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Situated in the northeastern region of the Okavango and bordering Moremi Game Reserve, Khwai offers exceptional wildlife viewing and a stunning array of ecosystems to explore. From lagoons and flooded pans to expansive grasslands and dense forests, Khwai is one of the most striking areas of Botswana, made even more remarkable by the wealth of predators that call this place home. Wild dogs, lions, leopards, hyenas, and cheetahs can all be found here.
What makes Khwai even more special are the cultural experiences you can have here. This concession was formed by the local Khwai community, whose members now run ecotourism initiatives and work to conserve the environment and the animals that call it home.
Top Destinations in Khwai
The Khwai area is divided into the Khwai Private Reserve and Khwai Community Reserve, each offering unique safari experiences. Khwai Private Reserve is a larger, more exclusive and private area with fewer lodges, while the Khwai Community Reserve is more accessible and offers a wider range of lodging options. Here are two areas to visit:
Khwai River: Ideal for Mokoro Safaris
Flowing from the Okavango, the Khwai River is a lifeline in this concession that attracts diverse wildlife. Get a whole new perspective on the animals by going on a mokoro safari. A mokoro is a dugout canoe that’s propelled through shallow waters by standing in the stern and pushing against the riverbed with a pole.
Khwai Village: For a Cultural Excursion
Learn how the local community lives in harmony with the wildlife in the area by visiting the local village. Engage with the community members – most of whom are descended from the San people – to find out more about their way of life. Cultural experiences like this really add another dimension to a Botswana safari experience.
When’s the Best Time to Visit Khwai?
For prime game viewing, plan your safari for the dry season, from May to October. At this time of the year, animals congregate around water sources, so your mokoro safari is sure to be thrilling! If you want to focus on birdwatching during your Botswana safari tour, opt for the wet season, from November to April. This is when a lot of migratory species return to this area.
Animals Found in Khwai
In and around the Khwai River, you’ll see plenty of hippos and crocodiles. Herds of elephants, buffaloes, and numerous antelope species can also be found in this region. On the predator front, lions and hyenas are plentiful, while leopards are around, but their elusive nature makes them a challenge to spot. One of the highlights of this region is the presence of endangered wild dogs.
Khwai boasts over 500 species of birds, with the different ecosystems allowing many birds to thrive. Keep your eyes open for African fish eagles, pygmy geese, lesser moorhens, Kori bustards, and tawny eagles.
How to Get to Khwai
Khwai is accessible by road from Maun International Airport. After you land for your Botswana safari, it’s just a two-and-a-half-hour lodge transfer away. Alternatively, you can cut down on your transit time by flying into Khwai via light aircraft.
