A First-Timer’s Honest Guide to the Okavango Delta

Let’s be honest, booking your first safari is a mix of pure excitement and a healthy dose of “What have I gotten myself into?” You’ve seen the stunning photos, dreamed of the wildlife, but the reality of camping in the African bush can feel a world away from your comfort zone.

We recently caught up with Chantelle, a first-time safari-goer, and a Travel Support Agent at African Overland Tours, who embarked on an incredible journey through Botswana. Her experience, from pre-trip jitters to unforgettable moments in the Okavango Delta, is the perfect guide for any newbie adventurer.

The “Newbie” Jitters Are Real (And That’s Okay!)

Every great adventure starts with a leap of faith, and for Chantelle, that leap came with a few lessons learned right from the get-go.

“Make sure you have enough time between flights so that you don’t panic,” she laughs. “Freeze mode is real.” It’s a simple tip, but a crucial one. Rushing and stressing is no way to begin the trip of a lifetime.

Her other hard-won advice for fellow newbies?

• A “Pocket” First-Aid Kit is Non-Negotiable: “I got bitten by a lot of things,” Chantelle admits. On nature walks through the bush, minor scrapes and bites are part of the experience. Having a small kit with antiseptic, anti-itch cream, and alcohol cleansing pads means you can handle small issues on the spot and get right back to the adventure.
• Invest in Proper Safari Wear: It’s not just for the photos! “I should have done that,” Chantelle reflects, noting how proper safari clothing, especially cargo pants, is more breathable and practical. Less gets stuck to you on walks, you stay cooler, and you’re generally more comfortable.
• Knowledge is Power: Before you go, read up on the wildlife in the areas you’ll be visiting. Understanding animal behaviour enriches every sighting and helps you appreciate the incredible ecosystem you’re in. As Chantelle puts it, “being ignorant isn’t always the best.”

Plunging into the Wild: An Okavango Delta Immersion

The true heart of the Botswana overland tour was the Okavango Delta. For Chantelle, this was her first real camping experience, and it was transformative.

“It was very scary at first but became the best part of this whole entire trip!” she exclaims. “It feels like it was the first time that I have really lived in a long time, being disconnected from the rest of the world. It was a reset that I probably knew I needed but it’s not something I would have ever done if not for this tour.”

This is the magic of the Delta. Life slows down. You travel by mokoro (traditional dugout canoe), gliding silently through the reed-lined channels, watching the world from a completely new perspective. It’s here that the adventure truly feels real. If Chantelle’s story of finding herself in the wild heart of Africa speaks to you, you can find your own transformative moments on our Botswana Wilderness tour.

We even had a heart-pounding encounter with an angry hippo that got a little too close for comfort during a nature walk. It was a stark reminder that we were visitors in their home, and a moment of immense gratitude for our experienced polers and guides who navigated the situation with calm expertise.

More Than a Tour, It’s an Experience

What makes an overland tour so special isn’t just the places you go, but the people you’re with. Evenings are spent around the campfire, sharing stories and laughing with new friends. On our tour, the local polers even treated us to a traditional song and dance, a truly special moment of cultural connection. This is the classic journey many dream of, and it’s the cornerstone of our Botswana Adventure small group tour. For those seeking an even grander expedition, you can expand this sense of discovery on our 21-Day Livingstone to Livingstone Overland Adventure, which combines the best of Botswana with neighbouring wonders.

From the thrill of finally getting the 4×4 stuck in the mud (an event the whole group was secretly waiting for!) to the quiet beauty of a sunset sundowner with a cheeseboard in the middle of the bush, every moment is an experience.

“On our last night at Mababe Tented Camp, as we tried to finish all the beers in the cooler box, we heard the distinct cackle of a hyena and the sounds of wild dogs making a kill close to our camp” Chantelle says. The hyena’s laugh echoing through the night is one of the most amazing and haunting sounds you’ll ever hear – a perfect farewell from the wild.

The Verdict from a Former Newbie

Chantelle’s journey from a nervous first-timer to a confident adventurer is a story we see time and time again. A safari is about pushing your boundaries, embracing the unexpected, and creating memories that last a lifetime.

So, if you’re a newbie wondering if you should take the leap on a Botswana overland tour, her answer is a resounding yes. Your own Okavango Delta adventure is waiting.

Find Your Botswana Adventure

To find the journey that’s right for you, explore our full range of budget tours to Botswana and get ready to answer the call of the wild.

Still Not Convinced? Check Out our Ultimate Botswana Guide