If you have always dreamed of seeing the thunderous Victoria Falls in full flood, or of gliding across the watery world of the Okavango Delta in its full majestic beauty, then 2026 could be the year to visit!
Each year in southern Africa the rainy season is eagerly anticipated as the hottest months of the dry season stress the land and the people. The arrival of the rainy season is celebrated, as rain breathes life into the landscape, offers relief to wild and domestic animals, and allows crops to grow.
But Africa is a continent of extremes. From searing heat to cataclysmic downpours, the humble people of Africa have always had a lot to contend with, and especially in the last six months when the continent has received unprecedented rainfall.
In southern Africa, the rainy season runs from November to March, and this year the rains have been immense. Whether it is due to climate change or simply natural cycles, the Zambezi, one of the world’s greatest rivers, is currently as full as it has been in recent memory, while it is predicted that Botswana’s Okavango Delta will have its highest seasonal flood for many years.
The true extent of the drama will only unfold over the next couple of months. Whilst the local rains saturate the land and swell the rivers, the greatest river surges arrive with water that has fallen a 1000kms to the north in the Angolan Highlands. It takes months for the highlands to fully drain south, so these waters arrive towards the end of the rainy season, and water levels can continue to rise long after the rains have actually abated. All the evidence so far is pointing towards a spectacular year for Victoria Falls and the Okavango Delta.
VICTORIA FALLS – SEEING THEM IN FULL FLOOD
When David Livingstone first set eyes upon Victoria Falls (prior to naming them after his Queen), he commented that ‘scenes so lovely must have been gazed upon by angels in their flight’. To this day the falls remain one of Africa’s great highlights, straddling the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe, and fueled by the swirling waters of the mighty Zambezi.
Peak flow over Victoria Falls is usually between March and May, often with an early surge in March created by local rains, and a secondary surge in late April created by the arrival of the main flood from Angola. Visiting in May this year should be spectacular, although expect to get wet when you get very close to the falls! At this time of year an aerial view of the falls is essential to fully appreciate the scale and beauty of the scene. From June onwards the water levels should gradually drop, but with 2026 set to be a record-breaking year for Victoria Falls, high water levels should continue well into the dry season months.
OKAVANGO DELTA – BEST TIME OF YEAR TO EXPERIENCE THE FLOOD
Water levels in the Okavango Delta build up and subside over a much longer period, with the peak of the floods often not occurring until July or early August. As the Okavango Delta covers a vast area with a very low gradient, it is usual at this time of year for the northern reaches to be inundated with water whilst the southern sections of the delta remain dry. Eventually the waters find their way south, creating a stunning watery world as they go, of shimmering flooded plains interspersed with beautiful islands.
Home to most of Africa’s iconic game species, including the ‘big five’, the Okavango Delta is known as one of Africa’s most exclusive and beautiful wildlife destinations. For the ultimate game viewing experience it is best to travel during the peak dry season which runs from June through to October, when the animals are less dispersed and the vegetation is less thick and green. However, to appreciate the delta in full flood, travelling between May and August is usually best, as water levels drop rapidly once the flood has peaked. This year, water levels should remain higher for longer, extending the flood season through September and October.
The shallow waters of the Okavango Delta can be explored by traditional mokoro (dug out canoe, poled by your guide) whilst the deeper channels and lagoons are reached by motorboat. The scenery is stunning, and drifting quietly on the calm waters of the Okavango Delta is a serene and peaceful experience, especially at sunset when the sky turns orange and crimson and reflects magically in the calm waters surrounding you. Birdlife is superb, with a natural focus on water birds, and there are numerous opportunities to spot land mammals. For the adventurous, exploring remote islands on foot can feel like a step back in time, whilst scenic helicopter flights offer a bird’s eye view of the paradise below.
CONTACT US TO START PLANNING YOUR NEXT SAFARI ADVENTURE
No-one knows exactly how high the floods will be this year, but early indicators are that it will be the largest flood for very many years, with good water levels maintained throughout the dry season!
Contact our expert travel team on +44 (0) 1787 888590 or reach out via our contact us page to discuss your next trip.
