Botswana · Safari

3-Day Khwai and Okavango Delta Safari with Mokoro Trail Experience

3 Days Round trip from Maun Easy pace

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Sunrise and sunset game drives in the Khwai Reserve
02 Traditional 2-hour Mokoro safari in the northeastern Okavango Delta
03 Immersion in nature with the sounds of the wild around camp
04 Time to enjoy high tea, brunch, and relaxation between safari activities

The 3-day, 2-night self-drive expedition to Khwai Expedition Camp offers an immersive safari in the heart of Botswana's Okavango Delta, within the renowned Moremi Game Reserve. Designed for independent travellers, this experience combines the thrill of a self-driven journey with wildlife encounters, traditional Mokoro excursions, and the untouched beauty of the African wilderness. Enjoy game drives in the Khwai Reserve, time to relax at camp, and nights surrounded by the sounds of the wild.

The 3-day, 2-night self-drive expedition to Khwai Expedition Camp offers an immersive safari in the heart of Botswana's Okavango Delta, within the renowned Moremi Game Reserve.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 3 Days

Tour type Private

Activity level Easy

Accommodation Included · Standard

Transport Not included

Wheelchair access Not applicable

Cities Maun, Okavango Delta

Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Arrival at Khwai Expedition Camp and First Game Drive

Today, you will begin your adventure with a self-drive from Maun to Khwai Expedition Camp; directions are included below.
Check-in is usually at 14:00 and check-out at 10:00, although these times can be flexible.
After a long and exciting day, you will arrive at the camp and be welcomed by the camp managers and staff with a welcome drink and refresher towel.
You will then be escorted to your tented accommodation to settle in.
If time allows, you will enjoy high tea before embarking on a game drive in the Khwai Reserve. On your return to camp, you will be taken to your tent to freshen up for dinner.
After a wonderful meal and good conversation, complemented by the sounds of the wild, you will spend the night in your tent.

Day 02

Mokoro Trail Safari and Afternoon Game Drive

Rising at the crisp crack of dawn, you will wake to the sounds of birdcalls as you step out of your tent and meet your guide in the lounge area for coffee and tea.
After a light breakfast, you will depart on your Mokoro Trail Safari. Here, you will meet your river guide, who will take you on a 2-hour Mokoro safari in the northeastern part of the Okavango Delta.
After your safari, you will return for brunch and an afternoon siesta, then meet your guide back at the lounge area for high tea before embarking on your game drive in one of the wildest game reserves in Africa.
When you arrive back at camp, you will be taken to your tent to freshen up for dinner.
After a wonderful meal and good conversation, complemented by the sounds of the wild, you will spend the night in your tent.

Day 03

Final Morning Game Drive and Return to Maun

Rising at the crisp crack of dawn, you will wake to the sounds of birdcalls as you step out of your tent and meet your guide in the lounge area for coffee and tea.
Sadly, this is your last activity. After your game drive, you will be taken to your room to freshen up and then meet back at the lounge for brunch.
After brunch, your safari comes to an end, and you will begin your journey back to Maun.

Where this trip takes you

Khwai Expedition Camp, Khwai Reserve, Okavango Delta

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Maun 2 cities · 3 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Rates are on a per-person sharing basis and include accommodation, local drinks, all meals, two daily safari activities, park fees, and expert guiding.

What's Not Included

Medical and travel insurance, transfers, gratuities, and items of a personal nature.

What to bring

Clothing (Lightweight & Neutral Colors)

Safari attire: light, breathable long-sleeved shirts and pants (protects from sun and bugs).
Warm layers: fleece or jacket for chilly mornings and evenings.
Comfortable footwear: closed-toe hiking shoes or sturdy sandals for walks.
Hat & bandana: for sun protection.
Swimwear: optional (some camps have small pools).

Gear & Equipment

Binoculars: essential for wildlife spotting.
Camera + extra batteries/memory cards: capture the Delta's beauty (dust-proof bag recommended).
Headlamp/flashlight: for nighttime camp use (red-light mode preserves night vision).
Reusable water bottle: stay hydrated; some camps provide filtered water.
Daypack: for game drives and Mokoro excursions.

Health & Safety

Sunscreen (high SPF) & lip balm: harsh sun protection.
Insect repellent (DEET-based): mosquitoes and tsetse flies are common.
Basic first-aid kit: band-aids, antiseptic, antihistamines, pain relievers.
Malaria prophylaxis: consult a doctor before travel (Khwai is a malaria zone).
Hand sanitiser/wet wipes: hygiene during bush stops.

Travel Documents

Passport/ID: required for park entry.
Printed reservation details: camp confirmations and emergency contacts.
Self-drive map/GPS: offline maps (cell service is limited).

Optional Extras

Bird/wildlife guidebook: enhance your safari knowledge.
Power bank: charging outlets may be limited.
Lightweight rain jacket: for the Nov-Mar rainy season.
Small dry bag: protect electronics during Mokoro rides.

Know before you go

Before embarking on your 3-day, 2-night self-drive adventure to Khwai Expedition Camp in the Okavango Delta, here are key things to know to ensure a safe, smooth, and enjoyable experience:

1. Vehicle & Self-Drive Requirements

4x4 vehicle is mandatory: the route includes gravel roads, sandy tracks, and potential mud in the wet season. A high-clearance 4WD with low-range capability is essential.
Fuel & spares: fill up in Maun, the last reliable fuel stop. Carry extra fuel, a spare tyre, basic tools, and a tyre repair kit.
GPS/offline maps: mobile networks are unreliable - download offline maps (e.g., Maps.me, Tracks4Africa) or bring a GPS device.
Driving tips:
- Drive slowly to avoid wildlife collisions, as animals cross roads unexpectedly.
- Never drive at night due to animals and poor visibility.
- Air down tyres slightly for better traction on sand.

2. Health & Safety

Malaria risk: the Okavango Delta is a malaria zone. Consult a doctor for prophylaxis and pack insect repellent (DEET-based).
Vaccinations: ensure routine vaccines (tetanus, hepatitis A/B) are up to date. A yellow fever certificate may be required if transiting through affected countries.
Emergency contacts: save camp/lodge numbers and local emergency services. Travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage is highly recommended.
Water safety: drink only bottled or filtered water provided by the camp.

3. Wildlife & Bush Etiquette

Animal encounters:
- Never approach wildlife on foot - stay in your vehicle during game drives.
- Keep a safe distance, especially from elephants and buffalo.
Camp safety:
- Tents are not fenced; listen to staff instructions about nocturnal wildlife.
- Use a flashlight at night and watch for snakes and scorpions.

4. Packing & Logistics

Baggage limit: soft-sided duffels are ideal, as hard suitcases are difficult to store in vehicles and tents.
Power & connectivity:
- Camps often run on solar power; charging ports may be limited - bring a power bank.
- No Wi-Fi - embrace the digital detox!
Currency & payments:
- Bring enough Botswana Pula (BWP) in cash, including small denominations for tips and sundries. Credit cards may not be accepted in remote areas.

5. Cultural & Environmental Considerations

Respect local communities: drive slowly through villages (e.g., Shorobe, Mababe) and avoid photographing people without permission.
Eco-conscious travel:
- Avoid single-use plastics; refill water bottles at camp.
- Follow 'Leave No Trace' principles - never litter.

6. Weather & Seasonal Notes

Dry season (May-Oct): cool mornings and warm days. Best for wildlife viewing, as animals gather near water.
Wet season (Nov-Apr): lush landscapes and migratory birds, but roads may be muddy. Afternoon showers are common.

Pro tips for a stress-free trip

Logistics