The Mababe region lies to the east of the Khwai area and sits at the intersection of several key wilderness ecosystems. It is uniquely positioned where parts of the Moremi Game Reserve and Chobe National Park converge, creating a vital wildlife corridor that supports seasonal animal movement between these iconic conservation areas.
SIZE
50 000 ha
WILDLIFE AREAS
Two defining natural features shape the region. The Khwai River winds its way past Khwai and flows through the Mababe area, eventually draining into the Mababe Depression, just north of Mababe Village. This small rural village is home to a local community living in close harmony with the surrounding wildlife, offering an authentic glimpse into life on the edge of the wilderness.
The greater Mababe region can broadly be divided into two distinct areas. To the south, the landscape is shaped by the Khwai River and characterized by a mix of riverine habitats, open floodplains, and Mopane woodlands, supporting a rich diversity of wildlife. North of Mababe Village lies the vast Mababe Depression — an expansive, open system that stretches from the Savuti region, where the Savuti Channel feeds into the Savuti Marsh, all the way toward Mababe.
This northern landscape is strikingly open, dotted with scattered trees and bearing a resemblance to the sweeping plains of East Africa. The contrast between these two distinct ecosystems enhances the region’s appeal, offering exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities across varied terrain.
Despite its remarkable diversity and ecological importance, Mababe remains relatively untouched by mass tourism. It is a true wilderness destination — remote, raw, and deeply rewarding for those seeking an authentic safari experience.
Mababe offers a more off-the-beaten-path safari with a variety of activities, including:
Mababe plays a crucial role in seasonal wildlife movements between Moremi, Khwai, Savuti, and Chobe. During the green season, vast herds migrate through the region, creating spectacular wildlife concentrations. This makes Mababe an ideal safari stop for those looking to witness Botswana’s lesser-known but equally breathtaking migrations.
If you’re seeking an authentic, remote, and action-packed safari, Mababe is an essential addition to any itinerary. With its unspoiled wilderness, exceptional game viewing, and diverse activities, it offers an exclusive and intimate safari experience unlike anywhere else in Botswana.
