Botswana Safari

Authentic Botswana Safari Tours

By Vihann Van Wyk Safari Travel Planner Date Published: 2 January 2014

Let the distant roar of lions be your alarm clock as the golden rays of dawn paint the savannah. Imagine the gentle sway of a mokoro canoe as you glide through the tranquil waters of the Okavango Delta, serenaded by a chorus of exotic birds. This is just a taste of the magic of a Botswana safari – can you picture it?

Botswana, a jewel of Africa, isn’t just a destination; it’s an experience that ignites the soul. Abundant wildlife, awe-inspiring vistas, and a steadfast commitment to conservation make it a haven for adventurers and dreamers alike. Picture vast herds of elephants silhouetted against the setting sun, elusive leopards melting into the shadows, and a star-studded night sky so clear it feels like you can reach out and touch the cosmos.

Whether you’re a seasoned photographer yearning for the perfect shot of a majestic lion or a traveller seeking tranquillity under a canopy of stars, a Botswana safari promises a once-in-a-lifetime journey into the heart of Africa’s untamed beauty.

Why Botswana?

Exclusivity: Botswana’s low-volume, high-value tourism model ensures uncrowded safari experiences.
Diverse Ecosystems: From wetlands to deserts, Botswana offers a wide variety of habitats, each supporting unique wildlife.
Exceptional Wildlife: Renowned for its Big Five sightings, Botswana is also home to rare species like the African wild dog and sitatunga.
Luxury Accommodations: Lodges and camps blend opulence with eco-conscious design, often located in remote and breathtaking settings.
Water-Based Safaris: The Okavango Delta’s waterways offer a unique perspective, with mokoro rides and boat safaris setting it apart from other destinations.
Commitment to Conservation: Botswana is a global leader in sustainable tourism, with extensive efforts to protect its ecosystems and wildlife.

Botswana Gallery

Where To Go In Botswana

Discover the best destinations in Botswana, from the lush Okavango Delta to the striking Kalahari Desert and beyond.

Central Kalahari Game Reserve

One of the largest game reserves in the world, the Central Kalahari Game Reserve (CKGR) is a remote and pristine safari destination in Botswana that inspires a sense of freedom...

Chief’s Island

Located in the Moremi Game Reserve, Chief’s Island is the largest island in Botswana’s famed Okavango Delta, offering travellers a truly unique safari experience in southern Africa. This landmass measures...

Chobe National Park and Savuti Marsh

Chobe National Park is Botswana’s most biologically diverse park, meaning that it’s a haven for wildlife. This makes it a must-visit destination in southern Africa for Botswana safari goers. From...

Khwai

Situated in the northeastern region of the Okavango and bordering Moremi Game Reserve, Khwai offers exceptional wildlife viewing and a stunning array of ecosystems to explore. From lagoons and flooded...

Kubu Island

Kubu Island is a must-visit destination during a Botswana safari for those looking for an off-the-beaten-track adventure. Rising up from the flat landscape and among baobab trees, these granite rocks...

Mababe

Mababe is a private sector of the Okavango Delta in northern Botswana where massive herds of buffalo stretch out over the plains and impressive prides of lions hunt their prey....

Makgadikgadi Pans

One of the world's largest salt flats (a flat expanse of ground covered by salt and other minerals), the Makgadikgadi Pans offer stark, breathtaking landscapes and unique wildlife experiences, including...

Moremi Game Reserve

Moremi Game Reserve is the oldest protected reserve in the Okavango Delta and combines mopane woodland and floodplains, offering diverse habitats and rich wildlife. Some of the most endangered African...

Nxai Pan National Park

A striking contrast to Botswana's wetland ecosystems, Nxai Pan National Park is a vast, open landscape of fossilised salt pans, grassy plains, and acacia woodlands. Located on the northern fringes...

Okavango Delta

A UNESCO World Heritage Site and Big Five safari destination, the Okavango Delta is a highlight of a Botswana safari. The permanent swamps, seasonal floodplains, and dry woodlands support a...

Okavango Panhandle

The Panhandle is the entry point to the Okavango Delta, offering serene waterways, incredible fishing opportunities, and fascinating cultural experiences. Stretching around 70 km (43 miles), the Panhandle is one...

Savute

Bordering the Okavango Delta as well as Chobe National Park, Savute is a fantastic place to see Africa’s big game in action while on your Botswana safari. This region is...

Tsodilo Hills

A place of deep spiritual and historical significance, Tsodilo Hills rises dramatically from the Kalahari Desert, creating a striking contrast to the surrounding arid landscape. This UNESCO World Heritage Site...

Tuli Block

A lesser-known wedge of wilderness in eastern Botswana, the Tuli Block is a region of rugged beauty, where dramatic sandstone formations, riverine forests, and open savannahs create a distinctive safari...

Best Time To Visit Botswana

Discover the best destinations in Botswana, from the lush Okavango Delta to the striking Kalahari Desert and beyond.

Botswana Safari in January

Botswana, home to the highest concentration of elephants in Africa, offers a unique safari experience – even in the low season. The country's low season for safaris spans January to March, bringing with it a very different southern African experience. Wildlife is still around, but lush greenery and abundant water make them difficult to spot and quite spread out. This makes January an ideal time for birdwatching and observing smaller game. However, while the north of the country experiences its low season, the Makgadikgadi Pans and Nxai Pan fill with water, attracting huge numbers of animals. Weather in January Expect...

Botswana Safari in February

Going on a Botswana safari in February is unique. Since calving season occurs in January, you can see animals with their young in February. You can be sure that with all this prey, predators will be on the prowl, especially in the Okavango Delta. However, the lush vegetation will make it a bit difficult to spot wildlife. In the Makgadikgadi Pans and Nxai Pan, meanwhile, migratory birds will still be enjoying the seasonal floodplains that also attract tens of thousands of zebras, wildebeests, and other antelope species. Weather in February The rainy weather persists during February but begins to lessen...

Botswana Safari in March

The perks of travelling at this time of the year include seeing the zebra migration in the pans and elephants scooping up the fallen fruits in the Okavango Delta. Zebra sightings mean good lion sightings on your safari tour as well. Zebras and elephants, among the many animals that are around, stick to water sources to drink – including the seasonal waters of Makgadikgadi Pans National Park. Weather in March The rain decreases in March, and the weather is humid and warm. Thunderstorms occur occasionally, primarily sticking to the afternoons. Some lodges in Botswana remain closed until the muddy conditions...

Botswana Safari in April

April marks a significant transition in the natural landscape as the rainy season concludes and the skies clear. Botswana has now entered its "shoulder season" for travel; its habitats are still green and lush from the summer rains, as the dry season hasn't fully taken hold yet. The month is particularly advantageous for birdwatching and wildlife observation. Early mornings and evenings are the most active times for game drives, presenting ideal conditions to witness interactions between predators and their prey. Bring along your binoculars to enhance your experience of the natural world during this dynamic season. Weather in April April...

Botswana Safari in May

As May arrives in Botswana, the safari season gains momentum due to improving weather conditions. The shift towards drier, more pleasant weather reduces rainfall, which in turn influences visitor numbers and lodge availability. During this transitional month, travellers can still enjoy relatively lower rates, as accommodations and tour operators have not yet implemented their peak pricing. This is an ideal period for those seeking a more tranquil safari experience, as the number of visitors remains sparse, allowing for a more intimate connection with Botswana's stunning landscapes and wildlife. Weather in May Although temperatures have started to rise this month, the...

Botswana Safari in June

Our safari experts recommend June, the final month of the shoulder season, for a Botswana safari. During this month, the weather is not too hot and not too cold, with fantastic lighting for photography. More importantly, as water sources become few and far between, animals begin to congregate in larger numbers. Less rain means shorter grass, making game viewing much easier. Some lodges will already have their high season prices, but it's still possible to find some excellent specials. Weather in June The sun is out, and there is very little chance of rain in June. This month is well...

Botswana Safari in July

In July, Botswana's vegetation and waterholes start drying out, creating the perfect conditions for game viewing. As safaris are popular this month, rates are higher, and lodges and camps can get fully booked quickly. If this is the month you've decided on for your holiday, booking your accommodation and trips in advance is the best thing you can do. Weather in July Mornings and evenings are cool in July. Temperatures tend to drop in the evening and early in the morning, so it's advisable to pack warm clothing to enjoy your game drives. However, you probably won't need a raincoat....

Botswana Safari in August

Like July, August is such an exciting time to visit Botswana. It's squarely in the middle of peak safari season and lines up with European summer holidays! While temperatures may be high at midday, the weather tends to feel quite mild, and there's little to no rain. By now, rainfall from the Angola highlands has emerged in the Okavango Delta, creating vast floodplains despite the lack of rain. Wildlife congregates around these water sources, and thanks to shorter grass and shrubs, it's far easier to see animals. Weather in August The salt and clay pans will have completely dried out...

Botswana Safari in September

Lodges and camps are full around this time of year, as September is one of the most popular months for wildlife viewing. The weather remains excellent, and as the green landscapes die out in drier conditions, it becomes easier to spot game. September is a great time to visit parks and reserves like Mashatu Game Reserve, Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, and Selinda Game Reserve. In Mashatu, you'll find animals like lions, spotted hyenas, and cheetahs, while the other parks have some members of the Big Five (rhinos are challenging to spot in Botswana). Weather in September Temperatures increase from August onwards,...

Botswana Safari in October

Wildlife viewing is still at its peak in October. The lack of vegetation and water forces wildlife to stick around the few remaining water sources, allowing you to see them in full force. However, the dry and dusty weather makes it a challenging month for photography. Some popular parks to visit in October include the Linyanti Reserve for boat trips, as well as the Moremi Game Reserve, which is a Big Five destination, and the Selinda Game Reserve, which houses lions and elephants as its main attractions. Weather in October October is the last month of Botswana's dry season. Temperatures...

Botswana Safari in November

Even though November is typically considered a rainy month, don't let that discourage you! You can still have an incredible safari experience in Botswana. Some parks are bustling with wildlife year-round, and you might even spot different animals than you would see during the drier months. This month also sees the start of the zebra migration, where massive herds of zebras travel across Botswana’s plains in search of prime grazing spots and water. Weather in November November marks the start of the rainy summer season. Although days are warm, thunderstorms can occur, so make sure to pack a raincoat. Central...

Botswana Safari in December

December brings a good chance of rain, with heavy showers usually popping up in the afternoons. It's the last month in the second shoulder season before Botswana re-enters its low season. While the game life might not be as bustling this month, the zebra migration is a must-see! If you're looking for an exciting spot to explore, don't miss Nxai Pan National Park. It's a lovely place to see giraffes, springbok, and hartebeest in their natural habitat. Weather in December Temperatures start to cool from the previous high months. Rain is much more prevalent, and the wet weather can make...

Our Recommended Activities In Botswana

Explore our recommended experiences in Botswana and find your perfect way to connect with its natural beauty.

Chief’s Island

Moremi Game Reserve

Makgadikgadi Pans

Chobe National Park and Savuti Marsh

Khwai

Chief’s Island

Popular Safari Tours In Botswana

Explore our most popular safaris in Botswana and experience the magic of its untouched wilderness.

8 Days

Best of Botswana

From R 125,920 /ZAR

8 Days

Best of Botswana

From R 125,920 /ZAR

8 Days

Best of Botswana

From R 125,920 /ZAR

Safari Lodges, Tented Camps and Villas
in Botswana

Savute Elephant Lodge, A Belmond Safari

Belmond Savute Elephant Lodge is a luxury lodge in Chobe National Park known for its...

Luxury

African Bush Camps Atzaro Okavango Camp

Welcome to Atzaro Okavango, a premier safari destination that offers sustainable luxury in the heart...

Luxury

Cha Cha Metsi

Explore our most popular safaris in Botswana and experience the magic of its untouched wilderness.cvbcccccccccccccccccccccc

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Savute Elephant Lodge, A Belmond Safari

Belmond Savute Elephant Lodge is a luxury lodge in Chobe National Park known for its...

Luxury

African Bush Camps Atzaro Okavango Camp

Welcome to Atzaro Okavango, a premier safari destination that offers sustainable luxury in the heart...

Luxury

Cha Cha Metsi

Explore our most popular safaris in Botswana and experience the magic of its untouched wilderness.cvbcccccccccccccccccccccc

Luxury

Who Is Travelling To Botswana With You?

Plan your Botswana adventure tailored to you, whether you’re travelling solo, with family, or celebrating a special occasion.

Central Kalahari Game Reserve

One of the largest game reserves in the world, the Central Kalahari Game Reserve (CKGR) is a remote and pristine safari destination in Botswana that inspires a sense of freedom...

Chief’s Island

Located in the Moremi Game Reserve, Chief’s Island is the largest island in Botswana’s famed Okavango Delta, offering travellers a truly unique safari experience in southern Africa. This landmass measures...

Central Kalahari Game Reserve

One of the largest game reserves in the world, the Central Kalahari Game Reserve (CKGR) is a remote and pristine safari destination in Botswana that inspires a sense of freedom...

What You Need To Know About
Botswana Safaris

Find everything you need to know to plan your Botswana adventure, from travel tips to essential insights for an unforgettable trip.

Botswana Food and Tipping Practices

Heading to Botswana for a safari and unsure about tipping? This is your guide to best practice when it comes to tipping in Botswana.

Botswana Food and Tipping Practices

Cost of a Botswana Safari

Planning a safari in Botswana involves several cost considerations, including the choice of destination, type of accommodation, travel season, and trip duration. Here’s a summary to assist in budgeting your adventure: 1. Cost of Destination: Okavango Delta: High demand during peak season (June to October) drives up costs due to ideal wildlife viewing conditions. Central…

Cost of a Botswana Safari

Packing List for Botswana

Not sure what to pack for your Botswana safari? Here is your Botswana packing list of everything you’ll need.

Packing List for Botswana

Languages in Botswana

Not sure what to pack for your Botswana safari? Here is your Botswana packing list of everything you’ll need.

Packing List for Botswana

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Botswana Safari

Why Botswana?

Botswana Gallery

Where To Go In Botswana

Discover the best destinations in Botswana, from the lush Okavango Delta to the striking Kalahari Desert and beyond.

Central Kalahari Game Reserve

One of the largest game reserves in the world, the Central Kalahari Game Reserve (CKGR) is a remote and pristine safari destination in Botswana that inspires a sense of freedom...

Chief’s Island

Located in the Moremi Game Reserve, Chief’s Island is the largest island in Botswana’s famed Okavango Delta, offering travellers a truly unique safari experience in southern Africa. This landmass measures...

Chobe National Park and Savuti Marsh

Chobe National Park is Botswana’s most biologically diverse park, meaning that it’s a haven for wildlife. This makes it a must-visit destination in southern Africa for Botswana safari goers. From...

Khwai

Situated in the northeastern region of the Okavango and bordering Moremi Game Reserve, Khwai offers exceptional wildlife viewing and a stunning array of ecosystems to explore. From lagoons and flooded...

Kubu Island

Kubu Island is a must-visit destination during a Botswana safari for those looking for an off-the-beaten-track adventure. Rising up from the flat landscape and among baobab trees, these granite rocks...

Mababe

Mababe is a private sector of the Okavango Delta in northern Botswana where massive herds of buffalo stretch out over the plains and impressive prides of lions hunt their prey....

Makgadikgadi Pans

One of the world's largest salt flats (a flat expanse of ground covered by salt and other minerals), the Makgadikgadi Pans offer stark, breathtaking landscapes and unique wildlife experiences, including...

Moremi Game Reserve

Moremi Game Reserve is the oldest protected reserve in the Okavango Delta and combines mopane woodland and floodplains, offering diverse habitats and rich wildlife. Some of the most endangered African...

Nxai Pan National Park

A striking contrast to Botswana's wetland ecosystems, Nxai Pan National Park is a vast, open landscape of fossilised salt pans, grassy plains, and acacia woodlands. Located on the northern fringes...

Okavango Delta

A UNESCO World Heritage Site and Big Five safari destination, the Okavango Delta is a highlight of a Botswana safari. The permanent swamps, seasonal floodplains, and dry woodlands support a...

Okavango Panhandle

The Panhandle is the entry point to the Okavango Delta, offering serene waterways, incredible fishing opportunities, and fascinating cultural experiences. Stretching around 70 km (43 miles), the Panhandle is one...

Savute

Bordering the Okavango Delta as well as Chobe National Park, Savute is a fantastic place to see Africa’s big game in action while on your Botswana safari. This region is...

Tsodilo Hills

A place of deep spiritual and historical significance, Tsodilo Hills rises dramatically from the Kalahari Desert, creating a striking contrast to the surrounding arid landscape. This UNESCO World Heritage Site...

Tuli Block

A lesser-known wedge of wilderness in eastern Botswana, the Tuli Block is a region of rugged beauty, where dramatic sandstone formations, riverine forests, and open savannahs create a distinctive safari...

Best Time To Visit Botswana

Discover the best destinations in Botswana, from the lush Okavango Delta to the striking Kalahari Desert and beyond.

Botswana Safari in January

Botswana Safari in February

Botswana Safari in March

Botswana Safari in April

Botswana Safari in May

Botswana Safari in June

Botswana Safari in July

Botswana Safari in August

Botswana Safari in September

Botswana Safari in October

Botswana Safari in November

Botswana Safari in December

Our Recommended Activities In Botswana

Explore our recommended experiences in Botswana and find your perfect way to connect with its natural beauty.

Chief’s Island

Moremi Game Reserve

Makgadikgadi Pans

Chobe National Park and Savuti Marsh

Khwai

Chief’s Island

Safari Lodges, Tented Camps and Villas
in Botswana

What You Need To Know About
Botswana Safaris

Pacific Mall, Mombasa Road, Wing A
Third floor, Nairobi, Kenya