The Okavango Delta – there’s nowhere quite like it on earth. This is a place where wild creatures roam and rule, where big cats and much bigger elephants walk free in one of the world’s last great wildernesses. The delta is a byword for abundance – for animal numbers, for the variety of species, for the birdlife, for floods of Biblical proportions. And it is also a place of singular and unparalleled beauty where safari possibilities can seem as endless as the waters themselves.
The Kalahari Desert, the largest unbroken stretch of sand on the planet, is not your ordinary desert. From the salt pans of Makgadikgadi, the baobabs of Nxai Pans, and the spare magnificence of Kubu Island in the north, to the wonderful wildlife of Kgalagadi in the south, this is a desert of exceptional variety. Throw in the fossil river valleys, swaying golden grasses, black-maned lions, and the echoes of the indigenous San people in the Central Kalahari Game Reserve and there are few more beautiful deserts on Earth.
Botswana didn’t just turn its back on mass tourism. It ushered in an era of utterly exclusive safari experiences, the likes of which are seen no where else. These are sumptuous lodges and remote tented camps, especially in the Okavango Delta and surrounds that are sometimes contemporary in style, and at other times problematically awash in colonial nostalgia. And they will provide you a front-row seat for wildlife spectacles that you may just have all to yourself.
You can experience Botswana by renting your very own 4WD vehicle that doubles as an ingenious camping home away from home. This is about experiencing wild Africa at your own pace, travelling from one campsite to the next, where you may lie awake at night listening to lions roar their bone-trembling roar, or hippos, elephants, or the chilling saw-like grunt of a leopard. Build a campfire, gaze at the stars and feel at one with this gloriously beautiful country.
These destinations offer a diverse range of landscapes, wildlife, and activities, making Botswana a top safari destination in Africa. The peak season is typically during the dry winter months from June to October.
The dry season from May to October is considered the best time to visit Botswana, especially for wildlife viewing.
The peak season is from June to August when temperatures are moderate, water levels in the Okavango Delta are high, and wildlife is concentrated around water sources.
The months of April/May and September/October are also excellent, with fewer crowds and more moderate temperatures.
The wet season from November to April has its own appeal, with lush greenery, newborn animals, and lower prices.
However, wildlife can be more dispersed, and some camps/lodges may be closed during this time.
The dry season from May to October, especially the peak months of June to August, is widely considered the best time to visit Botswana for an optimal safari experience. However, the wet season also has its own charms for those willing to visit during this time.
Timing and Seasonality:
The dry season from May to October, especially the peak months of June to August, is considered the best time to visit for optimal wildlife viewing.
However, the wet season from November to April also has its own appeal, with lush greenery and lower prices, though wildlife may be more dispersed.
Consider when you want to visit and plan accordingly, as some activities and camps may be limited during the wet season.
Destination Selection:
Decide which of Botswana’s premier safari destinations you want to visit, such as the Okavango Delta, Chobe National Park, Moremi Game Reserve, Makgadikgadi Pans, or the Central Kalahari.
Each offers unique landscapes, wildlife, and activities, so research to determine which best fits your interests and budget.
Accommodation and Activities:
Botswana is known for its high-end, low-impact safari camps and lodges, which can book up quickly, especially during peak season.
Plan and book your accommodations and activities well in advance, as options may be limited closer to your travel dates.
Consider a mix of game drives, boat/mokoro excursions, walking safaris, and other activities to maximize your safari experience.
Transportation and Logistics:
Budget and Costs:
Botswana is known for its high-end, low-volume tourism, so safaris can be an expensive proposition.
Factor in the cost of accommodations, activities, flights, and other expenses when planning your budget.
Consider more budget-friendly options like self-driving and public campsites, if your budget is limited.
Packing and Preparation:
Research the recommended packing list for your safari, including appropriate clothing, sun protection, and any necessary medications.
Ensure you have the necessary travel documents, such as a valid passport and any required visas.
Consider purchasing travel insurance to protect against any unforeseen circumstances.
By considering these key points, you can better prepare for a successful and memorable safari experience in the diverse and wildlife-rich country of Botswana.