I am fortunate to guide groups in one of the most fascinating places: the Okavango Delta. This pristine ecosystem is a true natural sanctuary where wildlife thrives. More than just a water source, the Okavango Basin is vital for over a million people and harbors exceptional biodiversity. It is home to Africa’s largest elephant population, as well as lions, cheetahs, wild dogs, countless herbivores, and an astonishing variety of birds. Every moment spent here is a unique opportunity to reconnect with nature and experience a profound harmony with the environment and its inhabitants.
However, this vital place faces significant challenges, such as water management, population growth—even though Botswana’s population is only 2.5 million across an area the size of France—and the impacts of climate change. While the delta supports local communities and attracts numerous tourists each year, it remains fragile.
"Into the Okavango": An Exploration of the Delta and Its Origins
I wanted to share this documentary with you, as it is truly a masterpiece. I’ve watched it dozens of times, and yet it continues to captivate me with every viewing. Into the Okavango takes us on an extraordinary journey, tracing the sources of the Okavango Delta back to the Angolan highlands. This fascinating expedition through wild, uncharted landscapes reveals the origins and workings of this unique river system. Blending scientific discoveries with human encounters, the documentary immerses us in a vital ecosystem while raising awareness about its preservation. It’s an immersive adventure that both transports viewers and sheds light on the challenges of protecting this natural treasure.
This documentary is part of the National Geographic Okavango Wilderness Project (NGOWP), a key initiative for the protection of the delta.
Why is the NGOWP Essential for the Preservation of the Okavango?
During my last adventure, I had the opportunity to meet members of the Wild Bird Trust, a partner organization of the NGOWP that works to conserve birdlife in the delta, particularly in the northern villages of the Okavango Community Trust (OCT). Their work is essential for maintaining the balance of this fragile ecosystem. Collaboration between local communities and NGOs is crucial for preserving this environment.
Since 2015, the NGOWP has been conducting in-depth studies and collecting scientific data on the Okavango River system. This project brings together the governments of Angola, Namibia, and Botswana, as well as local NGOs, to ensure the sustainable protection of the Okavango Basin, from its water sources in the Angolan mountains to the delta in Botswana.
All of this to say that each visit offers a chance to discover the richness of this fascinating ecosystem and continues to surprise us !
