What are you looking for?

Hello traveller!

It's in Cape Town now.

We're sorry. Our safari planners aren't available now. Our office hours are 08:00 - 19:00 (GMT+2).

Call us to speak to an experienced safari planner.


Alternatively, we recommend...

travel-form-icon

Complete our travel enquiry form to connect with a safari planner

ENQUIRE TODAY
Email us
(optional)

Okavango Delta in November

Africa's best authentic tailor-made safaris

Early November is usually hot and stifling as the Okavango holds its breath for the coming of the rains. The exact start date varies considerably from year to year, but when the clouds do break the relief is palpable. Although daily highs of over 40°C (104°F) are the norm at the beginning of the month, the temperature gradually drops as the rains become more frequent. Localised showers evolve quickly into massive afternoon storms, with thunder and lightning flashing across the Delta.

The zebra migration begins when the rains fall - usually around Nov-Dec

Where to Go

It’s impossible to say where the rains will fall first, or whether they’ll even arrive at all. Some years some areas may not see significant rainfall until December and until that happens game viewing continues to be excellent. The Khwai River, in the northeast, has good water year-round, and wildlife, especially elephants, tend to congregate along its banks late into the dry season. Chief’s Island has permanent game and good, deep-water access as well, as does the rest of the central Delta and the north-western concessions. When the rains do arrive, the pressure is released and the animals start to move back into the surrounding bush. November is an interesting time to be anywhere in the Delta as the animals and plants begin to recover from more than half a year without rainfall.

Travel Tips

Highlights: Once the rains arrive, the antelope birthing season begins, and all over the Delta there are new signs of life. Many lodges and camps offer shoulder season prices, and it’s an excellent time to get a good deal before the rainy season starts in earnest in December.

Disadvantages: November is an unpredictable month weather-wise and if the rains arrive early your safari may be washed out. The wildlife may also begin to disperse, although sightings – especially of newborns – are usually still very good until the end of the month.

Ready to plan your tailor-made safari?

Devryn Panaino, Safari Travel Planner

Free safari planning advice from destination experts

Help me plan

What Our Guests Have to Say?

Read recent reviews from travellers who have planned and booked their trips with us
Dedicated, full of knowledge professionals

9 Day South African Safari Review

Heiarii Robson-Snyder, United States
11 Jun 2025
Very well organized

Authentic Namibia, Vic Falls and Botswana Safari

Terry, United States
16 May 2025
Truly exceptional- delivering personalised, seamless, attentive service from start to finish.

Masai Mara Photographic Safari Review

Mira, Lebanon
17 Apr 2025
Seamless! Amazing experience

11 Day Cape Town & Sabi Sands Safari Review

Alyssa, United States
23 Sep 2024
Outstanding

10 Day Cape Town, Kruger & Victoria Falls Review

Dean, United States
10 Sep 2024
Communication was excellent, Susan knew her stuff and provided a wealth of...

6 Day Kenya Safari Experience Review

Geoff, Australia
01 Aug 2024