Moremi Game Reserve Reopens with Restricted Access Following Seasonal Flooding
Botswana's Moremi Game Reserve reopened to visitors on 13 April 2026 following a period of closure due to severe weather conditions, according to the Department of Wildlife and National Parks. However, access remains limited, with several routes and areas still affected by the aftermath of heavy rainfall and seasonal flooding. The Third Bridge area - a popular camping and game-viewing location - remains closed until further notice, while the Khwai to Xakanaxa route is currently deemed inaccessible. The Khwai to South Gate route has been classified as difficult and potentially hazardous, suitable only for experienced off-road travellers equipped with four-wheel-drive vehicles and recovery gear. The South Gate to Xakanaxa corridor is assessed as fair and manageable for smaller vehicles, offering a viable option for operators during the recovery period.
Safari operators and ground handlers are advised to build additional buffer time into itineraries, as travel times within the reserve may be significantly longer than usual under current conditions. Game drive tracks throughout the reserve are showing gradual improvement but continue to require careful navigation by experienced drivers. The Ministry of Environment and Tourism has committed to ongoing monitoring and will release further updates as conditions improve. Travel professionals are urged to check local route updates before guests enter park boundaries and to communicate current limitations clearly to clients. Situated within the Okavango Delta ecosystem, Moremi is one of Africa's most biodiverse wildlife sanctuaries and a premier destination for predator and prey viewing within Botswana's broader tourism offering.
Source: Travel News Africa
