Kavango River
Kavango East
The Kavango River, known as the Okavango River in Botswana and the Cubango in Angola, is one of southern Africa's major river systems, stretching approximately 1,600 km. Originating in the highlands of Angola at an elevation of around 1,300 meters, it flows southeastward, forming part of the border between Angola and Namibia before entering Botswana. Unlike most rivers, it does not flow into the sea but instead empties into the vast Okavango Delta, an endorheic basin in the Kalahari Desert renowned for its seasonal floods and extraordinary biodiversity. The river features notable natural landmarks such as the Popa Falls rapids and supports extensive wetlands like the Makgadikgadi Pans and Lake Ngami. The seasonal flooding, peaking between June and August, transforms the delta into one of Africa's richest wildlife habitats, attracting a myriad of animals and tens of thousands of flamingos. The river's flow and sediment transport are influenced by tributaries such as the Cuito River, and its delicate ecosystem is subject to environmental and water resource management challenges shared by Angola, Namibia, and Botswana.
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Astuce: The best time to visit the Kavango River and Okavango Delta region is during the dry winter months (June to August) when the floodwaters expand, and wildlife congregates in large numbers. Visitors are advised to book tours and accommodations well in advance, as this is the peak season for safaris. Consider guided excursions to explore the delta's channels and observe diverse fauna. Be mindful of environmental conservation efforts and water usage policies in the region.
Faits intéressants
- •The Kavango River is the fourth-longest river system in southern Africa, spanning approximately 1,600 km.
- •It forms part of the border between Angola and Namibia before flowing into Botswana.
- •The river does not reach the ocean but ends in the Okavango Delta, one of the world's largest inland deltas.
- •During peak flood season, the Okavango Delta can expand to three times its permanent size, covering up to 150 km across.
- •The seasonal flood attracts tens of thousands of flamingos to the Makgadikgadi Pans each summer.
- •The river carries around 28,000 tonnes of sediment annually, mostly fine sand from the Kalahari sand geology.
- •The Okavango Delta's flatness means minor sand deposition can significantly alter the delta's waterways.
Histoire
Historically, the Kavango River was part of a larger lake system during colder climatic periods, contributing to the ancient Lake Makgadikgadi in the Kalahari.
Over time, the river carved its path from the Angolan highlands through Namibia, establishing the Okavango Delta as a unique inland delta.
Throughout the 20th century, the river's water resources became a subject of international cooperation and contention, leading to the 1994 agreement forming the Permanent Okavango River Basin Water Commission among Angola, Namibia, and Botswana to manage shared water use.
