Plizio Visual Lab

Moremi Game Reserve

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Animal habitat

Weather…

The Moremi Game Reserve is located in the eastern section of the Okavango Delta and is widely regarded as one of Africa's most beautiful and biologically diverse protected areas. Established in 1963 by the Batawana people, it was the first reserve in Africa to be created by a local community rather than a colonial administration. The reserve covers an area of approximately 4,871 square kilometers, encompassing permanent waterways, lagoons, seasonal floodplains, and dry woodlands. A prominent feature is Chief's Island, a large landmass in the heart of the delta that provides a critical sanctuary for endangered species such as white and black rhinos. The vegetation ranges from dense mopane forests to open savannas, supporting an extraordinary variety of bird and mammal life. Moremi is home to one of the world's most significant populations of African wild dogs, as well as vast herds of elephants and Cape buffalo. The reserve's management successfully integrates strict conservation protocols with exclusive ecotourism.

Location: Botswana
Top sights: Baobab Tree · Makoba Viewpoint · Crossing to T junction Gomoti river

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Aug.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	27	26	26	24	21	18	17	21	25	29	29	28
Rain mm	130	104	75	27	2	2	0	0	2	14	51	106

📋 Practical info

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Best season

The dry season from May to October is the best time for wildlife viewing in the Moremi Game Reserve, as animals gather at remaining waterholes. In the rainy season (November-April) vegetation is denser and animals more dispersed.

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Best time of day

Early morning and late afternoon are when predators are most active, while herbivores can be found at waterholes throughout the day. The midday heat is best avoided with a break at camp.

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Etiquette

Stay in the vehicle when viewing wildlife - getting out is only allowed at designated spots. Never feed the animals and do not litter.

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What to bring

A good pair of binoculars and a camera with telephoto lens are essential for safari. Light, comfortable clothing in natural colours and a hat for the sun are recommended.

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Getting there

Moremi Game Reserve lies on the edge of the Okavango Delta and is accessible by road from Maun. Most visitors use organized safaris with 4WD vehicles or light aircraft to lodges.

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What to expect

Wildlife viewing requires patience - sometimes hours pass without sightings, then suddenly a pride appears. Calmness and persistence are often rewarded with unforgettable encounters.

Geography

Coordinates

-19.41000, 23.50000

Facts

The reserve was founded in 1963 by the widow of Chief Moremi III.
It encompasses approximately 30% of the entire Okavango Delta area.
Chief's Island is the largest landmass found within the reserve's borders.
Moremi is a key site for the reintroduction of both black and white rhinos.
Over 500 species of birds have been officially recorded in the area.
It was the first wildlife sanctuary in Africa to be proclaimed by a local tribe.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Maun Logistics Hub58 km · WExplore →

Maun Education Center59 km · WExplore →

Okavango Wetlands67 km · SEExplore →

Mababe Depression70 km · NExplore →

Okavango Delta79 km · SExplore →

Selinda Spillway83 km · EExplore →

Xudum Delta89 km · SExplore →

Kwando River123 km · EExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Moremi Game Reserve (3)

Baobab Tree📍 landmark

A massive, ancient baobab tree attraction standing prominently in the diverse ecosystem of the Moremi Game Reserve.

Makoba Viewpoint🌿 nature

Makoba Viewpoint provides sweeping panoramas over the wetland habitats of the Moremi Game Reserve.

Crossing to T junction Gomoti river📍 landmark

This river crossing leads towards the Gomoti River junction, navigating the challenging sandy and muddy tracks of Moremi.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What makes Moremi special?

It is the first reserve in Africa established by local residents on their own land.

Can you see the Big Five there?

Yes, Moremi is considered one of the best places to see lions, leopards, and buffalo.

What are the road conditions like?

Very challenging; many water crossings and deep sand require 4x4 experience.

Is Chief's Island accessible?

Mostly accessible only by boat or light aircraft as it lies in the heart of the Okavango Delta.

Are there public campsites?

Yes, such as North Gate or Third Bridge, but they must be booked months in advance.

Moremi Game Reserve: where is it located?

Moremi Game Reserve is located in Botswana.

Moremi Game Reserve: what is there to see?

Highlights include Baobab Tree, Makoba Viewpoint, Crossing to T junction Gomoti river.

Moremi Game Reserve: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Aug.

Moremi Game Reserve: why is it worth visiting?

The Moremi Game Reserve is located in the eastern section of the Okavango Delta and is widely regarded as one of Africa's most beautiful and biologically diverse protected areas.

View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →