Winter (June to September): One of the most surprising – and contradictory – facts about the Okavango Delta, is that the annual flooding from the River Okavango occurs during the dry season! During the rain season rainfall is captured in the Angolan highlands, much further upstream in neighbouring Angola. But it takes some time for this water to wind its way south to Botswana, where it creates the perfect conditions for an unforgettable holiday of a lifetime. 

We will give it to you straight: Winter is the best time for an Okavango Delta adventure. The days are dry and sunny, with average temperatures around 20°C  / 70°F. The water channels are all full of water, boating and mokoro is possible at most camps, and this is the best time to see wildlife as they flock here from the rest of country’s dry season. 

The downside is that Botswana, already a fairly expensive destination compared to to other safari destinations like South Africa and Namibia, push their rates up during winter (their peak season). That said, there are a number of more budget-friendly options in the Okavango Delta we at The Travel Cafe work with that allow you to still experience the magic of this region  without breaking the bank. 

Spring (September-November) and Autumn ( April – May):  After winter, our second favourite time to visit the Okavago Delta is spring or autumn. It strikes a good compromise between good weather, better value for money and still very decent safari conditions – especially at lodges that have permanent water. Many lodges offer reduced mid-season prices for April, May (autumn) or October, November (spring) which can save you up to 40% compared to winter prices. 

The weather is still perfectly fine, and spring or autumn is a more than decent alternative to go to the Okavango Delta. You may feel the transition in seasons, with temperatures increasing or decreasing depending on whether it’s spring or autumn, and you might experience an occasional shower, but generally the weather will be lovely, and so will the animal sightings. If you combine your trip with Victoria Falls, you may wish to travel in April or May, as that is when the Falls flow at their strongest. Read our Destination Page on when to go to Victoria Falls here.  

Summer (December to March): Summer is not the best time to go to the Okavango Delta. You can still see animals in the heart of the delta in the green season, but summer storms and lower water levels can limit water-based activities like mokoro and boat safari. Despite this being the rainy season, the water recedes during summer and leaves many waterways dry and unserviceable.

Summer is however the best time to go to the Okavango Delta  for birding, and to see newborns for most mammal species. Not to mention the attractive green season rates, which can reduce the price of your holiday by as much as 50% compared to the winter rates. If you chose this season, we recommend you pair it with a visit to the Makgadikgadi Pans, where the seasons are inverted, and which is in full bloom during summer.