A Mokoro is a traditional dugout canoe that no other safari can match. Imagine gliding gently through the river as you spot reed frogs, elephants and hippos just a few meters away from you. There are no noisy engines emitting gas; instead, you hear only the gentle splash of your paddle and the soft rustle of reeds. This is the magic of a mokoro safari, an environmentally friendly adventure that brings you closer to nature than ever before.
And because your mokoro journey takes place on a small vessel, you’ll learn how to spot hidden creatures, master the art of quiet observation, and capture stunning photos of your surroundings. But what exactly makes a Mokoro Safari so special? And how can you ensure you’re making the most of this once-in-a-lifetime experience?
Planning Your Mokoro Safari Adventure
To make the most of your mokoro safari in Botswana, timing is crucial. The best time for wildlife viewing is from July to October, during the dry season. Surprisingly, this is when water levels in the Okavango Delta are at their highest, creating a magical maze of waterways perfect for mokoro trips.
From May to September, the Okavango River is in full flood, offering incredible water-based excursions. Keep in mind that July to October are popular visiting months, so lodges charge higher rates.
When choosing your accommodation, opt for a water-based camp for year-round mokoro safaris. Land-based camps might offer mokoro trips only during the annual flood (usually June to September). Mokoro tours typically take place in the afternoon and can be combined with walking safaris for a well-rounded experience.
A mokoro usually carries one or two passengers, with a skilled local ‘Poler’ guiding you through the waterways.
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Maximizing Wildlife Viewing Opportunities
As you glide through the crystal-clear waters of the Okavango Delta, you’ll hear only the soft sounds of water sliding off your poler’s pole. This quiet approach allows you to get closer to wildlife without disturbing them, offering a truly immersive experience.
Keep your eyes peeled for a wide range of creatures, from tiny reed frogs to majestic elephants. The low vantage point of the mokoro gives you a new perspective on these animals, making even familiar sights feel fresh and exciting. If you’re lucky, you might spot the shy sitatunga antelope or the rare Pel’s fishing owl.
Remember, patience and silence are key to spotting wildlife. So sit back, relax, and let the wonders of the Okavango unfold around you.
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Capturing the Mokoro Experience
You’ll have incredible opportunities to capture stunning photographic shots of wildlife and landscapes. However, it’s important to keep in mind that mokoros can be a bit unstable, so you’ll need to be careful with your equipment. Maybe bring a gimbal along for extra stabilisation.
To protect your gear, bring a lightweight dry bag for your camera. This will keep it safe during boarding and disembarking, when there’s a higher risk of water getting into the canoe. Once you’re settled, you can take out your camera and start shooting. Remember, the low vantage point of the mokoro offers a unique perspective, perfect for capturing water-level photos of elephants, kingfishers, and even tiny reed frogs clinging to swaying stems.