Khwai Concession

Botswana

Getting to know Khwai Concession

Nestled in the north-eastern part of the Okavango Delta, the Khwai Concession, also known as NG19, is a remarkable area managed by the local Khwai community through the Khwai Development Trust. Spanning 1 800 square kilometres, this region is adjacent to the Moremi Game Reserve and offers a unique blend of diverse ecosystems and rich wildlife. The Khwai Concession offers a unique and immersive safari experience, combining rich wildlife encounters with meaningful community engagement.

The Khwai Concession boasts a variety of landscapes, including grasslands, permanent floodplains, and extensive mopane forests. This diversity supports a rich array of wildlife, making it a prime destination for safari enthusiasts.

Activities for Every Adventurer

Visitors to the Khwai Concession can immerse themselves in the beauty of the area through a range of activities:

Game Drives: Both day and night game drives offer opportunities to see nocturnal animals and predators in action.
Walking Safaris: Guided walking safaris provide a closer look at the flora and fauna, as well as insights into the smaller details of the ecosystem.
Mokoro Excursions: Traditional dug-out canoe trips along the waterways offer a peaceful way to observe wildlife and enjoy the scenery.

Community and Conservation

The Khwai Concession is a shining example of eco-tourism. All income generated from tourism activities is reinvested into the local community, supporting sustainable development and conservation efforts. Visitors can also engage with the Khwai village to learn about the traditional way of life and the positive impacts of tourism on the community.

Which animals and/or activities can be found at Khwai Concession?

The Khwai Concession is renowned for its rich and diverse wildlife, making it a prime destination for safari enthusiasts. The diverse habitats of Moremi, from woodlands and floodplains to lagoons and rivers, create a unique environment that supports this incredible variety of wildlife. Whether you’re on a game drive, a walking safari, or a mokoro trip, you’re sure to encounter some of Africa’s most iconic animals.

Mammals

Big Cats: The reserve is home to lions, leopards, and cheetahs. These predators are often seen stalking their prey across the savannah.

Elephants: Large herds of African bush elephants roam the reserve, particularly around the water sources.

Buffalo: African buffalo are commonly sighted, often in large groups.

Endangered Species: Moremi is a crucial habitat for the endangered African wild dog, which can often be seen in packs. The reserve also supports populations of black rhinoceros 1 2.

Hippopotamus: These massive creatures are frequently found in the lagoons and rivers.

Giraffes: Graceful giraffes can be seen browsing the treetops.

Zebras and Wildebeest: Plains zebras and blue wildebeest are common, often seen grazing in the open areas.

Antelopes: Various species of antelope, including impala, lechwe, and the elusive sitatunga.

Birdlife:

With nearly 500 species, Khwai is a bird-watcher’s paradise. You can spot everything from water birds like African fish eagles and herons to forest dwellers like the colourful lilac-breasted roller.

Reptiles and Amphibians

Crocodiles: The waterways are home to Nile crocodiles.

Other Species: Various species of snakes, lizards, and frogs can also be found throughout the reserve.

Weather and Rain Patterns

Understanding these weather patterns can help you plan your visit to Khwai Concession to align with your safari expectations, whether it’s game viewing, bird watching, or enjoying the lush landscapes.

Dry Season (May to October)

Climate Characteristics: This period corresponds with Botswana’s winter. Daytime temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), while nights can be chilly, dropping to as low as 5°C (41°F) in June and July. Rainfall is minimal, leading to drier landscapes.

Best Activities: Game drives to observe big cats, elephants, and other mammals. Boating trips to explore the channels and lagoons of the Okavango Delta.

Wet Season (November to April)

Climate Characteristics: This period aligns with Botswana’s summer and the rainy season. Temperatures rise, with daytime highs often reaching 30°C to 35°C (86°F to 95°F). Occasional thunderstorms bring life-sustaining rains to the delta, transforming the landscape into a lush, green paradise.

Best Activities: Birdwatching, with opportunities to spot rare and colourful species. Scenic photography, capturing the verdant landscapes and dramatic skies.

Malaria and Other Important Health Advice

The Khwai Concession, Moremi Game Reserve & Okavango Delta region is a high-risk malaria area, with peak risk times during the warmer months (October to April). While we may not give direct recommendations on malaria prophylaxis, we urge you to speak to your doctor or medical professional for authorized medical advice on the matter.

Proper precautions and measures can however go a very long way, including:

A proper mosquito repellant – the easiest is in a spray form (e.g. Peaceful Sleep or Tabard)
A room mosquito spray (e.g. Peaceful Sleep or Doom) to keep the room mosquito free
Wearing light trousers and long sleeve shirts in the early morning or evening
Keeping your room / tent door closed to keep bugs outside.
We also recommend an “after bite” lotion or spray if you get bitten by a mosquito (not a malaria cure, but it takes away the itch!)

What should you pack for your trip?

Keep it light and neutral, but take notice of the season

Your packing list will be heavily influenced by the time of your / season you are visiting the Khwai Concession area. For the summer months (late-Oct to Feb) please note that temperatures can be soaring 35°C or even the low 40°C, meaning that light and breathable clothing is essential. Then for the winter months, while the days are mild and pleasant, the mornings can be quite chilly with temperatures of 5°C or lower. We advise to pack clothing that is versatile and can possible be re-used or easily washed (quick dry) especially if you are going on a mobile camping safari.

Since you will be out in nature, the aim will be to “blend in” as far as possible, so we discourage clothing with bright colours if possible. This also applies with smell – while we all enjoy wearing perfumes, please refrain from strong smells. Remember, in the wild, animals rely heavily on smell and their sense of smell is very sensitive.

Suggested clothing would be breathable materials such as cotton, which is comfortable to wear and keep you feeling cool. The last thing one wants to experience on safari is to be in uncomfortable clothing or feeling hot in it. The focus should be to enjoy your experience.

All bedding and towels are provided at our lodges, so no need to bring this along (other than maybe a swimming towel for summer visits).

A suggested packing list:

Light, breathable and comfortable clothing, including long sleeved shirts and trousers (please avoid bright colours).
A hat and sunglasses. IF you can bring a wide-brimmed have also protecting your neck area, that would be recommended.
Sunblock (recommended 50 SPF that is swaet-resistent)
Don’t forget your personal items – most times the lodges are not close to towns, so shops are not always within reach!
A good mosquito repellant – the spray kind is more convenient to apply
A warm jacket and “beanie” will be very welcome for winter mornings – morning drives are cold!
Swimming costumes for the summer months. Most lodges have pools. Note that on mobile safaris, swimming will not be possible unless a pool is present at a dedicated camping area.
Binoculars to spot animals (optional)
A good camera! Most smart phones take excellent photos as well but cannot zoom in that much.
If your tour package includes a bush walk, please ensure you have proper closed shoes / sneakers to walk in.
Remember: Luggage limitations for your transfer would be one larger suitcase up to 20kg, and one piece of hand luggage / small backpack.

Suggested Tours

5-Day Boteti, Moremi Game Reserve & Khwai Safari

Discover the Big Five in Moremi and the hidden channels of Khwai, featuring sunrise mokoro rides, guided nature walks, and breathtaking aerial views of Botswana.

From USD 2060.00 pp sharing

3-Day Boteti Moremi Game Reserve & Khwai Safari

Journey from the tranquil Boteti River to the predator-rich heart of Moremi and Khwai on an authentic three-day Botswana safari.

From USD 1130.00 pp sharing

6-Day Okavango Delta & Victoria Falls Experience

Discover the majestic Victoria Falls and the Okavango Delta’s serenity on this six-day journey. Enjoy expert-led safaris through Moremi and the breathtaking Zambezi River.

From USD 2420.00 pp sharing

4-Day Boteti, Moremi Game Reserve & Khwai Safari

Discover Botswana’s wild heart with sunset river safaris, expert-led bush drives, and unforgettable nights under the stars in Moremi and the Khwai floodplains.

From USD 1340.00 pp sharing

5-Day Boteti, Moremi, Khwai & Makgadikgadi Pans Safari

Journey from the lush, winding channels of the Okavango to the ancient baobabs and shimmering silence of the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans on this diverse five-day safari.

From USD 2575.00 pp sharing

9-Day Botswana & Victoria Falls Immersive Experience

Explore predator-rich regions from the Okavango Delta and Moremi to Chobe, concluding your adventure at the spectacular Victoria Falls, Africa’s breathtaking natural wonder.

From USD 3385.00 pp sharing

7-Day Okavango Delta, Moremi Game Reserve & Savuti Experience

Experience a premier week-long Botswana safari featuring land drives in Moremi and Savuti, serene Okavango Delta water excursions, and a breathtaking scenic helicopter flight.