"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

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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

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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

One of the best locations in Africa to spot the elusive African Wild Dog

See the beautiful painted, patchwork coats of Africa’s wild dog across the three concessions. With a vast roaming range, wild dog’s remain elusive but once found, spend hours observing their interesting habits and speed through the bush to keep up with their playful nature and hunting abilities.

Marvel at the beauty of the area from a different perspective

An excellent way to experience the Chobe River, glide silently across the water to get up close to large herds of elephant and hippo crossing the water to the sweetgrass of the nearby islands. Observe magnificent sunsets over the water with a drink in hand and catch a glimpse of Kingfishers and African Skimmers.

Famous for predator sightings, especially Cheetah

Moving freely across the reserves are large numbers of predators stalking the game-rich landscape. Witness trees cradling sleeping lion and leopards or drive across the open plains to observe the spotted coats of abundant cheetah seeking out their next meal.

Immerse yourself in the wilderness with a walking safari

Step across the wild, open plains to explore the concessions in a more thrilling and adventurous manner. Your experienced and knowledgable guides bring the wilderness to life by introducing you to the intricacies of the landscape.

Enjoy a game drive in one of Southern Africa’s most beautiful regions

Dominated by sprawling floodplains, enjoy a vast range of wildlife on game drives across these private reserves. Head out on off-road adventures and exciting night drives to see elephant herds dominating the river banks and predators stalking the wetlands.

Explore Linyanti, Kwando & Selinda Properties

What People Say

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