"The Linyanti region lies in northern Botswana, between the Okavango Delta and Namibia’s Caprivi strip. This wild region comprises a tapestry of river, swamp and mopane woodland, fed by the Kwando and Linyanti rivers. It shares its basic ecology with the Okavango and Chobe, which it borders to the south and east respectively. Wildlife includes large herds of elephant, buffalo and zebra, plus numerous predators, which move freely across the region in response to the seasonal rains. The area falls into three privately managed concessions: the Linyanti, Kwando and Selinda. Each has its own particular terrain and wildlife specialities, but all offer outstanding safaris from some of Africa’s most exclusive private lodges.”
- Mike Unwin
Linyanti, Kwando & Selinda
The Linyanti region has become a byword for luxury safaris. A tapestry of wetlands, woodlands and savannah, this complex region effectively forms the third piece of huge safari jigsaw, fitting neatly between the Okavango Delta to the south and Chobe National Park to the east. It shares the same basic terrain of those regions, and wildlife moves freely between them all. Where it differs is in its management: the area comprises three private concessions, the Linyanti, Kwando and Selinda, in which visitors will enjoy a level of exclusivity that is hard to match elsewhere.
The geography of this wild region can feel confusing. The Kwando river enters from the northwest and, just like the Okavango further south, spreads out when it reaches the sands of the Kalahari to form a wetland: the Linyanti. From here, the Linyanti river drains northeast into northern Chobe, while the Savuti channel flows due east and the Selinda Spillway southwest. The three concession areas differ from one another chiefly in the proportion of wetland to woodland. This brings subtle nuances in wildlife distribution – cheetah, for example, are most common in the wide-open grasslands of Selinda – but in general, all species roam freely across the entire region, passing in and out of neighbouring Chobe and Moremi. Large herds of elephant and buffalo mass on the floodplains and river fronts from June; predators include an impressive lion population and numerous packs of wild dog; wetlands hold aquatic species such as hippo and red lechwe; and shyer sable, roan and eland frequent the mopane woodlands. The bird-watching is superb throughout, with local specialities such as African Skimmer on the open waters.
The visitor to any of these concessions can expect high-quality game viewing from exclusive lodges located in beautiful areas. As well as game drives and boat trips, activities include night drives and walking – neither of which are possible in Chobe or much of the Okavango – and thus open up a range of other wildlife and experiences. Off-road driving also allows such thrills as, for example, following a hunting pack of wild dogs. Some operators run mobile safaris, which can respond to the ever-changing conditions and set up camp wherever the wildlife is most productive.
When to go
Find out when is best to visit
- Excellent
- Good
- Poor
WET SEASON – ‘EMERALD SEASON’
During this period large concentrations of grazers can be found in time for calving season. These young animals attract large predator numbers from the surrounding areas. This is also a great time of year to see migratory bird species.
Wettest time of the year, with rain falling most days of the month, although rarely prolonged in nature. Temperatures are quite hot, averaging 31°C/88°F midday, while the nights average 20°C/68°F. During this period the park transforms into a lush green landscape, a stark contrast to the dry season.
Like the rest of Botswana, this region of the country has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain occurs sporadically usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from late October through to April, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. It is predominately a safari destination we would generally recommend visiting during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated around the rivers and watercourse while at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility.
Having said this, there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; beautiful green scenery, fantastic birding, large flowing rivers and fewer tourists can make for a wonderful and unique experience.
WET SEASON – ‘EMERALD SEASON’
During this period large concentrations of grazers can be found in time for calving season. These young animals attract large predator numbers from the surrounding areas. This is also a great time of year to see migratory bird species.
Wettest time of the year, with rain falling most days of the month, although rarely prolonged in nature. Temperatures are quite hot, averaging 31°C/88°F midday, while the nights average 20°C/68°F. During this period the park transforms into a lush green landscape, a stark contrast to the dry season.
Like the rest of Botswana, this region of the country has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain occurs sporadically usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from late October through to April, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. It is predominately a safari destination we would generally recommend visiting during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated around the rivers and watercourse while at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility.
Having said this, there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; beautiful green scenery, fantastic birding, large flowing rivers and fewer tourists can make for a wonderful and unique experience.
WET SEASON – ‘EMERALD SEASON’
During this period large concentrations of grazers can be found in time for calving season. These young animals attract large predator numbers from the surrounding areas. This is also a great time of year to see migratory bird species.
Wettest time of the year, with rain falling most days of the month, although rarely prolonged in nature. Temperatures are quite hot, averaging 31°C/88°F midday, while the nights average 20°C/68°F. During this period the park transforms into a lush green landscape, a stark contrast to the dry season.
Like the rest of Botswana, this region of the country has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain occurs sporadically usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from late October through to April, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. It is predominately a safari destination we would generally recommend visiting during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated around the rivers and watercourse while at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility.
Having said this, there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; beautiful green scenery, fantastic birding, large flowing rivers and fewer tourists can make for a wonderful and unique experience.
DRY SEASON
Wildlife will begin to move closer to the water sources as the clear skies dominate. The rain fades, and midday temperatures are more pleasant. Mornings can be surprisingly cool, so it is advisable to pack some warm clothes.
Like the rest of Botswana, this region of the country has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain occurs sporadically usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from late October through to April, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. It is predominately a safari destination we would generally recommend visiting during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated around the rivers and watercourse while at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility.
Having said this, there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; beautiful green scenery, fantastic birding, large flowing rivers and fewer tourists can make for a wonderful and unique experience.
DRY SEASON
Wildlife will begin to move closer to the water sources as the clear skies dominate. The rain fades, and midday temperatures are more pleasant. Mornings can be surprisingly cool, so it is advisable to pack some warm clothes.
Like the rest of Botswana, this region of the country has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain occurs sporadically usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from late October through to April, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. It is predominately a safari destination we would generally recommend visiting during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated around the rivers and watercourse while at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility.
Having said this, there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; beautiful green scenery, fantastic birding, large flowing rivers and fewer tourists can make for a wonderful and unique experience.
DRY SEASON
The landscape continues to dry up, with good game sightings becoming more likely. Midday temperatures are average around 25°C/77°F, the mornings can however be surprising cool at around 11°C/52°F, so be sure to pack a warm fleece.
Like the rest of Botswana, this region of the country has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain occurs sporadically usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from late October through to April, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. It is predominately a safari destination we would generally recommend visiting during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated around the rivers and watercourse while at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility.
Having said this, there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; beautiful green scenery, fantastic birding, large flowing rivers and fewer tourists can make for a wonderful and unique experience.
DRY SEASON
Clear skies dominate. Midday temperatures are pleasantly warm throughout the country, though mornings can, however, be very cold.
Botswana has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain is common, usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from October through to early May, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. As Botswana is predominately a safari destination we would generally recommend visiting during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up, wildlife becomes more concentrated around the rivers and watercourse while at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility.
Having said this, there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; beautiful green scenery, fantastic birding, large flowing rivers and fewer tourists can make for a wonderful and unique experience.
There are also two significant exceptions to the above rule of thumb; Kalahari Desert and the Makgadikgadi which come into their own during the wet season as wildlife moves in to take advantage of the fresh, lush grass.
Temperatures can be very high in and around the wet season; when the sunlight is at its strongest, however nights can be cool to sub-freezing throughout the year. So, don’t forget to pack warm clothing!
DRY SEASON
Clear skies still dominate, the landscape has now become quite parched; ultimately making this the perfect time for game viewing. Midday and night temperatures are climbing, with midday temperatures becoming hot, averaging 29°C/84°F in August and 33°C/91°F in September. Mornings remain surprisingly cool, so do pack something warm.
Like the rest of Botswana, this region of the country has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain occurs sporadically usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from late October through to April, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. It is predominately a safari destination we would generally recommend visiting during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated around the rivers and watercourse while at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility.
Having said this, there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; beautiful green scenery, fantastic birding, large flowing rivers and fewer tourists can make for a wonderful and unique experience.
DRY SEASON
Clear skies still dominate, the landscape has now become quite parched; ultimately making this the perfect time for game viewing. Midday and night temperatures are climbing, with midday temperatures becoming hot, averaging 29°C/84°F in August and 33°C/91°F in September. Mornings remain surprisingly cool, so do pack something warm.
Like the rest of Botswana, this region of the country has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain occurs sporadically usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from late October through to April, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. It is predominately a safari destination we would generally recommend visiting during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated around the rivers and watercourse while at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility.
Having said this, there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; beautiful green scenery, fantastic birding, large flowing rivers and fewer tourists can make for a wonderful and unique experience.
DRY SEASON
Game viewing can be spectacular during October; however, temperatures continue to rise before the start of the rains, with midday temperatures over 40°C/104°F not uncommon. We suggest early morning starts during this time to make the most of the cool temperatures!
Like the rest of Botswana, this region of the country has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain occurs sporadically usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from late October through to April, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. It is predominately a safari destination we would generally recommend visiting during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated around the rivers and watercourse while at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility.
Having said this, there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; beautiful green scenery, fantastic birding, large flowing rivers and fewer tourists can make for a wonderful and unique experience.
WET SEASON
The first rains arrive, usually in the form of sharp afternoon showers. The temperatures still however remain very hot, while the humidity adds level of discomfort. Game viewing can still be great, but just be prepared for a little heat.
Like the rest of Botswana, this region of the country has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain occurs sporadically usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from late October through to April, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. It is predominately a safari destination we would generally recommend visiting during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated around the rivers and watercourse while at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility.
Having said this, there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; beautiful green scenery, fantastic birding, large flowing rivers and fewer tourists can make for a wonderful and unique experience.
WET SEASON
During this period large concentrations of grazers can be found in time for calving season. These young animals attract large predator numbers from the surrounding areas. This is also a great time of year to see migratory bird species.
Wettest time of the year, with rain falling most days of the month, although rarely prolonged in nature. Temperatures are quite hot, averaging 31°C/88°F midday, while the nights average 20°C/68°F. During this period the park transforms into a lush green landscape, a stark contrast to the dry season.
Like the rest of Botswana, this region of the country has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain occurs sporadically usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from late October through to April, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. It is predominately a safari destination we would generally recommend visiting during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated around the rivers and watercourse while at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility.
Having said this, there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; beautiful green scenery, fantastic birding, large flowing rivers and fewer tourists can make for a wonderful and unique experience.
Experiences
Explore Linyanti, Kwando & Selinda Properties
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DumaTau
DumaTau
DumaTau Camp, a luxury tented camp operated by Wilderness Safaris, is located in the heart of Botswana's Linyanti Wildlife Reserve. Known for its intimate connection with nature, DumaTau offers guests an unparalleled safari ..
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Linyanti Expeditions
Linyanti Expeditions
Six simple but comfortable tents with 'star suite' extensions surrounded by a wonderfully varied landscape, rich with wildlife, with a singular focus on the safari experience. As fans of African Bush Camp’s other camps and ..
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Little DumaTau
Little DumaTau
Opened in 2022, Wilderness' Little DumaTau is a testament to exclusivity and refined luxury, nestled within Botswana's vast Linyanti Reserve. Overlooking the serene Osprey Lagoon, this intimate camp is designed for those seeking a ..
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Selinda Camp
Selinda Camp
A Great Plains Conservation property, Selinda Camp is also co-owned by wildlife filmmakers Dereck and Beverly Joubert. Blending a classic bush camp with all the contemporary amenities, Selinda resembles the traditional thatched ..
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Selinda Explorers Camp
Selinda Explorers Camp
Although transporting you back in time to the days of the early explorers, Great Plain Conservation’s Selinda Explorers Camp gives the classic safari a modern twist. With an atmospheric bush elegance, relaxed feel and attentive ..
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Selinda Suite
Selinda Suite
The Selinda Suite, an extension of the esteemed Selinda Camp and part of the Great Plains Conservation properties, brings an additional layer of exclusivity and sophistication to the Botswana safari experience. Renowned wildlife ..
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Zarafa
Zarafa
Zarafa Camp is an intimate property perched on the banks of the Zibadiania Lagoon, Meaning ‘Beloved One’ in Arabic, Zarafa is co-owned and run by National Geographic wildlife filmmaker Dereck Joubert and his wife, photographer ..
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Zarafa Dhow Suite
Zarafa Dhow Suite
An intimate, two-room villa on the private Selinda Reserve, Great Plain Conservation's Zarafa Dhow Suite is a gem amid the wild with magnificent views over the Zibadianja Lagoon and an environmentally innovative design. The ..
What People Say
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The personalised service provided was far beyond my expectations. A three week trip visiting four countries in Africa, multiple game reserves, wineries and much, much more was flawless. While a close encounter with a leopard and her cubs…
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We got in touch after hearing about Hide & Seek from a friend. Have to say hats off to Jamie, he was so patient throughout, even through our indecisiveness! Ultimately we ended up with the most incredible holiday of our lives. Thank you again, we will be back!!
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Thank you for arranging our Safari holiday in Kenya and Tanzania for us. It was to celebrate our 40th. Wedding anniversary which was on July 1st. 2018, and through your arrangements, we have had a holiday that we will never forget...
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Thanks so much for a truly unforgettable once in a life time holiday. Hopefully we will be in touch again soon!
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Spot on in terms of itinerary . We not disappointed by any of the suggestions and had the best holiday ever! Thank you!
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Jamie was very helpful throughout the booking process and recommended the perfect holiday. There was nothing we would change having now been out to Tanzania. I would highly recommend Hide & Seek to friends and relatives.
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Jamie was excellent. Once I described what we wanted I knew he would come up with the business. ..and he did!!! 5 stars
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We spoke to numerous travel agents over the period we looked at booking our honeymoon and only hide and seek gave me the confidence I was looking for. Really pleased with our decision.
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Hide and seek dealt with our last minute travel plans extremely well. Obviously, our accommodations shifted as availability diminished but ultimately they came up with a vacation that we will never forget.
