Moremi Game Reserve
Introduction
The Moremi Game Reserve has been described as one of the most diverse parks in Botswana. The landscape ranges from forests to savannas; from floodplains to lagoons. Although it is the smallest park in the country, covering an expanse of only 4 871 km2, this is considered to be a positive aspect of the park, as the game is concentrated and easy to spot.
History
The Reserve was named after Chief Moremi, Chief of the BaTawana tribe. The tribe was the first tribe to declare their piece of land a game reserve, making it a unique one. The tribe were forced out by the Government in the 1960s.
Wildlife
Because of the diverse landscapes of the reserve, the wildlife is abundant. There is a wide variety of birdlife in the Reserve, making it a must-see for bird viewers worldwide. Other species in the Reserve include buffalo, giraffe, lion, leopard, cheetah, hyena, jackal, impala, red lechwe and the African wild dog.
Accommodation
This reserve has managed to maintain its unspoilt habitat since it was first declared as such. This means that the Reserve itself does not have many lodges and only four camping lodges.
Camp Moremi:
Camp Moremi is a luxury tented camp in the Xakanaxa area of the Moremi Game Reserve. This reserve offers bird watching on the Gadikewe and Xakanaxa lagoons and motorboat safaris on the Okovango. It has a balcony, bar facility and swimming pool. In the evening, authentic African dishes are served in an elevated tree lodge dining room, or in the covered boma. This camp can accommodate 22 guests in east African safari style tents. Each unit has its own private bathroom.
Mombo Camp:
This camp is home to many predators such as lions, leopards, cheetahs and wild dogs. It is situated on Mombo Island, which is in the heart of the Moremi Game Reserve in the Okavango Delta. This camp has a balcony, bar facilities, ceiling fans, curio shops, laundry services, outdoor showers and a swimming pool. It has a boma for outdoor dining under the stars. Meals can also be taken in appointed dining areas, which overlook the plains. There is also a private dining deck available. This camp has nine luxurious tented rooms. These are raised off the ground and have connecting walkways so the game can wander freely. Each room has an en-suite bathroom and an outdoor shower. Each room also has its own veranda.
Little Mombo:
Little Mombo is home to many predators, as well as the big five. It also offers total seclusion as it only consists of three suites. It overlooks a floodplain, which is full of game. The whole campsite is raised off the ground so as to allow the game to wonder freely below. You can go on morning and afternoon game drives. It has a balcony, bar facilities, outdoor showers and a swimming pool. Light continental breakfasts are served in the morning, followed by brunch and then pre-dinner drinks and snacks at the bar. For dinner, guests can enjoy a 3-course meal in the outdoor boma. There are three guest suites conjoined by raised walkways. Each suite has an en suite bathroom, out door shower and are spacious.
Chiefs Camp:
Chiefs camp is a luxury camp on Chiefs Island. The area is known for its wildlife and predators. The area also hosts the rare white rhino. It is the only area in Botswana where they can be viewed in their natural environment. This camp offers total luxury. Relax by the pool where a beauty therapist is ready to pamper you with a range of spar treatments (available in peak season). Along with a spa, this camp has a balcony, bar facility, curio shop, laundry service, mini-bar, outdoor shower and swimming pool. The dining area offers wonderful views of the surrounding landscapes, where you can be kept warm by campfires. Chiefs camp has 12 luxury, spacious bush pavilions. They have thatched roofs, a large seating area, en suite bathroom and a mini bar. All pavilions are fitted with both indoor and outdoor showers. You can also game watch from your own private deck, fitted with hammocks and deck chairs.
When to Go:
The seasonal pans dry up from around July-October. Thus, game viewing is at its peak around this period, as the wildlife becomes reliant on the permanent waterholes. From October to November/December, or at least until the start of the rainy season, Moremi can be extremely hot. The park is cooler and dry from March to September. Anti-malarial precautions should be taken before entering the reserve, as there are malaria-carrying mosquitoes throughout the year.
How to Get There:
Moremi can be accessed via roads or air. By road, it can be accessed via Maun, (the tourism capital of Botswana) or via Chobe National Park. Driving through Moremi is only advised for experienced 4 X 4 drivers and only in the dry months, due to the deep sand track and potholes.
