May marks a turning point in Botswana’s iconic Okavango Delta. As the rains fade and floodwaters begin their slow arrival from Angola, the Delta transforms into one of Africa’s most rewarding safari destinations—lush, wildlife-rich, and increasingly accessible (with some important caveats this year).
Weather & landscape
May sits at the transition between the green season and the dry winter. Expect warm, pleasant days (around 25–30°C) and noticeably cooler nights, especially towards the end of the month. Rainfall largely subsides, humidity drops, and skies turn clear and crisp.
The landscape in the Okavango Delta remains beautifully green after months of summer rains. Floodplains are saturated, grasses are tall, and seasonal pans are still full. At the same time, the first wave of the annual flood is beginning to move into the Delta—creating a striking mix of lush land and expanding waterways.
2026 is shaping up to be an exceptional flood year. Strong rainfall both locally and in Angola has primed the system for a generous inundation, promising excellent water-based safari conditions in the months ahead.
However, these same rains are currently impacting accessibility.
Important update: The reopening of Moremi Game Reserve has been delayed, as persistent flooding and waterlogged roads continue to restrict access for self-drive travellers. (as of 09 April 2026)
Fauna
The Okavango Delta is one of Africa’s most biodiverse ecosystems, home to the Big Five and an extraordinary density of plains game and predators.
In May, wildlife is still widely dispersed thanks to abundant surface water, but sightings remain excellent. Expect:
- Large herds of elephant and buffalo moving between floodplains and woodlands
- Antelope species such as lechwe, impala, kudu and tsessebe thriving in lush grazing conditions
- Hippos and crocodiles becoming more visible as water channels expand
- Predators including lion, leopard, cheetah and African wild dog actively hunting across the Okavango Delta
The combination of permanent water and seasonal abundance makes the Okavango Delta a year-round wildlife stronghold.
Animal behaviour & sightings
May offers a fascinating “in-between” safari experience.
Many herbivores are still benefiting from nutrient-rich grazing, and young animals are often still present following the summer birthing season. Predator movements become more noticeable as water availability starts to influence prey distribution.
As temporary water sources slowly begin to dry up in the Okavango Delta, animals start gravitating toward permanent channels and floodplains, laying the groundwork for peak dry-season game viewing in the months ahead.
Birding remains excellent, with migratory species still present and breeding activity continuing in the lush environment.
While visibility can sometimes be reduced due to taller vegetation, sightings are often diverse, dynamic, and highly rewarding.
Travel tips
Consider fly-in safaris if possible. With road access currently affected—especially in and around Moremi Game Reserve—flying into camps remains the most reliable and seamless way to explore the Okavango Delta.
Pack for temperature swings. Days are warm, but early mornings and evenings can be surprisingly cool, so layers are essential.
Combine land and water activities. May is a transitional month where you can still enjoy game drives while water-based experiences like mokoro trips begin improving.
Be flexible with itineraries. Ongoing impacts from heavy rains in 2026 mean travel plans, especially for self-drive visitors, may require adjustment.
Take advantage of shoulder-season value. May often offers better rates than peak season (June to October), while still delivering excellent safari conditions.
Final thoughts
May is one of the most underrated times to visit the Okavango Delta. You’ll experience a rare blend of lush green landscapes, emerging floodwaters, and increasingly rewarding wildlife encounters—without the peak-season crowds.
While 2026’s exceptional rains are causing some temporary access challenges, they are also setting the stage for one of the most spectacular Okavango Delta seasons in recent years.
For travellers who value atmosphere, diversity, and a sense of wilderness in transition, May is a compelling and often overlooked window into the magic of Botswana.
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