Unforgettable safaris in Botswana

Huge herds of elephants in the Okavango Delta, antelopes in the Central Kalahari Game Reserve, lions hunting in the rugged Savuti region, and diverse birdlife in the area around the mighty Chobe River – Botswana is renowned for its pristine wilderness offers unparalleled contrasts.

A safari trip in Botswana promises rich wildlife, including the Big Five, breathtakingly beautiful landscapes, and diverse exploration opportunities.

In short: Traveling to Botswana means experiencing diversity. In the land of giants, attributed to Botswana's elephants and baobab trees, travellers witness the beauty of Africa in its full splendour.

Botswana round trip through National Parks and game reserves

Botswana offers a fascinating wealth of nature. Those wishing to travel to Botswana should consider a Botswana round trip to enjoy the numerous national parks and nature reserves. These cover nearly one-fifth of the country's land area and are home to an incredible diversity of wildlife.

Botswana boasts one of the largest concentrations of wildlife on the African continent. From majestic herds of elephants to predators like lions and leopards, and rare antelope species such as the sable antelope, Botswana provides an opportunity to experience a wide range of wildlife in their natural habitats. Scenically, Botswana impresses with vast open plains, picturesque river systems, and dense forests. From the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans to the Nxai Pan National Park, the Khutse Game Reserve, and the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, the list of noteworthy wildlife reserves in Botswana seems endless.

A Botswana vacation not only offers the chance to see animals in their natural environment but also promises an unforgettable journey through one of the most beautiful and pristine wilderness regions in the world.

Diverse Botswana vacation

Botswana offers a variety of authentic safari experiences: game drives, guided bush walks, boat cruises on rivers and channels, or horseback safaris – a Botswana safari can be experienced in many different ways. All of them provide the opportunity to observe and experience animals up close in their natural habitats. Flying safaris also allow combining various wildlife areas.

Other activities for a safari trip in Botswana include quad bike tours, hot air balloon rides, or cultural walks with the San, the indigenous people of southern Africa.

The possibilities for a vacation in Botswana are diverse, ranging from luxury lodge and tent safaris to family or honeymoon safaris, and specialized tours such as photography, bird watching, tracking, or even ranger training. The spectrum extends from privately guided safari trips to self-drive adventures.

Safari accommodation in Botswana - from traditional safari camps to exclusive lodges

During their safari in Botswana, visitors enjoy relaxing breaks between adventures in stylish accommodations ranging from traditional safari camps to exclusive lodges and tented camps. These lodgings are often located directly within national parks and blend perfectly with the natural surroundings in their design.

For the adventurous, Botswana also offers genuine camping experiences. Mobile safaris allow guests to spend their nights at varying locations in the African wilderness, accompanied by an experienced camp team that handles setup, breakdown, and additional services. Explorers can also opt for self-drive safaris and experience authentic camping vibes at designated campsites across the country.

Botswana follows a conservation philosophy based on "high income - low impact," meaning the number of lodges is limited and often not more than 20 guests are accommodated at a time. Similarly, there is a restricted number of camping sites in the country. These restrictions aim to maximize the quality of safari experiences while preserving the natural environment and its species.

Botswana Safari – Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I go on safari in Botswana?

There are many reasons to choose a safari in Botswana. Firstly, Botswana offers an incredible diversity of landscapes, species, and exploration opportunities. It is home to numerous natural spectacles encompassing both landscapes and wildlife: Botswana hosts all five members of the Big Five, boasts the largest inland delta on Earth, the Okavango Delta, as well as the Central Kalahari Game Reserve, the second-largest wildlife reserve in the world, and impresses with the vast and surreal Makgadikgadi Pans.

Furthermore, Botswana is dedicated to conservation with its "high income, low impact" model and is one of the safest travel destinations in southern Africa. Lastly, it is an excellent destination for family travel, offering many family-friendly lodges and activities.

Where can I go on safari in Botswana?

Botswana offers a wealth of national parks and nature reserves that can be explored during a Botswana round trip. Each area is characterized by unique features, ranging from the expansive savannas of the Okavango Delta to the dry desert areas of the Kalahari, each hosting its own unique species and ecosystems. Some noteworthy destinations include:

What kind of animals can I encounter on a Botswana safari?

A diverse wildlife sighting can never be guaranteed on a safari, but with the below information, you can plan your safari accordingly with a bigger chance to encounter a diversity of Botswanas iconic animal species and wildlife spectacles.

The Chobe National Park is well known for huge elephant herds, while in the heart of the Okavango Delta you might get to see a lion pride swimming from one island to the other in search of their prey. A safari in the Linyanti Game Reserve offers the opportunity to spot the rare African wild dog.

The Moremi Game reserve offers a chance to spot the elusive leopard lounging in a sausage tree, while in the Northern Tuli blocks a coalition of cheetahs can be spotted hunting in the Mopane forests.

The floodplains and waterways of the Khwai area teems with hippos and crocodiles, and you're likely to see diverse antelope species such as impalas and kudus throughout the national parks and game reserves of this biodiverse country.

Botswana’s birdlife is abundant, with African fish eagles soaring over your head, Pel’s fishing owl hiding in a Nyalatree, mighty Kori Bustards walking through the bush, and colorful Bee-eaters flying across the grassland catching insects for dinner.

The Makgadikgadi salt pans are famous for their Zebra and Wildebeest Migration and will leave safari visitors speechless. The Makgadikgadi pans are also one of the few places to visit a colony of meerkats.

The Nata Bird Sanctuary offers bird enthusiast once a year the chance to observe lesser and greater flamingos during their breeding season. The animal diversity on a safari can be explored from north to south or from the Kalahari-desert to the Okavango Delta.

What is the best time to visit Botswana for a safari?

The best time for Botswana safaris can vary depending on the season and personal preferences. During the dry season from May to October, when nature shines in warm, dry colours, wildlife gathers around life-sustaining water sources. The clear air and pleasant temperatures create a unique atmosphere for unforgettable wildlife viewing and photography.

In the rainy season from November to April, Botswana undergoes a renewing transformation. The landscape flourishes in lush greenery, while animals and birds showcase their diversity and vibrancy during this time. Occasional showers and humid air make safaris slightly more challenging compared to the dry season. However, it's a time of abundance and growth, ideal for nature lovers as many animals give birth to their young. It's also perfect for bird watchers, as many migratory birds flock to Botswana from all directions.

Botswana offers an unparalleled safari experience year-round that will delight the senses.

Which tour operator should I choose for a safari in Botswana?

A variety of tour operators specialize in this area, making it often difficult to choose the right one. We provide a comprehensive overview of Botswana safaris offered worldwide and by various conscious tour operators, offering comparison opportunities for those interested in Africa.

Can I go on safari with children in Botswana?

Yes, it's entirely possible. Family safaris in Africa are becoming increasingly popular, with offerings continually expanding, including in Botswana.

Depending on preferences, accommodations during a Botswana holiday can range from family-friendly lodges with spacious rooms to mobile safari camps. Depending on the area and accommodations, classic game drives, walking safaris, mokoro trips, tracking, and bush walks with the San are available as safari activities.

Families have the option to explore the wilderness together or enjoy activities separately, depending on the lodge. For instance, parents can enjoy an extended boat trip while an experienced guide teaches tracking to their children.

Five reasons why visitors to Botswana should not miss out on a safari

1. Unspoiled wilderness: Botswana is known for its commitment to conservation and low-impact tourism. The country’s vast and pristine landscapes, including the Okavango Delta and the Kalahari Desert, remain largely untouched, providing a more authentic and immersive safari experience compared to more commercialized destinations.
2. Diverse wildlife: Botswana is home to a wide array of wildlife, including large populations of elephants, impressive sable antelopes, rare African wild dogs, shy Brown Hyenas, and Meerkat colonies. The country's varied ecosystems, from wetlands to deserts, support a rich biodiversity, offering opportunities to see species in their natural habitats.
3. Exclusive and private experiences: Many safari lodges and camps in Botswana are situated in private concessions or have exclusive access to certain areas. This means fewer tourists and more intimate wildlife encounters. Activities such as mokoro (dug-out canoes) safaris and walking safaris provide unique and personalized experiences away from the crowds.
4. High-quality conservation efforts: Botswana is a leader in sustainable tourism and wildlife conservation. The government has implemented policies to protect wildlife and habitats, such as limiting tourist numbers and prioritizing eco-friendly practices. Visiting Botswana supports these conservation efforts and helps ensure the future of its natural treasures.
5. Stunning scenery and unique landscapes: From the lush waterways of the Okavango Delta to the stark beauty of the Makgadikgadi Pans and the expansive vistas of the Kalahari Desert, Botswana's diverse landscapes offer breathtaking scenery. The dramatic contrasts between different ecosystems make for a visually stunning and varied safari experience.