Moremi Game Reserve
Moremi Game Reserve, located in the heart of Botswana’s Okavango Delta, is one of Africa’s most pristine and wildlife-rich safari destinations. Often referred to as a “Garden of Eden,” it encompasses a diverse mosaic of wetlands, floodplains, woodlands, and islands, offering exceptional game viewing and a quintessential delta experience. Below is a concise overview based on the latest available information.
Location and Overview
- Geography: Covering approximately 5,000 square kilometers (1,930 square miles), Moremi occupies the eastern third of the Okavango Delta, about 150 km (93 miles) from Maun. It includes permanent swamps, seasonal floodplains, and dry savanna, with key areas like Chief’s Island, Xakanaxa Lagoon, and the Khwai River. The reserve is surrounded by private concessions, enhancing its exclusivity.
- Key Features: Stunning waterways, lush vegetation, and diverse habitats make Moremi a microcosm of the Okavango. Chief’s Island, a large landmass formed by tectonic shifts, is a wildlife hotspot. The reserve’s untouched beauty and limited access preserve its wild character.
#### History and Formation
Established in 1963 by the Batawana people, led by Chief Moremi III’s widow, it was the first wildlife sanctuary in southern Africa created by local communities to protect the region from hunting and development. Named after Chief Moremi, it’s part of the Okavango Delta’s ancient lakebed, shaped by seasonal flooding from Angola’s highlands (peaking May–August). Its UNESCO World Heritage status (as part of the Okavango Delta, 2014) underscores its global ecological significance.
Wildlife and Ecosystems
Moremi is renowned for its dense wildlife populations and diverse ecosystems:
- Mammals: Hosts all Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, rhino—rhinos are rare due to poaching). Also home to African wild dogs (endangered), cheetahs, hippos, giraffes, zebras, and antelopes like impala, kudu, and rare sitatunga. Chief’s Island and Xakanaxa are prime for predator sightings.
- Birds: Over 500 species, including African fish eagles, wattled cranes, herons, and vibrant kingfishers. Seasonal flooding attracts migratory birds.
- Ecosystem: A dynamic mix of permanent wetlands, grassy floodplains, mopane woodlands, and acacia savanna. Floods replenish nutrients, sustaining lush vegetation and attracting herds year-round.
