Best Time to Visit Moremi Game Reserve for a Safari

Overview

Moremi Game Reserve in Botswana offers excellent safari experiences year-round, but the best time to visit depends on what kind of wildlife viewing and activities you want.

Ideal Months to Visit

May to August (High Water, High Season): This period marks the arrival and peak of floodwaters from Angola spreading through the delta side of the reserve. It is ideal for water-based safaris such as motorised boating, game drives, and walking safaris. Wildlife, including wild dogs especially in the Khwai area, congregates near permanent water sources making sightings frequent and diverse. May is particularly noted for outstanding value with near-perfect conditions and advancing floodwaters opening fresh boating routes.
July and August: These months bring cooler mornings and evenings, heightening predator activity. August is considered the peak safari season with exceptional game viewing, especially big-cat encounters in Moremi. The Khwai River area is a hotspot for predator sightings.
September to October (Dry Season Finale): Wildlife crowds around permanent lagoons and rivers. Leopard sightings peak around Xakanaxa lagoon system and vegetation thins out making animals easier to spot. Although temperatures can get high (past 40°C in October), game viewing remains spectacular.

Wildlife Highlights

Large herds of elephants, buffalo, and lions concentrate near water during the dry season.
The wild dog denning season starts from June in the Khwai area.
Birdwatching is rewarding during the flood peak, with large concentrations of water birds.

Weather and Conditions

The dry season from July to October offers clear skies, spectacular sunsets, and excellent conditions for stargazing. The green season before the dry season features lush landscapes and some afternoon showers but fewer tourists.

Summary

For the best wildlife viewing, the dry season from July to October is optimal as animals gather near shrinking water sources, making game drives productive and sightings easier. However, if you enjoy water-based safari experiences, visiting from May through August during the floodwaters' peak is recommended.