Accommodation Guide: Okavango Delta

Accommodation Types

Luxury Safari Lodges

Character:
Exquisitely designed, spacious suites with private plunge pools, outdoor showers, and expansive decks offering panoramic views.
Location:
Often situated in exclusive private concessions, enabling activities not permitted in public game reserves.
Inclusions:
Typically all-inclusive, covering meals, drinks (premium spirits and fine wines), laundry, daily safari activities, and light aircraft transfers.
Experience:
Offers ultimate comfort, privacy, and flexibility in safari excursions.

Mid-Range Tented Camps

Character:
Comfortable and authentic safari tents, often on raised decks, with proper beds and en-suite bathrooms.
Inclusions:
Many are all-inclusive, providing meals, most drinks, and daily activities.
Experience:
A genuine safari feel with comfortable amenities and insightful guiding.
Value:
Strikes a balance between quality and value for a compelling safari.

Other Accommodation Styles

Beyond the traditional camps, other forms of lodging offer different ways to experience the Okavango Delta and its surroundings.

Mobile Safaris

Character & Inclusions

Rustic, adventurous, immersive.
Camps move every few days.
Comfortable tents with basic en-suite facilities.
Full staff, all meals, and activities included.

Experience

True wilderness immersion.
Reaches more remote areas.
Deep connection to nature.
Authentic and hands-on.

Self-Catering & Campsites

Location & Character

Near Maun or public areas of Moremi.
Catters to self-drive travelers.
Basic bungalows or designated campsites.
Offers independent travel.

Requirements & Experience

Bring your own food and equipment.
Most affordable Delta periphery experience.
Significant planning and self-sufficiency required.
Independent exploration.

Unique Local Stays

Mokoro Camps

Basic, immersive camps.
Accessed mainly by mokoro.
Focus on water-based activities.
Authentic Okavango immersion.

Community-Based Tourism

Limited in main safari circuit.
Found in villages bordering the Delta.
Cultural exchange opportunities.
Direct local community support.

Vacation Rentals and Apartment Options

Availability:

Limited to none within the remote Okavango Delta. Such options exist in Maun town for independent travelers. Check Vrbo for possibilities.

For bookings:

For more options in Maun, consider platforms like Booking.com or Agoda, especially for guesthouses or small hotels.

Booking Strategies

Careful planning secures your preferred Okavango Delta safari experience.

Advance Booking Recommendations

High Season (July-Oct): Book 9-18 months in advance for popular luxury camps.
Shoulder Season (May-June, Nov): Book 6-12 months ahead; camps still fill.
Low Season (Dec-Apr): Book 3-6 months in advance for greater flexibility.
Availability becomes limited closer to peak season.

Trusted Booking Platforms

Specialist safari tour operators offer in-depth knowledge and logistics.
Consider Booking.com, Agoda for Maun.
For vacation rentals, Vrbo may have options.
For unique stays, explore TrustedHousesitters.

Deposit and Cancellation Policies

Payment Structure:

Significant non-refundable deposit (20-50%) upon booking.
Balance due typically 60-90 days before travel.
Policies reflect high demand and limited capacity.
Strict terms apply to cancellations.

Essential Protection:

Travel insurance covering trip cancellation is highly recommended.
This protects your financial investment.
Review policy terms carefully for comprehensive coverage.
Early purchase of insurance advisable.

Seasonal Price Fluctuations

Dry Season (July-Oct):

Safari camp prices are considerably higher, reflecting peak wildlife viewing and demand.

Green Season (Dec-Apr):

Rates decrease significantly, presenting a more affordable option for travel.

Consideration:

Off-peak travel offers financial advantages while still delivering a rewarding experience.

Accommodation Recommendations

The Okavango Delta provides lodging across various price points, each offering distinct experiences.

Budget and Mid-Range Choices

Mobile Safari Budget

Price: $200 - $600 USD pppn

Immersive, adventurous.
More affordable.
Authentic wilderness experience.
Often in Moremi or public concessions.

Self-Catering Budget

Price: $20 - $150 USD per site/room

Most affordable option.
Provides flexibility for self-drive.
Requires own food and equipment.
Only outside core Delta.

Luxury Accommodation

Luxury Safari Lodge

Price: $1,200 - $3,000+ USD pppn

Exquisite suites, private decks.
Gourmet dining, all-inclusive.
Highly personalized service.
Access to prime wildlife areas.

Mid-Range Tented Camp

Price: $600 - $1,200 USD pppn

Comfortable safari tents, en-suite.
Generally all-inclusive.
Excellent value, authentic feel.
Good guiding, comfortable amenities.

Top Picks for Different Budgets

Luxury:
Mombo Camp (Chief's Island), Jao Camp (Jao Concession), &Beyond Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge.
Mid-range:
Camp Moremi (Moremi Game Reserve), Machaba Camp (Khwai Concession).
Budget:
Letaka Safaris (mobile safaris), Audi Camp (Maun, for self-drivers and campers).
Consider:
Book early, especially for luxury and peak season travel.

Traveler Specifics

Family-Friendly Options:
Many mid-range and luxury camps cater to families, some with dedicated units. Check minimum age for activities.
Solo Traveler:
Mobile safaris offer social opportunities. Inquire about single supplements and green season discounts.
Long-Stay:
Safari camps typically offer 2-4 night stays. Combine camps or pair with Chobe for diverse, longer experiences.
Cultural Significance:
Most camps focus on wildlife. For cultural immersion, explore community-based tourism in bordering villages.

Important Note on Inclusions

Confirmation:

Always confirm what is included in the price when booking your accommodation.

The all-inclusive nature of many Delta camps minimizes hidden costs.
Inquire about included drinks, laundry services, and other amenities.
Clarity before arrival promotes a smoother experience.

Value Proposition:

Safari camps frequently encompass comprehensive offerings.

This often includes meals, activities, and transfers.
The value stems from convenience and integrated services.
Detailed understanding of inclusions aids budgeting.
Pre-trip clarification prevents surprises.

Neighborhood Guide: Okavango Delta Regions

Moremi Game Reserve

A public area in the eastern Delta, known for high wildlife concentration and diverse landscapes. Offers excellent game viewing but has stricter rules on activities.

Private Concessions

Large wilderness tracts leased by private operators. Limited visitor numbers, exclusive game viewing, off-road driving, night drives, and walking safaris. Higher cost.

Maun Gateway Town

The logistical hub for Delta safaris. Provides guesthouses, shops, banks. A convenient base for budget travelers, but without direct wildlife viewing.

Accommodation Guide