North of the area classically known as the Okavango Delta is the Linyanti Wetlands, an equally impressive, game rich region stretching up to the border with Namibia. The habitats, experiences and wildlife here are often very similar to those further south, but there are subtle differences that make it combine perfectly with the Moremi Game Reserve or one of the Delta’s private concessions. It is also simple to travel between Linyanti and Chobe further east, meaning that comprehensive itineraries covering Botswana’s big-game havens will generally include Linyanti as a central hub.

The Linyanti Wetlands cover vast swathes of diverse environs, two great rivers and three outstanding reserves, the Selinda, the Kwando and the Linyanti. All of these are known for slightly different landscapes, flora and fauna: the Selinda’s open plains and tree islands are ideal for big cats; the Kwando’s thick mopane woodland sees almost unprecedented wild dog traffic; and the Linyanti includes the Savute Channel within its borders, dry for decades but now flowing again and attracting huge herds of elephant, vast pods of hippo and a dazzling array of water birds. Each boasts some truly exceptional camps with first class guides, leading explorations mainly concentrated on game drives but sometimes on foot or by boat. We would suggest staying for at least three nights in one of these reserves, but longer stays combining two of them are equally rewarding and highly recommended.