Moremi Game Reserve — Xakanaxa Lagoon Floodplain Dispersed Camp

Xakanaxa sits in the northeastern corner of Moremi Game Reserve where the Okavango’s permanent water meets dry woodland. The floodplain margins here are classic Botswana bush — leadwood and sycamore fig canopy, hippo-groaned nights, and lion tracks across your camp come morning. Dispersed vehicle-based camping within DWNP-designated areas requires a valid park permit and is used primarily by self-sufficient overlanders who’ve booked through DWNP in advance. This is not walk-in-and-pitch-anywhere territory — Moremi is a controlled wildlife area, and rangers enforce it. You’ll need all your own water, food, and recovery gear.

Access from Maun heads northeast via the North Gate (Khwai) or the South Gate (Maqwe) route — both involve extended sand track driving and seasonal flood crossings that can fully cut off the Xakanaxa loop between January and April. High-clearance 4WD with a snorkel is the minimum; a second vehicle is strongly advised. Check DWNP Maun office for current flood levels before committing.

Okavango floodplain — elephant country, no fences.