Icons of the Okavango

Africa's iconic wildlife species are the reason people go on safari, with the promise of seeing them in their natural habitat the only motivation needed to pack bags and decamp far to remote wilderness areas far from home. In this respect, we are truly blessed, because the Okavango Delta is one of the most wildlife-rich regions on the continent, especially around the Khwai River - home of Feline Fields Vintage Camp...

The Khwai River region is situated in the north-eastern part of the Okavango Delta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world's largest inland deltas, attracting a plethora of wildlife due to its unique ecosystem of permanent water channels, seasonal floodplains, and lush vegetation.

It's an African paradise. An untouched wilderness filled with a rich diversity of life in all its glorious forms, with more than 500 species of birds and 100 mammal species, along with a veritable cornucopia of reptiles, fish, amphibians and invertebrates. 

The flora is just as diverse, with swathes of mopane and acacia woodlands, open floodplain grasslands and lush riparian forests along the river itself. Expect to see magnificent specimens of camelthorn, sycamore fig, sausage, leadwood, fever berry and jackalberry trees on drives close to the river and on mokoro rides. 

When it comes to the Khwai region, Botswana's inimitable megafauna are the real stars of the show - the impressive mammals who grace television screens the world over. So, let's look at some of the key animal species you can expect to see during your stay with us at Feline Fields Vintage Camp, located as it is in the heart of this amazing wilderness...

Elephant: The Khwai River region is known for its huge herds of African savannah elephant usually spotted in or near water as well as feeding in the open grasslands and woodland thickets. 

Buffalo: Herds of buffalo are common along the Khwai River and its channels. They graze on the abundant grasses and are often seen in both wet and dry areas.

Lion: - The Khwai area is home to an abundance of lion prides and there's a good chance of witnessing these apex predators during both day and night game drives.

Leopard: - The riverine habitat and dense vegetation that borders the river and its channels provide perfect conditions for these stealthy ambush hunters. Khwai is renowned for its leopard sightings, particularly in the early mornings and late evenings.

Cheetah: Cheetah are occasionally spotted in the Khwai region's floodplain grasslands which provide ideal hunting grounds for these fast and agile predators.

Painted wolf (African wild dog): The Khwai area is known for its painted wolf packs. These critically endangered carnivores are frequent hunters and constantly on the move, making for exciting encounters.

Hippo: The Khwai River and its various channels and lagoons are inhabited by countless pods of hippo. Mokoro and boat-based safaris provide excellent opportunities to observe these aquatic creatures at close quarters and their calls will serenade you night and day.

Giraffe: Giraffe are commonly seen browsing on acacia trees and other vegetation in the woodlands around Feline Fields Vintage Camp. When they are gathered together feeding they are known as a "tower". When they are on the move, they're called a "journey".

Zebra: Herds of both plains and Burchell's zebra roam the grassy floodplains, adding to the diverse herbivore population of the Khwai region.

Antelope: Various antelope species can be found throughout the Khwai region, including impala, kudu, sable, roan, and red lechwe, as well as common duiker, waterbuck and wildebeest.

Birds: From raptors like Pel's fishing owl and the African fish eagle to waterbirds like the African jacana, yellow-billed stork, goliath heron and the impressive wattled crane, the Khwai region is a prolific birding destination. Add to the list an impressive array of resident, summer and intra-African migrant species and you have birdwatching heaven. 

Reptiles: The largest of these is the Nile crocodile which inhabits every stretch of water in the Khwai and larger Okavango region. You'll often see them sunning themselves on the banks during the day. Also watch out for monitor lizards, chameleons and colourful agamas, as well as an ever-present variety of geckos and skinks.