Chief's Island
The Okavango Delta's largest island and its premier wildlife destination — home to the highest concentration of game in the Delta.
Sub-destination
Type
Jun-Oct
Best Time
About Chief's Island
Chief's Island is the crown jewel of the Okavango Delta — its largest island and the area with the highest concentration of wildlife. Rising above the surrounding floodplains in the heart of Moremi Game Reserve, the island's mix of mopane woodland, grassland, and palm-fringed floodplain edges attracts massive herds of buffalo, elephant, and their predators.
A handful of exclusive camps on and around Chief's Island offer what many consider the ultimate Botswana safari experience: morning game drives tracking lion and wild dog, afternoon mokoro excursions through lily-pad channels, and sundowners overlooking floodplains where elephants wade through the shallows as the sun sets.
Ready to Visit Chief's Island?
Let our experts plan your perfect safari itinerary
Why Visit Chief's Island
The top experiences that make Chief's Island worth the journey.
Plan Your Visit to Chief's Island
Everything you need to know before booking your Chief's Island safari — from the ideal season to budget expectations and logistics.
Best Time to Visit Chief's Island
Chief's Island is best from June to October during the dry season when the Okavango Delta floods are at their peak — transforming the landscape into a water wonderland ideal for mokoro and boat safaris.
July to September offers the best combination of floodwaters and wildlife concentration. The green season (November to March) brings lush landscapes, birding, and lower rates but some areas become inaccessible.
What It Costs
Chief's Island is one of Botswana's most exclusive areas. Lodges (Mombo, Chief's Camp) $1,500-3,500/person/night all-inclusive. No budget options exist — this is ultra-luxury only. Rates typically include flights, activities, meals, and drinks.
Getting There
Chief's Island is accessible only by light aircraft. Fly into the Mombo or Chief's Camp airstrip from Maun (30 minutes) or Kasane (1.5 hours). There are no roads — access is by air and then boat/vehicle transfer within the concession. Maun is served by direct flights from Johannesburg and Cape Town.
Destinations Near Chief's Island
Combine Chief's Island with these nearby destinations for a multi-stop safari itinerary.
Frequently Asked Questions About Chief's Island
What is the best time to visit Chief's Island?
Chief's Island is best from **June to October** during the dry season when the Okavango Delta floods are at their peak — transforming the landscape into a water wonderland ideal for mokoro and boat safaris. **July to September** offers the best combination of floodwaters and wildlife concentration. The green season (**November to March**) brings lush landscapes, birding, and lower rates but some areas become inaccessible.
How do I get to Chief's Island?
Chief's Island is accessible only by light aircraft. Fly into the Mombo or Chief's Camp airstrip from Maun (30 minutes) or Kasane (1.5 hours). There are no roads — access is by air and then boat/vehicle transfer within the concession. Maun is served by direct flights from Johannesburg and Cape Town.
What wildlife can I see in Chief's Island?
Chief's Island is known for incredible wildlife viewing. Top experiences include: Highest game density in the Delta, Exclusive luxury camps, All Big Five present, Pristine wilderness with minimal visitors. The specific species you'll encounter depend on the season and exact location within Chief's Island.
How much does a Chief's Island safari cost?
Chief's Island is one of Botswana's most exclusive areas. Lodges (Mombo, Chief's Camp) $1,500-3,500/person/night all-inclusive. No budget options exist — this is ultra-luxury only. Rates typically include flights, activities, meals, and drinks.
