A Leopard in a Jackal Berry Tree in the Okavango Delta

I had always dreamed of experiencing the green season in the Okavango Delta, and when I finally arrived, it felt like stepping into a living painting. The rains had transformed the landscape into a lush paradise, with tall grasses, emerald floodplains, and skies heavy with dramatic clouds.

Moreover, the air carried that earthy scent that only comes after summer storms, making every game drive feel fresh and alive.

Green Season

The green season, which usually falls between November and March, is when the Delta bursts into life after the rains. Many travellers prefer the dry months, yet this time of year offers something truly special for wildlife lovers and photographers. Consequently, the bush feels quieter, more intimate, and filled with young animals, vibrant birdlife, and endless shades of green that make every photograph glow.

Storm clouds roll across the horizon, and golden light often breaks through just before sunset. The scenery becomes dramatic, and every sighting feels cinematic.

As a result, it is a dream season for anyone who loves storytelling through a camera.

Our Determined Ranger Phethu

Our determined ranger, Phethu, had quite the challenge on his hands because we were absolutely desperate to see cats. We had spent hours scanning the bush, hopeful that somewhere out there a leopard or lion would appear.

However, Phethu remained calm and patient, the way only an experienced ranger can.

You could see how much he cared about giving us the best experience possible. Every sound, every movement in the bush caught his attention as he quietly guided us through the concession. Meanwhile, we sat on the edge of our seats, hoping that the next turn in the road would bring us closer to a feline encounter.

It is incredible watching a ranger at work in the Delta. Their understanding of animal behaviour, spoor, and subtle signs is truly remarkable. Therefore, even before the leopard sighting began.

I already had immense respect for the dedication and skill Phethu showed.

Tracking the Leopard

Then, suddenly, the call came over the radio — there was a leopard somewhere nearby. The excitement in the vehicle was immediate, and my heart began racing with anticipation. Instantly, the thrill of tracking her became the most exciting part of the entire experience.

Phethu began scanning the landscape furiously, his eyes moving across every tree and shadow. He turned to us and said, “Keep looking in the jackal berry trees — leopards love to chill in there.” So, being completely feline mad, I started checking every branch and fork in every tree, searching for even the slightest movement.

Leopards are masters of camouflage, and despite my efforts, I could not see a thing. The longer we searched, the more I started feeling a little disappointed. Eventually, I even wondered if it was a good idea to tell guests that there was a leopard around, because what happens if you never find it?

Travellers come from far and wide to experience wildlife like this. Missing such an opportunity could feel devastating.

Yet, in true African fashion, Phethu suddenly said calmly, “There she is.”

I was shocked and immediately asked, “Where?” He pointed toward a tree, but I still could not see anything at all. Slowly, he drove the vehicle closer until we were directly beneath it.

And then I saw her.

Perched gracefully on a branch was the most sensational female leopard, completely relaxed and perfectly camouflaged among the leaves. She was so chilled, almost as if she had been watching us the whole time.

At that moment, it felt like pure magic.

The vehicle was switched off, and we sat quietly watching her. Phethu explained that she looked hungry and believed she would hunt later that night since she had not eaten in a few days. Meanwhile, she kept her eyes fixed on a few impalas grazing nearby, occasionally shifting her position and posing perfectly for photographs.

I absolutely love the relationship guides have with the animals on the concession. Their knowledge and respect create moments that feel deeply connected to the wilderness.

Without a doubt, spending time with this beautiful female leopard was an unforgettable privilege.

No matter how many times you experience a sighting like this, the wonder never fades. The wilderness always finds a way to surprise you and remind you why you fell in love with it in the first place. Personally, felines are my spirit animals, and I simply cannot get enough of these magnificent cats.

As an old African proverb says:

“Even the most beautiful leopard cannot hide its spots.” 🐆🌿