× title-placeholder message-placeholder 🛖 TakeYourBackpack.com find your next backpacking destination covering all countries in the world extensive info per country personal stories and photos learn how to backpack like a pro Skip to main content home advisor destinations Africa Asia Europe North America South America Oceania All countries Where to go? inspiration Photos & stories World cities Famous hikes National parks Best beaches Famous festivals World wonders UNESCO sites All highlights planning search bucketlist Botswana 🇧🇼 Moremi Gorge Trail Hike the Moremi Gorge Trail, Botswana. Check things to see along the trail and best time to go Explore Matsieng Footprints Trail Explore Khama Rhino Sanctuary Walking Trails Intro | Highlights | Map | Best time to go | Where to stay? | Details | Guide | Botswana | FAQ | What to expect when backpacking in Moremi Gorge Trail The Moremi Gorge Trail in Botswana is a hidden gem, offering stunning scenery with dramatic cliffs and lush riverbanks, but it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. Stretching about 12 kilometers, it’s moderately challenging, so expect a mix of rocky paths and some steep sections that’ll get your heart pumping. Getting to the trailhead isn’t too tricky; you can catch a taxi or bus from Maun, but it might take a bit of patience. Compared to other hikes in the area, like the Tsodilo Hills, Moremi offers a more rugged, less touristy experience, but be prepared for fewer facilities and a bit more solitude. The beauty is undeniable, but it’s wise to be ready for a bit of an adventure. Discover everything you want to know in the 📖  Botswana Travel Guide . Best time to go: May – September Duration: 3 days Distance: 20 kilometers Total ascent: 600 meters Get your Botswana Travel Guide 💡 Top Highlights Best things to see along Moremi Gorge Trail Botswana Grab your own Travelguide for only Gorge Rim Panorama — A short, sometimes steep scramble rewards you with a jaw-dropping view where steep rock walls drop into a patchwork of channels and floodplain. The scale and vertical relief here feel more dramatic than the usual flat-safari vistas, so bring a camera and a head for heights. Seasonal Rock Pools & Waterhole Activity — Tiny pools carved into the gorge collect rain and run-off, becoming magnets for elephant, buffalo and waterbirds during the dry season. Watching big animals and the messy business of survival from a narrow trail is a very different, more intimate wildlife experience than spotting them from a game drive. Mopane, Baobabs & Traces of People — The vegetation shifts as you move through the gorge: mopane corridors, towering baobabs and shady fig trees. Along the way you may also find old campsites and occasional rock panels or tool scatters—subtle cultural footprints that remind you people have used this corridor for generations. Birdlife Around the Watercourses — The mix of riverine trees, pools and cliffs concentrates a surprising number of bird species: kingfishers, bee-eaters, herons and raptors are common. The trail’s quiet sections make it excellent for getting binocular views that you don’t usually get from noisy 4x4s. Sunsets from the Cliffs & Night Skies — The gorge frames sunset colors in a way that amplifies them: long shadows, silhouetted trees and glowing water channels. Then, once the sun sets, you get proper dark-sky stargazing—no city glow, just Milky Way and nocturnal calls drifting up the ravine. Spotted a mistake or missing something? Contact me. To view the map, please enable javascript Loading the map 🌍 CLICK TO FILTER city town village unique site national park hike festival region 🌤️ When to Go? Best Time to visit Moremi Gorge Trail If you’re eyeing the Moremi Gorge Trail in Botswana, the best time to hit the trail is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. During these months, you can expect daytime temperatures to hover around 20 to 30°C (68 to 86°F). Nights can get a bit chilly, dropping to about 5 to 15°C (41 to 59°F), so packing a light jacket is a good idea. The wet season, from October to April, brings higher humidity and temperatures, often soaring above 35°C (95°F). Plus, the trails can get muddy and slippery, which isn’t exactly ideal for hiking. Pro tip: Start your hikes early in the morning to beat the heat and catch some stunning sunrises. Plus, wildlife is more active during those cooler hours, so you might spot some cool critters along the way! JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC 🛏️ Where to Stay? Best Places to Stay in Moremi Gorge Trail If you enjoy meeting fellow travelers, consider choosing hostels with high ratings for atmosphere. On the other hand, if you prefer having your own space, a hotel might be a better option. Best hostels in Botswana Best quality hotels in Botswana 🥾 Get Your Walking Shoes Trail Details of Moremi Gorge Trail Total Distance: The Moremi Gorge Trail stretches approximately 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) one way, making for a solid day hike if you plan to return the same way. Estimated Duration: Most hikers will take about 4 to 6 hours to complete the trail, depending on your pace and how often you stop to soak in the views or take photos. Difficulty Level: This trail is generally considered moderate. You’ll encounter some steep sections and rocky paths, but nothing too extreme if you’re reasonably fit. Starting Point: The trailhead is located near the Moremi Game Reserve. To get there by public transport, … read more 👉 Total Distance: The Moremi Gorge Trail stretches approximately 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) one way, making for a solid day hike if you plan to return the same way. Estimated Duration: Most hikers will take about 4 to 6 hours to complete the trail, depending on your pace and how often you stop to soak in the views or take photos. Difficulty Level: This trail is generally considered moderate. You’ll encounter some steep sections and rocky paths, but nothing too extreme if you’re reasonably fit. Starting Point: The trailhead is located near the Moremi Game Reserve. To get there by public transport, you can catch a bus or shared taxi from Maun to the reserve entrance. From there, it’s a short walk to the trailhead. Major Landmarks Along the Route: Gorge Views: The stunning views of the gorge itself are a highlight, with steep cliffs and dramatic rock formations. Waterfalls: Depending on the season, you might encounter small waterfalls along the way, which are particularly beautiful after rains. Wildlife Sightings: Keep your eyes peeled for various animals; you might spot some antelope or even elephants in the distance. Type of Terrain and Scenery: Expect a mix of rocky paths, sandy stretches, and some steep climbs. The scenery is a blend of rugged cliffs, lush vegetation, and the occasional view of the Okavango Delta in the distance. Typical Vegetation: The trail is lined with a variety of trees, shrubs, and grasses. You’ll see acacia trees, baobabs, and a diverse range of wildflowers, especially in the wetter months. Wildlife: While hiking, you might encounter: Birds: The area is rich in birdlife, so bring your binoculars for some great birdwatching. Small Mammals: Look out for duikers and bushbucks hiding in the underbrush. Reptiles: Snakes and lizards are common, so keep an eye on the rocks and trails. Be sure to carry enough water and snacks, and don’t forget your camera—this trail offers some seriously Instagram-worthy spots! ⚠️ Hiking info can sometimes be outdated or inaccurate. Before you hit the trail, check the latest conditions with locals. If you do spot anything that’s off, I’d love to hear from you,so I can update it for fellow travelers. ✈️ Get your own digital guidebook Botswana Travel Guide Discover the best Botswana has to offer — handpicked hikes, must-see cities, hidden gems, local festivals, and more. All in one handy downloadable pdf Botswana 115 pages full of highlights ✅ Why visit & When to go ✅ 47 must-see highlights ✅ 21-day country itinerary ✅ Top hikes & National parks ▼ More inside ✅ Best areas to stay ✅ History of country & cities ✅ Essential phrases & customs ✅ Key festivals & Events ✅ Money, food & transport Get your Guide Now Start planning today! 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Explore Botswana Moremi Gorge Trail isn’t the only highlight in Botswana. Explore all what Botswana has to offer. 🌆 Cities        Compare the top best cities : Gaborone, Francistown, Palapye, see all 🏡 Towns        Compare the top best towns : Kasane, Maun, Shakawe , see all 🌽 Villages        Compare the top best villages : Mokoro, see all ⭐️ Unique sites        Compare the top best wonders : Savuti Channel, see all 🏞️ National parks        Compare the top best parks : Okavango Delta, Moremi Game Reserve, Chobe , see all 🚶‍♀️ Hikes        Compare the top best hikes : Chobe Riverfront, Moremi Gorge Trail, Khama Rhino Sanctuary Walking Trails, see all 🎎 Festivals        Compare the top best festivals : Gaborone International Music and Culture Week, Maun International Arts, Maitisong, see all 🏝️ Regions        Compare the top best regions : Kalahari Desert, see all Explore Botswana ✈️ Ready to Go? Moremi Gorge Trail FAQ Get your own 2025 guide book for Botswana The TakeYourBackpack guidebooks are your all-in-one travel companion, featuring the best cities, national parks, hikes, beaches, and unique sites, along with essential tips on when to go, how to get around, exchanging money, and even local phrases to get you started — everything you need for a smooth, unforgettable backpacking adventure. Botswana Grab your own Travelguide for only How do I find the best and cheapest places to stay in Moremi Gorge Trail? Personal tip: I normally search on good rating for atmosphere (for meeting people) and location (for easy exploring). Cleanliness as a bonus. Best hostels in Botswana Best quality hotels in Botswana What should I pack for a backpacking trip to Botswana? Botswana’s got a wild mix of climates, so pack smart! Days can get scorching—think 30°C and above—especially in the Kalahari Desert, while nights in the Okavango Delta can be surprisingly chilly. Lightweight, breathable clothes are your best friend, but toss in a warm layer or two for those evening safaris. If you’re heading to rural areas or visiting villages, modest clothing is appreciated; think longer skirts for women and sleeves for both genders. Rainy season hits between November and March, so a compact rain jacket will save you from surprise showers. Keep it light, keep it versatile! Apart from this country specific advice, I have also crafted a general packing list that should help on any trip. Over the years, I’ve learned the importance of packing minimally. It’s so much easier to jump on the back of a truck or squeeze yourself into the last spot of a minibus without that supersized backpack. If you’re headed to a warm destination, leave your winter jacket at home; for colder regions, opt for thin thermal underlayers. Instead of packing your entire wardrobe, bring just three sets of clothes, as laundry facilities are available everywhere. Money & Documents Passport, visa (originals + some photo copies) Passport photographs Credit and debit cards (on world profile) Cash (US$ or €) Money belt Vaccination proofs Clothing Light, quick-dry clothing No jeans, too heavy Ultralight rain/wind jacket Thermo underwear Quick-dry towel Sunglasses Electronics Mobile phone + charger Power bank Travel adapter Local sim card (buy it on arrival) Health Toothbrush Deo Sunscreen, lips sunburn Anti-diarrhea Paracetamol Vitamin C Blister plasters Iodine (for desinfecting wounds) Anti-mosquito (DEET) Bit of emergency toilet paper Nail scissors Others Small number lock Waterproof packing cubes (for dirty clothes) Deck of cards(!) Ear plugs Travel pillow Spare glasses/contacts Kobo reader Moneybelt “Best way to carry your important documents” Light Backpack “Handy, lightweight backpack, excellent for backpackers who travel light” Large Backpack “Waterproof large lightweight backpack, excellent for backpackers who want to bring a lot” Outlander daypack “Handy Lightweight Travel Hiking Backpack Daypack, available in many colours” Carry on Backpack 40L “Whenever you can, travel with just carry-on luggage, saves costs and makes traveling much easier” Quick dry pant “Nothing beats these quick dry and light pants when traveling” Light rain jacket “Hiking in rainy season? These keep you dry” Thermo underwear “Less weight and volume than bulky sweaters or jackets” Quick dry towel “Normal towels get smelly and heavy when traveling” Travel adapter “Needed as each country has its own electricity plugs” Number lock “No chance of losing your key; handy for lockers in dormitories” Packing cubes “Keep your wet or dirty clothes separate from the rest” Travel pillow “Light and great for flights and long bus journeys” Lightweight, small mosquito net “Easy to carry, great for those nights where mosquitos are all around you” Kobo Reader “For reading 1.000s of books while carrying only one” Power bank “Pick a small and light one, with 10.000mAh or more” DJI Osmo Pocket 3 Vlogging Camera “The camera for quick videos while traveling” Waterproof action camera “Great action camera for outdoor active enthousiasts” Panasonic LUMIX FZ80D Compact Camera “When you need a large optical zoom (e.g. for safaris), look no further. The Lumix has a massive 20-1200mm zoom lens” Go Pro “The absolute champion in action videos” Ultra light tent “With only 1.08kg (2.38 pounds) this one is just the best you can get.” Ultra light sleeping airbed “Ultra light, still very comfortable and isolating!” Vitamin C “Vitamin C pills to compensate for less balanced food” Blister Plasters “Blister plasters for those long hikes” Iodine “Iodine for self desinfecting small open wounds” Mosquito repellant “Let‘s give those mosquito‘s no chance with 98% DEET” Got more questions? See the FAQ for all questions and answers for backpacking in Botswana. I 💚 feedback Final Thoughts As you wrap up your trek on the Moremi Gorge Trail, take a moment to soak in the wild, untouched vibe—it’s a real escape from the usual tourist spots. The best surprise? Those hidden rock pools are perfect for a refreshing dip. Just a heads-up: the trail can get slippery after rain, so watch your step. Trust me, you don’t want to take an unplanned swim in mud! 🫱 Share this page 🙋‍♂️ Give feedback last page update: 19 November 2025 Take  Your  Backpack Home Advisor Destinations Inspiration Planning Search To sign up for the nesletter, please enable javascript STAY UP TO DATE Sign up for the newsletter Africa Algeria Angola Benin Botswana Burkina Faso Burundi Cabo Verde (Cape Verde) Cameroon Central African Republic Chad Côte d’Ivoire Dem. Rep. of the Congo Djibouti Egypt Equatorial Guinea Eritrea Eswatini Ethiopia Gabon Gambia Ghana Guinea Guinea-Bissau Ivory Coast Kenya Lesotho Liberia Libya Madagascar Malawi Mali Mauritania Mauritius Mayotte Morocco Mozambique Namibia Niger Nigeria Republic of the Congo Réunion Rwanda São Tomé and Príncipe Senegal Seychelles Sierra Leone Somalia South Africa South Sudan Sudan Tanzania Togo Tunisia Uganda Western Sahara Zambia Zimbabwe Asia Afghanistan Armenia Azerbaijan Bahrain Bangladesh Bhutan Brunei Cambodia China Georgia Hong Kong India Indonesia Iran Iraq Israel Japan Jordan Kazakhstan Kuwait Kyrgyzstan Laos Lebanon Macau Malaysia Maldives Mongolia Myanmar Nepal North Korea Oman Pakistan Palestine Philippines Qatar Russia Saudi Arabia Singapore South Korea Sri Lanka Syria Taiwan Tajikistan Thailand Türkiye (Turkey) Turkmenistan United Arab Emirates Uzbekistan Vietnam Yemen Europe Albania Andorra Austria Belarus Belgium Bosnia & Herzegovina Bulgaria Croatia Cyprus Czechia (Czech Republic) Denmark Estonia Faroe Islands Finland France Germany Gibraltar Greece Guernsey Hungary Iceland Ireland Italy Jersey Kosovo Latvia Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg Malta Moldova Monaco Montenegro Netherlands North Macedonia Norway Poland Portugal Romania Russia San Marino Serbia Slovakia Slovenia Spain Svalbard Sweden Switzerland Türkiye (Turkey) Ukraine United Kingdom Vatican City State North  America Antigua and Barbuda Aruba Bahamas Barbados Belize British Virgin Islands Canada Cayman Islands Costa Rica Cuba Dominica Dominican Republic El Salvador Greenland Grenada Guadeloupe Guatemala Haiti Honduras Jamaica Martinique Mexico Nicaragua Panama Puerto Rico Saint Barthélemy Saint Lucia Saint Martin Saint Vincent & the Grenadines Sint Maarten Trinidad and Tobago Turks and Caicos Islands United States United States Virgin Islands Oceania American Samoa Australia Cook Islands East Timor Fiji French Polynesia Guam Kiribati Marshall Islands Nauru New Caledonia New Zealand Palau Papua New Guinea Samoa Solomon Islands Timor-Leste Tonga Tuvalu Vanuatu South  America Argentina Bolivia Brazil Chile Colombia Curaçao Ecuador Falkland Islands French Guiana Guyana Paraguay Peru Suriname Uruguay Venezuela Disclaimer | Privacy Policy | Cookies | About me To use these links, please enable javascript © takeyourbackpack.com | Contact To contact me enable javascript