tips for guides and camp staff are customary.
- Staying connected: There's no mobile coverage in most of Moremi. Use a travel eSIM in Maun. Get your Botswana eSIM here.
Tours & Experiences
- Guided mobile safari: Explore Moremi with expert guides.
- Fly-in luxury safari: Stay at camps on Chief's Island.
- Boat and mokoro trips: Explore the channels.
- Khwai night drives: See nocturnal wildlife.
- Moremi and Chobe combination safari: Botswana's top wildlife areas.
Browse and book the best safaris in Moremi here.
FAQ
What is Moremi famous for?
Predators, including lions, leopards and wild dogs, and its mix of land and water habitats.
When is the best time to visit Moremi?
July to October, during the dry season.
Can I self-drive in Moremi?
Yes, with a 4x4, experience and pre-booked campsites.
How far is Moremi from Maun?
About 2 hours by road to South Gate, or a short light aircraft flight.
Is Moremi part of the Okavango Delta?
Yes, it covers part of the eastern Okavango Delta.
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