Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Most lodges offer substantial (but rarely published) discounts to citizens and residents of Botswana and to cit-
izens of 'regional countries'; ie mainly South Africa and Namibia. Although tariffs are quoted in US dollars by
the lodges, payment is possible in pula - but at a rate that suits the lodge. Payment by credit card may incur an ad-
ditional surcharge, so check first with the lodge.
All lodges in the Eastern Delta, Inner Delta and Moremi Game Reserve must be prebooked, preferably before
you arrive in Maun. Although each camp has a unique atmosphere and location, accommodation is usually in one
of a handful of safari-chic linen tents or chalets, which surround a central mess tent where you can dine, socialise
or unwind.
Getting There & Away
The only way into and out of the Inner Delta for most visitors is by air. This is an expens-
ive extra, but the pain is alleviated if you look at it as two scenic flights. Chartered flights
to the lodges typically cost about US$150 to US$200 return. A
mokoro
or 4WD vehicle
will meet your plane and take you to the lodge.
Moremi Game Reserve
Moremi Game Reserve (sometimes called Moremi Wildlife Reserve), which covers one-
third of the Okavango Delta, is home to some of the densest concentrations of wildlife in
Africa. Best of all, it's one of the most accessible corners of the Okavango, with well-
maintained trails and accommodation that ranges from luxury lodges to public campsites
for self-drivers.
Moremi is also unusual because it's the only part of the Okavango Delta that is offi-
cially cordoned off for the preservation of wildlife. It was set aside as a reserve in 1963
when it became apparent that poaching was decimating wildlife populations. Named after
the Batawana chief Moremi III, the reserve has been extended over the years and now en-
compasses almost 5000 sq km.
Moremi has a distinctly dual personality, with large areas of dry land rising between
vast wetlands. The most prominent 'islands' are Chief's Island, accessible by
mokoro
from the Inner Delta lodges, and Moremi Tongue at the eastern end of the reserve, which
is mostly accessible by 4WD. Habitats in the reserve range from mopane woodland and
thorn scrub to dry savannah, riparian woodland, grassland, flood plain, marsh, and per-
manent waterways, lagoons and islands.
