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Mokoro Safaris

Africa's best authentic tailor-made safaris

Take to the waters of Botswana for a different perspective on the country’s ecosystems and wildlife that call them home. Ideal for birdwatching, mokoro safaris will bring you closer to the smaller species that are sometimes overlooked on game drives.

Why Should You Go on a Mokoro Safari in Botswana?

A mokoro expedition is a highlight of a Botswana safari | Photo: Khwai Tented Camp

Close Wildlife Encounters

A mokoro safari is a Botswana safari on water in a traditional dugout canoe. During this experience, you’ll navigate tranquil waterways for close encounters with aquatic wildlife not typically seen during game drives.

Tranquil Way to Explore

A mokoro is silent – you glide through the water as your guide uses a long pole called a “ngashi” to push the mokoro forward. This allows you to enjoy a peaceful, quieter, non-motorised safari, and you may even see more wildlife as animals won’t be disturbed by the noise of an engine.

Learn More About Nature

A Botswana mokoro safari allows you to be immersed in nature and explore fascinating watery landscapes. During this experience, the safari guide, or “poler”, will enthral you with stories and interesting facts about the area.

Alternative to Regular Game Drives

Game drives are amazing, but you remain on the outskirts of one of the most incredible ecosystems of Botswana: the rivers. A mokoro safari is ideal for those seeking a serene alternative to traditional safaris and one that gives you a whole different perspective of wildlife.

Best Destinations for Mokoro Safaris in Botswana

Mokoro on the water near Chief's Island, Okavango Delta
A mokoro safari is ideal for those seeking a serene alternative to traditional safaris | Photo: Getty

Okavango Delta

The Okavango Delta, one of the most famous wildlife spots in Africa, is a thriving wetland home to a variety of animals, including big cats and over 400 species of birds. This is the best location for mokoro safaris in Botswana.

Chobe River

While the Chobe River in Chobe National Park is well-known for boat safaris, exploring in a mokoro is also available. From the water you could see herds of elephants and buffaloes drinking at the riverbank. Birdwatchers should keep an eye out for the phenomenal birdlife here, including African fish eagles and African skimmers.

Khwai

Bordering Moremi Game Reserve, Khwai offers exceptional wildlife viewing and a stunning array of ecosystems to explore, including the Khwai River. This river flows from the Okavango and is a lifeline in this concession, attracting diverse animal life, from antelopes and elephants to African fish eagles.

5 Tips for Mokoro Safaris in Botswana

kwando splash camp okavango delta accommodation botswana safari mokoro
The Okavango Delta is one of the best spots for a mokoro safari | Photo: Kwando Splash Camp

1. Safety First

When in a mokoro, always follow your guide’s instructions. They know how to remain safe while on the water.

2. Sit Still

When in a mokoro, it’s important not to shift around too much or stand up unexpectedly, as this can throw the vessel off balance.

3. Sun Protection

The sun can be harsh in Botswana, so bring a high SPF sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself. Insect repellent is also a good idea.

4. Protect Your Gear

Pack waterproof gear for electronics and personal belongings. Waterproof gear can include a dry bag to house everything you want to take with you and a clear waterproof pouch for your phone so you can still take photos.

5. Opt for Early Morning or Late Afternoon Trips

These times of the day offer the best light and wildlife sightings, as animals are more active.

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Trustpilot review

"From the very beginning, Bianca was a wonderful help in planning our South African safari. Her knowledge, attention to detail, and thoughtful recommendations made our trip truly exceptional. Becks Safari Lodge was, in our group’s opinion, a six-star expe..."

Leanne Morris, Australia12 Jun 2026

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Google review

"Justin helped us with the safari and Victoria Falls portion of our trip to South Africa, Botswana and Zimbabwe. The lodges were fantastic and ground transfers perfectly executed. We had an amazing time!"

Kelly Headrick, United States02 Jun 2026

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"Justin Van Wyk from Discover Africa Safari did an outstanding job in planning our perfect Safari. All travel and transfers between airports and game lodges have been flawless! The lodges and safari experiences have been awesome."

Roland Braun, United States05 Jan 2026

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"This was a well organized trip that smoothly transitioned us from one adventure to the next. All our transfers from hotels to airport to safari lodges were professional, courteous, and timely. We loved the places that were recommended and felt the pace of o..."

Jeanne Bryan, United States22 Nov 2025

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"Amazing honeymoon - we had the best experience with Susan and Discover Africa in planning our honeymoon. Everything went smoothly and all the lodges / guides were incredible. She also put some special touches like a surprise dinner in the bush and a private..."

Kelly Halter, United States06 Oct 2025

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"We booked a safari with Susan and as it was something I have been eagerly anticipating most of my life, we opened the budget strings a little. If we were going to do it once, we really wanted to get it right and make sure to make the most of it. We were sti..."

Aaron, Cayman Islands08 Sep 2025

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