Drift Into the Heart of the Okavango
Mokoro Dugout Canoe Safari
This is one of the most peaceful safari experiences in Africa. No engines. No rushing. Just you, water, and nature moving at its own pace.
Glide silently through the Okavango Delta in a traditional mokoro canoe, guided by a skilled local poler who knows these waterways by heart. You’ll drift past reeds, lilies, and hidden channels, close enough to hear birds calling and see wildlife moving naturally along the banks.
What is a Dugout Canoe Safari
A Dugout Canoe Safari is a traditional dugout canoe used for generations by communities living in the Okavango Delta. Today, most mokoros are made from durable fiberglass to protect the environment while keeping the experience authentic. Your guide stands at the back of the canoe and gently pushes it forward using a long pole, navigating shallow channels that motorboats and vehicles cannot reach. The ride is smooth, stable, and surprisingly relaxing — even for first-time visitors. This is one of the best ways to experience the Delta as locals have for centuries.
What to Expect on a Dugout Canoe Safari
You’ll travel slowly and quietly through narrow waterways, gliding past reeds, papyrus, and water lilies without disturbing the wildlife around you. With no engines and no rush, the Delta reveals itself in small, intimate moments birds at eye level, frogs leaping from the banks, and animals coming down to drink, often just metres away. Your journey is guided by an experienced local poler who knows these channels by heart and shares insights into the Delta’s wildlife, plant life, and traditions along the way. With only the sounds of nature around you, this is a chance to truly disconnect. Many travellers say it’s the most peaceful and grounding experience of their entire safari.
Additional information
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- Night Drives: Night drives are available at certain national parks, giving guests the opportunity to see nocturnal wildlife that may not be seen during the day.
- Sunset Drives: We always recommend at least one afternoon game drive for all our guests in order to experience the stunning African sunset. What better way to fall in love with Africa than having a cold beer or drink while watching the wildlife roam in front of the sunset.
- Educational Presentations: Speak with national park rangers and anti-poaching agents to learn more about wildlife conservation and the current obstacles our national parks face
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- Accommodated Game Drive: We’ve partnered with all the leading accommodations throughout Southern Africa in order to provide the most comfortable stay. An accommodated game drive provides guests with the option to stay in a private lodge either located inside of the national park or nearby. Enjoy glamping at its best with comfortable beds and Western-style bathrooms all within the luxury of your tent.
- Tented Game Drive: For the more adventurous travelers, tented lodge accommodations are available either inside the national park or on private land nearby. Only available within certain national parks, experience traditional camping throughout designated areas. Your nature guide is happy to help with finding the best spots for exclusive wildlife sightings!
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We understand that photography is an essential component of any game drive– our guides are highly experienced in helping our guests get that once in a lifetime picture. During your game drive, your nature guide will be able to answer any questions you may have regarding the wildlife, botany, or terrain that you encounter.
Where you can enjoy this experience
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Book Your Mokoro Dugout Canoe Safari
Plan yourThis experience works best when it’s carefully planned around water levels, location, and the rest of your safari itinerary. We don’t offer one-size-fits-all trips every journey is tailored to you.and choose the national parks and experiences that suit you.