Planning a self-drive safari through Moremi Game Reserve? You’re in for one of Africa’s most unforgettable journeys. Located in the eastern part of the Okavango Delta, Moremi offers wild beauty, remote landscapes, and rich wildlife—but it also demands preparation, especially for first-time visitors. Here are some tips to help you self-drive in Moremi.

Here are our top tips to make your Moremi self-drive safari safe, smooth, and spectacular.

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📍 Moremi Self-Drive Entry Points & Route Overview

Moremi is best accessed from Maun, Botswana’s safari hub. The two main gates are:

• South Gate (Maqwee Gate) — closest to Maun, ~3.5 hours’ drive

• North Gate (Khwai) — connects Moremi to Chobe and Savuti

Most self-drive travelers enter at South Gate and continue through the park toward Khwai or Savuti, creating a multi-day overland route.

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🚗 Vehicle Tips for Moremi Self-Drive Travelers

The roads in Moremi are deep sand, mud, and water crossings, especially during the rainy or flood seasons. A proper 4WD vehicle is mandatory. Make sure it has:

• High ground clearance

• Low-range gears

• A working second battery (for fridges/lights)

• A shovel, sand ladders, and a compressor

Bonus: Learn how to deflate your tires before hitting deep sand.

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🏕️ Campsite Bookings Are Required

If you’re planning to camp inside Moremi, you’ll need confirmed bookings for each campsite before entering. You can’t wild camp in Botswana’s national parks. Popular campsites include:

• Third Bridge

• Xakanaxa

• South Gate

• Khwai (just outside the park)

Semowi Nature Camp, located just north of Shorobe, is the perfect overnight stop before or after your Moremi adventure. With private campsites and safari tents, it offers a peaceful break with hot showers, solar power, and easy access to the park.

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🧾 Pay Your Park Fees in Advance

You can pay Moremi park entry fees at the DWNP office in Maun (behind the police station), or at the Gates. Keep your receipts—they’ll be checked at each gate.

Current fees (as of 2025):

• Citizens: P30

• Residents: P60

• Foreigners: P120

• Vehicle: P50
  (Prices may change—confirm in Maun)

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🦁 Wildlife is Wild – Always Be Alert

Moremi is home to lions, leopards, elephants, wild dogs, buffalos… Always:

• Stay in your vehicle

• Keep windows partly closed in predator zones

• Store food securely (especially in campsites)

• Avoid walking unless in a designated area

At night, wild animals often walk through camps.

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📶 There’s No Cell Signal in the Park

Once inside Moremi, expect to be off-grid. Bring:

• Offline maps

• Paper map backup

• Satellite phone or radio if you’re going alone

• Let someone know your route and expected return

Traveling in convoy is highly recommended.

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🕘 Start Early, Drive Safely

Gates typically open at sunrise and close at sunset. Plan to arrive at your next campsite well before sunset, as it’s easy to get lost or stuck in sandy or muddy sections.

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🧠 Final Tips Before You Go

• Pack extra fuel, water, and food

• Bring insect repellent and sunscreen

• Respect the environment—take all waste out

• Stay calm if you get stuck—don’t spin your wheels

• Camp one night outside the park to get an early start (like Semowi!)

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🚗 Your Moremi Gateway: Stay at Semowi

Located between Maun and Moremi, Semowi Nature Camp is a peaceful place to relax, repack, and get ready for the wild. Whether you’re in a rooftop tent or looking for comfort in a safari tent, our self-drive-friendly accommodation gives you access, security, and a local welcome.

👉 Learn more about camping and tents at Semowi »

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📘 Moremi Game Reserve practical guide

📘 For a more complete preparation of your self-drive in Moremi, discover our practical guide with maps, campsite information, and real-world 4×4 advice. Discover the guide

 

Moremi Game Reserve on Botswana Tourism