We all have that one animal we’re desperate to see while on safari in Africa and it need not always be one of the big five. There are keen Twitchers dying to see a lifer such as the Pel’s fishing owl and herpetologists eager to spot a black mamba – from a safe distance of course. The big five are the most well-marketed animals and certainly wondrous to see in the wild, but in the Okavango Delta there dwells an amphibious creature that has stolen the hearts of many wildlife lovers – the hippo!
The hippo is Africa’s cutest, yet most cumbersome and dangerous animal to come face-to-face in the wild. They strike a curious mix of fear and humour within all those that observe. They are territorial creatures and kill more people in the wild than lions, leopards and other animals.
Hippos can be found throughout many reserves within southern Africa, but the Okavango Delta has high concentrations of hippo pods. You’ll see them while in the open waters on the Delta or during the evening time when they come out to forage for food. Simply put, the Okavango Delta is paradise for hippo lovers.
Here are a four facts about hippos:
- The name hippopotamus has origins in a Greek word meaning “river horse”.
- Most of hippos day is spent in the water but they do merge to sun themselves on the banks of waterholes.
- Contrary to popular belief, hippos don’t actually swim but rather walk along the bottom of the water and create pathways, which become well-used.
- When hippos open their mouths wide to display their teeth it is a territorial display. This is often accompanied by honking.
Here are three of our favourite camps:
Authentic, rustic category : Xobega Island Camp
Xobega Island Camp is a piece of paradise located on a remote island just off the mainland of Moremi Game Reserve. Xobega (or Gcobega) Island is ideally located and easily accessible for 4 x 4 self-drivers, and also for guests flying into the Xakanaxa airstrip.
Guests arrive at the tree-filled island via boat and are welcomed to this simple safari where the focus is on water activities and sundowner boat cruises. Hippos rule the waters around the island, lions are heard across the water, and a Pel’s fishing owl takes up residence in the trees.
Mid-range, comfortable : Delta Camp
Delta Camp is situated on a the popular Chiefs Island, which is a private island in the middle of the Delta’s crystal clear channels. There are lagoons, extensive floodplains and a myriad of channels home to over 450 bird species. Peace and tranquility are the order of the day at Delta Camp. This rustic camp is ideal for those on a mid-range budget and there’s plenty of activities on the island.
Premier, luxury : Abu Camp
There is a resident elephant herd that often makes its way into Abu Camp, making it one of the Delta’s most unique and rare safari camps. Set in the midst of a riverine forest, Abu Camp comprises 6 en suite tents and gives off an air of Botswana opulence. Indulge in an outdoor bath experience, enjoy the expansive views of the Okavango Delta from your viewing deck or make use of the swimming pool during the searing African heat. The choice is yours!
