The objective of this study is to examine the use of indigenous knowledge in the promotion of ecotourism
based livelihoods in the Okavango Delta, Botswana. Theoretically, the paper uses the concepts of
indigenous knowledge and sustainable livelihoods to address the following questions: a) what is the link
between indigenous knowledge and promotion of ecotourism-based livelihoods? and, b) how effective is
indigenous knowledge in promoting ecotourism livelihoods in the Okavango Delta? Results from primary
and secondary data sources indicate that communities such as the Wayei of Seronga and other surrounding
villages like Ditshiping use their traditional knowledge of the river waterways to transport tourists in
mekoro (dug-out canoe). The Hambukushu and Wayei in Etsha 6, Gumare, Shakawe, Shorobe and Maun
produce baskets for sale to tourists. Basket production and mekoro safaris are some of the ways rural
communities aim at using their local knowledge to benefit from the growing tourism industry in the
Okavango Delta. This promotes the development of ecotourism-based livelihoods in the Okavango Delta.