Glide through a maze of clear channels and opaque lagoons on traditionally made mokoro boats, once carved out of ancient Delta trees, but now made from environmentally friendly fibreglass. Discover the Delta, sitting mere centimetres above the water as you silently pass by unsuspecting wildlife. At the heart of the Delta lies a secluded network of waterways and islands where life slows down even further. Encounter grazing herds of elephant and red lechwe on palm islands, while crocodiles and hippos wade nearby under the watchful eye of the elegant African fish eagle.
Mekoro was traditionally hand carved out of the huge Okavango Delta trees, but are now made out of environmentally friendly fibre-glass in an effort to adopt sustainable practices in the region. Guests sit in front of a trained guide and oarsman, who stands firm at the boat’s stern, manually propelling the vessel with a ngashi pole, whittled from the branches of terminalia trees. Polers, as they’re fondly referred to, are introduced to mekoro from early childhood, expertly manoeuvring the narrow boat with precision, grace and speed.
At the heart of the Delta lies a secluded network of waterways and islands where life slows down even further. Witness life from a new perspective, following routes taken by the river Bushmen and BaYei people for centuries and used to this day by local tribes, who still travel by mokoro. Encounter grazing herds of rare swamp-dwelling sitatunga and red lechwe antelope, as well as elephants that tower over islands fringed with palms. Watch in awe as these majestic beasts submerge neck-deep, swimming through a network of reeds inhabited by tiny frogs of all colours, all under the watchful eye of the elegant African fish eagle.
*Please note: This activity may be seasonal depending on where you are staying and your month of travel. Water levels change yearly and weather patterns are unpredictable.
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