Okavango Delta in February: Weather, wildlife & travel tips!

The Okavango Delta in Botswana is a safari destination like no other. In February, right in the heart of the wet season, the Okavango Delta bursts into life with vibrant greenery, dramatic skies, and an abundance of wildlife. It’s a time of growth, movement, and activity, making it a fascinating period to explore this iconic wilderness.

Weather & landscape

February in the Okavango Delta is hot and lush. Daytime temperatures hover around 31–32°C, while nights are warm at 19–20°C. Afternoon thunderstorms are frequent, bringing refreshing rain that nourishes the land but rarely lasts all day.
The landscape is spectacular: green floodplains, flowering water lilies, dense papyrus, and tall reeds create a vivid, almost tropical environment. Channels in the north and central Okavango Delta may start to fill, although some areas remain dry early in the month. Roads in reserves like Moremi can get muddy, so a 4x4 and a skilled guide are often essential.
Visually, the Okavango Delta is alive with colour and sound - from reed frogs and butterflies to birdsong echoing over the water. February’s scenery is perfect for photographers and anyone who enjoys being immersed in nature at its most vibrant.

Fauna

Even during the wet season, wildlife is abundant:

• Birdlife in the Okavango Delta is exceptional. Resident species are busy with breeding, while migratory birds fill the skies and waterways. It’s an ideal time for bird watchers.
• Herbivores flourish. Antelope and other grazing species are well-fed on fresh vegetation, and calves are now active and playful.
• Predators are present but sightings are less predictable. Lions, leopards, and wild dogs are still around, though thick foliage can hide them.
• Smaller animals, insects, and amphibians are highly active, adding another layer of life to the Delta’s ecosystem.

Animal behavior & sightings

Wildlife behavior in the Okavango Delta in February reflects the abundance of water and food:

• Grazing animals move freely with their young, often visible across the floodplains.
• Birds are in full breeding mode, providing spectacular displays and calls.
• Predators are more dispersed because prey has access to water everywhere, making sightings less concentrated but still rewarding.

Mokoro excursions offer the best close-up experience of the waterways and birdlife, especially when water levels are high. Early morning trips are generally calmer and offer optimal photographic conditions.

Travel Tips

Planning & Costs
February is part of the low season, so lodges and camps are more affordable. Even so, book your preferred accommodations and activities, like mokoro rides or scenic flights, in advance.

Safari Strategy
Start game drives early in the morning and again later in the afternoon. Afternoon storms are common, and wildlife tends to be most active in cooler periods. Local guides are essential to locate animals in dense vegetation.

Clothing & Gear
Pack lightweight, neutral-coloured clothing, rain gear, and sturdy boots. Sun protection and insect repellent are essential. A 4x4 vehicle is recommended for wet-season conditions.

Activities Beyond Drives
Scenic flights offer unmatched views of the Okavango Delta's intricate channels, especially after rain. Cultural visits around Maun provide engaging experiences if afternoon rains limit safaris.

Final Thoughts

Visiting the Okavango Delta in February offers a unique perspective. Unlike the dry-season safaris, this is a time of lush landscapes, prolific birdlife, dramatic skies, and fewer visitors. With some planning and the right guidance, February provides a richly rewarding safari experience, full of surprises, beauty, and life.

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