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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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"This is the second safari holiday we have used Dev to organise. We had the privilege of visiting three beautiful lodges on this trip, Devs recommendations in three different locations, Sabi Sands, Timbavati, and Makalali, which entailed a lot of organising ..."

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"This was the most thrilling vacation I have ever taken. Justin at Discover Africa planned everything down to the finest detail so it was effortless, magical and perfect from start to finish. A trip of a lifetime and then some!"

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"We travelled last August on a trip planned with Dev at Discover Africa. It was a family trip that i wanted us to remember forever and we definetly will! We could not have had an easier or more wonderful time and we would never have been able to plan and man..."

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"My daughter who is 27 and I (her mom)have been dreaming of this trip for a few years. It was everything we wanted July seemed to be the best month to visit South Africa. Weather is comfortable, better opportunity for seeing the wildlife , no mosquitos or bu..."

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"An absolutely incredible safari! My wife and I went on a two-week safari through Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. Susan listened to what we hoped to see and do and then put together a great itinerary, with some fantastic accommodations. Highly recommend Susan a..."

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