Moremi Game Reserve holds a special place in African conservation history as the first wildlife reserve on the continent created by an indigenous community. In 1963, the Batawana tribe, recognizing that uncontrolled hunting was devastating the wildlife of the eastern Okavango Delta, took the extraordinary step of setting aside their own ancestral hunting grounds as a protected area. Today, Moremi covers approximately 5,000 square kilometers of the eastern Okavango Delta, encompassing a remarkable mosaic of wetland and dryland habitats. Flooded plains, papyrus-lined channels, and palm-fringed lagoons blend into dry woodland, mopane forest, and open savanna grassland. This habitat diversity supports all of the Big Five along with one of Africa's healthiest populations of African wild dogs, exceptional big cat sightings, and over 500 bird species. Moremi is also the most accessible part of the Okavango Delta for self-drive visitors, though reaching it requires a capable 4x4 and solid off-road driving skills. The roads are sandy, the river crossings unpredictable, and the remoteness genuine. For those who make the effort, Moremi delivers some of the most varied and rewarding wildlife viewing in southern Africa.
Last updated: February 2026
Wildlife in Moremi Game Reserve
Big Five Status
lion
High
leopard
Moderate
elephant
Very High
buffalo
High
rhino
Low
Wildlife Highlights
African Wild Dog
One of the best locations in Africa for painted wolf sightings. Large packs are resident.
Lion
Multiple prides with frequent kill sightings, especially around buffalo herds
Red Lechwe
Thousands in the flooded grasslands, a signature Moremi species
Cheetah
Seen on open floodplains, especially during dry season
Hippo
Abundant in channels and lagoons throughout the reserve
500+ bird species including Wattled crane, Pel's fishing owl, African fish eagle, Slaty egret, African skimmer, Lilac-breasted roller.
Best Time to Visit Moremi Game Reserve
Moremi rewards visitors year-round with different experiences, but the dry season from May to October offers the most reliable game viewing and easiest access.
peak_dry Season
July, August, September, OctoberCool mornings, warm to hot days. Clear skies.
Moderate to high at campsites
Peak
Excellent across all species
early_dry Season
May, JuneCool to cold mornings, pleasant days
Low to moderate
Shoulder
Very good
green_season Season
November, December, January, February, March, AprilHot with afternoon rain
Very low
Low
Good birding, dispersed mammals. Baby animals visible.
Getting to Moremi Game Reserve
By Air
RecommendedBy Road
Entry Gates
South Gate
Main entrance from Maun. Sandy track via Shorobe.
North Gate (Khwai)
Northern entrance leading to Khwai community area and beyond to Chobe
Maqwee Gate
Southern entrance, alternative route from Maun
Moremi Game Reserve Entry Fees (2026)
| Category | Fee (USD) |
|---|---|
| Adult (Non-resident) | $13/day |
| Child (Non-resident) | $7/day |
| Vehicle | $7 |
- • Fees are BWP 120 (~$13) per adult non-resident per day
- • Children 8-17 get discounted rate
- • Under 8 free
- • Vehicle fee per day in addition
- • Fees are per 24-hour period
- • Camping fees are separate: BWP 350 (~$26) per person per night at designated campsites
Activities in Moremi Game Reserve
Included Activities
Game Drives
Self-drive or guided drives through diverse habitats from floodplain to woodland
Bird Watching
Over 500 species recorded, making Moremi one of Africa's top birding destinations
Optional Extras
Mokoro Excursion
$40-$100Available from Khwai and some lodges within the reserve
Walking Safari
$0-$50Guided walks available at select lodges within the reserve
Boat Trip
$50-$150Motorboat excursions on the lagoons, available from Xakanaxa area
Where to Stay
Moremi has a mix of public campsites for self-drive visitors and a few upmarket lodges. The reserve's campsites are basic but beautifully located. Book campsites through the Department of Wildlife and National Parks.
luxury
$800-$2500/nightIncludes: All meals, drinks, guided activities, park fees
Examples: Xakanaxa Camp, Camp Moremi, Mombo Camp (adjacent concession)
mid range
$300-$700/nightIncludes: Full board, guided game drives
Examples: Moremi Crossing, Xakanaxa lodges
budget
$25-$60/nightIncludes: Campsite only. No facilities beyond a pit toilet and sometimes a bucket shower. Bring everything.
Examples: Third Bridge Campsite, Xakanaxa Campsite, South Gate Campsite
Practical Tips
- 1Book campsites well in advance for dry season (especially Third Bridge and Xakanaxa)
- 2A 4x4 with low-range gearing is absolutely essential; no exceptions
- 3Carry a minimum of 2 spare tires, a compressor, and sand tracks for recovery
- 4Bring all food, water, and fuel as there are no shops inside the reserve
- 5Third Bridge campsite is famous for nocturnal lion and hyena visits; keep all food locked in your vehicle
- 6The drive from South Gate to Third Bridge takes 2-3 hours on deep sand
- 7Self-drivers should travel in convoy with at least one other vehicle when possible
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I self-drive in Moremi Game Reserve?
Yes, Moremi is one of the few parts of the Okavango Delta accessible to self-drive visitors. However, the roads are deep sand and can be extremely challenging. A 4x4 with low-range gearing is mandatory. Carry recovery equipment, spare tires, and all supplies. The experience is rewarding but not for inexperienced off-road drivers.
What makes Moremi special compared to other Botswana parks?
Moremi combines wetland and dryland habitats in a single reserve, creating extraordinary biodiversity. It was also the first reserve in Africa created by an indigenous community (the Batawana tribe in 1963). The wildlife density is exceptional, with all Big Five present plus one of Africa's best wild dog populations.
How do I book campsites in Moremi?
Campsites are booked through the Botswana Department of Wildlife and National Parks (DWNP). You can book online or at the DWNP office in Maun. Book well in advance for dry season (May to October) as popular sites like Third Bridge fill up quickly.
Is Moremi safe for camping?
Moremi campsites are unfenced and in genuine wilderness. Lions, hyenas, elephants, and hippos regularly pass through campsites at night. This is part of the experience but requires respect. Never leave food outside, stay in your tent at night, and keep a flashlight handy. Thousands of people camp safely here every year.
When is the best time to visit Moremi?
July to October offers the best game viewing and most accessible roads. May and June are also excellent with fewer visitors. The wet season (November to April) brings lush scenery and great birding but some roads become impassable, and campsites may flood.
Official Resources
Sources
- 5,000 sq km reserve established by Batawana tribe in 1963: Botswana Department of Wildlife and National Parks
- Over 500 bird species recorded: BirdLife Botswana