The Delta has its share of large mammals (Elephants, Leopards, Buffalo, Lions, Red Lechwes, Antelopes, Water and Bush Bucks) as well as a variety of spectacular birds covering the entire color palette. The African Wild Dog is also very prevalent (and famous) here. However, because of the wide swatch of territory they cover, it is often difficult to spot African Wild Dogs.
The best time to visit the Delta is between May and August. However, it is chilly in the early mornings and at night, so you has to prepare yourself. With the advent of technology, good jeeps and a landing strip, more and more camps remain open throughout the year as wildlife remains plentiful.
We stayed at one of the Kwando Safari camps, (Little Kwara) part of a 175,000 hectare private concession, which was formerly a hunting block until the owners introduced photo tourism. These luxury, walk-in, green canvas tents- complete with hot showers, solar powered light bulbs, and comfortable beds- conjure up memories of yesteryear’s hunters and explorers who pioneered the concept of bush living. Designed to blend into the background of trees and scrub, each tent-chalet overlooks the lagoon teeming with Hippos, Warthogs, Birds and Crocodiles.
The camps attract their share of resident Baboons and an occasional Elephant who wanders through camp searching for fresh leaves. These impromptu visitors are adrenaline boosters and guests can capture some great photos, provided they maintain bush protocol.
Besides the normal, open-jeep game drives, the Delta is excellent for walking safaris (only certain times of the year when it is dryer). The mokoro (traditional canoes) are also a must-do.
About the author: Rumit Mehta is the founder of Immersion Journeys, an award winning specialty boutique tour company, focusing on customized leisure, adventure and academic tours to Africa and South Asia. He is also a guest blogger for Africa.com.
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