Mokoro Safaris*
As the Okavango Delta floods and the water-levels rise, our safaris take to the waters. Inspired by native local people who used traditional wooden mokoros as a form of transport, a modern version of this dugout canoe is an exceptionally relaxing way to explore the reed-lined waterways and discover different creatures you wouldn’t typically see from a vehicle or on foot.
*Please note water-levels may affect availability of Mokoro Safaris.
The iconic symbol of the delta
The silence of travelling in a mokoro means that birds and animals are less likely to take fright, allowing you the opportunity to capture that perfect photo and see that lesser-spotted bird.
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See the Okavango Delta from a different point of view.
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Access places that land vehicles can’t.
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A skilled “poler” will guide your mokoro with control and dexterity.
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Photographer’s dream as the silence of the mokoro lets you capture those perfect shots.
Testimonials
Soak up nature at a slower pace
Glide across mirrors of water
Very little beats the tranquillity of gliding through narrow water channels in the company of smaller amphibians like reed frogs and dragonflies that you would usually miss out on.
- Water-based activities are dependent on camp location and seasonal water-levels.
- Soak up a different point of view.
- Catch details that would otherwise be missed.
- See micro colourful frogs and macro-sized elephants knee-deep in water.
From Management
The most relaxing way to explore the waterways and discover a perspective you wouldn't typically get from a vehicle or on foot
Front row seats to Africa
Become one with the waters
Your experienced Machaba Safaris guide will navigate the channels while you relax and soak up the sights and sounds. From wallowing elephants to small winged water creatures, life on the water is an aquatic world of its own.
Let us draw on our experience to craft a mokoro safari experience for you.
Learn more about Mokoro Safaris
More about the mokoro
Thousands of years ago, the Bushmen used dug-out canoes to effortlessly move around the Okavango Delta. Today, eco-friendly fibreglass versions are used for game viewing safaris and the mokoro has become the iconic symbol of the Delta. Gliding over mirror-like bodies of water in one of the most idyllic spots in the world is an experience that is quite unrivalled.
Safari from the water
A little like the gondolas of Venice, your boat poler will propel your vessel around the channels and waterways of the Delta, giving you the freedom to absorb the diversity of its wildlife species from the comfort of your seat. From plants to birds, to insects and large animals, the mokoro is the perfect place from which to view it all.
Pack for fun in the sun
It’s easy to forget about sunburn when on the water, however sunshine reflecting off a glossy surface means that you will burn from above and below your hat. Wear sunglasses, drink lots of water to stay hydrated and regularly apply a high (50+) SPF sunscreen. Slip-proof rubber-soled shoes are recommended and don’t forget the binoculars and camera.
Drink in nature's scale
The world seems a little bit bigger when viewed from the water. You will be able to appreciate the size and scale of elephants drinking and hippos and crocodiles basking – all from the safety of your boat and the protection of a highly knowledgeable Machaba Safaris guide.
Our Popular Activities
From game drives to untamed walking safaris under the care of our highly trained guides, there is always something to see and do. Experience our unique water-based activities depending on the season, and the water levels during your visit.
