description Okavango Basin Overview
The Okavango Basin is the drainage basin of the Okavango River, extending across Angola, Namibia, and Botswana. Water rises mainly in the Angolan highlands, flows southeast through Namibia's Caprivi region, and disperses into Botswana's Okavango Delta rather than reaching the sea. This inland system supports seasonal floodplains, wetlands, wildlife habitats, fisheries, livestock, and communities in an otherwise largely dry part of southern Africa.
help Okavango Basin FAQ
Where does the water in the Okavango Basin originate?
The water originates from the highland rainforests of Angola, primarily flowing down the Cubango and Cuito rivers. It then travels through Namibia's Caprivi Strip before eventually emptying into the flat plains of Botswana.
Why doesn't the Okavango Delta empty into an ocean?
Unlike most river deltas, it is an endorheic basin, meaning the waters never reach the sea. Instead, the river flows into the Kalahari Desert, where the water eventually evaporates or seeps into the sand, creating a lush inland oasis.
When is the best time to visit the Okavango Basin to see wildlife?
The prime time for wildlife viewing is during the dry winter season, roughly between May and October. Ironically, this is when the floodwaters from the Angolan highlands finally reach the delta, causing animals to congregate in high densities on the islands.
How is the Okavango Basin currently being protected?
The permanent swamp areas in Botswana are protected as the Moremi Game Reserve and the Okavango Delta, which is a designated UNESCO World Heritage site. Additionally, the governments of Angola, Namibia, and Botswana coordinate conservation efforts to protect the river system from upstream damming.
explore Explore More
Similar to Okavango Basin
ui.x_see_all arrow_forward
Reviews & Comments
Write a Review
Be the first to review
Share your thoughts with the community and help others make better decisions.
