Exclusive Safari Experiences Await in December’s Okavango Delta Green Season

In December, the Okavango Delta, which lies in the northern part of Botswana, becomes a sanctuary for nature and safari lovers as it undergoes a shift in vegetation with the arrival of summer rains. The rains signal the commencement of the green season – a time of the year that offers a safari experience like no other. The rains, the shift in vegetation and wildlife all come together and provide the travellers a glimpse of a more serene and less commercial corner of the Okavango Delta.

Climate Change and Scenic Beauty

Okavango Delta floods during the ‘green season’. Mornings and evenings are generally cooler, while daytime temperatures can reach from the low to mid-30s. Frequent showers and thunderstorms bring dramatic changes to the landscape, shifting it from dry and dusty to green plains and woodlands. The rain being, the Delta’s floodplains, the scent of freshly poured rain is in the air. As the region emerges from the harsh dryness associated with the winter period, foliage blooms, and the environment becomes really attractive.

Travellers will see the sky filled with spectacular cloud formations, a south of the equator approach in marked comparison to the blue blanket of the dry season. The absence of safari-goers at this time of year affords the safari a sense of exclusivity, resulting in the relational safari seekers appreciating an unmatched opportunity to exceptionally engage with the undisturbed outdoors.

Wildlife and Birdlife Opportunities

During this time of year, the green season, the first to arrive and the last to depart, heralds a busy period for the wildlife. The more lenient and relaxed members of the big continent will easily include the elephants, buffalo, and red lechwe, who integrate effortlessly into the floodplains, to enjoy the freshly blooming grass. The fierce squadron of leopards and lionesses, and hyenas transition from infiltrators to active outliers, altering their strategies on the hunt to the foliage as a result of a thicker bush.

Also, as the dry season sets in, birdwatching lovers know that December is the time to take a trip to the Okavango Delta. Many of the soaring, water, song, and raptor-splashing birds come to feast on the abundant water as well as the greenery and plentiful fish, all the while contributing to the beautiful splay of resident birds. For all these reasons, the Delta is truly a birders paradise and a great place for wildlife photography.

There is less wildlife sightings during this time compared to the dry season when wildlife gather around scarce waterholes; however, greens season always seems to reward. The behavior dynamics changes as the bloomed vegetation scattered all around the floodplain as the herbivores graze, and so do the dynamics of the predators in the ecosystem.

Safari Activities and Travel Planning

During December, safari activities tend to track the movement of the rain. The earliest and the latest parts of the day tend to be the most productive time periods for game drives. These parts of the day give the best chances to view wildlife, specifically newborns which are commonly born during the rains. They are also very popular, especially now that a wider range of species can be enjoyed. For a more in-depth experience, game drives can also be paired with boat drives or mokoro outings. This gives guests a different perspective of the Delta and its wildlife.

Before travelling, it’s best to be prepared, especially during December because the rains can impact track conditions and the ease of movement around the space. A smoother experience can be guaranteed if these travellers choose to stay in lodges that offer a variety of activities which can be altered to suit the weather. The wildlife remains productive in these areas since the new rains are falling. These lodges also happen to be the most ideal for these travellers as they are located close to the permanent water channels or lagoons.

Also is to consider the appropriateness of the outfit being worn for the specific weather. Deserts and other places that are quite hot and arid will require specifically designed clothing. Flexible, light, and breathable clothing, while wearing whatever will help keep warm in the mornings and evenings. It is also wise to carry a wide-brimmed hat, as well as high-SPF sunscreen and sunglasses to help offer sun protection, while nothing short of fully waterproof clothing is also recommended for anything that resembles the rain. It is also wise to carry insect repellent along with malaria prophylaxis, as the Delta is, during the green season, a malaria area.

Health and Safety

The month of December, for one, falls within the peak of the malaria season and as such, travellers to the Okavango Delta are strongly recommended to take along a few important malaria prophylaxis medicines, along with mosquito repellent and other nets, as a Covid preventative measure. Building in buffer time is also suggested in the case that the weather limits the ability to reach the airstrip, or the tracks are in poor condition.

Guided safaris require the utmost compliance to ensure that the unique experience of lifetime safaris is preserved. Most guides will ask that a certain distance is respected with animals, and also that for one, sighting more than one animal at a time, so the unique experience is available to more than one animal at a time, so the unique experience is available to more than one animal at a time, one has to observe the basic safari rules.

December in the Okavango Delta: A Fresh Wilderness Safari

Those who prefer tranquillity will find no better option than December in the Okavango Delta. The green season brings to life a truly mesmerising mosaic of vibrant greenery, presenting a myriad of wildlife species, exciting birding opportunities, and multi-faceted safari experiences. With reduced visitor numbers, the isolation and tranquillity of the wilderness are unparalleled, making this period truly exceptional to anyone who’s searching for something deeper than a conventional dry-season safari.

In terms of Africa’s Delta, promoting the green season of the Delta helps not only in extending the safari season for the African region, but brings in a different set of travellers. With less expensive prices and fewer tourists, the green season safari provides a new perspective in which to experience one of the region’s most popular wildlife safari sites.

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