A mokoro canoe is one of the most distinctive experiences in Botswana’s Okavango Delta. Not to mention this is one of the only places in Africa that you can participate in such an activity.
Unlike traditional game drives, Mokoro Canoe safaris are slow, quiet, and offer a different perspective on the Delta’s ecosystem.
During our time in Botswana, we had the opportunity to experience a Mokoro Canoe excursion. Only a limited number of lodges offer this as an activity, and we think this is something every traveler should experience if the opportunity presents itself.
Here’s what travellers should know before partaking in a Mokoro Canoe experience.
Everything to know about a Safari in Botswana here!
What Is a Mokoro Canoe?
A Mokoro is a traditional dugout canoe, historically carved from tree trunks and now more commonly made from fiberglass for sustainability. It is propelled by a local guide, known as a “poler“, who stands at the back and uses a long pole to navigate shallow channels.
Mokoros are designed specifically for the Okavango Delta’s floodplains, allowing access to areas that are unreachable by vehicle or motorboat!
See and book our Exact Botswana Safari Itinerary Here!
How a Mokoro Canoe Excursion Works
Mokoro outings typically take place in the morning or late afternoon, when temperatures are cooler and wildlife activity is higher.
- Guests ride in pairs, and sit low in the canoe while the guide stands and “poles” at the back
- Excursions usually last between 1.5–3 hours
- Trips often include a stop on a small island or floodplain for a guided walk and snack (lodge dependent)
The pace is intentionally slow, which allows guides to point out subtle details that are often missed on game drives.
We had the opportunity to experience a Mokoro Canoe Excursion during our time at Monachira Camp in the Okavango Delta. Read more about our experience here!
Wildlife You’re Likely to See
While mokoro safaris are not focused on large predators, they offer excellent opportunities to observe smaller wildlife and birdlife.
Common animal and bird sightings include:
- Birds like Fish eagles, herons, kingfishers, and storks
- Lechwe antelope and sitatunga near water edges
- Hippos (observed from a safe distance)
The guides are trained to read the water and will reroute if large animals such as hippos or elephants are nearby!
Why Mokoro Canoe Safaris Are Different from Game Drives
The main difference is immersion. Mokoro Canoe excursions emphasize ecosystem education rather than fast-paced sightings.
- No engine noise
- Close-up views of vegetation like papyrus reeds and water lilies
- Greater focus on plants, tracks, and animal behavior
- Strong emphasis on safety and environmental awareness
This makes mokoro trips a good balance to traditional game drives. It also adds variety to your safari days!
Safety Considerations
Mokoro Canoe safaris are well-regulated and guided by professionals with extensive local knowledge.
- Routes are planned daily based on animal movement and water levels
- Hippo territories are carefully avoided
- Guests are briefed before departure on posture and behavior
- Walking portions are optional and conducted in safe areas
While the experience feels peaceful, it is still a true wildlife environment, and guides remain alert at all times.
What to Wear and Bring
For this excursion, practical clothing is key:
- Neutral-coloured clothing (dress like you would for any safari)
- Hat and sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Closed-toe shoes (especially if a walking portion is included)
- Camera with a strap or phone with a strap
Because space is limited, bags should be small and waterproof if possible.
Is the Mokoro Canoe Experience Worth It?
For travellers visiting the Okavango Delta, the answer is yes! Particularly if your itinerary includes both land-based and water-based camps. Mokoro canoe excursions provide context and depth to the safari experience, helping travellers understand why the Delta supports such high wildlife diversity.
Rather than replacing game drives, mokoro canoe safaris complement them, offering a slower and more educational way to experience one of Africa’s most unique landscapes.
Final Thoughts
A mokoro canoe safari is a unique way to experience the Okavango Delta’s waterways and ecosystem.
While different from traditional game drives, it adds educational value, variety, and a slower safari pace, making it a worthwhile addition to any Botswana safari itinerary.
You can read more about our entire safari experience in Botswana here!
If you want a more unique safari experience, look no further than a safari river cruise! You can find everything you need to know about that here.
If you want to see our entire itinerary (including how to book the exact same trip as us) which included stops in Zimbabwe and the safari river cruise, you can find that here!
