Plizio Visual Lab

Selinda Spillway

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Relief

Weather…

The Selinda Spillway is a unique hydrological link in northern Botswana that connects the Okavango Delta with the Linyanti Swamp system. Spanning approximately 90 kilometers, this waterway follows a tectonic depression and is famous for its rare phenomenon of reversible flow. During years of exceptionally high floods in the Okavango Delta, water flows eastward into the Linyanti; conversely, heavy rains in the Kwando catchment can cause the water to flow back toward the west. For nearly three decades, from 1980 to 2009, the spillway remained almost entirely dry due to low regional water levels, only becoming fully navigable again in 2010 following record floods. The surrounding Selinda Reserve is now an exclusive conservation area renowned for its extraordinary wildlife density. The spillway serves as a vital corridor for migratory species and stands as a prime example of the dynamic and shifting nature of African wetland ecosystems.

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	26	26	25	24	21	18	18	21	25	29	29	27
Rain mm	149	115	94	33	2	2	0	0	2	9	61	131

📋 Practical info

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Getting there

Access to the Selinda Spillway is typically achieved via light aircraft flights into private local airstrips, followed by a transfer in 4x4 safari vehicles. Specialized safari operators coordinate the exact routing through the remote private concessions in northern Botswana.

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Best season

The dry winter season from June to October is considered optimal for wildlife viewing as animals congregate near the remaining water sources. When floodwaters arrive, usually around July and August, the area becomes a spectacular destination for specialized canoe safaris.

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Terrain & paths

The landscape is a dynamic mix of dry savanna woodland, seasonal floodplains, and shifting river channels that alter with the water levels. The terrain is largely completely flat but the soft sand and dense vegetation make independent navigation incredibly challenging.

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What to bring

Neutral-colored, lightweight clothing is strongly advised to blend into the environment, alongside high-quality binoculars for observing distant wildlife. Sun protection and warm layers for the surprisingly cold early morning game drives are absolute necessities here.

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Parking

Due to the exceptionally remote and highly protected nature of these private wildlife reserves, self-driving and public parking are generally not applicable. Vehicles belong exclusively to the lodges, which keep their fleets parked at secure camp maintenance areas.

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Safety

Safety is almost entirely managed by professional, armed guides due to the pervasive presence of dangerous megafauna such as lions and elephants. Visitors are strictly instructed never to wander away from their designated camps or vehicles without an experienced escort.

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Time needed

A standard safari itinerary in the Selinda region usually spans three to five days to maximize the chances of diverse and rewarding wildlife sightings. Shorter visits are rarely arranged due to the significant logistical efforts required just to reach the isolated location.