Moremi Game Reserve in Botswana stands out as a unique safari destination for several key reasons:
Moremi combines permanent water sources of the Okavango Delta with drier woodland and grassland areas, creating a mosaic of diverse habitats. This diversity supports an incredible array of wildlife.
The reserve includes prominent geographical features like Chief’s Island and the Moremi Tongue, which add to the scenic beauty and variety of landscapes.
Moremi is home to the “Big Five” (lion, leopard, rhino, elephant, buffalo) as well as other threatened species like African wild dog and cheetah. The reserve also boasts over 400 bird species, making it a premier destination for birdwatchers.
Moremi was the first wildlife reserve in Africa to be established by residents, the Batawana people, in 1963. This was done to protect the area from uncontrolled hunting and cattle encroachment.
As a game reserve rather than a national park, the Batawana people were allowed to continue living in the area, preserving the local culture.
Botswana has developed Moremi with a focus on high-yield, low-impact tourism, limiting the number of lodges and camps to preserve the natural environment.
Most travel within the reserve is by light aircraft and helicopter, reducing the number of vehicles on the ground.
Moremi can be easily accessed via Maun, the main gateway to the Okavango Delta, and combined with other top destinations like Chobe National Park.
Overall, Moremi Game Reserve stands out for its unique blend of habitats, abundant and diverse wildlife, conservation-focused management, and accessibility as part of Botswana’s premier safari circuit.