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• Travelling to Botswana

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By Antoinette Booyse

Safari Travel Planner

The easiest and fastest way to travel to Botswana for safari is a connecting flight from Johannesburg International Airport (O.R Tambo) in South Africa. However, connecting flights from Cape Town and Windhoek (Namibia) are also available. Currently, there are no international carriers that fly directly to Maun Airport.

Transport on a Botswana safari is relatively efficient. Getting to your lodge or destination is as easy as jumping on an air shuttle service or a safari vehicle. It’s really up to you, based on your requirements, time, and budget. Fly or be driven. Each option comes at a cost, private air charters being the most expensive, while guided road transfers are more affordable. It’s also worth noting that some more remote camps and lodges are only accessible via aircraft or boat.

The best way to get to Botswana is to fly to Maun or Kasane. These two towns have international airports in northern Botswana, close to popular national parks and main roads. These airports facilitate the arrivals and departures of domestic flights to airstrips in the Okavango Delta, Moremi Game Reserve, and Central Kalahari. Self-driving travelers can easily access Botswana through the border posts from neighboring countries. Time allowances must be made for the time spent on the road.

Maun Airport

Maun International Airport is the central hub for all flights entering Botswana as a safari destination. The airport is located within the town itself.

Gaborone Airport

Sir Seretse Khama International Airport is located just 10km/6mi north of Gaborone, offering daily one-hour flights from Johannesburg and three weekly two-hour flights from Harare.

Kasane Airport

Kasane International Airport is located around four kilometers / two and a half miles south of the town of Kasane and lies just a short distance from the Chobe National Park.

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Botswana - How to Get There

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To start your safaris is an important part of the safari planning process. There are not many direct international flights into the main airport at Gaborone. Most people fly first to the regional hub of Johannesburg and then get a connection to Babeone, Kasane or Maun. It’s advisable to acquire the services of a tour operator who can give advise on all the transportation arrangements for the trip. To get you up to speed on all the ways on how to get to Botswana , we have put together the below travel information.

Requirements For Entering Botswana

•   A passport with at least six-month validity and a return ticket.
• A visa for citizens of certain countries .
• Children that are under 18 years of age must have a certified copy of their unabridged birth certificate and a valid passport.
• Children travelling with one parent or no parents must have an affidavit from the missing parent/s that gives their consent for travel.
• In case a person is travelling by road, they need to carry all the current and valid vehicle documents and essential permits.

Apart from the main airports, the majority of land entry posts are located along the borders with South Africa, Zimbabwe, Namibia and Zambia. The Zambia border post is the Kazungula Ferry, across the Zambezi River.

Travel To Botswana By Air

The vast majority of travellers arrive in Botswana by plane at either of the three main airports of Gaborone, Kasane or Maun (the gateway to the Okavango.) Once in Botswana, the easiest way to access the remote safari areas is by light aircraft from one of the hubs to the small concession bush strips. Hopping between the camps is a fantastic way to get around, and you also get to see national parks from the air.

Sir Seretse Khama International Airport, also known as Gaborone Airport, is the main airport in Botswana. It is located 15 km from Gaborone. Even though Gaborone is the main Botswana international airport, travellers choose to travel to either Maun or Kasane airport. Maun airport is located in the town of Maun and is the ideal choice for tourists interested in going on Botswana safaris. Kasane airport, on the other hand, is only a few km away from the famous Chobe National Park and a short hop to Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe.

Flights To Botswana From Connecting Airports

Tourists can catch flights to Botswana from either Johannesburg International Airport or Cape Town Airport. Most prefer the former due to flight availability to all three airports in Botswana. Cape Town Airport only flies to Gaborone and Maun.

✔  Johannesburg International Airport

Flights To Gaborone Airport, Botswana

• Air Botswana
• South African Express.

  Flights To Maun and Kasane Airport in Botswana

✔  Cape Town International Airport

Flights To Maun Airport in Botswana

Travel To Botswana By Roads

The following table gives us information about the opening and closing timings of each of the existing border posts. The timings might change depending on circumstance, verify these before making plans.

Botswana Border Posts With Opening And Closing Timings

Recommended Reading:  Top Botswana Safari Lodges and Camps

Botswana Safaris

Elephant Mobile Safari

Camp in some stunning wilderness areas on this safari adventure, including scenic spots on the Chobe...

• Country: Zambia , Botswana , Namibia ,
• Departures: Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec
• Length: 15 Days
• Start/end: Start in Kasane, end in Livingstone or Victoria Falls

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7-Day Fish Eagle Safari

This safari explores Botswana's Khwai, Savuti and Chobe National Park areas, full of amazing wildlife...

• Country: Botswana ,
• Departures: Year Round
• Length: 7 Days
• Start/end: Start in Khwai, end in Kasane

Botswana & Namibia Self-Drive Safari

This ultimate 3-week self-drive safari takes you from Botswana's premium game viewing areas to truly...

• Length: 21 Days
• Start/end: Start/end in Maun

Botswana Miracle Rivers

This 7-day tour is an ideal option for those who want to combine a mobile safari with a stay at one of...

• Start/end: Start in Maun, end in Maun

Lion Mobile Safari

On this safari enjoy a wonderful combination of teaming safari areas and spectacular landscapes. Explore...

• Country: Zambia , Botswana ,
• Start/end: Start in Maun, end in Livingstone or Victoria Falls

4-Day Deep in the Okavango Delta Safari

On this guided camping safari, experience the remote beauty and stunning wildlife of Botswana's remarkable...

• Length: 4 Days

11-Day Buffalo Safari

Come and enjoy our Botswana buffalo safari packed full of amazing wildlife and scenic beauty in Chobe...

• Country: Botswana , Zimbabwe ,
• Length: 11 Days
• Start/end: Start in Kasane, end in Maun

15-Day Three Country Safari

Explore three of the greatest safari countries on this guided all inclusive safari. Explore Namibia's...

• Country: Botswana , Namibia , Zambia ,
• Start/end: Start in Windhoek, Namibia, end in Livingstone, Zambia

Zambia, Zimbabwe & Botswana Safari

An exciting African wildlife safari that takes you to Zambia, Zimbabwe and Botswana in search of the...

• Country: Botswana , Zambia , Zimbabwe ,
• Length: 10 Days
• Start/end: Start in Chipata, end in Maun

Chobe Princess Houseboat Safari

With only a small number of guests, a stay aboard a Chobe Princess houseboat provides an intimate and...

• Start/end: Start/end in Kasane

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Airports in Botswana

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Airports in Botswana • Airports near The Chobe, Botswana • Useful tools for flight planning

Last Update: 6 January 2023

Over the last few years, all three of Botswana’s main airports have undergone complete rebuilds and are now very nice, spacious, clean (and thankfully in some months air-conditioned) travel hubs.

For anyone who might have travelled to Bots in years gone by arriving at any one of these places will be a welcome and comfortable surprise. That said they can sometimes be slow going through immigration and passport control on arrival so a top tip from us is to always try and reserve a seat close to the front of the plane to you can be at the head of the passport queue – and make sure you have a pen that works for the paperwork!

Both The Airlink and Air Botswana flights on the apron at Kasane International. 

Kasane International (BBK)

Kasane Airport is less than a mile from the Pangolin Chobe Hotel and is a great little airport. Most of our guests arrive from Johannesburg on the Airlink flight (which is usually more reliable and on time than the Air Botswana flight).

This airport is where you would also fly in and out of the Okavango Delta , or indeed other charter airline destinations like The Central Kalahari .

Most of our clients enter Botswana through Kasane and then fly back to Johannesburg again from Maun after spending time in other parts of Botswana. An additional bonus is that Airlink will allow you to book multiple legs like this but if you need more specific advice on your routing then please chat with one of our safari planners using the form at the bottom of this page.

The exterior of the new Kasane International Airport – Gateway to the Chobe and 5 mins drive from the Pangolin Chobe Hotel

Maun International (MUB)

It is reported that during peak safari season Maun Airport sees more take-offs and landings than a major European airport hub. We have never spent a day counting to make an accurate assessment of this fact, but the airport can get very busy with small charter planes ferrying people around popular safari routes like The Okavango, Kalahari and other destinations.

Lesser-known routings include charter flights to Victoria Falls and Windhoek in joining The Zimbabwe and Namibia safari circuits to Botswana – for those looking for a diverse multi-country safari experience. We would be happy to advise on an extension like this.

Gaborone International (GBE)

Gaborone was the first airport in Botswana to get a makeover and it’s an impressive building. It is more of a business hub with flights in from South Africa as well as Qatar Airways among others.

Qatar Airways flies to Gaborone International – Its more of a business route than a safari route though.

As Gaborone is right in the south of the country it is not as convenient an entry point as say Kasane or Maun as most of the flight schedules north mean you would have to overnight in Gabs (as it’s known locally) and miss a day of safari. Qatar Airways does fly to Gaborone but it gets in late in the afternoon missing connections North. It’s more of a business flight.

For this reason, we really don’t recommend using Gaborone as an entry or exit point for a Botswana photo safari.

Other airports near The Chobe, Botswana

One question we get asked all the time is “Which country is the Victoria Falls In?” Zimbabwe or Zambia. The simple answer is both! Think of it this way. When you are on the Zambian Side you are in Livingstone Town and when you are in Zimbabwe you are in Victoria Falls Town. They literally sit opposite each other across the Falls with a bridge acting as “no man’s land between the borders”.

There are various flight options on different days to get to both and then you can either transfer across to The Chobe, Botswana (approx. 2 hours by road from either side) or add on a night or two to enjoy the Victoria Falls and all the activities that are on offer there. Again our safari planners can suggest places to stay on either side.

Flights to Victoria Falls Airport, Zimbabwe

For such a small airport Victoria Falls is quite the international travel hub – as you might expect being of the seven natural wonders of the world! The airport itself is a few kilometres outside of “Vic Falls” Town.

Victoria Falls Airport is serviced daily with flights from Johannesburg.

Victoria Falls Airport is well served by several commercial airlines from Johannesburg in South Africa on airlines such as South African Airways, Airlink (again) as well as the local Zimbabwean airline Fastjet. We suggest that if you are using Johannesburg as your hub then book yourself on the same ticket right through to Victoria Falls and resist the temptation to book the flights separately.

Both Nairobi and Addis Ababa are well connected to Europe and North America and you should not dismiss these as options…especially Nairobi which I will explain why in more detail below.

For clients flying from Europe another route to consider is the seasonal Eurowings Flight which goes from Frankfurt to Windhoek (Namibia) and then on to Victoria Falls on the way back north.

Lastly Victoria Falls International is also where you would catch a charter flight to Mana Pools. You could drive there but the road is not great, and you won’t see that much on the way.

Flights to Livingstone Airport, Zambia

Livingstone (named after the explorer David Livingstone of course) sits opposite Victoria Falls on the Zambian Side. As the crow flies Livingstone and Victoria Falls airports are very close and they also share some routing options too which can be confusing.

Kenya Airways for example seems to alternate the days that it uses either Victoria Falls or Livingstone as its destination from Nairobi. If you are struggling to find flights to either one on a certain day then shift your dates by a day either way and see if it offers the one you want. We have links to some great sites below to help with searches like this.

There are flights from Livingstone to Johannesburg almost daily and if you combine South Luangwa with Botswana then you would fly from Livingstone to Mfuwe via Lusaka (Zambia’s capital) to get there on ProFlight.

Another iconic photo safari that links nicely with Livingstone is The Kruger National Park and Sabi Sands in South Africa. Airlink has a service that flies straight from Livingstone to Nelspruit (MQP) and from there you can get a charter flight or road transfer to your camp of choice… we have some favourites we can recommend!

Lastly, you should really consider Kenya Airways.

Almost every day Kenya Airways flies from Nairobi in the morning, stops off in Livingstone or Victoria Falls and after an hour on the tarmac heads down to Cape Town. This means it works as an efficient way to combine East Africa with Botswana as well as Cape Town. You can use it almost like a bus service and get on and off at the stops as you go along.

Nairobi has excellent connections to the rest of the world so if you are in the mood for the quintessential safari experience you could combine The Masai Mara , Victoria Falls, The Chobe and Cape Town. Add in a couple of short charter flights and you can add the Okavango Delta and The Kalahari too!

On the way back up north you would leave Cape Town, stop briefly in Livingstone/Victoria Falls (no need to disembark) and then land back in Nairobi in time for your international connection home.

We use Kenya Airways a lot and we think they are great and very underrated.

Useful tools for flight planning

When we are planning flights we like to use the following website:

Google Flights –  https://www.google.com/travel/flights/search

Tip: When you make your initial search look for the Date Grid to the top right of the results. This will show you date combinations that could save you lots of money if you shift your arrival/departure by a day or two…..more money to spend on a safari!

Flight Connections: https://www.flightconnections.com/

Tip: We are really enjoying Flight Connections and love the map that helps to visualise the routing options. Google flights is easier to find prices (and potential savings, but this works well to figure out options before looking at prices.

Useful links for flight planning

Airlink: https://www.flyairlink.com/

Kenya Airways: https://www.kenya-airways.com/

Come and visit us on an adventure of a lifetime

The Best of The Chobe

When: Mar - Nov Duration: 7 Days Price from: USD4,595

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Africa , BOTSWANA

Top 10 tips for planning a botswana safari.

Planning a Botswana safari and wondering where to start? Then you’ve come to the right place!

Here’s 10 incredible tips that condense all the key info you’ll need to plan and prep your trip of a lifetime.

Located in Southern Africa, bordering Namibia, Zimbabwe and South Africa, Botswana has become one of the top safari destinations across the continent, with even Hollywood stars and English royalty paying a visit to this special place.

And it’s easy to see why!

With remarkable national parks famed for their unique ecosystems and rich concentrations of wildlife, a Botswana safari really is the adventure of a lifetime.

Safaris here can be enjoyed independently, in the form of self-drive options, or as part of a tour and, whichever option you go for, it pays to know that Botswana safaris can be some of the most affordable in Africa.

Add to this the fact that Botswana is both a safe and stable African country and you’ve got yourself a winner!

So here’s all you need to know when it comes to planning your amazing Botswana safari experience…

Related Posts

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#1 Where to Safari in Botswana?

There’s 2 main spots in Botswana that most visitors, looking to experience the safari of a lifetime, head for in this country.

The first is Chobe River National Park.

Located in the north east of the country, very near the Zimbabwe border, Chobe River is known for its impressive elephant population, meaning sightings of these grey giants here are basically guaranteed. 

You can also enjoy boat safaris on the river in Chobe – an ideal sundowner option!

The other main place most safari seekers in Botswana head to is the Okavango Delta.

Also located in the north of the country – which means it’s not too far to travel to or from Chobe – this famous delta is UNESCO world heritage listed and was named one of the 7 wonders of Africa in 2013.

Seasonal flooding here brings a huge plethora of animals and birds to this watery world and safari trips amidst the Okavango often involve riding in local dugout canoes, known as mokoro , to visit some of the delta’s islands, as well as get up close and personal with some amazing wildlife.

If you need to choose between these 2 destinations, check out this article I wrote that compares them.

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#2 When to Safari in Botswana?

One of the first things you need to consider when planning a safari trip to Botswana is what time of year to visit.

While Botswana has two seasons, the great thing about safaring in this country is that you can enjoy a brilliant adventure there all year round.

If it’s guaranteed game spotting and safari big hitters you’re after on your trip, then the dry season would be the best choice for your visit to Botswana.

Although the country’s parks are known for excellent game spotting all year round, you are likely to tick more iconic African wildlife off your bucket list if you visit during Botswana’s winter months from April to October.

This is because, unlike many water sources in Southern Africa, Botswana’s prolific Chobe River and Okavango Delta do not dry up during the winter season.

As such, huge numbers of animals are drawn to these precious sources seeking much-needed water at this arid time of year.

That said, it’s worth bearing in mind that the main parks in this country can get very busy during peak safari season (which runs from July to October), so if you’d like to have a quieter, more intimate experience, visiting outside of these months is advisable.

The other point to consider is that it also gets very hot in August and September, so you may want to skip visiting during those months too if you struggle with humidity.

After all, one of the brilliant things about a safari in Botswana is that, even outside of peak season, you are still likely to see a lot of local wildlife during your trip.

If you’re a keen twitcher and it’s the country’s amazing birdlife you really want to see, then it’s actually best to visit during Botswana’s summer months.

Many of this region’s bird species are migratory, making the warmer, wetter months (namely December through March) the best time of year for bird watching here.

This is particularly true in the Okavango Delta, when the seasonal floods turn this spot into a birder’s heaven!

Getting clear on your safari priorities will help ensure you visit this country at the right time of year and get everything you want from your Botswana safari experience.

Learn more in these posts I wrote about the best time to visit the Okavango Delta and the best time to visit Chobe River National Park .

#3 How Long to Spend in Chobe & Okavango Delta?

With so much to see, you’ll want to spend at least a few days in both the Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park.

The prime game viewing times here are during the early morning and late afternoon, so you’ll need to spend at least a night or two in, or near, the parks to catch these game drive slots.

Then you’ll also have to fit in a sunset river boat cruise and a mokoro trip too!

Don’t miss the riverside area of Chobe and the opportunity to take a boat safari on the water to see the serene sights of the Serondela, which consists of lush floodplains and dense forests that attract huge numbers of elephant and buffalo.

Then, if you have time, you’ll also want to see the Savuti area of this park too.

This area is considered by many safari experts to be Botswana’s ‘predator capital’, meaning that if you want to see the infamous African big cats in action, you’ll want at least one day here.

Across in the Okavango Delta, it’s popular to leave the main settlement of Maun and head out to spend a night or 2 camping in the Delta itself.

This will give you a unique insight into the wildlife here, including a walking safari, as well as how local people have lived alongside the ever-changing landscape for thousands of years.

#4 How to Get There?

When it comes to travelling to Botswana, it’s useful to know that Kasane International Airport is less than a 10-minute drive from the gates of Chobe River National Park, making it one of the easiest ways to access your safari here.

Kasane International Airport is easy to reach from Johannesburg in South Africa, with daily flights connecting the two destinations, meaning you can fly to Kasane from anywhere that allows a Johannesburg connection.

As always, I use Skyscanner to find the best prices.

Alternatively, you can also fly to Victoria Falls Airport to reach Chobe National Park.

Just 2 hours by road from Chobe, arriving at Victoria Falls will also allow you to make an epic stop at the world’s largest waterfall on your way to Botswana.

Given Vic Falls’ breathtaking and iconic status, many people opt for a safari package that starts in Victoria Falls and ends at Kasane – an easy and affordable way to wrap both these magical places into one epic Southern African trip.

For those that want to travel to the Okavango Delta, you can either drive the 200km ish distance from Chobe River National Park, or else enter Botswana from Namibia – the perfect solution if you’ve been visiting Etosha National Park in this country.

#5 What Safari Activities Can You Enjoy in Botswana?

One of the reasons Botswana makes the perfect choice for an epic safari adventure is because there’s so much to do there!

From epic morning game drives as the sun rises and the country comes to life, to savouring sundowners from the deck of your sunset river boat safari, as you watch the world glide by, the national parks in this country offer it all.

Walking safaris and traditional canoe rides can also be enjoyed in the Okavango as you glide (safely) past hippos and spot elephants in the distance!

The keen birders among you can also enjoy special birdwatching tours in Chobe and the Delta, and specialised wildlife photography safaris are also available to those keen to capture the park’s amazing creatures on film.

#6 What Animals Can You See on a Botswana Safari?

Spotting animals will not be a challenge on a Botswana safari!

Thankfully there are a wide range of animals in this national park and, when it comes to safari bucket lists, this place has it all!

With the highest concentration of elephants in Africa, Botswana is also one of the best places to see the continent’s iconic big cats, with lions, cheetahs and even the elusive leopard, regularly being spotted.

You can also get up close with drinking water buffalo, bathing hippos and crocs (from the safety of a boat!) and seeing giraffe, wildebeest, warthog, zebra, impala, baboon and hyenas is also common.

Sadly, like most places, the rhino population in Botswana has been in sharp decline in recent years.

However, the good news is these amazing animals are being successfully reintroduced into some private areas of national parks, so it’s hoped their numbers will soon be on the rise again.

#7 Where to Stay?

Where to stay during your Botswana safari largely depends on the level of comfort you’re seeking and your budget.

Botswana is famed for its luxury lodges and, as a result, this country is one of the most exclusive safari destinations in Africa.

If you want to splash out on a high-end experience, there are many options available.

Of course, not everyone has the budget for a luxury lodge however, so many Botswana safari parks include a wide variety of accommodation options that are tailored to a range of budgets and are situated both within and close to the park, including camping.

#8 Is a Botswana Safari Safe?

Botswana is considered one of the safest nations in Africa to travel to and has a strong economy and stable government.

As a result, tourism is well-established and welcomed here.

However, as always with travel to Southern Africa, do make sure you consult the most up-to-date travel advice before arriving.

Chobe lies in a high-risk malaria zone, so it is advisable to consider taking antimalarial medication.

Insect repellent and covering up in the evening are also strongly advised.

Always speak to your health practitioner before planning your Botswana safari trip.

Alternatively, if you’re a long-term traveller, digital nomad or frequent remote worker seeking travel health cover, check out Safetywing’s Nomad Insurance policies.

#9 What to Pack for an Epic Botswana Safari?

In terms of what to wear on a Botswana safari, you’ll want light loose cool clothing that can protect you from the heat of the sun.

Leave your brightly coloured garments at home and choose muted colours instead, so you don’t scare off the animals you’re trying to spot.

Shorts are fine to wear in the bush, but it’s more socially acceptable to wear long trousers when in local villages.

Bring warm layers for the cooler evenings, and if you’re travelling in the wet season, you’ll also want a light waterproof.

It’s good to note that laundry facilities are often included in Botswana lodge stays, so you can pack light and wash along the way.

Other things you won’t want to forget are a good camera (to get those snaps of a lifetime!), binoculars for birding, a sun hat and sunscreen (the sun is strong!) and some insect repellent (bugs are plentiful in the bush, especially around water sources).

Learn more in this complete Botswana packing list I put together.

#10 Best Botswanan Safari Tours

While many people choose to self-drive in Botswana, there’s also a number of great tours that include both Chobe River National Park as well as the Okavango Delta and often include Victoria Falls too.

Many safaris also include travel onto Namibia – and combining these 2 countries makes for one of the best safari trips imaginable!

Tours are perfect for solo travellers especially (they can often work out cheaper and you’ll meet like-minded people), as well as for those that don’t feel confident renting or driving a vehicle in Botswana.

Tours also take the hassle out of planning a trip, including national park bookings, accommodation research and any visa requirements.

Check out these great Botswana safari tours if you’re looking for more options.

Otherwise, why not reach out to African Budget Safaris , who can help you with self-drive options in Botswana.

Just mention my name and they’re sure to look after you!

Mini Travel Guide to Botswana

How Long to Spend There? I’d suggest at least 5 days in Botswana to ensure you have the chance to visit both Chobe River National Park and the Okavango Delta.

Ideally, you’ll spend 2 nights in both, with a night in Maun in between, but if you’re pushed on time, you can probably get away with visiting Chobe for just 1 night.

Remember this country is big and travelling between destinations takes a lot of time, which you’ll need to factor in as well.

Top 5 Packing Items for Botswana

#1 Good Camera – Don’t even think about coming to Botswana without a good travel camera to capture the best of this country. The Sony A6000 mirrorless ticks my box every time!

#2 Walking Shoes / Boots – These are highly recommended for walking safaris in the Okavango Delta and for early morning or evening game drives in Chobe, when the temperatures can really drop. Keen Targhee’s II always get my vote!

#3 Birkenstocks – And talking of footwear, a good pair of sandals are king in Botswana. I love my Arizona Birkenstocks which were perfect for keeping my feet cool and supported at the same time. Literally wore them every day in this country!

#4 Waterproof Windproof Jacket – I visited Botswana in the dry season, but was amazed how cold it got at night, especially when camping. Having my North Face lightweight, windproof and waterproof jacket saved me!

#5 South African Power Adapters – Botswana primarily uses South African power outlets, which are pretty unique, so make sure you come prepared with a suitable Skross adapter .

Travel Insurance for Botswana

Travel Money in Botswana

When it comes to paying for things in Botswana, it’s great to know that accommodation and tours can generally be paid for by card.

ATMs are also available in most major towns.

Whether you use ATMs or pay by card however, you’ll want to ensure you’re not being charged overseas transaction fees or getting poor exchange rates, which is why I always take my Wise card away with me wherever I travel.

The easy way to spend abroad with real exchange rates, no markups and no sneaky transaction fees, you can use your Wise card just like a debit card here, and it links easily with Google and Apple pay. Get yours here .

SAVE THIS TO PINTEREST!

So there’s the lowdown on one of Africa’s top spots and all you need to know for an epic Botswana safari experience!

If you’re considering a trip here and have any more questions, then don’t hesitate to drop them into the comments box below. I’d love to hear from you…

Creator of Big World Small Pockets, Stephanie Parker is a travel addict! Originally from Jersey in the Channel Islands, Stephanie adventures the world collecting tips, advice and stories, to share with a smile

2 thoughts on “ Top 10 Tips for Planning a Botswana Safari ”

Hi Steph! We are currently researching coming back to Botswana in the coming time. Thanks for the overview! Years back we were in Chobe, but exceptional raina and flooding prevented us from going to the Okavango delta and the salt plains. Have fun travelling this year! Looking forward to more of your blogs.

Thanks Jeroen and how exciting you will travel back to Bots! Really hope you can get to the Delta and salt plains this time… you won’t regret it! Happy travel planning, best wishes, Steph 🙂

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THREE WAYS TO PLAN AND BOOK YOUR BOTSWANA SAFARI WITH AFRICANMECCA

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BOTSWANA AIRPORTS & AIRSTRIPS

There are two major airports in Botswana. The first, Sir Seretse Khama International is about 15 km northwest from the capital, Gaborone. Buses do not usually ply the route between Gaborone city and the airport but visitors can take taxis and some hotels offer pick-up service as alternative transportation. This airport is equipped for luggage shrink wrap, banks, food outlets, post office, duty free stores and car rentals. The second, Maun International Airport is less than a kilometer’s walk from Maun town center. Direct flights from Namibia and South Africa are available here and cater to those travelling to Okavango Delta, Chobe, Linyanti and other safari reserves. The main modes of transportation are taxis and buses. Cars hire services are available at the airport. The airport lounge also has internet facilities.

There are also other towns with their own airports, some of which are listed as follows: Francistown, Ghanzi, Gumare, Hukuntsi, Jwaneng, Kang, Kanye, Kasane, Khwai River, Lobatse, Makalamabedi, Maun, Nata, Nokaneng, Orapa, Palapye, Rakops, Selebi-Phikwe, Serowe, Shakawe, Sua Pan, Suvati, Tshabong, Tshane, Tuli Lodge and Xugana.

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How to Plan a Safari in Botswana, According to Experts

A beginner's guide to safari vacations in Botswana.

An African safari ranks high on the wish list of many a world traveler. Of the millions of adventurers who make the trek here annually, the (ahem) lion’s share will end up in the game reserves of Kenya, South Africa, and Tanzania — enduringly popular destinations for wildlife viewing in Africa. But in recent years, Botswana has been nipping at the heels of those countries. 

Botswana is home to diverse landscapes that span delta to desert, and the local culture is vibrant and inviting. The Botswana bush is teeming with majestic fauna, including Africa’s largest population of elephants — they are protected by a government focused on conservation, and tour operators committed to the same. And a safari here means you get to enjoy all of the above with far fewer humans than in its aforementioned continental counterparts.  

“Botswana is an anomaly in Africa,” said Ian Proctor, president and managing director of Ultimate Africa Safaris . “It is considered one of the safest and most stable democracies on the continent.” 

Proctor has been preparing customized itineraries for safari-going clients since 1996, and during that time he estimates he’s personally enjoyed more than 250 experiences across the African continent. Botswana has become his go-to destination, and in no small part because of the modernization of its government.

“Citizens receive free universal healthcare, and LGBTQ+ communities are legally recognized,” he cited as examples. “And with a very small population, its wilderness areas are unparalleled — and, importantly, uncrowded.”

Ready to pack your bags? Here’s how to plan your Botswana safari, along with insight from experts on what you can expect along the way.

How to Get to Botswana 

The most common way to get to the Botswana bush is by way of Safarilink flights out of Maun National Airport (MUB), in the northwestern part of the country. Midsized runways here can’t accommodate jumbo jets, so you won’t find direct service here from the U.S. That’s a mixed blessing, though. The added stop you’ll need — in either Johannesburg or Cape Town — weeds out those tourists who aren’t willing to brave nearly 16 hours of total flight time. 

Really, it’s not nearly as arduous as it seems. American carriers now offer multiple direct options per day into South Africa from New York and Atlanta. And if you work with an outfitter like Ultimate Africa Safaris , you can bookend your safari with well-curated layovers in those connecting cities. 

Best Times to Go to Botswana

Weather-wise, Botswana is at its most inviting from early May through the end of September. Temperatures are more moderate during these winter months, and malaria is less prevalent. Things start to get somewhat wet come mid-October, but if birding is your thing, the rainy season is precisely when you want to arrive. The Nata Bird Sanctuary along the northeastern edge of the massive Makgadikgadi Salt Pans is the world’s largest breeding ground for Lesser and Greater Flamingo. This ancient, Switzerland-sized lakebed is a shrimp-infested food source for the birds, which pass through by the hundreds of thousands from November through March. 

Best Places to Stay  

When it comes to world-class safari camps, this part of Africa is chockablock with options. They run the gamut from rugged to ultra-luxe, and are scattered across every corner of the country’s dynamic terrain. You’ll want to allot ample time to explore the Okavango Delta. This massive marshland in northern Botswana boasts a footprint of nearly 8,000 square miles and is regarded as one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Africa. From there, you can transfer by bush plane to the outskirts of the Kalahari Desert to enjoy a wholly different landscape. 

“Botswana dedicates so much space for wildlife — we are actually in the top 10 percent in the world for wildlife conservation,” said Super Sande, a native of Botswana who has been a guide in the country for 32 years. “Between the wet and dry parts of our country, the diversity of game that you see is like nowhere else. You can be surrounded by thousands of zebra and wildebeest and be the only car there. It’s so special.”

Logistically, it’s easiest to take all of these wonders in by booking an all-inclusive package with a tour operator. One such example is Natural Selection's “Botswana Explorer” package, which covers multitudes of terrain over 10 days, including an overnight on a Delta houseboat and luxe stays in private game reserves. The program starts at $8,235 per person, which includes a guide, transfers, and meals along the way. 

As for individual standouts, Jack’s Camp is king of the desert. The legendary outpost along the edge of the salt pan underwent a full rebuild in 2021, and it now boasts rooms with private plunge pools and bedside air conditioning. Its common area is the aesthetic equivalent of stepping into the late 19th century, anchored by a Persian tea tent and a full bar with a comprehensive collection of cultural artifacts. Prices at the year-round lodge range from $1,450 to $2,495 per night, depending on room size and time of year. 

In the Delta, a similar level of luxury can be found at Tuludi . The seven-room property sits on the Khwai Private Reserve — 772 square miles of floodplain awash with wildlife. Suites feature outdoor baths and plunge pools. Don’t be surprised if you’re visited in the evening hours by the local herd of elephants who enjoy feeding on foliage here once the sun has set. 

Later this year, Tawana Camp will become the newest option in the Okavango, and the only camp located within the protected Moremi Game Reserve. This exclusivity is owed to a first-of-its-kind partnership between Natural Selection and the BaTawana nation — who have stewarded the land since the late 18th century (the camp takes its name from the nation's current ruler). It will feature all the trappings of five-star living, including butler service and its own gym. The whole camp is positioned alongside a gently rolling river crowded with hippos, lions, and zebra.

What You’ll See in Botswana

If you stay on a riverfront camp such as Duke’s , you can head out into the water on traditional canoe-like vessels known as mokorom, and from this vantage point, you’ll spy African fish eagles and saddle-billed storks along the shore. You’ll also likely paddle past hippos, whose eyes hover menacingly just above the waterline. Back on dry land, lions prowl in outsized prides, leopards carry slain impala into the trees, and baboons scamper across the plains by the dozen. 

Elephant fans will want to book a stay at Hyena Pan , hidden among the thick mopane forests of Khwai Private Reserve. A short game drive from here brings you to a repurposed shipping container abutting a watering hole. This is the Elephant Hide, and it affords the most intimate spectacle imaginable of the largest living land animal, which congregate just a few inches from a narrow viewing slot fashioned into the side of a steel wall. 

In the salt pan, you can marvel at colorful creatures of all shapes, sizes, and speeds. The edge of the ancient lakebed is inundated with meerkats, Cape hares, aardwolves, hyenas, and cheetahs, to name but a small cross section of species.

“I see the most interesting things here at night, especially,” Sande said. “I just recently saw two honey badgers fighting off some jackals. No two game drives are ever the same.”

A lot of a safari experience depends on good fortune, of course. But luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity, and the difference between a good guide and a great guide is careful planning, according to Kagisano Bapute, who steers guests towards unforgettable game viewing in and around Tuludi Camp. 

“You have to stay up to date with everything going on from day to day, and from season to season,” Bapute added. “You’re always checking in with a network of trackers, and you have to be working around the clock, so you’re not just going out there blindly once you have guests with you.” 

What You’ll Eat and Drink 

While staying at any high-end safari camp, you can expect robust meals that rotate regularly, often featuring staples of Western cuisine. At Tuludi, for example, elegant pasta dishes are mainstays on the menu. Sable Alley has its own pizza station. 

While it’s easy to gravitate toward the familiar — and there are certainly some great hamburgers to be enjoyed in the bush — if you’ve come all this way, do as the locals do and save room for seswaa . The flavorful beef stew is frequently served for supper along with local bread, phapatha . Vegetarians can keep an eye out for morogo , a spinach dish studded with onions and tomatoes. 

When it comes to cocktails, gin is king here, and Okavango even has its very own. The award-winning eponymous offering is distilled with local botanicals, including the mopane seed. At Sable Alley, the bar staff is working it into the Bluebird: two parts gin, one part blue curaçao, and a splash of simple syrup, garnished with a slice of lemon. 

Alternatively, book a stay at San Camp and you’ll drive into the heart of the Kalahiri for cocktail hour. A makeshift bar is set up atop the pale, crusted earth, just in time for sunset. Once it gets dark, a multi-course feast is prepared by campfire, with nary another soul in sight. For dessert, gaze up at the most dazzling star-scape you’ll ever see.

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• Guided Safaris in Botswana
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• Botswana Fly-In Safari

9 Days from 4.890 USD per person sharing

Botswana Fly-In Safari – 9 Day Private Fly-In Safari

Start your safari with a visit to the impressive Victoria Falls before flying to Botswana’s most pristine wilderness areas and witness marvellous wildlife sightings. You observe Botswana’s wildlife on game drives, on nature walks and on mokoro boat excursions, all while overnighting in elegant and intimate accommodations.

Lodges & tented camps

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Departure dates

Day 1-2 Zimbabwe | Day 3-9 Botswana

Maun to the Okavango Delta | Okavango Delta to Moremi Region | Moremi Region to Kasane

Flights in a small aircraft

Classic game drives, bush walks and boat activities

Different safari activities

Optional visit to the waterfalls, boat cruise, white water rafting, bungee jumping, canoeing, scenic flight

Victoria Falls

Game drive and river cruises in the highest elephant density region

Chobe National Park

Game drives in a Big Five wildlife area

Khwai & Mababe Region

Game drives, nature walks, mokoro excursions and sunset boat cruises in pristine wilderness

Okavango Delta

Who should go.

This private fly-in safari is for those celebrating a special occasion or simply celebrating life. Comfort seekers will enjoy short travelling distances by small aircraft instead of long hours on the road and the excellent service at lodges and camps. For nature lovers, the fly-in safari means more time in the national parks and amongst wildlife, more time living the experience.

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Serenity seekers, honeymooners, safari enthusiasts, accommodation, 4 lodges over 9 days/8 nights.

Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe)

Kasane (Botswana)

Moremi Region (Botswana)

Okavango Delta (Botswana)

Tour itinerary, private fly-in safari.

To start your journey, you visit one of Africa’s most iconic natural wonders, the Victoria Falls. A transfer across the border to Botswana and short flights in a light aircraft will transport you to a world where nature rules supreme. You go on safari in the Chobe National Park, the Khwai & Mababe Region bordering the Moremi Game Reserve, and the Okavango Delta to observe an abundance of wildlife on game drives and bush walks and witness beautiful sunsets over Botswana’s waterways on boat cruises. Through the expert local guides at the beautiful lodges you visit, you can gain a deeper appreciation for the stunning nature and wildlife all around you.

Start Victoria Falls

Day 1-2 | Victoria Falls

Distance on day 1 approx. 30 km; driving time approx. ½ hour

Welcome to Zimbabwe. A transfer driver will greet you upon arrival at the airport and take you to your accommodation in Victoria Falls. The town is named after the mighty Victoria Falls, also known as ‘Mosi oa Tunya’, which means the ‘smoke that thunders’. Here adventure abounds and there are many activities to choose from: you can walk to the falls, join a sunset boat cruise on the Zambezi or fly over the falls in a microlight plane or helicopter (all optional). The more adventurous amongst you can even go white water rafting or bungee jumping off the Victoria Falls bridge (all activities are optional). You spend the first two nights at the Batonka Guest Lodge in a quiet neighbourhood of Victoria Falls.

Day 3 – 4 | Victoria Falls – Kasane / Chobe National Park

Distance on day 3 approx. 80 km; driving time approx. 2 hours

Victoria Falls – Kasane / Chobe National Park

Enjoy a relaxing breakfast before your transfer driver collects you for your transfer across the border to Botswana and your accommodation for the next two nights at Chobe Bakwena Lodge. The lodge is set in indigenous riverine woodland overlooking the famous Chobe River. The location and the unique eco design of the camp serve as a comfortable retreat to relax. Once settled, choose from a variety of activities available to you. You can find spectacular wildlife in this region on game drives in an open view safari vehicle to the Chobe National Park or alternatively, observe the animals as they come to the Chobe Riverfront whilst you are on a boat cruise on the Chobe River which is the natural border between Botswana and Namibia. Perhaps you would also like to take the opportunity to learn more about life in a nearby local village on a cultural outing. Speak to your hosts and they will be happy to make recommendations. Your accommodation will be the Chobe Bakwena Lodge.

Day 5 - 6 | Kasane – Khwai Region

Transfer in light aircraft

Kasane – Khwai Region

After a delicious breakfast, you are transferred to the Kasane International Airport for your light aircraft flight to the Khwai region. A driver from the camp will meet you at the airstrip and take you to your accommodation located on a private concession bordering the Moremi Game Reserve and Chobe National Park. Your home for the next two nights is Nokanyana Camp. Situated at the confluence of the Khwai and Mababe rivers you find an area of mixed vegetation, open plains, riverine forest and Hippo Pools, where you will spend the next two nights. Look forward to witnessing amazing wildlife sightings, whilst accompanied by a professional guide. The list of animals which can be sighted here is long and diverse and includes elephant, buffalo, zebra, lion, leopard, cheetah, African wild dog, giraffe, hippo, and a host more. Your camp not only serves as an excellent base for game drives in a 4×4 safari vehicle, but also for seasonal game walks. Between the activities, you can lounge around the camp’s swimming pool and look forward to delicious meals. You overnight in a platform raised tented chalet of Nokanyana Camp.

Day 7 - 8 | Khwai Region – Okavango Delta

Khwai region – okavango delta.

Time dependant you can enjoy a last morning activity and breakfast before your flight from Khwai to the Okavango Delta. During this flight you can enjoy breath-taking views over one of the largest inland deltas in the world. A transfer will then bring you to your accommodation. Built on a palm covered island and located in the heart of the Okavango Delta, the Setari Camp is surrounded by picturesque floodplains. Known for its iconic Delta landscapes, you can immerse yourself in this wilderness of lagoons and waterways. Setari is a paradise for birdwatchers, especially for those seeking water-loving birds. During your time in the delta, you explore this pristine wilderness in a traditional mokoro canoe and by foot on a bush walk. In the afternoons, you will have the option of joining a boat cruise to admire the African sun setting over the waterways of the delta. You spend the following two nights in a classic safari style tented chalet of the Setari Camp.

Day 9 | Maun

After breakfast, your fly-in safari comes to an end. You will be transferred to the airstrip for your last light aircraft flight to Maun Airport for your connecting flight back home. Alternatively, if this adventure has awoken your appetite to explore more of Africa, please let us know and we will be delighted to assist you further.

Important: On all light aircraft flights in Botswana , the luggage, including camera equipment and hand luggage, is restricted to 20 kg per person . Only soft bags will be accepted – no hard suitcases or bags with wheels can be transported, as they physically cannot fit into the aircraft.

Maximum dimensions for luggage: 25 cm wide x 30 cm high and 62 cm long. In case you need more luggage on your trip, please contact us in order to give you a quote for excess luggage.

Passengers weighing over 100 kg should please advise us at the time of booking, as we may need to cost in an additional seat on internal flights for your safety and comfort.

• 8 nights’ stay in lodges and tented camps (depending on availability, accommodation of a similar standard will be booked)
• meals according to the itinerary
• all mentioned transfers
• light aircraft flight Kasane – Khwai – Okavango Delta – Maun
• scheduled activities, national park fees, all soft drinks and local alcoholic beverages at Chobe Bakwena Lodge, Nokanyana Camp and Setari Camp
• additional flights (international and domestic)
• meals not indicated in the itinerary
• drinks not specified above
• optional activities
• personal expenses
• travel insurance

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Places Victoria Falls, Chobe National Park, Moremi Game Reserve, Okavango Delta

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Places Kalahari, Okavango Delta, Khwai Private Reserve, Chobe National Park, Victoria Falls

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About Botswana

Welcome to Botswana, a place where nature’s wonders come alive. It's home to the wild Chobe National Park , the green Okavango Delta , the endless Makgadikgadi Salt Pans , and the sprawling Central Kalahari Desert . The country’s focus on keeping nature untouched makes every Botswana Safari a deep dive into the raw beauty of the wild.

For animal lovers and nature enthusiasts, Botswana Safari Tours are a dream come true. Here, you can get up close with everything from majestic lions to tiny, colourful birds. If you’re ready to experience the real magic of Africa, Botswana is waiting to show you, its treasures.

Experience Botswana Wildlife from big to small on your Botswana Tours . Book your stay at one of the best Botswana Accommodations for a long lasting impact. To truly discover the Botswana Tourist Attractions , we’ll create a tailor-made Botswana Holidays . It helps to give you the options to choose between the variety of lodges and luxury tented camps, finding the perfect game viewing, locations and Things To Do In Botswana for you.

Pilanesberg

Garden Route

Port Elizabeth

Kruger National Park

Interesting Facts

Capital City - Gaborone

Botswana Things To Do - Bird Watching, Game Drives, Guided Walks

Botswana Tourism - Stunning Beauty, Unimaginable Vastness

Botswana Wildlife – Lion, Leopard, Elephant, Black Rhino & Buffalo

Botswana Safari Packages - Top Most Safaris, Wildlife Tours & Activities

Botswana Safari Cost - Between $125 & $1,500 Per Person Per Night

Botswana Travel Facts - Population, Airport, Flights, Culture & Map

Botswana Travel Requirements - Visa, Currency, Travel Insurance & Packing List

Botswana Accommodations - Budget, Midrange. Luxury Camps & Lodges

Best Time To Visit Botswana - Between May & October during the dry season

Botswana in 60 seconds.

Virtual Trip to Botswana

Falcon Safaris is taking you on a journey to the earths most beautiful and fascinating Botswana Tourist Places . Get inspiration and essentials with our Botswana Travel Guide videos and documentaries for your next Botswana Safari , holiday, and vacation or simply enjoy and get tips about all the beauty in the world...

Botswana is yours to discover. Curate your Botswana Travel experience and allow us to do the rest for you!

National Parks To Visit In Botswana

• 1 Kalahari Central
• 2 Chobe National Park
• 3 Makgadikgadi Salt Pans
• 4 Okavango Delta
• 5 Savuti & Kwai River Valley
• 7 Makgadikgadi Salt Pans

More Information About Botswana

Need to know, season & climate.

The vast wilderness and changeable terrain in Botswana make it a haven for wildlife and one of Africa’s most sought-after safari destinations. As national parks and private game reserves make up 40% of its fenceless territory, huge herds of the game can roam freely across the contrasting landscapes.

The prominent wild fauna includes African buffalo, African bush elephant, black rhinoceros, southern giraffe, African leopard, lion, plains zebra, and several antelope species. The introduction of the Wildlife Conservation Act of 1960 resulted in checking the loss of wildlife in Zimbabwe, since the 1960s.

Botswana's climate is semi-arid. Though it is hot and dry for much of the year, there is a rainy season, which runs through the summer months. Rainfall tends to be erratic, unpredictable, and highly regional. The summer season begins in November and ends in March. It usually brings very high temperatures. However, summer is also the rainy season, and cloud coverage and rain can cool things down considerably, although only usually for a short period.

The winter season begins in May and ends in August. This is also the dry season when virtually no rainfall occurs. Winter days are invariably sunny and cool to warm; however, evening and night temperatures can drop below freezing point in some areas, especially in the southwest.

Botswana Tours & Safaris

We think you’ll love.

• Central Kalahari (13)
• Chobe National Park (37)
• Makgadikgadi (6)
• Okavango Delta (40)
• Savuti And Kwai (3)

Central Kalahari

7 days - 6 nights, 7 days botswana family safari.

Location: Central Kalahari

8 Days - 7 Nights

8 days more for less.

8 Days Guided Safari Tour Botswana

10 Days - 9 Nights

10 days footsteps of the explorers.

9 Days - 8 Nights

9 days victoria falls and botswana adventure tour.

11 Days - 10 Nights

11 days out of africa.

11 Days African Wildlife Adventure

10 Days Thirstlands of the Kalahari

12 Days - 11 Nights

12 days romantic choice.

13 Days - 12 Nights

13 days classic africa safari in style.

22 Days - 21 Nights

22 days brilliant botswana and namibia.

13 Days Romantic and Luxurious Southern Africa

11 Days Discover Africa

1 Day Chobe to Victoria Falls Day Tour

Location: Chobe National Park

3 Days - 2 Nights

3 days chobe river safari | houseboat adventure.

5 Days - 4 Nights

5 days african thunder | classic victoria falls & chobe.

3 Days Chobe National Park Safari Package

5 Days Botswan Short and Sweet

5 Days Retreat to Romance | Okavango and Chobe Safari

5 Days Elephant Encounter | Luxury Chobe & Okavango

7 Days Under African Sky | Chobe & Okavango Delta

7 Days Untamed Botswana Safari | Chobe & Okavango

8 Days Botswana Green Safari

8 Days Chobe Savute & Moremi Botswana 4x4 Safari

8 Days Economical Escape

9 Days The Magic of Botswana

8 Days Guided Safari Botswana | Okavango Delta & Chobe Trail

9 Days Elephant Encounters Safari

9 Days Okavango Budget Botswana Breakaway

10 Days Chobe to Okavango Delta | Self-Drive Botswana

12 Days Budget Botswana Breakaway

7 Days Flexible Camping

9 Days Taste of Africa

4 Days - 3 Nights

11 days northen explorer.

8 Days Taste of Kenya

Location: Okavango Delta

12 Days Botswana Self-drive SUV Safari

13 Days Safari and Sea

13 Days Sensible Botswana

17 Days - 16 Nights

17 days victoria falls & botswana mobile camping safari.

18 Days - 17 Nights

18 days big foot safari.

9 Nights Botswana Highlights

6 Days - 5 Nights

6 days chobe and the okavango.

7 Days Majestic Journey

Location: Makgadikgadi

7 Days Botswana Wildlife Safari

3 Days Kanana Mokoro Trail

4 Days Intimate Hideaway

4 Days Classic Okavango Delta Honeymoon Safari

4 Days Walking with Giants

5 Days Classic Okavango Delta Family Safari Tour

5 Days Mokoro Trail in The Okavango Delta

5 Days Footsteps Safari

5 Days Ultimate Moremi & Okavango Delta Safari Tour

5 Days Ultimate Wetlands

5 Days Unique Wetlands Deluxe

6 Days Luxury Botswana Honeymoon Safari

7 Days Predators of Okavango and Linyanti

7 Days Okavango Gateway

7 Days Moremi Classic - Miracle Rivers Safari

7 Days Ultimate Luxury Botswana Wildlife Safari

8 Days Wilderness Safari

10 Days Victoria Falls & Botswana Honeymoon Safari

10 Days Northern Explorer

6 Days Ultimate Elephant Safari

8 Days Economical escape

Location: Savuti and Kwai

4 Days Romantic Botswana Getaway Savute, Chobe

Location: Savuti Tours

Travel Guide For Botswana

Why go to botswana, best time to visit botswana, flights & getting to & around botswana, what to pack for botswana safari, visa & passport requirements for botswana, botswana food, botswana wildlife, is botswana safe, botswana currency, botswana culture, botswana travel insurance, botswana safari cost.

Botswana is a great safari destination that boasts outstanding wildlife density and variety, and it is wild and organic without fences and developed tourist facilities. In this sense, it attracts adventurous travellers who are loving about nature and wildlife experiences and who are not nervous in the presence of wild animals. Keen photographers would benefit greatly from a Botswana Holiday at different times of the year, as varying locations offer unique and interesting natural scenery, not to mention superb wildlife activity to capture.

Botswana’s primary attraction is its vast wilderness. From the endless palm-covered islands of the Okavango Delta, to the moonscape saltpans of the Makgadikgadi region, it’s the perfect destination for anyone seeking pristine, unfenced surroundings.

The terrain in Botswana is rough with plenty of dust, thick sand, and seasonal flooding, so exploring the country by road – which includes long morning game drives in areas like Savuti – means packing an adventurous spirit and tolerance for the natural elements. On the other hand, Botswana has some impeccable luxury options, with exclusive airstrips, seamless service, world-class food, and supreme comfort, which bring extreme comfort to visitors willing to pay.

Botswana is easily sewn into an itinerary including Victoria Falls and the Kruger National Park, Zimbabwe’s Hwange and Mana Pools, Zambia’s South Luangwa, and Namibia’s Caprivi Strip; so travellers planning a southern Africa trip should consider including Botswana.

Botswana is the top most safari destination with the best time to visit between June to August. Also, April and May are the Best Time For Safari In Botswana , however, you should expect sprinkled rain showers.

• Average summer temperatures: 18°C to 38°C
• Average winter temperatures: 6°C to 27°C
• Rainy season: October/November to March/April

The Best Time To Visit Botswana — especially for those wanting to go on a Botswana Safari — is during the dry season (May through October), when the grass is low and the trees have less foliage, making it easier to spot animals.

Botswana Climate is mostly hot and dry, and the country's dry season, a popular time to visit, is countered by a distinct rainy season that offers benefits of its own.

In summary, the Best Time To Go To Botswana is:

• May to September  is the most popular time to visit, with clear days and cooler temperatures. This is the best time to for game drives giving you high chances of seeing some of the big five and some beautiful birdlife.
• October and April  are shoulder seasons between summer and winter and therefore are still likely to have fairly dry, bright days.

Get the Best Time To Visit Botswana for climate charts on the best wildlife-viewing times.

The easiest and fastest way to Travel To Botswana is a connecting flight from Johannesburg International Airport (O.R Tambo) in South Africa, although there are also connecting flights from Cape Town and Windhoek (Namibia) available.

From the moment you reach at Botswana , our Travel guides will be there to welcome you. Also we ensure the smooth transfers from airport to camp, camp to camp, and back to your departure point, mainly the Airport.

Gaborone :  Fly to Sir Seretse Khama - Botswana's main international airport - from Johannesburg. Most Botswana Safari travellers avoid it and fly directly to one of the two airports below.

Maun:  Daily Botswana Flights from Johannesburg and Cape Town will provide easy access to the Okavango Delta's gateway airport.

Kasane:  Fly to Chobe's gateway from Johannesburg, Gaborone or Maun.

For travellers, it is more common to fly into Maun Airport (MUB) and Kasana Airport (BBK). When combining a Safari In Botswana with a visit to Victoria Falls, it is common to fly into Maun and depart from  Victoria Falls Airport  (VFA) in Zimbabwe or Livingstone Airport (LVI) in Zambia.

Charter flights on small aircraft are the best way to getting from place to place in Botswana. Also game drives directed in open-sided 4X4 vehicles.

When Packing For A Botswana Safari , practicality is key. In the summer months, choose clothing in neutral colours and wear lightweight long-sleeved clothing at night and in the early mornings to protect against mosquitoes.

It is best to layer up as the days are still warm and sunny but the night time temperatures can drop close to freezing point during the cooler months.

The most practical items to pack for your  Botswana Safari are:

• Clothes in khaki, green, beige and neutral colours
• Long-sleeved shirts that offer protection from the sun and mosquitoes
• Shorts or a light skirt
• Jeans or safari trousers for evenings and cooler days
• Jackets and sweaters for early morning and late afternoon game drives
• A lightweight waterproof jacket in case of rain
• Swim and beachwear
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, insect repellent, moisturiser and lip salve
• Binoculars and camera equipment

A Botswana Visa for tourist can be obtained on arrival at the airport. Citizens of the Britain, Australia, Canada, USA and some EU countries do not require a visa for stays of up to 90 days.

British citizens don’t need a visa when travelling to Botswana if they are staying for 90 days or less. Your passport must be valid for an additional six months from the date of your entry in Botswana. You also need three clear pages in your passport.

Visitors holding passports from countries that are classified as ‘exempt’ do not need to apply for a visa prior to arriving in Botswana . Instead, they are issued with a short-stay visa at the point of entry for a period of time relevant to the status of the visitor’s country. The time it takes to process a Botswana Visa is 21 working days, this is for all visa types and for all non-exempt countries. Unfortunately, Botswana does not yet allow e-visas.

It is advised to apply for your Botswana visa 1 to 2 months before your trip. The duration of a Botswana visa depends on the number of entries it allows. Botswana multiple entry tourist visa allows a stay of 3 months and is valid for 3 months. While a single-entry visa allows a stay of one month and is valid for one month.

Please check for the latest updates about Visa with your local Botswana Embassies or Consulates, or travel agents, before your departure. It is vital that you carry a valid passport to ease your stay.

You will find different Botswana Food depending on the region you visit.

Sorghum and pearl millet are important food crops in Botswana. Normally it is cultivated in the Kalahari. Also many people eat bogobe. The local beef is famous. Seswaai is unique to the country but Botswana Cuisine also borrows from other parts of Africa. Pap, samp, and the tasty sounding mopane worms are popular.

The Most Popular Food In Botswana includes…..

• Traditional Style Chicken
• Porridge or “bogobe”
• Traditional Drinks

Many soft drinks and alcoholic drinks are produced in factories in Botswana, including  Fanta and Coca-Cola . Local brands are Castle and Lion beers. Milk is fermented to make madila (sour milk) which is eaten on its own or added to porridge. A favorite non-alcoholic homemade drink is ginger beer.

Botswana Wildlife offers the wild and remote, with some of the most prolific Animals in Africa. Botswana has a prosperity of big African animals such as elephant, giraffe, hippo, buffalo and zebra. Big cats aren’t as widespread, but there are still quite lions to spot. Rhino is also making a comeback here. You can find endangered antelopes and African wild dogs in some of the country’s parks.

The wilds of Northern Botswana safeguard the largest elephant population in the world. Huge breeding herds and large solitary bulls traverse the landscapes of Chobe National Park and Moremi Game Reserve. 

• Chobe also boasts the highest bird species diversity in Botswana (468 species), including birds found nowhere else in the country.
• Savute, in the western Chobe region is notorious for its large lion prides, historically numbering up to 30-odd individuals. Savuti’s vast savanna plains are perfect for enjoying sightings of Burchell’s zebra, tsessebe, giraffe, and impala.
• The Okavango Delta is also the best place to see the near-endemic Slaty Egret, Wattled Crane, and special waterbirds such as the Lesser Jacana, White-backed night heron and African skimmer.
• At Makgadikgadi Salt Pans, Shallow waters flood over seemingly endless pans, attracting thousands of flamingos. Along the Boteti River you can watch Southern Africa’s largest zebra migration here.

Botswana is considered as one of the safest countries in Africa to travel in. Also, tourism is welcomed and valued by the local people in general. There is no reason for tourists to feel unsafe anywhere in Botswana in terms of crime. Botswana Travel Safety is always prioritized by Falcon Safaris.

To stay safe on Botswana Safari , just follow our instructions. When on a self-drive safari, get familiar with the rules of the parks and reserves, never approach animals too close and don’t leave your vehicle outside designated safe areas.

If you travel to remote areas, plan your trip ahead of time and make the travel and accommodation arrangements in advance.  Take emergency supplies (including water and fuel) and be prepared for off-road driving conditions. In extremely remote areas, travel in a group or with a satellite phone in case of a breakdown.

Taking photographs or using video equipment near military and government installations is prohibited. Always ask permission before taking photographs of people in Botswana.

Botswana is one of the few African countries that it is safe for children to visit. Travelling with your child in Botswana should not have many problems. Children should remain within your sight at all times, especially when you are travelling.

US Dollars are normally used in Botswana. But, it is significant to bring local currency in smaller denominations during your Botswana Safari Trip , for small payments, tips, etc. Your Money can be swapped at Botswana Airport , Bureaux de Change, authorized dealers, and banks.

The currency in Botswana is Pula, which is a Tswana word meaning “rain”. Rain is cherished and welcomed because it brings life to the Kalahari. Pula is used throughout the country and is the accepted form of payment in restaurants, shops, and at hotels or lodges; however, most places in Maun, Kasane, Francistown, Gaborone, and other major towns accept international bank cards. ATMs are located in the above mentioned towns and one can withdraw cash before heading into the parks and reserves where there are unlikely to be card facilities. Foreign currency is often accepted as a tip or gratuity to helpful staff and safari guides.

Botswana Banks accepts the following foreign currencies: US Dollars, Pounds Sterling, Euro and South African Rands in cash.

Credit and debit cards, including International Visa and MasterCard, are accepted at most lodges. However, Express and Diners Club are not accepted by the banks of Botswana either by the camps.

Botswana has a typically homogenous culture with strong beliefs. Most people are Christian and Tswana-speaking but English is widely spoken. Also, many San Bushmen still follow their traditional way of life. Most of the Botswana Population lives especially in the capital city of Gaborone, leaving much of the country fully wild and unoccupied.

Moreover Botswana Culture is famous every year in a memorial festival called 'Letsatsi la Ngwao' - Botswana Culture Day.

Travellers greeting local Batswana will notice that the spoken “dumela rra/mma” (man/woman) is accompanied by a handshake with the right hand while the left hand moves to gently grasp one’s own right forearm. This greeting is commonly shared between local people, and tourists are welcome to take part in the tradition.

A large number of people from Botswana and indeed southern Africa belong to a religion called Zionism, which is based on a fusion of African traditions and the Christian faith. Members of the ZCC (Zion Christian Church), by religious guidance, do not eat pork, drink alcohol, or consume drugs, while some solely consume the white meat of chicken and fish, eradicating red meat from their diets altogether.

Zionists can be recognised by some items of clothing, which on days of worship consist mostly of yellow and green, while most members often wear a lapel or badge of green cloth adorned with a metal badge indicating which branch of the church they belong to. Men also wear hats to indicate their religious affiliation.

Complete Botswana Travel Insurance is encouraged for anyone travelling through Botswana. It is no secret that these adventures of a lifetime come with their associated risks, i.e. wild animals, challenging terrain and road conditions, and poor public health services, so taking out travel and medical insurance that will cover specific area-related medical emergencies or unexpected incidents is the safest and most recommended way to go.

Before embarking on a Trip To Botswana , travellers should make sure they have comprehensive medical cover for specific activities they might like to participate in while on Botswana Holiday . One should be covered for any incidents relating to wild animals and should have authorisation for a medical evacuation, so that the necessary measures can be taken in an emergency in a remote area. Taking out insurance to protect cash, camera equipment, and baggage is also advisable, and should fall under comprehensive cover. It is recommended that prior to departure, travellers have a copy of their medical and travel insurance policies and an emergency phone number to call so that this information is available when fellow travellers, guides, lodge staff, or emergency personnel might need it.

Travel Insurance For Botswana should also be taken out to cover the traveller in case of an unexpected change in holiday itinerary or an unforeseen cancellation. One should also ensure they have access to money via credit card or an electronic funds transfer, as it is likely that payment for medical treatment will have to be paid up front and then claimed back from the insurance company later.

Planning your adventure with Falcon Safaris means getting a clear picture of the Botswana Safari Cost . Irrespective of whether you're dreaming of basic camping or luxury lodges, we've got all the details to help you budget for an unforgettable journey.

Detailed Botswana Safari Cost Breakdown:

• Camping : Immerse yourself in nature with our camping options starting at $250 per day for a private setup and $200 for joining a group. Perfect for those who love the great outdoors.
• Budget Accommodations : Enjoy comfort without breaking the bank, with private stays at $250 and group options at $225 per day.
• Mid-Range Options : For a blend of comfort and adventure, choose our mid-range stays at $600 for private tours and $450 for groups.
• Luxury Experiences : Indulge in unparalleled service and settings at $1,200 for private experiences and $1,000 for groups.
• Ultra-Luxury : Dive into the epitome of safari luxury, with prices starting from $2,500 per day for private tours.

Key Considerations for Your Safari Planning:

Below are must-add components that make up your Botswana Safari Cost:

• Park Entrance Fees : A vital component of your safari budget, these fees vary based on the park and your residency status. They support conservation efforts and park maintenance.
• Botswana Safari Accommodation Cost : Prices fluctuate depending on the length of your stay, the season, and the level of luxury you choose. Whether you prefer the rustic charm of camping or the lavishness of luxury lodges, we offer options to suit every taste.
• Additional Costs to Anticipate : Beyond the basics, consider visa fees, tipping, travel insurance, and the cost of international flights to Botswana.

Let Falcon Safaris be your safari partner and guide you through the planning process, ensuring your Botswana Safari Tours are filled with adventure, exploration, and breathtaking wildlife encounters, all within your budget.

best month to Visit Botswana

Botswana safari in january.

This is one of Botswana’s highest rainfall months with an average of 100mm falling in often unpredictable and heavy downpours, and as a result, January is not the most popular time to visit.

It does mean that Botswana Safari Prices are a lot lower, making this prime safari destination more accessible to travellers on a lower budget.

Birding is excellent at this time of year; however the water levels in the Delta are low, and the presence of water means wildlife is scattered.

Botswana’s climate is fairly regular and consistent, with hot, wet summers and mild, dry winters. The north gets the most rain, and precipitation decreases steadily as you head south. The most extreme conditions are in the Central Kalahari, but even there nights seldom drop below 15°C.

Botswana Safari in February

Perhaps Botswana’s rainiest month with long showers and hot and humid weather, with temperatures ranging from the mid-20s to 30s(C).

The heavy rain makes some parts of the parks (i.e. Moremi) either inaccessible or very tricky to navigate by road.

But in the Central Kalahari Game Reserve, the landscape is a green, grassy paradise. With lots of newborn antelope and a great variety of birds, this is a great time for Botswana Safaris .

Botswana Safari in March

The steady drop in temperature and rainfall continues throughout March, but hot days across the country can still reach the mid 30 °C.

In the south and centre of Botswana, cold nights can drop to 10°C but tend to stay between 15°C and 20°C in the north.

There are still afternoon thunderstorms every few days, which keep the atmosphere clear. March remains the Best Time to Visit Botswana for spectacular landscape photography.

Botswana Safari in April

The April/May shoulder season is an excellent time for Botswana Safari Holidays . By April, rainfall has almost completely ceased across the country, although there may still be a few scattered showers.

Everywhere is still green and most pans still hold some water, but what is available is getting scarcer, forcing both predators and prey to stay near.

Average daytime temperatures are now about 30°C and nights hover around 15°C – pleasant enough for long evenings around the campfire, while also allowing for a more comfortable sleep.

Botswana Safari in May

May marks the onset of Botswana’s dry winter season, typically characterized by a lack of rainfall throughout the country.

Average daytime temperatures fluctuate between 25°C to 30°C, often warmer in the north and cooler towards the south. Evenings in the north can dip below 15°C, and by month's end, nights in the Kalahari may approach freezing temperatures.

May stands out as an ideal time for Botswana Safari Tours , offering excellent game viewing opportunities, mild and dry weather conditions, and the tranquillity of less crowded campsites and parks—conditions that shift as the season progresses into its busier months.

Botswana Safari in June

June is another excellent month to visit Botswana, although the parks get busier from around the 20th as schools in neighbouring South Africa break for winter holidays.

These usually run from the last week of June to mid-July and campsites across Botswana book up quickly. Late June marks the start of the high season for Botswana Safari Tours and July to October is the busiest time. Make sure you book your campsites well in advance.

June and July are Botswana’s coldest months and night-time temperatures in the Kalahari can drop below freezing. In the north, it rarely freezes, but lows of 5°C are common and morning game drives can be very cold.

Daytime temperatures are roughly the same across the country, averaging between 20°C and 25°C. As ever, the north is warmer and hot days may still reach 30°C.

Botswana Safari in July

July marks the beginning of Botswana’s busy season, and Botswana Safari Packages for camps and lodges can be booked out well in advance.

The country’s parks and reserves feature a limited number of public camping areas, which are often small and dispersed.

This scarcity makes securing a spot during peak season a challenge, yet ensures that even at full capacity, Botswana’s vast parks never feel too crowded.

Botswana Safari in August

August remains extremely dry across Botswana, although by the end of the month, there may be a brief shower somewhere in the south.

Temperatures, however, are already beginning to rise and while nights in the Kalahari can still fall below freezing, sub-zero mornings are the exception, not the norm.

Daytime temperatures also climb rapidly during August and hot days across the country will regularly top 30°C. August is a very popular month for Botswana Safari Trips and campsites and lodges should be booked far in advance.

Botswana Safari in September

Northern Botswana remains completely dry during September, though the centre and south may welcome a few scattered showers.

The temperatures steadily rise, staying above 0°C even in the Kalahari, with average lows warming to between 10°C and 15°C—cooler in the south and toastier in the north.

By month's end, days across the country become intensely hot, often soaring above 30°C and nearing 40°C in Maun and Kasane.

September's charm makes it a bustling period for Botswana Safari and Tours , necessitating early bookings for the sought-after northern camps.

This time is particularly magical along the Chobe and Linyanti Rivers, where thousands of animals, especially elephants, converge for water.

Capable of consuming up to 200 litres daily, these elephants often dash to the riverbanks at dusk, their excitement palpable and trumpets echoing, a remarkable sight for any visitor.

Botswana Safari in October

October marks the peak of the heat in Botswana, with temperatures soaring above 40°C in the northern regions. The south experiences slightly milder conditions, though still intensely hot.

Evening temperatures in the south range between 15°C and 20°C, while the far north enjoys warmer nights.

The onset of the rainy season begins earlier in the south and centre, where the first afternoon thunderstorms offer a welcome respite. In contrast, the north usually remains dry until the month's end, with the rains not fully setting in until mid-November.

Despite the challenging heat, October remains a favoured time for Botswana Safari Holidays , particularly along the Chobe River, renowned for its congregations of elephants seeking hydration.

Botswana Safari in November

November is the spring shoulder season in Botswana, a time of soaring thunderclouds, returning migrant birds and, once the rains arrive, fields of newborn calves.

It’s still very hot, with daily highs of 35°C to 40°C across the country, and it can get even hotter in the north where nights are humid and often well over 20°C. The start of the rainy season is always hard to predict, but good years can see early November rainfall in the south and central Kalahari, while Moremi and Chobe usually have to wait until later in the month.

This transitional period makes for an exciting and dynamic Botswana Safari , as the landscape transforms and wildlife gathers in anticipation of the rains.

Botswana Safari in December

December is Botswana’s wettest month, with afternoon thunderstorms. The rains bring cooler air, but daytime temperatures remain high, averaging in the low 30 °C, with the potential for days reaching 40°C or more. Nights tend to be humid and warm, often not dropping below 20°C. The clear atmosphere and dramatic thunderclouds present the perfect backdrop for breathtaking photographs, offering a spectacle of a spectacular thunderstorm every few days that can be witnessed on Botswana Tours .

Botswana Safari Activities

• Bird Watching
• Boat Cruise
• Horseriding
• Mokoro Safari
• Quad Biking

Bird Watching in Botswana

There are some excellent places for Bird Watching In Botswana, a key activity in Botswana Safari Tours . Chobe’s impressive diversity of habitats makes it home to the highest variety of bird species (468) in Botswana.

A drive or boat cruise along the Chobe River will offer plenty of opportunities to see the conspicuous African Fish Eagle. African Skimmers arrive at Chobe’s riverbanks at the beginning of winter.

Other migrant species are Yellow-billed Kites, Woodland Kingfishers, and the very striking Carmine Bee Eaters, and other common water birds of the area are African Spoonbills, Squacco Herons, Open-billed Storks, Black Herons, Great Egrets, Pied Kingfishers, African Jacanas, and Yellow-billed Storks.

In Chobe’s forested areas, birders should look out for Schalow’s and Purple-crested Turacos, Trumpeter and Crowned Hornbills, Crested Guinea Fowls, Racket-tailed Rollers, Brown-necked Parrots, and Narina Trogons (summer only).

The Linyanti Swamps are home to the endemic Slaty Egret and a good place to see small waders such as the Lesser Jacana and African Painted Snipe. Gregarious Southern Carmine Bee Eaters nest on Linyanti’s dry floodplains, an unusual choice for a bird that usually favours riverbanks.

Boat Cruise in Botswana

A Botswana Safari can be significantly enhanced by a boat cruise, organized by the myriad riverside safari operators. The Chobe waterfront, near the town of Kasane, is the most commercial sector of Chobe National Park, dotted with several large hotels and lodges.

Notably, Chobe Game Lodge is the sole lodge within the park’s river boundaries, offering direct access to the Chobe Riverfront's majestic scenery.

This part of Africa showcases her beauty unreservedly, with the Chobe River's vast waters and the adjoining floodplains presenting an unparalleled spectacle best enjoyed from the water.

Cruising at eye level not only provides exceptional Botswana Wildlife and bird photography opportunities but also intimate encounters with African skimmers, yawning hippos, sunbathing crocodiles, and occasionally, lions resting in the shade of riverside trees.

Horseriding in Botswana

Horseriding In Botswana  is run by Ride Botswana on Uncharted Africa’s private concessions. Two-hour long trips as well as multi-day riding safaris suitable for more experienced horse riders can be arranged.

Exploring the Makgadikgadi from the saddle of a well-trained horse can be a truly marvellous escapade. It is a completely different  Botswana Safari Experience , evocative of the adventures of Africa’s early European settlers who often chose this way of moving through the great savannas of Africa.

Cantering on the remote expanses of the salt pans and surrounding coppery grasslands is to feel a giddy, soaring sense of freedom. Being on a horse is an unobtrusive way to get up close to herds of zebra and other plains game while cheetahs and lions can be gazed at from a distance.

Mokoro Safari in Botswana

The most familiar way to explore the Okavango’s meandering channels and hidden lagoons is on a guided Mokoro Safari in Botswana . These traditional wooden dugouts are still used extensively in the region for fishing and transport, especially near Maun and Seronga.

A mekoro trip gives you the best possible chance to catch a glimpse of the rare and secretive sitatunga antelope. Sitatunga loves quiet backwaters with floating papyrus islands and usually feeds while being partially submerged in water.

They are expertly designed for swamp life with splayed, elongated hooves that enable them to tread soft marshlands with ease. When a mokoro approaches, these shy ungulates will commonly swim away, with only their nuzzles sticking out of the water.

Other interesting creatures to look out for are colourful Painted Reed frogs and tiny Long Reed frogs (usually hugging onto reeds), malachite and pied kingfishers, pygmy geese, African and lesser jacanas and day and night water lilies.

Mokoro Trips in Botswana  are available at many of the water-based camps and lodges in the Okavango and Maun for self-drivers. It’s a good idea to check with the safari operator you booked through beforehand because in many places mokoro safaris are seasonal and water level dependent.

Quad Biking in Botswana

A  Quad Biking in Botswana  adventure especially in Kalahari should be on the bucket list of all daring adrenalin seekers. Revving through the isolated moon-like vistas of the Makgadikgadi gives travellers the luxury of disconnecting with time and space.

On a multi-day Botswana Safari Trip , riders can sprawl out beneath the stars in the evening, blissfully cocooned in comfy bedrolls. These extended trips can also include stopovers at Kubu Island and Chapman’s Baobab.

Many safari operators in the area offer quad biking, including more budget-friendly places like the wonderfully quirky Planet Baobab. If sleeping under the stars excites you but quad biking doesn’t, Meno a Kwena offers beautiful sleep-out excursions.

Walking With Meerkats In Botswana

Walking With Meerkats in Botswana  offers a truly unique and intimate experience with one of the most sociable and resourceful desert-adapted creatures on earth.

The Makgadikgadi Pans offers guests the incredible chance to spend a morning with a local meerkat colony. The meerkats respond to the non-threatening presence of people by simply carrying on with their daily activities consisting mainly of rummaging the veld for scorpions and other tasty bites to eat.

The habituation of these lively little desert mammals depends very much on the dedication of a full-time ‘Meerkat man’ who follows the family group daily and helps locate them for visitors.

On Botswana Safari Tours , guests are driven to the den area in the early morning, just before the meerkats have left their burrows. As the sun rises, they cautiously peep out of little holes in a humble sandy mound, and, deeming it safe to come out, scuttle to the highest points to scout for predators and food.

Sometimes these lookouts happen to be the shoulders and heads of guests! Eventually, the whole colony, babies included, are joyfully chirping and tussling away while guests sit or crouch among them.

Botswana Safari Accommodations

Botswana hotels & lodges.

• Central Kalahari (7)
• Makgadikgadi (10)
• Okavango (28)

Now, however, two lodges are situated inside the park boundary, which opens up the reserve to those who would not consider camping. The Lodge boasts of three categories of unique tented accommodations, strategically secluded to ensure a feeling of privacy and intimacy at all times. The lodge can accommodate a maximum of twenty guests, thus ensuring exclusivity that defines contemporary luxury, allowing you to experience the Kalahari at your own pace.

Kalahari Plains Camp

Tau Pan Camp Lodge

Grassland Bushmen Lodge

Deception Valley Lodge

Kalahari Arms Hotel

Haina Safari Lodge

The Chobe Accommodation options below feature lodges inside the park. You can opt for packages that include your meals and activities. These guided activities include game drives, nature walks, boat trips, and birding. Some areas also allow for night game drives. The properties are unfenced and animals roam freely through the park and the neighbouring reserves. The level of luxury at these remote locations is astounding. Once you have seen the care put into these eco-lodges, you will understand the feat in logistics that they have accomplished.

Chobe Elephant Camp

Chobe Game Lodge

Chobe Garden Lodge

Chobe Marina

Chobe Safari Lodge

Chobe Savanna Lodge

Crest Mavana Lodge

Ichingo Chobe River

Elephant Valley Lodge

Kwalape Safari Lodge

Ngoma Safari Lodge

Linyati Ebony Camp

Linyati Bush Camp

Saile Tented Camps

Chobe Chilwero

Chobe Bakwena

Muchenje Safari Lodge

Camp Kazuma

Chobe Under Canvas

Impalila Island Lodge

Big 5 Chobe Lodge

Thebe River Safari Lodge

Makgadikgadi.

Botswana’s Makgadikgadi covers an area roughly the size of Switzerland, and has some of the largest saltpans in the world! The national park protects a small portion of these pans, as well as the Boteti River – a magnet for wildlife especially during Botswana’s dry season when the river is the only source of water for miles around. Makgadikgadi Pans is an extraordinary place! Visit during the dry winter months and you’ll see a shimmering, salty crust stretching out to the horizon.

Leroo La Tau Lodge

Pelican Lodge and Camping

Elephant Sands Lodge

Nxai Pan Camp

Planet Baobab

Boteti River Camp

Makgadikgadi Camp

Meno A Kwena

Camp Kalahari

The Okavango Delta offers a full range of accommodation options for every budget and interest, from simple mobile camps to some of the most sought after luxury lodges on the African safari circuit. Accommodation in the Okavango Delta falls across three broad categories – water, land and mixed camps – categorized by the activities they offer. We generally recommend combining water and land camps, or a mixed camp, for a comprehensive Okavango experience.

Crocodile Lodge

Jump Street

Gunn's Camp

Baines Camp

Stanleys Camp

Chitabe Lediba

Little Mombo

Xigera Camp

Drotsky's Cabins

Audi Safari Camp

Camp Okavango

Xugana Island Lodge

Delta Safari Camp

Duba Plains Camp

Moremi Gorges Campsite

Okuti Safari Camp

Kanana Safari Camp

Footsteps Safari Camp

Macatoo Safari Camp

Chiefs Camp

The Caprivi Strip is situated in the north-east of Namibia and unlike the rest of the country is blessed with good rainfalls. Caprivi Strip accommodation at the lodge is in 10 tented suites, connected to a central area through a network of pathways. Each en-suite tent is made of steel, wood and canvas and has proper doors and windows – ideal for a completely safe rustic feel. Private verandas allow views over the untamed bushveld where you can see a host of various plant life and the resident bird life as well as mammals.

Savuti Safari Camp

Khwai Tented Camp

Savute Safari Lodge

Frequently asked questions botswana, when is the best time to visit botswana.

The Best Time To Visit Botswana is from July – October every year. This is the time where the dry season makes for finest wildlife viewing. Another perfect time to visit Botswana is during from May to June. This is the region’s “shoulder season”, right between Botswana’s low and high seasons, when fewer travellers have been going for Botswana.

What Are The Best Places To Visit In Botswana?

The Best Places To Visit In Botswana includes the massive Okavango Delta, Chobe National Park and the legendary Kalahari Basin. A t lovely sight to behold, the Chobe National Park is the most popular attractions in Africa. And it makes Botswana a top most destination to visit.

What Type Of Wildlife Will I See In Botswana

Botswana Wildlife includes all of Africa’s Big Five animals — the lion, leopard, elephant, rhinoceros and Cape buffalo; hippos, cheetahs, giraffes, Nile crocodiles, brown and spotted hyenas, zebras, warthogs, black and white rhinos, chacma baboons; myriad gorgeous antelope species, including the greater kudu, sable antelope and blue wildebeests; and large packs of endangered African wild dog.

What Does A Botswana Safari Cost?

Botswana Safari Cost starts from US$250 per person per day, and an upper limit of around US$1200. Botswana Safaris include supremely comfortable accommodation, high-class meals and packages with all activities.

What Type Of Accommodation Expect On A Botswana Safari?

Botswana Accommodation is world class, whether it’s camping or lodges.

Botswana Lodges frequently have rooms with private terraces and private plunge pools. Botswana Safari Camps or Tented Camps or Mobile Camps, have safari-style canvas tents, usually with canvas floors and rugs.

How Long Should I Spend On Safari In Botswana?

A three-night stay in the Chobe National Park, followed by some time the Okavango Delta over a five-day period, creates the perfect Botswana Safari Packages .

Our specialists can arrange the Botswana Safari that suits your schedule and guide you regarding the number of days to spend in each place.

Is Botswana a good place to visit?

Botswana has a huge advantage over the rest of the world when it comes to attracting tourists: the wildlife. The array of animals that reside in or pass through the country is phenomenal. Ranging from endangered animals such as wild dogs and rhinos to the numerous and thriving bird life that inhabits the area.

Is Botswana open to international visitors?

Currently, there are no travel restrictions to any country in Africa. In regards to any upcoming Travel To Botswana , health checks are being conducted at all ports of entry into Botswana, including the Sir Seretse Khama International Airport in Gaborone.

Why do tourists visit Botswana?

One of the best travel destinations in Africa, Botswana is known for its great safaris, incredible wildlife, and exciting adventures. Those who visit Botswana experience a place like no other. Its breathtaking landscapes cover a vast variety of habitats, from the sands of the Kalahari Desert to the lush Okavango Delta .

What is the most visited place in Botswana?

A truly beautiful sight to behold, the Chobe National Park is one of the most popular attractions in Africa and makes Botswana a must-visit destination.

Does Botswana Have Good Safaris?

Botswana Safaris are renowned for their exceptional quality. The country is renowned for offering diverse ecosystems and an abundance of wildlife, making it an outstanding safari destination.

Is The Botswana Safari Expensive?

Yes, a Botswana Safari can be expensive due to its remote locations, luxurious lodges, and the emphasis on sustainable tourism which limits the number of visitors.

Is Botswana Or Tanzania Better For Safari?

Both Botswana and Tanzania offer unique safari experiences. Botswana Safari Tours are known for their water-based activities and exclusive experiences, while Tanzania is famous for the Great Migration.

What Is The Best Time Of Year To Go On A Safari?

The Best Time for a Botswana Safari is during the dry season from May to October when wildlife congregates around water sources, making it easier to spot animals.

Why Are Botswana Safaris So Expensive?

Botswana Safaris are expensive because of the country's focus on low-impact, high-quality tourism, exclusive access to vast wilderness areas, and the inclusion of luxurious accommodations and services.

Which Is Better Safari Zambia Or Botswana?

Choosing between Zambia and Botswana for a safari depends on what you want to see. Botswana is famous for the Okavango Delta and exclusive experiences, while Zambia offers exceptional walking safaris and Victoria Falls.

How Many Days Do You Need For Botswana Safari?

For a Botswana Safari , a minimum of 7 days is recommended to explore a variety of landscapes and wildlife, though longer stays allow for a more in-depth experience.

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Our Travelers Say

We travelled with Falcon Safaris in Zimbabwe and Botswana for 16 days. Falcon designed a wonderful trip with private guide to the most interesting sites in both countries. The organization of the whole trip was excellent, flights within the country, accommodation and activites. The guides were very knowledgable and told us a lot about the countries, their history, people, economy and much more. We visited the Great Zimbabwe Ruins, the Victoria Falls Tour and a number of national parks in both countries. Rhino tracking was a real adventure! We had tremendous further game drives and saw very many animals - we did the Big Five. We had much more Victoria Falls Activities than planned and enjoyed very much.We strongly recommend Falcon Safaris to everyone planning a trip to Southern Africa and East Africa.

Wonderful trip to Zimbabwe and Botswana with excellent organization and very competent guides

Our Consultant Vimbai was very helpful and accommodating. We stayed at the Elephant hills hotel which was nothing short of amazing.Our activities included a helicopter flight, dinner cruise as well as a morning game drive. All the activities were absolutely amazing.

Exceptional!

We worked with Gertrude to schedule and organize everything and she did an excellent job. I asked a lot of questions via e-mail and she answered everyone in a timely helpful manner. Our guide at Victoria Falls was also great. He met us at the airport, provided a thoughtful tour of the Falls and got us to our next guide in Botswana. Our lodgings at River View Lodge were just as described- very comfortable and excellent food. All the staff were so pleasant and helpful. If I had to do it again I would arrange a morning boat ride as well. We only did the sunset boat rides and they were the high point of our entire trip- we saw so many animals and our guide was very knowledgeable. Just a great experience. Our lodgings at Oddball's Enclave was rustic and we loved it. So great to disconnect from the world for a bit. Leo, our guide, was the best - got us out and about, saw fantastic wildlife and got back to camp safely each time. Doc manages the camp so well. This whole trip was planned and organized by Falcon Safaris and we could not have been happier.

Fabulous, well planned trip

Falcon safaris have given my the correct advice with excellent service. The only suggestion will be to work closer with the lodges to confirm bookings as soon as possible. We have booked and pay our deposit a year in advance. We have only receive our final convermation from Chobe Safari lodge a week before departure. I do realize its not within your controle but with limit alternatives and a group of 14 people it becomes an issue to find alternative accomodation if the booking was cancelled.

Excellent and efficient service

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Ultimate Packing List for Your Safari in Botswana: What to Pack for Your Safari Trip to Botswana, Including the Okavango Delta

When planning your Botswana tours , preparation is key for an unforgettable experience. In this guide, we delve into the essential packing list tailored specifically for safaris in Botswana, including the remarkable Okavango Delta. Whether you're embarking on your first safari or a seasoned traveler, ensuring you have the right gear and essentials can make all the difference in maximizing enjoyment and comfort amidst Botswana's awe-inspiring landscapes and wildlife.

Understanding Botswana Safaris

Botswana safaris offer unparalleled opportunities to immerse oneself in the untamed beauty of Africa. Renowned for its vast wilderness areas and abundant wildlife, Botswana is a premier destination for safari enthusiasts worldwide.

1. Unique Wildlife Encounters

Botswana is home to some of Africa's most iconic wildlife species, including elephants, lions, leopards, and rhinos. Safaris in Botswana provide intimate encounters with these majestic creatures in their natural habitats, offering unparalleled opportunities for wildlife photography and observation.

2. Varied Safari Experiences

From game drives across the savannas of Chobe National Park to mokoro (canoe) excursions through the winding channels of the Okavango Delta, Botswana offers diverse safari experiences. Each region boasts its own distinct ecosystems and wildlife, ensuring a rich and varied adventure for every traveler.

3. Conservation Efforts

Botswana is committed to conservation efforts aimed at preserving its pristine wilderness areas and protecting its wildlife. The country's sustainable tourism practices prioritize environmental conservation while supporting local communities and economies.

4. Seasonal Considerations

Understanding the seasonal patterns and weather conditions is crucial when planning a Botswana safari. The dry winter months (May to October) offer prime game viewing opportunities, while the wet summer months (November to April) transform the landscape into a lush oasis, ideal for birdwatching and exploring the delta by boat.

5. Cultural Immersion

In addition to its natural wonders, Botswana offers opportunities for cultural immersion, allowing travelers to engage with local communities and learn about traditional ways of life. Visits to rural villages provide insight into Botswana's rich cultural heritage and offer authentic experiences beyond wildlife encounters.

Exploring the Okavango Delta in Beautiful Botswana

The Okavango Delta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Africa's most iconic natural wonders, offers a mesmerizing adventure for intrepid explorers. Situated in the heart of Botswana, this vast inland delta is a labyrinth of water channels, lush islands, and diverse wildlife habitats.

1. Unique Ecosystem

The Okavango Delta is a haven for biodiversity, supporting a rich variety of flora and fauna. Its seasonal flooding, driven by rains in the Angolan highlands, creates a dynamic ecosystem that sustains an abundance of wildlife throughout the year.

2. Mokoro Safaris

Experience the delta's magic aboard a traditional mokoro (dugout canoe) excursion. Glide silently through narrow channels fringed by papyrus reeds, guided by expert polers who navigate the waterways with skill and precision. This intimate mode of transport offers unparalleled opportunities for wildlife viewing and birdwatching.

3. Game Viewing

Explore the delta's diverse landscapes on guided game drives or walking safaris. Encounter iconic African wildlife such as elephants, buffalo, giraffes, and predators like lions and leopards. The delta's pristine wilderness provides a sanctuary for these species, offering unforgettable sightings against the backdrop of breathtaking scenery.

4. Birdwatching Paradise

Birdwatchers are in for a treat in the Okavango Delta, with over 400 bird species recorded in the region. From colorful kingfishers and majestic fish eagles to rare wattled cranes and elusive Pel's fishing owls, the delta's wetlands attract a dazzling array of avian life, making it a paradise for bird enthusiasts.

5. Cultural Encounters

Engage with the local communities who call the delta home and learn about their traditional way of life. Visit villages nestled amidst the islands and gain insight into the indigenous cultures and customs that have flourished in this remote wilderness for centuries.

6. Sustainable Tourism Practices

Responsible tourism practices are paramount in preserving the Okavango Delta's delicate ecosystem. Many lodges and tour operators in the area prioritize sustainability and conservation, ensuring that visitors can enjoy this natural wonder while minimizing their environmental impact.

Crafting Your Packing List: What to pack for my Botswana Safari?

Preparing for your Botswana safari requires careful consideration of essentials to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience amidst the wilderness. Here's a comprehensive packing list to guide you:

1. Clothing Essentials

• Lightweight, breathable clothing for warm days
• Long-sleeved shirts and pants for sun protection and evenings
• Windproof and waterproof jacket
• Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots
• Wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses for sun protection
• Swimsuit for lodge pools or refreshing dips

2. Safari Gear

• Binoculars for wildlife viewing
• Camera with zoom lens for capturing memorable moments
• Daypack for carrying essentials during excursions
• Flashlight or headlamp for nighttime activities
• Portable power bank for charging electronic devices

3. Personal Toiletries

• Travel-sized toiletries, including toothpaste, shampoo, and soap
• Sunscreen with high SPF and lip balm with UV protection
• Insect repellent to ward off mosquitoes and other pests
• Personal medications and first aid kit
• Wet wipes and hand sanitizer for hygiene on the go

4. Miscellaneous Items

• Reusable water bottle to stay hydrated
• Travel documents, including passport, visa (if required), and travel insurance
• Money belt or secure pouch for carrying valuables
• Lightweight, quick-drying towel
• Bin liners or dry bags to keep belongings dry during water activities

5. Optional Extras

• Guidebooks or wildlife identification books for learning about local flora and fauna
• Portable umbrella or poncho for unexpected rain showers
• Collapsible walking stick for stability on uneven terrain
• Power adapter for charging electronic devices
• Personal snacks for energy boosts between meals

6. Packing Tips

• Roll clothing instead of folding to save space and minimize wrinkles
• Pack items in lightweight, breathable packing cubes for organization
• Leave room in your suitcase for souvenirs or gifts acquired during your travels
• Consider the weight restrictions and baggage allowances of your chosen airline or transportation method

By following this packing list and tips, you'll be well-equipped for your Botswana safari adventure, ready to embrace the beauty of the wilderness and create lasting memories amidst the stunning landscapes and incredible wildlife of this remarkable destination.

Essential Gear for Your Botswana Safari

Embarking on a Botswana safari necessitates careful selection of gear to enhance your experience and ensure comfort in the wilderness. Here's a breakdown of essential equipment:

1. Binoculars:

Invest in high-quality binoculars for optimal wildlife viewing. These will allow you to observe distant animals and appreciate their beauty up close.

2. Camera with Zoom Lens:

Capture unforgettable moments on your safari with a camera equipped with a zoom lens. From majestic elephants to elusive big cats, you'll want to immortalize every sighting.

3. Daypack:

Carry your essentials comfortably during excursions with a durable daypack. Ensure it's spacious enough to accommodate water bottles, snacks, and other necessities.

4. Flashlight or Headlamp:

Navigate campgrounds or nature trails after dark with a reliable flashlight or headlamp. Opt for models with adjustable brightness settings for versatility.

5. Portable Power Bank:

Keep your electronic devices charged on the go with a portable power bank. This is essential for ensuring your camera and other gadgets remain operational throughout your safari.

6. Insect Repellent:

Protect yourself from pesky mosquitoes and other insects with a potent insect repellent. Look for formulations containing DEET or picaridin for maximum effectiveness.

7. Sun Protection:

Shield yourself from the harsh African sun with sun protection essentials, including high-SPF sunscreen and UV-blocking sunglasses. A wide-brimmed hat will also provide additional coverage.

8. Comfortable Footwear:

Invest in sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots for traversing rugged terrain. Ensure they're broken in before your safari to prevent discomfort and blisters.

9. Clothing Layers:

Pack lightweight, breathable clothing suitable for both warm days and cool evenings. Opt for moisture-wicking fabrics that dry quickly and provide protection from the elements.

10. Water Bottle:

Stay hydrated throughout your safari with a reusable water bottle. Look for insulated options to keep your drinks cold in the African heat.

11. Personal Medications and First Aid Kit:

Pack essential medications and a basic first aid kit to address minor injuries and ailments. Include items such as pain relievers, antihistamines, bandages, and antiseptic wipes.

12. Wet Wipes and Hand Sanitizer:

Maintain hygiene standards in the field with wet wipes and hand sanitizer. These are especially useful when access to running water is limited.

By ensuring you have these essential items in your arsenal, you'll be well-prepared to embark on your Botswana safari adventure. From thrilling wildlife encounters to awe-inspiring landscapes, every moment will be enhanced by having the right gear at your disposal.

Choosing the Right Travel Bag

Selecting the perfect travel bag is crucial for a Botswana safari, where rugged terrain and varying conditions demand durability and functionality. Here's how to make the right choice:

1. Durability:

Opt for a travel bag made from durable materials such as ballistic nylon or reinforced canvas. These materials can withstand the rigors of travel and protect your belongings from damage.

2. Size and Capacity:

Consider the length of your safari and the amount of gear you'll need to pack. A spacious bag with multiple compartments will allow you to organize your belongings efficiently and access them easily.

3. Mobility:

Choose a bag with sturdy wheels and a retractable handle for easy maneuverability, especially if you'll be navigating uneven terrain or traveling between lodges and campsites.

4. Versatility:

Look for a travel bag that can be carried in multiple ways, such as with padded shoulder straps or convertible handles. This versatility will come in handy when transferring between vehicles or navigating crowded airports.

5. Weather Resistance:

Ensure your travel bag is water-resistant or comes with a rain cover to protect your belongings from unexpected showers or water splashes during water-based activities.

6. Security Features:

Select a bag with locking zippers or built-in TSA-approved locks to secure your belongings and deter theft. Additional security features such as RFID-blocking pockets for passports and credit cards can provide peace of mind.

Choose a lightweight travel bag to minimize strain on your back and shoulders, especially if you'll be carrying it for extended periods during excursions or transfers.

8. Compatibility:

Ensure your travel bag meets airline size and weight restrictions to avoid additional fees or hassles at check-in. Check with your airline for specific guidelines before selecting your bag.

9. Brand Reputation:

Research reputable brands known for their quality and reliability in producing travel gear. Reading reviews and seeking recommendations from fellow travelers can help you make an informed decision.

10. Warranty and Customer Service:

Choose a travel bag backed by a solid warranty and responsive customer service. This will provide peace of mind in case of any defects or issues with your bag during your safari.

By considering these factors and selecting a travel bag that meets your specific needs and preferences, you'll be well-prepared to embark on your Botswana safari with confidence and convenience.

Strategies for Packing Light on Your Trip to Botswana

Packing light is essential for a hassle-free and enjoyable journey through Botswana's diverse landscapes. Here are some effective strategies to streamline your packing:

1. Prioritize Essentials:

Focus on packing only the essentials to avoid overpacking. Consider the climate and activities you'll be engaging in and pack accordingly.

2. Versatile Clothing:

Pack clothing items that can be mixed and matched to create multiple outfits. Opt for lightweight, quick-drying fabrics that can easily be layered for warmth or removed for comfort.

3. Minimalist Footwear:

Limit yourself to one or two pairs of comfortable and versatile shoes that are suitable for various activities, such as walking safaris, game drives, and casual outings.

4. Roll, Don't Fold:

Rolling your clothing instead of folding it can help maximize space in your luggage and minimize wrinkles. This packing technique also makes it easier to see and access items in your bag.

5. Use Packing Cubes:

Invest in packing cubes or compression bags to organize and compress your clothing and accessories. This not only saves space but also helps keep your belongings tidy and easily accessible.

6. Limit Toiletries:

Pack travel-sized toiletries or consider purchasing items such as shampoo, conditioner, and body wash at your destination to minimize the weight and bulk of your luggage.

7. Multi-purpose Items:

Choose multi-purpose items that serve multiple functions, such as a sarong that can be used as a beach towel, a scarf, or a makeshift blanket.

8. Digital Documents:

Opt for digital copies of travel documents, such as passports, itineraries, and accommodation reservations, instead of carrying bulky paper copies.

9. Leave Room for Souvenirs:

Leave some space in your luggage for souvenirs and mementos you may acquire during your trip. Consider packing a foldable duffel bag for this purpose.

10. Embrace Laundry Services:

Take advantage of laundry services offered by accommodations or local laundromats to refresh your clothing during your trip, allowing you to pack fewer items.

11. Pack Smart Electronics:

Choose lightweight and compact electronics, such as a travel-sized camera or a tablet instead of a laptop, to minimize weight and space in your bag.

By implementing these packing strategies, you can lighten your load and travel more comfortably and efficiently through Botswana, allowing you to focus on enjoying the stunning landscapes and unforgettable experiences the country has to offer.

Embarking on Your Safari in Botswana

Embarking on a safari adventure in Botswana promises unforgettable encounters with Africa's diverse wildlife and breathtaking landscapes. Here's what you need to know before setting off:

1. Safari Planning:

Research and plan your safari itinerary in advance, considering factors such as the best time to visit, wildlife migration patterns, and preferred accommodations.

2. Wildlife Highlights:

Botswana is renowned for its prolific wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, and rhinos. Prepare for thrilling game drives and wildlife sightings in iconic national parks such as Chobe and Moremi.

3. Choosing Accommodations:

Select accommodations that suit your preferences and budget, whether it's luxury lodges, tented camps, or rustic bush camps. Many lodges offer all-inclusive packages, including game drives and meals.

4. Safari Activities:

Participate in a variety of safari activities, including game drives, walking safaris, mokoro (canoe) excursions, and boat cruises. Each activity offers a unique perspective on Botswana's wildlife and landscapes.

5. Wildlife Etiquette:

Respect wildlife and follow your guide's instructions during encounters. Keep noise to a minimum, avoid sudden movements, and refrain from feeding or approaching animals.

6. Packing Essentials:

Pack essentials such as lightweight clothing, sturdy footwear, sunscreen, insect repellent, and binoculars. Don't forget your camera to capture memorable moments during your safari.

7. Health and Safety:

Take precautions against malaria by consulting with a healthcare professional and taking prophylactic medication if necessary. Stay hydrated, use sunscreen, and adhere to safety guidelines provided by your safari operator.

8. Cultural Encounters:

Interact with local communities and learn about their traditional way of life. Visit cultural villages and craft markets to experience Botswana's rich cultural heritage firsthand.

9. Environmental Conservation:

Support responsible tourism practices and environmental conservation efforts during your safari. Minimize your environmental footprint by practicing eco-friendly habits and respecting wildlife habitats.

10. Embrace the Adventure:

Botswana offers unparalleled opportunities for adventure and discovery. Embrace the thrill of safari exploration and immerse yourself in the beauty of Africa's wilderness.

Embarking on a safari in Botswana is a journey into the heart of Africa, where every moment is filled with wonder and excitement. With careful planning and a spirit of adventure, your safari experience promises to be truly unforgettable.

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Related tours.

CAMPING OR ACCOMMODATED. This tour gives a great introduction to these beautiful and wildlife rich countries. We visit several national parks, meet local tribes, explore the Okavango Delta and finish at Victoria Falls.

This 8-day overland tour gives a taste of Botswana's contrasting scenery & wildlife, from the Kalahari Desert to wet and wonderful Game Reserves in the Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park. We finish at Victoria Falls.

CAMPING OR ACCOMMODATED. This comprehensive 20-day tour covers the well worn route from Cape Town to Victoria Falls, crossing South Africa, Namibia and Botswana, and ending in Zimbabwe. It's a truly grand African safari.

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The Ultimate Botswana Self-Drive Safari Itinerary: A Complete Travel Guide + Map

December 15, 2023

Paula Martinelli

If you are dreaming about an adventure trip to Botswana, and wondering how to go on safaris, you are in the right place! Going on a Botswana self-drive safari is the best way to discover the country! This is the Ultimate Botswana Self-Drive Safari Itinerary that will take you to the removed, isolated, and wild parts of the country…and the best way to experience Botswana’s landscape and wildlife are by road trip.

I combined my Namibia trip itinerary and Botswana self-drive safari itinerary, and I am here to share all I have learned and discovered along the way.

In this very detailed Botswana Self-Drive Safari 10-day itinerary, I covered the most important regions and safaris in Botswana, from Chobe National Park to the Okavango Delta.

During my 10-days in Botswana, I self-drove my 4×4 rental truck to the most amazing safaris in Botswana, I slept in the tent on top of the truck, cooked all my meals, took thousands of photos, and learned all about how to explore Botswana independently (not an easy task!).

Don’t travel to Botswana before you read these very important articles:

• 28 Things You Must know about Self-Drive and Camping in Botswana
• Ultimate Guide to the Best Safaris in Botswana
• Botswana Camping Safari

Botswana Self-Drive Safari itinerary Overview

10 days doing a self-drive safari in Botswana is an ideal amount of time to discover the best safaris in Botswana and to visit the most incredible areas in the country.

However, it is not easy to self-drive in Botswana because of the poor road conditions. Also, if you are short on time, you can spend less time and concentrate on the Chobe River Front safari, as it is very well located in the country. You can fly into Kasane Airport (BBK) and you can pick up your 4×4 rental car at the airport .

Check Expedia or Skyscanner to see which airlines can take you to Botswana and compare prices to get better deals. If you are looking for domestic flights to Kasane you can book them through Air Botswana .

Here is an overview of how to spend a perfect 10-day self-drive safari in Botswana:

Botswana Self drive Safari Map

Renting a Car for your Botswana Self Drive Safari

You will need to have a 4×4 vehicle to go on a self-drive safari in Botswana . It can be confusing renting a car in Botswana since there are different providers, offering different options.

First of all, you will need to decide if you will rent a 4X4 truck or a 4×4 truck with a tent on top (if you are planning to camp around the country).

I recommend booking your car way in advance , and you can quote below, to have access to cars from many major companies which you can compare the best prices and find the best deal for you.

You can save on your rental car when you book through this site . I use and recommend Discover Cars because it is the most reliable rental car source, and it allows you to compare the prices of different plac es.

10-Day Botswana Self Drive Safari Itinerary

Day 1 botswana self drive: arriving in botswana.

Let’s start day 1 of my 10-day Botswana self-drive safari itinerary. I had spent the previous 10 days self-driving in Namibia and it is a great itinerary to combine Namibia and Botswana. I crossed the border to Botswana on the ground at the Ngoma border crossing  in the Caprivi Strip.

I got my Botswana Visa at the border checkpoint. There was a line, and it took about 1-hour to get my visa and pass the inspection of my car and food. The procedure was easy and uncomplicated!

Even better, I had the chance to make new friends while I was in line. I met this very nice couple from Zambia that were traveling home. They asked if I could give them a ride to the Zambia border which was on my way to Botswana. 

DRIVING THE CAPRIVI STRIP

The driving from Namibia to Botswana on Caprivi is one straight line all the way to the border. You will pass many villages, plenty of cows and people walking on the side of the road.

I stopped along the road to donate all my food (meat, fruits, and vegetables) as we cannot enter Botswana with food.  It is a great opportunity to get to know some local people, and also, they will appreciate you sharing the food with them.

STOP AT KASANE FOR SUPPLIES

Next, I stopped in Kasane to refill my gas tanks (the truck had 2 gas tanks), got someand money from the ATM, bought food and water – This is the last opportunity to refill before you head to the National Parks.

BEST ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS

CAMPING OPTION

Mwandi View is the place i stayed and recomend. They have areas for camping in your own tent, or you can rent one of their large tents, with private bathroom and a small kitchen. The views are incredible and you can see animals from the infinity pool. Restaurant with incredible food is avaialbe.

LODGE OPTION

The Residence Kazungula is a marvelous guest house located in Kasane, with free Wi-Fi, parking on-site, a complete kitchen, and a pool. They can also arrange a variety of activities including game drives, boat cruises, and day trips to Victoria Falls. 

ALL-INCLUSIVE OPTION

If you are looking for a great accommodation option, with all-inclusive, the Jacklberry Chobe is the best option. With drinks, meals, and 2 wildlife activities per day included, plus terrace and gorgeous views of the river

DAY 2 BOTSWANA SELF DRIVE SAFARI : Explore Chobe National Park

On day 2 of my Botswana self-drive itinerary, I spent 10-hours driving safari at Chobe National Park . 

SELF-DRIVE SAFARI AT CHOBE RIVERFRONT

Chobe is one of the best places for a safari on the Planet, and I really recommend spending at least 2 days here .

Even if I had done other safaris before, this is the most I have seen animals in one single day: hundreds of zebras, waterbok, giraffes, springboks, and of course elephants. 

The best spot to see the big cats, including lions is at the Ihaha Camp . I drove in the morning and afternoon but didn’t get lucky enough to see any.

SEE THE LARGEST HERD OF ELEPHANTS IN THE WORLD

At around 1:30 p.m. I stopped to see a herd of elephants at a waterhole close to the Elephant Grave when more elephants arrived from everywhere and I was surrounded by hundreds of elephants. This was the highlight moment of my trip to Chobe . 

Back to the Mwandi Camp to enjoy the sunset from the infinity pool, while watching some elephants at the waterhole, cook dinner, and crashed from this tiring day.

DAY 3 Botswana Itinerary: Self-Drive Safari at Chobe then Drive to Savuti

On my second and last day of self-drive safari at Chobe National Park , I started my day very early (5 a.m.) and enjoyed 5 hours of safari.

GO ON A RIVER CRUISE SAFARI AT CHOBE

Another specialty and a must-do are to go on a river-cruise safari .  This is a must-do activity at Chobe National park as you can see the wildlife from a boat is totally different experience than from a car. During the water safari, you have the chance to see hippos, crocodiles, and f you are lucky you can also see elephants swimming.

DRIVING OFF-ROAD TO SAVUTI

After lunch, I began my journey south through Chobe to my next destination: Savuti. There are no gas stations or stores until you exit Okavango Delta. Make sure you are full-on fuel, water, and food before leaving Chobe (Kasane town).

The driving to Savuti was very challenging (and scary) and it is not for the faint-hearted! I only recommend self-drive here if you are a very experienced driver and have some basic mechanical knowledge because things can, and will happen to the car.

The “road” is very isolated, and only a 4WD can drive here. The “roads” you will follow are nothing more than dirt roads and trails. At times you will follow some old tire tracks through grass fields, and other times you will be driving through deeply rutted sandy “roads”. You cannot drive on a rainy day (or wet season). I drove for 7-hours without seeing another car. I had 1 flat tire and had to change it on a very deep sandy road and got stuck on the sand a couple of times. The speed limit is around 15km/h and you will be driving very slowly on very bumpy roads.

TOP TIP: If you are going on a self-drive in Botswana, most of the driving will be off-road. I recommend carrying a backpack as it will protect your belongings on bumpy roads. Check here the Review on Top Backpacks on the market today.

ARRIVAL AT SAVUTI

Arrived at the remote Savuti Gate and I had to pay for my entry permit – it costs US$85 for 3 days of the game reserve. The only way to enter the Savuti Gate (and all other gates) is to have proof of camping reservations. 

I finally arrived at the Savuti Camp near dark, found my reserved camping spot, and cooked dinner. The camping staff came to warn me that it was life-threatening to be out of my tent at night because it is very common for hyenas and lions to visit the campsites at night.

I spent 2 nights at the Savuti Camp . All 14 campsites lie under shady trees while some have a view of the Savuti Channel. There is a large elephant-proof ablution with shared bathrooms and showers. The campsite is operated by SKL Camps.

If you are looking for a lodge at Savuti, Ghoha Hills Savuti has accommodations with free WiFi and free private parking for guests who drive. There’s a fully equipped private bathroom with a shower and free toiletries. The lodge offers a continental or buffet breakfast.

DAY 4 Botswana Itinerary: Self-drive Safari at Savuti

The Savuti is a region within the heart of the Chobe National Park that is secretly located. Savuti covers almost 5,000 square kilometers and includes the Savute Marsh and Channel, the Mababe Depression, and Magwikhwe Sand Ridge – each feature fashioned by the tectonic instability of the region.

It is the best place to spot big cats, including lions and leopards. It is also renowned for the masses of game, and it has its own unique scenery such as the Baobab Gallery trees and rock paintings. I recommend spending at least 2 days in Savuti. 

EXPLORE THE VAST WILDLIFE IN SAVUTI

Start your first day at Savuti doing what is the best thing to do, with a self-drive safari.

Start your day very early (before 7:00 a.m) as the chances to see active animals are higher. I started my first day seeing a lion eating his kill and it was a pretty amazing experience to just park my car very close, behind the bushes, and just observe, smell, and hear while he was enjoying his breakfast.

During my day of safari at Savuti , I saw many giraffes, springbok, and elephants. In the afternoon I visited the Baobab Trees and the rock painting.

I saw many bones of animals and mostly close to the campsite – which makes me think that predators hang out around campsites. At night I was visited by a very large hyena and I also could hear the lions roaring all night from a distance. Exciting!

VISIT THE ROCK PAINT AND BAOBAB TREES

Expend the afternoon exploring more of the Savuti beauty!

Savuti is not only about wildlife, here you can also find ancient art – search the rocks of the Gubatsa Hills for delicate, stylized paintings of buffalo, giraffes, the magical eland, and other animals. They were painted in natural ochres, blood, and possibly snake venom up to 1,500 years ago by the San people. They still shine despite being fully exposed to the elements.

Then, visit the incredible Baobab Trees. The baobab trees boast a circumference of around 7 meters (23 feet) and a height of around 5 meters (17 feet). Take some time out to reflect in the shade of the centuries-old trees, humbled by their large presence and the secrets that flow deep within their roots. Savuti is incredible!

DAY 5 Botswana Itinerary: Self-Drive Safari in Savuti, then Driving to Okavango Delta

Morning safari at savuti.

Early in the morning, I saw 2 lionesses with 9 cubs – 7 older and 2 younger. I heard from the locals that they live under the bush, and they were just enjoying the early morning sun. I parked my car, and took amazing pictures, and observed them for over 1-hour from a very close distance. They didn’t seem to be bothered by my presence. This was certainly one of the highlight moments of my trip to Botswana.

I saw many other animals during my second day of safari in Savuti, and even if I really wanted to see leopards, I had no luck seeing any. 

DRIVE TO OKAVANGO DELTA

After lunch, I started driving to the Okavango Delta and I drove all the way to the next camping site destination in Kawai . It was 3.5 hours of very bumpy and sandy road, and again, driving at a very low speed. 

Upon arrival at Khwai Gate you need to pay for the permit again;  remember to have cash with you as they don’t accept credit cards. 

The camping site is situated in an area called Dombo Hippo Pools, and guess what you can see a lot? You are right, hippos.

The Khwai Camping Site  is very basic. The camping site has a tree, running water, and a fire pit area, and a small ablution is available. The game views and bird watching in this area are superb. The campsite is operated by SKL Camps.

If you are looking for amazing luxury glamping in Botswana, O Bona Moremi Safari Lodge offers it all. All means, drinks, and laundry service are included plus all the game drivers and night drives.

VILLA OPTION

If you are looking for a great option, Khwai Villa provides accommodations with free private parking. All units come with a balcony with river views, a kitchenette with a fridge and an oven, and a private bathroom with a shower.

DAY 6 Botswana Self-Drive Safari: Okavango Delta Safari

Explore the khwai region.

The day of my self-drive safari in Botswana was exploring the Khwai region, part of the Okavango Delta. 

The Okavango Delta is like the crown jewel of safaris in Botswana , as this area is usually known for the abundance of water, stemming from the Okavango river – which starts in Angola – and is also dubbed “the river that never finds the sea”. Instead of ending in the ocean, the water seeps away into the Kalahari desert. 

I was up early and went on a long game drive to explore this region. There are large tracts of Mopane forest with pools and floodplains interspersed. I saw a lot of different animals including hippos, crocodiles, water buffalos, red lechwe, waterbucks, and blue wildebeest.

This area is challenging to drive, as there are deep mud pools on many of the trails and some wet areas that make it impossible to pass.

I spent 2 nights at the Xakanaka Campsite . This area offers many options for day trips, such as Khwai and Third Bridge. There are two boat stations close to the camping site. The camping area is very simple and is located by the water, that is the reason there are so many hippos on this campsite. An ablution (communal bathroom) is available. 

If you are looking for an all-inclusive lodge accommodation, the Khwai Experidtions Camp offers all meals, drinks, and game reserves. Located on a gorgeous facility with a patio with incredible views, including wild animals come to visit.

DAY 7 Botswana Self-Drive Safari: Okavango Delta Safari

I didn’t sleep very well, as the animals are very active at night around this area. I could hear lions and hippos, and I saw a couple of hyenas searching my campsite for food at night. The only thing the hyena found and decided to take with her was my sneakers…ha!

EXPLORE THE XAKANAKA REGION

After spending 2 nights at the Khwai Campsite, I moved on to another camping in the Okavango Delta, Xakanaka – so I could explore different areas.

The drive to Xakanaka took around 2-hours and it was also very challenging. The roads are rutted and winding. During the rains, it is almost impossible to drive, with some very deep waterholes on the road and the journey can take up to 4-hours.

The game reserve in this area is phenomenal – but a day doing a self-driving safari is exhausting – the vegetation is very dense and there are a lot of dead trees on the ground. Also, there are so many holes with water and mud, which makes the driving very challenging if you are trying to spot animals, take pictures, and drive. 

After a whole day of self-drive safari –  with a 1-hour break for a nap under a tree in the middle of the day – time to go back to the camp, cook dinner, and get some rest. 

While I was cooking, a hippo crossed right in front of me which left me speechless for a few minutes – “What was it? a hippo!?” Yes, it was a hippo!

DAY 8 Botswana Self-Drive Safari: Okavango Delta

Spend the morning driving at xakanaka.

\My day 8 of my self-drive safari in Botswana was spent driving around the Xakanaka area. 

Xakanaxa occupies a narrow strip of land surrounded by marshes and lagoons . At night you can easily hear the animals, especially elephants, or be serenaded by hippo grunts. 

This area is one of few offering a year-round land and water game-viewing experience, possible to explore by car or powerboats.

On a day of safari in this area , it is easy to spot a large variety of animals such as elephants, buffalo, hyena, giraffe, hippo, wildebeest, kudu, lechwe, and if you are lucky, lion and leopard, among many others.

DRIVE TO THE THIRD BRIDGE

After lunch, I head to my next camping destination, Third Bridge Campsite.

In a dry season, it is an easy drive but there was very deep sand after the 2nd bridge. Got to the camping, and this was my favorite campsite in Botswana because the location is absolutely gorgeous, just by the river and the wildlife is very abundant here. 

TOP TIP: Make sure you pack lots of water, as you will be very isolated in this part of Botswana. I thought I had enough water, but with the hit and humidity, I ran out of water 2 days earlier than I had planned and I had to boil water from the Okavango Delta to drink. It is smart to also pack some portable water filters.

I spent 2 nights at the Third Bridge Campsite . This campsite was my favorite during my self-drive in Botswana. It is an excellent choice as there are so many options for game drives and there is always animal activity in camp. There is a boat station at the camping site, making water activities extra options. Booking is through Xomae

DAY 9 Botswana Itinerary : Water Safari at Okavango Delta

1. morning safari at third bridge.

I spent the last day of my self-drive safari in Botswana doing the best thing you can do in Botswana: safari. The wildlife in this section of Okavango Delta is incredible for safari, and you feel all the time that you are truly amongst the wildlife.

At lunchtime, I was back at the campsite to skip the mid-day sun and cool down in the shade of the trees, while cooking lunch. When a herd of elephants had the same idea and I had to share my shade with them. It was a magical moment, and one of the highlights of my trip to Botswana. 

2. Water Safari at Okavango Delta

I took the afternoon to do a water safari and it was just incredible, I strongly recommend if you are visiting the Okavango Delta to go on water safari, as you will have a different view and will see so many different animals. I had the chance to visit the Hippo Pool, which is a lagoon with hundreds of hippos.

While on a water safari at Okavango Delta, it is the best option for bird-watching too. The tour took longer than planned – around 4 hours – because our boat broke and we had to ask for help.

In the evening, my campsite got visited by many hyenas and I spent my last night camping in Botswana and hearing the lions roaming. Absolutely fascinating!

DAY 10 Botswana Itineray: Return Back to Namibia

I woke up very early (as usual) and spent a few hours driving around on a self-drive safari before heading back to Namibia. 

I saw a large variety of animals just around the campsite, and I started to feel sad to leave Botswana. I certainly had one of the best trips of my life. Just being in the wild, surrounded by majestic animals, and enjoying the solitude of incredible nature. I truly recommend doing a self-drive safari in Botswana as once in a lifetime adventure. 

The drive back to Namibia was long but safe. The road conditions are mostly well-paved the whole way. 

I stopped for an overnight in Ghazni, as it was dark and it is not recommended to drive in the dark because of the wildlife on the roads. If you don’t have an extra day, I would recommend skipping the morning safari in Botswana and starting to head back to your departure destination. 

I spent another day and night in Namibia before I headed back home, as this was a great farewell from my amazing Africa trip! You can read here my full Namibia Itinerary if you are looking to combine your trip or continue your Africa Trip.

BONUS SECTION: The Unique Tourism in Botswana

Botswana has a very unique tourism industry, based on a sustainable tourism model. Botswana relies on a  low volume high revenue tourism strategy , and it serves as an example all over Africa and the Planet. In other words, it is not cheap to visit Botswana!

The business model in Botswana helps the local economy and assists with keeping balance in the fragile ecosystem and controlling the number of tourists. Higher prices help to support this sustainable system of tourism in Botswana.

TRAVEL BOTSWANA INDEPENDENTLY: If you choose to travel independently to Botswana, keep in mind that the planning will take time and (a lot of) patience. It took me about 3 months of hard work to plan my itinerary in Botswana, especially, to be able to book all the campsites. Communication with Botswana is challenging and it may take days, or even weeks to answer back to you. Plus, consider that you will be driving in very remote and isolated areas. You will need to have some basic mechanical skills (changing tires), and expertise in driving off-road (mud, deep sand, crossing water, etc.).

TAILOR-MADE TRIP IN BOTSWANA: A popular alternative to visiting Botswana is to hire an expert local company. They can incorporate any destination into your travels or even any animal species that you hope to see. You can create a bespoke itinerary, and design your ultimate safari to match your interest, budget, and travel dates. I highly recommend Wild Wonderful World , as they put together incredible itineraries, and part of the profits are used on amazing conservation efforts in Africa

I have great news for my readers, I used and I recommend Wild Wonderful World – I partnered with them to offer a discount to you! Just sign in below to receive a discount code directly in your email.

Botswana Self-Drive Safari | Trip Planning Resources

Planning a trip to botswana.

If you are going to travel to Botswana, pre-planning, researching, and understanding what you are looking for in a destination will help make your travels far more successful and safe. Here is some further information I think you might need to plan your Botswana self-drive safari itinerary.

For planning my trip to Botswana I used the Lonely Planet guidebook, which contains helpful information.

Best Time to Visit Botswana

The best time to visit Botswana is during the dry season between May and October when you can expect warm, sunny days (22°C-35°C) and chilly nights. This is also when the water levels in the Okavango Delta are at their highest, creating the waterways and channels Botswana is famed for.

The green season – from November to April –  is a great time to travel if you don’t mind the odd shower. Visitor numbers and prices are lower, the scenery pops with verdant foliage, and animals give birth to their young.

What to Pack for a self-drive safari in Botswana

You want to pack light….but at the same time, you will be so remote for many days that you will want to pack heavy. So, let me help you PACK SMART! 

• GPS and a good Botswana map . 
• Extra flashlights and batteries 
• A well-equipped First Aid kit (including a snake bite kit)
• Rehydration solution
• Satellite phone
• Inflatable LED Solar Lantern. 
• Bring a warm blanket for cold nights.
• Camera and safari lens
• Toilet paper
• light hiking pants
• long sleeves shirts
• good face cover
• polarized sunglasses
• Hand sanitizer
• LifeStraw Filtered Water Bottle and Emergency water supply
• External battery charger

PACK SMART ALERT!

If you are planning to carry a backpack for your trip to Botswana, I have compiled a very detailed review of the Best Backpacks for Travel in the market today – Also, I recommend bringing a waterproof jacket for your trip, check my complete review guide on the Top Jackets for Travel and pack smart!

Airports in Botswana

Botswana’s main airport is  Sir Seretse Khama International Airport (GBE) , located 11km/7miles north of Gaborone, the capital.

If you are flying from South Africa, you can take a direct flight from OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) , Johannesburg, or Cape Town International Airport (CPT) .

It is also common to fly into Maun Airport (MUB) and  Kasana Airport (BBK) . When combining a safari in Botswana with a visit to Victoria Falls, it is common to fly into Maun and depart from  Victoria Falls Airport (VFA) in Zimbabwe or  Livingstone Airport (LVI) in Zambia.

Borders of Botswana

Botswana is bounded by  Namibia  to the west and north (the Caprivi Strip),  Zambia  and  Zimbabwe  to the northeast, and  South Africa  to the southeast and south. The Zambezi River border with Zambia is only several hundred yards long. The point at which the borders of Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe meet in the middle of the river has never been precisely determined.

Price to Travel to Botswana

When you travel to Botswana you can easily spend 1,000 to 2,000 Dollars per day/ person. This kind of money will bring you to some of the most exclusive lodges, and to areas that aren’t accessible any other way, including private flights to the lodges. Of course, you can plan your self-drive safari in Botswana and save tons of money – which will force you to do a lot of planning yourself. 

Prices below are the average for 10-day for 2 people (it doesn’t include international flights):

Accommodation in Botswana

Keep in mind that booking wild campsites in Botswana is extremely challenging and requires lots of patience and persistence.

I have done all the work and wrote this very detailed guide for Camping in Botswana – with all the best options for accommodations.

The campsites in Botswana are run by different private operators, The gates and reception have booking agents, but I strongly advise you to reserve your accommodation before your trip to Botswana, as the number of campsites is limited. You will be turned away if no space is available, and you will have a long trip back to the nearest town.

Things in Botswana move much more slowly than I am used to. The booking in Botswana is a very manual process, still, carbon copy receipt based rather than Internet bookings. Please read everything you should know before you go camping in Botswana before you make any reservations. 

If you are planning to stay at lodges, Booking.com  is the best option as it is a reliable source and they have a 24-hour cancellation policy that I have used several times.

Renting a car in Botswana

You will need to have a 4×4 vehicle to go on a self-drive safari in Botswana , either if you decide to go with a tour operator, or if you decide to go on an independent adventure.

Request a quote and save on your rental car when you book through this site. I use and recommend Discover Cars because it is the most reliable rental car source, and it allows you to compare the prices of different places.

Self-driving in Botswana

Self-driving in Botswana can be a challenge depending on your level of experience but also depending on the season.

I recommend you rent a fully equipped 4×4 car, preferably with a GPS with camping sites and other important GPS coordinates pre-programmed. This will help guide you to stay on track and be able to orientate yourself, ensuring your drive will be a safe one for you and your close ones.

You can always ask one of our staff members for advice on what routes are recommended at the moment since this might change from one part of the year to another. Remember; in the African bush anything is possible so coming prepared and aware are factors that can help your drive be a successful one that will give you, your friends, and family memories for life.

Additional Tips for your Self-Drive Safari in Botswana

• Currency: The local currency in Botswana is Pula. They widely accepted South African Rand. You can use an ATM in one of the main towns. Always carry money with you, as most places do not accept credit cards.
• Fuel:  on long drives pick up fuel regularly in the major towns as there can be long distances between stations.
• Supplies:  Snacks and drinks are available at most of the fuel stops and the bigger towns had a well-stocked Spar Supermarket. 
• Maps/GPS: Download maps onto your phone which can be accessed offline. Also, keep a paper map in the glove box just in case!
• SIM cards:  it’s easy to pick up a pay-as-you-go SIM in the airports as well as in local mobile network stores.
• Internet: If you are planning to go on a mobile camp safari, note that you won’t have access to the internet. I spent 10 days in Botswana without internet access. 

Travel Insurance for your trip

I never leave my home without travel insurance which is designed to help cover your expenses if something goes wrong on your trip. Things can go wrong, and you don’t want to get stuck paying tons of money if you get sick or have an accident without travel insurance. 

World Nomads Travel Insurance  has been designed by travelers for travelers, to cover their trip essentials. Especially if you are like me, travel insurance is ideal for adventurous travelers. Travel smarter and safer – You can do your quick quote below and find out how little you can pay for the essential benefit of Travel Insurance for your next trip!

Botswana Self Drive Safari Conclusion

This is my very detailed Botswana Self Drive Safari Itinerary, and I hope this can help you to plan your Botswana Trip!

I have done other safaris in Africa before, but Botswana surpassed my high expectations. Nature, the diversity of wildlife, and the hospitality in Botswana made it an incredible trip.

Botswana is not a cheap destination to visit, therefore if you want to visit on a budget just like me, be prepared to have to start planning your trip well in advance in order to book your accommodation (good luck with that!), book your car and start to study the maps, since you will be driving on very remote and isolated areas. You need at least to feel somehow familiar with the region you will be driving. 

I truly recommend anyone to go on a trip to Botswana, and if you are convinced, continue reading as I prepared the whole BOTSWANA TRIP PLANNING section here for you!

Here is some further information I think you might need to plan your  trip:

• 21-Days Namibia and Botswana Self-Drive Road Trip Itinerary
• Namibia self-drive road trip Itinerary
• 28 Things you need to know before you go Camping in Botswana
• The Best Camping Safari in Botswana

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Plan your Trip

You can plan your trip with this easy guide and have access to the best services I recommend and you can get discounted prices.

Ultimate Botswana Camping Safari Guide (for Independent Travelers)

Namibia & Botswana Itinerary: Ultimate 3-Week road trip from the Dunes to Safaris

Camping in Botswana: 30 Things You Absolutely Need to Know!

28 thoughts on “the ultimate botswana self-drive safari itinerary: a complete travel guide + map”.

Such an amazing drive and so impressed you did a self drive! I visited here on tour and it was such an amazing country!!!

Wow! What an amazing experience! I totally would love to do this one day and I like how detailed your blog post is. Hoping to go in the near future. 🙂

This drive looks amazing! I’m always hearing that Botswana is one of the best places to experience Safari in Africa, moreso than the typical Kenya or Tanzania. I can’t wait to plan a visit! Thank you for sharing.

This is such a complete post with its itinerary and other details that nobody would want anything else! Thank you very much for this. It’s just a matter of time, and people would start traveling again. 🙂

This is so cool! Beautiful photos and Botswana sounds like a great experience for a self drive safari. Botswana just got a place on my list on where to take an safari in Africa.

What a great self drive adventure through Botswana and such a detailed post. BTW, I never look as lovely and glamorous as you when I have traveled through parts of Africa! 😉 I normally end up being covered in dust.

These pictures make me want to go on safari!!! I can’t believe you drove over that bridge. What an amazing adventure.

Absolutely stunning pictures and amazing itinerary. I can’t imagine how much work went into planning this trip but I’m sure it’s helping many others interested in taking a similar adventure in the future!

Wow! what a great and detailed post! Oh how I would love to visit Botswana and do a self-driving tour

HI Marika, I hope that one day you get to go on a self-drive in Botswana. It is so incredible and unique, a real adventure.

What nice feedback Michelle, thank you so much. Yes, it was a lot of work planning as I couldn’t find much information for an independent trip to Botswana and the booking process was a lot of planning and hard work to be able to schedule.

I know, right?! Ha… That bridge. Now looking at my pictures and remembering all the adventures I went through during this trip, is insane and I am so thankful I only had some minor problems with this trip.

I love it Alma…haha…believe me, I was so dirty on these pictures too. My hair is always braided for a reason, and my boots were so dirty and dusty at the end of the trip that I didn’t even want to pack them back in my backpack. I am so glad you enjoyed this post.

HI Cosette, thanks for reading and I am so glad you enjoyed this itinerary. I so hope you get to travel to Botswana, you will absolutely love it.

Thank you so much for your kind comment, I hope this itinerary helps a lot of people who dream about self-drive independent to Botswana. I cannot wait to be able to travel safely again.

Hi Jade, glad you enjoyed this post. Oh, Botswana is simply incredible for safari and you really feel that you are super isolated the whole time, only sharing the wild with the gorgeous animals. It is just an incredible feeling.

Thanks Taylor, glad you enjoyed it. I so hope you get to go to Botswana too.

The self-drive is not an easy task in Botswana, that is the reason I was honest to say that I don’t recommend it unless you have great off-road skills and some mechanical. I am sure you had an amazing time in Botswana, it is amazing, isn’t it!?

Que fotos mais maravilhosos, que lugar de tirar o folego, acredito ter sido uma experiência única. Parabéns, o blog está ótimo, a viagem super detalhada e muito descritiva. Obrigada por com partilhar…

Obrigada Patricia e fico feliz que gostou desse artigo.

Hey Paula, I just wanted to say thank you for sharing your adventure experience. I’m originally from Tanzania and now I live in New York now. I run a tour company here in the USA bringing American to Tanzania. Trying to expand my business to other parts of Africa and Botswana clicked my head from reading your self drive experience in Botswana!

Hello Protus, thanks for your comment and I am glad you found my article about Botswana. This place really holds a special place in my heart, and I cannot wait to go back to Africa. Tanzania is very high on my bucket list.

We are going in december and are very nervous about the road conditions between Kasane and Maun – would you be able to share some images of the worst parts you’ve crossed to give us an idea?

Hello – it will depend on the weather conditions, as you will be driving between towns and also, off-road. I got lucky because when I visited Botswana it was not raining and I could drive off-road to many “roads” where normally you cannot drive if it is raining. If you see my pictures, you will see a lot of deep sand where you can only drive if you have a 4×4 vehicle appropriate for off-road, but if you are driving during the rain, you will have to cross the same roads on the mud or even water ponds.

Thanks for all your research and your effort in documenting everything in detail! We have read everything and planned the entire self-drive safari according to your itinerary, only in reverse order (from Maun to Kasane). Do you have any tips on how to plan the individual days? How to explore a certain area around a camp? How to plan the boat trips? And do you still consider your itinerary perfect or would you have liked to stay longer or shorter in a particular camp/area?

Below is what we have booked for the fall:

Wednesday Maun Thursday South Gate Friday Third bridge (depending on availability) Saturday Third Bridge Sunday Xakanaka Monday Xakanaka Tuesday Khwai Wednesday Savuti Thursday Savuti Friday Mwandi Saturday sleep in Kasane, but explore Ihaha and Chobe river during the day

Hello Bastiaan – I am so glad to hear that my itinerary is helpful and you are using it to help to plan your trip. When I planned my trip to Botswana it took me around 3 months to put this itinerary together, as they are not a lot of information on the web, and there is no road to follow. Have you checked my other blogs about Botswana? I have great advice on how to explore each safari area, and also, how to plan your camping safari, in case you are camping along the way. Or if not, I also give great recommendations on places to stay. Check these other articles, and if you still have any questions, please let me know: https://www.paulapinstheplanet.com/botswana-safari-chobe-okavango-delta/ and this one should be good too https://www.paulapinstheplanet.com/botswana-camping-safari/

Hi Paula, I didn’t see your reply until now. Thanks for responding! We have read all your blogs on Botswana and have everything booked according to your itinerary (camps, vehicle, days at each location). Just one question we have is how to make the most of the day trips from the camps? Did you use local maps or did you randomly explore and hope to find good spots for game viewing?

Hello Batiann – That is so nice my blogs about Botswana helped you to plan your trip, it is not an easy task as it is remote and doesn’t have much information on Botswana on the web. Now, how you can make the most of your trips from the camps, buy a Lonely Planet book about Botswana (this is what I used and was very helpful) and I bought the maps at the entrance of the National Parks in Botswana where you can see main spots to visit and see wildlife. Other than that, just drive, drive, drive and you will see a lot anyways. It is very wild and the chances to see wildlife are high anyways.

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GETTING THERE AND AROUND

By Air to Botswana

Getting into Botswana is generally by air, with most international travellers flying first into O.R. Tambo Airport (Johannesburg) or Cape Town International in South Africa before continuing up to Botswana.

Maun and Kasane are the gateway towns to the safari areas of Botswana.

SA Airlink is our preferred flying partner and operates flights to and from Maun and Johannesburg and Cape Town every day of the week as well as between Johannesburg and Kasane.

4Z300 Johannesburg - Maun depart 12:05 arrive 13:45 Mon - Sun, Embraer 140 [44 seats] 4Z301 Maun - Johannesburg depart 14:15 arrive 15:55 Mon - Sun, Embraer 140 [44 seats]

4Z306 Johannesburg - Kasane depart 11:40 arrive 13:25 Mon - Sun, Embraer 140 [44 seats] 4Z307 Kasane - Johannesburg depart 13:55 arrive 15:45 Mon - Sun, Embraer 140 [44 seats]

4Z314 Cape Town - Maun depart 10:20 arrive 12:55 Mon - Sun, Embraer 135 [37 seats] 4Z315 Maun - Cape Town depart 13:25 arrive 16:05 Mon - Sun, Embraer 135 [37 seats]

Air Botswana flies the following routes and times

Johannesburg - Maun 11h10 - 13h10, returning 13h50 - 15h50 [daily]

Johannesburg - Gaborone - Maun 06h30 - 09h30, returns 15h30 - 18h50 [daily]

By Air Inside Botswana

Unless you are on a mobile safari you are almost definitely going to be accessing your lodge/s by light aircraft. This is a key element of your safari experience, flying you between remote bush camps, often inaccessible by land, and then back to centres like Maun, Kasane or Livingstone for onward connections. The service provides a totally different impression and appreciation of the country below – from the densely matted papyrus flanked waterways of the Okavango Delta and their secretive sitatunga inhabitants, to the majestic grandeur and scale of Victoria Falls.

If you are arriving by road you are most likely doing so from Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe or Livingstone in Zambia. You can drive there by road from Johannesburg but it is essentially a two day trip.

LIGHT AIRCRAFT FLIGHTS

& luggage limits in botswana.

Accessing remote camps by light aircraft means that there are strict luggage styles and weight limits. The aircraft are not airliners – relatively speaking they are small. Typical luggage specifications are as follows:

Soft (all sides) luggage / duffel bags – with no frames or rigid structures. Wheels on a bag are only permissible if they are not part of a solid frame or rigid structure.

Maximum luggage weight is 20kg (44lbs), including all carry-on luggage if more than one bag and camera equipment.

Maximum luggage size is 25cm (10 inches) wide x 30cm (12 inches) high x 62cm (24 inches) long.

It is a condition of travel with us that you have the correct, comprehensive travel and medical insurance to cover yourself, as well as any dependants/travelling companions for the duration of your trip to Africa. This is the sole responsibility of the traveller. This insurance should include cover in respect of, but not limited to, the following eventualities: 

Compulsory Insurance: 

 emergency evacuation expenses, 

 medical expenses, 

 repatriation expenses, 

Recommended Insurance: 

 cancellation or curtailment of trip, 

 damage/theft/loss of personal luggage, money and/or goods. 

GET A QUOTE BY CLICKING HERE

VISAS & MEDICAL

Visa & Passport Requirements

Every visitor to Botswana must be in possession of a passport that is valid until six months after the initial date of travel; however, no visas are required by citizens of EU countries, most Commonwealth countries, the USA, South Africa, Switzerland, Israel and Norway.

Upon arrival you will receive a 30-day entrance stamp and, for those who plan on travelling onwards to Botswana’s neighbouring countries, visas for Namibia, South Africa, Zambia and Zimbabwe can be obtained in Gaborone. 

Go the Botswana Government website to read more.

Botswana is generally a healthy country to visit. Several vaccines are sensible (typhoid, polio and tetanus), though none are required. Anti-malarial tablets are usually recommended. Always check the latest recommendations with your doctor or clinic before travelling, and perhaps see the US CDC or Scottish NHS websites for useful travel information about Botswana. In Botswana, HIV infection rates are high, and AIDS is prevalent. Generally, this isn't an issue for travellers, but you should be aware of the situation – take the same sensible precautions to avoid infection which are wise in most countries. We understand that blood supplies used by the private hospitals in Botswana have been carefully screened for a long time.

WHAT TO BRING

 Sun hat/bush hat

 Headscarf/bandana – particularly for dusty dry regions

 Golf-shirts and/or T-shirts – preferably with a sleeve to protect your shoulders from the sun

 Long-sleeved cotton shirts

 Shorts and/or skirts – really short skirts are not practical for getting in and out of game drive vehicles

 Long trousers/slacks  Track suit

 Pyjamas – lightweight for summer and warm/thermal for winter

 Underwear – on game drives the roads can be bumpy and uneven so a suitable bra may be required

 Socks – thermal options are recommended for the winter months

 Good closed walking shoes (running/tennis shoes are fine)

 Sandals – preferably low heeled or flat if you are going on safari

 Swimming costume

 Lightweight jersey or fleece / light rain gear or jacket for summer months.

 Warm jersey or fleece plus anorak or parka as well as scarf, gloves and woollen hats for winter months.

Equipment/Other

 Good quality sunglasses, UV protected, preferably polarised.

 If you wear contact lenses, we recommend that you also bring a pair of glasses in case of dust irritation.

 Personal toiletries (basic amenities are supplied by most establishments)

 Moisturising cream and suntan lotion – SPF 30 or higher recommended

 Insect repellent for body application, e.g. Tabard, Rid, Jungle Juice, etc.

 Basic medical kit (aspirins, plasters, Imodium, antiseptic cream and antihistamine cream, etc.)

 Malaria tablets (if applicable)

 Antihistamine tablets for allergy suffers / anti-nausea table for motion sickness suffers.

 Southern African bird guide if you are a keen birder, e.g., Newman’s or Sasol

 Camera equipment including spare batteries, chargers, film, flash cards, memory sticks, etc.

 Waterproof/dustproof bag or cover for your camera

 Binoculars for viewing wildlife and birds. Recommended general purpose specifications are 8x40 or 10x42.

 Visas, tickets, passports, money, credit cards, insurance details, etc.

NOTE 1: Bright colours and white are not advisable whilst on safari. Camouflage clothing is not recommended for travel in African countries.

NOTE 2: There may be a restriction on luggage limits on your safari – please ensure that you have the details from us, if you would like details on the feasibility and costs of taking excess luggage with you on any of these restricted luggage safaris.

NOTE 3: Most destinations carry reference materials in their camps and vehicles, so it is not necessary to bring these with you. However, we highly recommend that you do bring your own pair of binoculars in order to get the most out of your safari.

Books worth reading

Okavango: Wetland Wilderness - Adrian Bailey

Okavango River: The flow of a lifeline - John Mendelsohn, Selma El Obeid

Okavango: Jewel of the Kalahari - Karen Ross

This is Botswana - Daryl Balfour

The Bushmen - A Changing Way of Life - Anthony Bannister

Newman's Birds of Southern Africa - Ken Newman

Sasol Birds of Southern Africa - Phil Hockey, Ian Sinclair and Warwick Tarboton

Behaviour Guide to African Mammals - Richard Estes

Guide to the Trees & Shrubs of the Okavango Delta - Veronica Roodt

Guide to the Wildflowers of the Okavango Delta - Veronica Roodt

Botswana Tourist Map & Guide - Veronica Roodt

Running Wild: Dispelling the Myths of the African Wild Dog - John McNutt, Lesley Boggs, Dave Hamman & Helene Heldring

Botswana - The Bradt Travel Guide - Chris McIntyre

FAMILY TRAVEL

Traveling with your family and children is very much possible, there are a number of camps that have family suites or interleading rooms. Please contact us to find out what is possible and what age limits apply for specific destinations and lodges.

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Top 20 Best Botswana Safaris - Compare 326 Tours

5-Day Botswana Luxury Tour

$3,346 to $5,317 pp (USD)

Botswana: Private tour Luxury Lodge & Tented Camp

You Visit: Kasane (Start) , Chobe NP, Okavango Delta, Maun Airport (End)

4.9 /5  –  149 Reviews

10-Day Extraordinary Expedition

$5,495 to $9,568 pp (USD)

Botswana & Zimbabwe: Private tour Luxury Lodge

You Visit: Maun (Start) , Makgadikgadi Pans NP, Okavango Delta, Savuti (Chobe NP) , Chobe NP, Victoria Falls (End)

Safari Online

5.0 /5  –  115 Reviews

6-Day Okavango Delta Experience (Fly-in Safari)

$3,460 to $6,040 pp (USD)

Botswana: Private tour Mid-range Tented Camp & Tented Bush Camp

You Visit: Maun (Start) , Okavango Delta, Maun (End)

Gondwana Tours & Safaris   Tour operator has an office in Botswana

5.0 /5  –  78 Reviews

6-Day Your Unforgettable Botswana Tour

$2,618 pp (USD)

Botswana: Shared tour (max 10 people per vehicle) Budget Camping

You Visit: Kasane (Start) , Chobe NP, Savuti (Chobe NP) , Moremi GR (Okavango Delta) , Maun (End)

Tony Mobile Safari   Tour operator has an office in Botswana

5.0 /5  –  79 Reviews

6-Day Okavango Delta Combo

$2,310 pp (USD)

Botswana: Shared tour (max 12 people per group) Budget Camping & Chalet

You Visit: Maun (Start) , Boro River, Moremi GR (Okavango Delta) , Maun (End)

Moonlight Safaris   Tour operator has an office in Botswana

5.0 /5  –  43 Reviews

11-Day Expedition Safari to Botswana

$2,530 to $2,970 pp (USD)

Botswana: Shared tour (max 6 people per vehicle) Budget Camping

You Visit: Maun Airport (Start) , Moremi GR (Okavango Delta) , Khwai (Okavango Delta) , Savuti Channel (Chobe NP) , Chobe NP, Kasane (End)

Okavango Exploration Safaris   Tour operator has an office in Botswana

5.0 /5  –  6 Reviews

8-Day Eco-Luxury Honeymoon Safari in the Okavango Delta

$10,095 to $18,172 pp (USD)

Botswana: Private tour Luxury Tented Camp

You Visit: Maun (Start) , Okavango Delta, Khwai (Okavango Delta) , Maun (End)

5.0 /5  –  42 Reviews

11-Day Northern Explorer Trip

$6,655 pp (USD)

Botswana: Private tour Mid-range Camping & Lodge

You Visit: Maun (Start) , Moremi GR (Okavango Delta) , Khwai (Okavango Delta) , Savuti (Chobe NP) , Kasane (End)

Wild For Game Safaris   Tour operator has an office in Botswana

5.0 /5  –  17 Reviews

3-Day Mokoro Overnight-Okavango Delta

$534 to $589 pp (USD)

Botswana: Shared tour (max 15 people per group) Budget Camping

Mosu Safari Tours   Tour operator has an office in Botswana

5.0 /5  –  31 Reviews

3-Day Okavango Delta & Boteti River Tented Safari

$677 to $748 pp (USD)

Botswana: Shared tour (max 10 people per group) Luxury Lodge

You Visit: Maun (Start) , Boteti, Moremi GR (Okavango Delta) , Maun (End)

The Mzansi Experience

4.8 /5  –  63 Reviews

7-Day Okavango Delta, Khwai and Chobe Wildlife Safari

$2,734 pp (USD)

Botswana: Private tour Budget Camping

You Visit: Maun (Start) , Okavango Delta, Khwai (Okavango Delta) , Savuti Channel (Chobe NP) , Chobe NP, Chobe River, Kasane (End)

Shipungo Safari & Tours   Tour operator has an office in Botswana

5.0 /5  –  53 Reviews

3-Day Victoria Falls & Chobe National Park, Botswana

$598 pp (USD)

Botswana & Zimbabwe: Shared tour (max 8 people per vehicle) Budget Lodge

You Visit: Victoria Falls (Start) , Chobe NP, Victoria Falls Town (End)

Southern African Tours 

4.7 /5  –  65 Reviews

11-Day Kalahari, Okavango and Chobe Expedition

$5,412 pp (USD)

Botswana & Zimbabwe: Shared tour (max 8 people per vehicle) Mid-range Camping & Lodge

You Visit: Maun (Start) , Central Kalahari GR, Maun (City) , Moremi GR (Okavango Delta) , Khwai (Okavango Delta) , Savuti (Chobe NP) , Kasane (Town) , Chobe NP, Victoria Falls (End)

Reflect Africa Expedition   Tour operator has an office in Botswana

5.0 /5  –  12 Reviews

7-Day Chobe & Delta Fly-in

$4,080 pp (USD)

Botswana: Shared tour (max 6 people per vehicle) Luxury Lodge & Tented Camp

You Visit: Maun (Start) , Chobe NP, Okavango Delta, Maun (End)

4.7 /5  –  186 Reviews

6-Day The Best of Okavango and Moremi

$2,475 pp (USD)

Botswana: Shared tour (max 10 people per vehicle) Mid-range Camping & Tented Camp

You Visit: Maun (Start) , Okavango Delta, Moremi GR (Okavango Delta) , Maun (End)

5-Day Botswana Tour

$1,788 pp (USD)

Walking Stick Travel & Tours   Tour operator has an office in Botswana

4.8 /5  –  73 Reviews

3-Day Chobe National Park Camping Tour from Vic Falls

$715 pp (USD)

You Visit: Victoria Falls Town (Start) , Chobe NP, Victoria Falls Town (End)

5.0 /5  –  18 Reviews

7-Day Into the Okavango - Moremi Game Reserve & Khwai

$3,499 to $3,849 pp (USD)

You Visit: Maun (Start) , Moremi GR (Okavango Delta) , Khwai (Okavango Delta) , Maun (End)

Nalange Mobile Safaris   Tour operator has an office in Botswana

5.0 /5  –  13 Reviews

3-Day Moremi Game Reserve Safari Tour

$1,133 pp (USD)

Botswana: Shared tour (max 6 people per vehicle) Mid-range Camping

You Visit: Maun (Start) , Moremi GR (Okavango Delta) , Maun (End)

Xaa Safaris   Tour operator has an office in Botswana

4.6 /5  –  18 Reviews

3-Day Victoria Falls to Chobe National Park Expedition

$550 pp (USD)

Botswana & Zimbabwe: Shared tour (max 8 people per vehicle) Budget Camping

N'tee Safaris and Tours   Tour operator has an office in Botswana

4.9 /5  –  15 Reviews

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Chobe, famous for its magnificent elephant herds

Explore the park on a mobile safari

Explore Botswana's northern boundary - the Chobe River

The wildlife is equally relaxed with boats on the Chobe River

The peace and quiet of an African sunset

The rains mean lush grazing opportunities in the Chobe

Chobe National Park

Chobe National Park: Safaris

Botswana safari holidays to chobe national park.

Come to Chobe National Park on your Botswana safari holidays for impressive herds of buffalo and elephants, hunted by large lion prides, as well as magical waterways! This famous Botswana safari area can either be visited on a mobile safari or while staying at a luxurious private camp. See the list below for ideas for both ways of travelling!

Pygmy Mouse Self-drive Safari

18 days • 10 locations WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO VICTORIA FALLS AIRPORT

A truly epic southern African self-drive safari adventure from Namibia’s mountains and deserts, along the lush Caprivi Strip to Botswana and Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, staying at luxury lodges throughout.

US$5,440 - US$8,780 per person

Wild Dog Safari

13 days • 5 locations KASANE AIRPORT TO MAUN AIRPORT

An in-depth discovery of northern Botswana’s wilderness, from Chobe and the private Kwando Reserve to the Moremi and iconic Okavango Delta with a great variety of activities and wildlife.

US$12,230 - US$21,930 per person

Rock Hare Self-drive Safari

20 days • 12 locations WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO VICTORIA FALLS AIRPORT

An in-depth look at Namibia from the Namib Desert to the Caprivi, with additional stops in Botswana and Victoria Falls. This three-week adventure includes an unrivalled mix of environments and is great value.

US$5,140 - US$7,330 per person

Spring Hare Safari

9 days • 3 locations KASANE AIRPORT TO MAUN AIRPORT

An authentic and diverse safari to Botswana combining the Chobe Forest Reserve, Savuti Marshes and the Okavango Delta. Strong wildlife viewing, a variety of activities and excellent value camps.

US$7,290 - US$13,320 per person

Sable Self-drive Safari

12 days • 7 locations WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO VICTORIA FALLS AIRPORT

A great-value southern African self-drive adventure from Namibia along the Caprivi Strip to Botswana and Zimbabwe, combining other-worldly landscapes, unforgettable wildlife spectacles and rarely visited places, and ending at Victoria Falls.

US$6,040 - US$8,180 per person

Porcupine Safari

11 days • 4 locations MAUN AIRPORT TO MAUN AIRPORT

Visit dramatically contrasting landscapes boasting a variety of species during this exploration of Botswana’s top-safari destinations. A combination of national parks and private reserves allows for a range of activities.

US$10,710 - US$16,860 per person

Steenbok Safari

9 days • 3 locations MAUN AIRPORT TO MAUN AIRPORT

A classic Botswana safari exploring the Moremi, Chobe National Park and Okavango Delta. Excellent wildlife viewing and a variety of activities from three of our favourite traditional tented camps.

US$7,260 - US$13,480 per person

Leopard Safari

13 days • 4 locations VICTORIA FALLS AIRPORT TO CAPE TOWN AIRPORT

Victoria Falls, Botswana and Cape Town – a classic southern African itinerary combining luxury, wilderness, safari and culture. We can't think of a better way to spend two weeks.

US$12,140 - US$17,910 per person

Wattled Crane Safari

5 days • 2 locations MAUN AIRPORT TO MAUN AIRPORT

A good-value Botswana safari staying at comfortable lodges in prime wildlife-viewing areas – Chobe National Park and the Moremi Reserve in the Okavango Delta.

US$4,690 - US$8,310 per person

Need inspiration?

Let our trip chooser narrow down the options for you

Holiday styles in Botswana

Browse other experiences across Botswana

Birdwatching

Diverse habitats, discreet hides and superb guiding.

Cultural experiences

Get an insight into Africa's cultures and history.

Family holidays

Hand-picked camps for an incredible family safari.

Romantic safaris and castaway island retreats.

First-class service, scenic vistas and unparalleled comfort await you during these carefully selected luxury holidays. 

Photography holidays

Great holidays to suit the keen photographer.

Private villas & houses

Enjoy Africa with just your friends & family

Riding holidays

Explore Africa's wilderness on horseback.

Solo Travel

Trip ideas ideally suited for a solo traveller.

Explore Africa's most scenic trails on foot.

Walking safaris

Explore Africa's untouched wildernesses on foot.

Wellness escapes in stunning locations

Wildlife safaris

These trips include hard-hitting game and fascinatingly elusive species alike, as well as superb guiding and a variety of diverse ecosystems.

Where to stay in Chobe

Our suggestions for safari camps in Chobe National Park

Muchenje Safari Lodge

One of our favourites in the area, Muchenje is a small, welcoming lodge at the quieter, western end of the Chobe Riverfront.

Chobe River Lodge

Overlooking the Chobe River, the intimate Chobe River Lodge is a haven of tranquillity away from the bustle of Kasane.

Savute Safari Lodge

Savute Safari Lodge sits on the banks of the Savuti Channel within Chobe National Park, and offers access to excellent game viewing, especially during the dry season.

Savute Under Canvas

A mobile camp with the comforts of a semi-permanent tented camp, Savute Under Canvas offers guided game drives within the Savuti region of Chobe National Park.

Chobe Under Canvas

This is a typical location for Chobe under Canvas, a small, semi-permanent camp in the Chobe Riverfront area that offers good value for money and high standards of care.

Chobe Safari Lodge

Chobe Safari Lodge is a good value, hotel-style lodge in the heart of Kasane offering game drives, boat cruises and fishing trips.

Chobe Elephant Camp

Located in one of our favorite areas of Chobe National Park, Chobe Elephant Camp is a simple but well-appointed camp with a strong bush feel.

Chobe Game Lodge

Chobe Game Lodge occupies an enviable riverfront location within Chobe National Park and boasts well-earned 'eco' credentials, as well as an excellent all-female guiding team.

Ngoma Safari Lodge

With sweeping views across the floodplains of the Chobe River, Ngoma offers superb food and flexible safari activities.

Chobe Chilwero

On the periphery of Chobe National Park, Chobe Chilwero offers luxurious surroundings and excellent food, which complement superb game viewing on game drives and boat trips.

Camp Kuzuma

Camp Kuzuma sits in the Kazuma Forest Reserve and is an excellent place to see elephant in particular. Away from the busier riverfront area of Chobe National Park this camp offers a luxurious base form which to explore this less visited region of northern Botswana.

Savute Elephant Lodge

Savute Elephant Lodge is a luxurious camp on the banks of the now flowing Savuti Channel. This is a classic big-game area, although its location within Chobe National Park does limit the activities which are possible here.

Elephant Valley Lodge

Elephant Valley Lodge is a lovely camp in a beautiful setting – sit in its hide and watch the wildlife come to drink at the waterhole. Activities focus on boating and drives in Chobe which - although very busy, and a long drive from the lodge – is very rich in wildlife.

Other areas in Botswana

Okavango Delta

Kwando-Linyanti

Kalahari Salt Pans

Central Kalahari

North-west Kalahari

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7 Best Botswana Wildlife Safaris for 2024

By Deb Hendricks | Updated February 28, 2024 | Botswana Wildlife Tours

Are you looking for the best wildlife safaris in Botswana?

A Botswana wildlife safari is a dream trip for many people around the world. It’s one of my own favourite African experiences!

I travel through Botswana every chance I get, and have spent months seeing as much as I can. I’ve taken safaris through the Okavango Delta, including Moremi and Khwai, as well as Chobe, Savuti, and the Central Kalahari Game Reserve.

➣ Can’t read to the end? This is our top safari choice ↴ 🏆 A Luxury Safari Experience in Botswana! ⭐️ Rated 5 out of 5 stars ! Camp out with real beds, enjoy unlimited local wines – included – and see the Big 5 animals !

And as much as I love to trek around on my own, I highly recommend taking an organized safari at least once. Even a short one when you arrive. I learned so much about the country and the wildlife on my tours, and met lovely people from all over the world.

I’ll delve into the magical world of Botswana wildlife tours . Read on to find yours!

🧳 Book your trip with the companies that I know and trust: ➣ Accommodations  –   Booking.com for the best selection​ ​➣ Flights  –  I love  WayAway , and you can get 10% off with this link ​ ​ ➣ Travel Insurance  –  I use  SafetyWing . Never skip travel insurance!​ ​ ➣ Car rental  –   Discover Cars searches international & local rental companies to find what you need

Top 3 Picks: Botswana Wildlife Safaris

✔︎ A Luxury Safari Botswana Experience

☑︎ Big 5* safari

☑︎ see Victoria Falls

✔︎ Botswana’s Okavango Delta and Kalahari

☑︎ meet the meerkats

✔︎ 12-Day Safari from Maun, Botswana to Chobe

☑︎ cultural experiences at local villages ☑︎ Big 5* safari

* The Big 5 consists of elephants, lions, rhinos, leopards, and Cape buffalo

Botswana Wildlife Safaris

Below you’ll find 5 carefully chosen, highly rated wildlife safaris to give you the best experience possible. Grab your binoculars and choose your unforgettable journey through Botswana . Lodge, tent, or cabin, you can’t go wrong.

1. 🏆 Top Choice – A Botswana Luxury Safari

🏆 A Luxury Safari Experience in Botswana!

• 12 days in Chobe, and Moremi Parks PLUS a trip to the spectacular Victoria Falls

Rated : ⭐️ 5 out of 5! | Duration: 12 Days | Book Here

Important Facts About the Tour :

• free pickup from the Maun Airport
• morning and afternoon game drives to look for the Big 5 (elephants, lions, rhinos, leopards, and Cape buffalo) and Victoria Falls!
• free local wines, gins and tonic, vegetarian food options available (with advanced notice!)

The higher comfort level is seen in the Maru tents, which are semi-permanent instead of mobile. The tents are furnished with beds and pillows, all the comforts , and the sounds of the bush at night.

The tour begins with your pickup at the Maun Airport and a night in a luxury base camp in town. In the morning you’ll travel by mokoro into the Okavango Delta, and camp wild that night.

A mokoro is a traditional carved canoe, and a ride in one is a beautiful and serene way to see the Delta waterways.

➦ Scenic flight

Returning to Maun the following day, you’ll have the option of booking a scenic flight over the Okavango Delta waterways.

I highly recommend this flight – the Delta is a stunning sight from above – it was a highlight for me. (Spoiler – elephants look like rabbits from the top).

We had a wonderful experience. I couldn’t have asked more. … My tent was very comfortable and all the meals delicious. – read more reviews

➦ Moremi and Savuti

After your flight, you and your group will combine a game drive with the journey to Moremi Game Reserve. The next stop on the tour will be Savuti, in Chobe National Park.

In both of these spectacular destinations , you can look forward to early morning and late afternoon game drives. The wildlife viewing is spectacular.

Moremi is home to the Big 5 (elephants, lions, leopards, Cape Buffalo, and rhinos), and 130 more mammal species .

In between game drives, you’ll have lunch, relax in your spacious tent, chat with new friends, or whatever your heart desires.

➦ Chobe National Park

After leaving Savuti you’ll further into Chobe. Following your first game drive here, you’ll board a boat for a cruise on the Chobe River . Be prepared to see elephants, hippos, crocs, and other animals in and along the water.

Then, after a morning game drive, on to the Zimbabwean Victoria Falls . In the afternoon you’ll get to visit the Falls and wander through the lush rainforest.

There are also several unbelievable activities that you can choose to try before you leave. These include bungee jumping, rafting, and bike tours , among many others. Your options will depend somewhat on the season.

This tour ends the following day – day 12 – at 10 am.

🦁 ✔️ If this Botswana tour is what you’re looking for, find out more & BOOK YOUR TRIP !

2. 🎖️ Botswana’s Okavango Delta and Kalahari

🎖️ Botswana’s Okavango Delta and Kalahari

• Tour the Okavango Delta, Moremi, the Kalahari and Makgadikgadi Pans! Very Family Friendly!

Company Rated : ⭐️ 4.9 out of 5 | Duration: 8 Days | Book Here

• free pickup and drop off at the Maun International Airport
• meet the meerkat and see the Big 5 (elephants, lions, rhinos, leopards, and Cape buffalo) on morning and afternoon game drives
• meet San bushmen and learn about their culture

This 8-day safari not only lets you explore the stunning Moremi Game Reserve in the Okavango Delta. You’ll also stay at the stunning Footsteps Across the Delta camp, and travel to the Makgadikgadi Pans.

The Makgadikgadi Salt Pans are long-empty lake beds. They’re home to a large group of wild, but adorably friendly, meerkats .

You’ll be flown directly from Maun to the Okuti Lodge, in the famous Moremi Game Reserve. Okuti is equipped with spacious rooms, real beds, and spacious en suite bathrooms.

Here you’ll go out in 4×4 safari vehicles to see the wildlife. Spend full or half-days in the bush , whichever you prefer. You can even request a picnic lunch to eat in the wild.

You might also decide to cool off in the pool, or grab a pole and do some fishing !

➦ Okuti Lodge to Footsteps Across the Delta After 2 nights at Okuti, save travel time by flying to your next stop. Footsteps Across the Delta is in an incredible spot to enjoy the surroundings.

You’ll sleep in Maru tents. These are roomy, semi-permanent tents with comfortable beds and flushable “bush” toilets. Enjoy all the comforts while you drift off to the sounds of the hippos in the nearby river.

And don’t be surprised to see the odd elephant footprint in camp in the morning!

Exhilarating, yet relaxing! I have booked 3 trips with Go2Africa so far and, each time, they have knocked it out of the park. Each vacation has been seamlessly planned from beginning to end… All of the accommodations have been great, from comfortable and clean to downright luxurious. … – read more reviews

Meals, including treats like fresh scones , are all cooked on an open fire! And if you catch any fish, you can try cooking them up there, too!

At Footsteps, you’ll spend your days tracking wildlife with your expert guide. Explore the area in traditional canoes called mokoro , water levels permitting, and enjoy many other activities available to you.

Many of these activities are geared especially towards children! But keep in mind that the bush walking here is for those 16 years of age and older.

➦ After 2 nights here, a small plane will take you back to Maun, then on to the Kalahari Desert . You’ll stay at Camp Kalahari, in comfortable Maru-style tents decorated with eclectic African touches.

The attached bathrooms make living easy.

Activities at the camp range from day and night drives – as much of the wildlife is very active at night. To horseback riding , bush walks , and cultural experiences .

You’ll explore the Central Kalahari on game drives. Keep an eye out for the local desert adapted species including elephants, oryx, and the famous black-maned lions.

They’ve become so used to seeing us, that they’ve been known to come right up to take a closer look.

➦ This amazing tour is complete after your third night at Kalahari. You’ll be flown back to your starting point at the Maun International Airport.

🐎 ✔️ If you’ve dreamed of seeing the meerkats , and especially if you’re travelling with your family, find out more & BOOK YOUR TRIP !

3. 🎖️ 12-Day Safari from Maun to Chobe

🎖️ 12-Day African Safari from Maun to Chobe National Park

• A mobile camping safari in the stunning Okavango Delta and Chobe Park !

Rated : ⭐️ 5 out of 5 | Duration: 12 Days | Book Here

• free pick up from your accommodation or Maun International Airport
• drinking water and alcoholic beverages
• see the Delta wildlife, including the Big 5 (elephants, lions, rhinos, leopards, and Cape buffalo) on morning and afternoon game drives

This 12-day camping safari through the heart of Botswana leaves from Maun. Your first stop is Moremi Game Reserve in the Okavango Delta.

Camping is a fantastic way to experience Africa. Fall asleep to the sounds of the hippos and hyenas , and if you’re lucky, a roar or two in the distance.

Spot the epic wildlife on the way to your Moremi campsite. Wind your day down with a late afternoon game viewing and enjoy in-person encounters with the areas many species of wildlife. This includes the Big 5 (elephants, lions, leopards, Cape buffalo, and rhinos).

Spend your days on morning and afternoon game drives . Lunch and a rest in camp will take up the hottest part of the day. This is when the animals are least active.

From Moremi, you’ll head off to your Khwai campsite, stopping for an epic boat safari on the Khwai River on the way. Once at the Khwai Concession, you’ll again enjoy twice daily game drives and unforgettable evenings around a campfire .

This safari trip exceeded my expectations as a full nature and Botswana cultural experience. I just had to show up and everything was planned … – read more reviews

➦ Savuti to the Chobe Riverfront

Your adventure then takes you to Savuti, known especially for its big cats . Savuti’s terrain and seasonal water channels provide a dramatic backdrop for wildlife viewing.

From Savuti, you’ll journey onwards to the Chobe Riverfront. This leg includes visits to local villages, where you’ll get a glimpse into the culture and traditions of Botswana’s people.

Chobe National Park is also known for its large herds of elephants and the variety of large mammals.

Here you can indulge in a combination of game drives and a boat safari on the river. You’ll also get to relax on a river cruise and eat lunch while Africa floats by.

➦ Your unforgettable Botswana safari ends in Kasane. For those wishing to extend their African adventure, you can opt to be dropped off at Victoria Falls!

🐘 ✔️ If this tour sounds amazing, find out more & BOOK YOUR TRIP !

4.🎖️ The Best of Wild Camping in Botswana

🎖️ 13-Day Northern Botswana Wilderness Trail

• Moremi in the Okavango Delta (Khwai), Chobe (Savuti), & Victoria Falls !

• see the Big 5 (elephants, lions, rhinos, leopards, and Cape buffalo) and so much more on morning and afternoon game drives.
• free pickup from all hotels, and from Maun International Airport
• guided tour of spectacular Victoria Falls

Your adventure will start with a 4×4 or speedboat ride to the edge of the Okavango Delta (depending on the season). A local poler will take you on a mokoro through the Delta waterways to your island camp.

A mokoro is a traditional dugout canoe, now made more often of fibreglass. Get close to the water and revel in the peace of the wilderness.

You’ll be treated to safari walks and mokoro rides around the area. Your guide will share his extensive knowledge about the Delta, its plants and their uses, and more fascinating information.

An outdoor shower and bush toilet are arranged for your use throughout the trip. Nothing feels as good as a bush shower after a long day in safari !

From your island, you’ll return by mokoro to Maun and spend a night in a town lodge. In the morning you and your group will board an open-sided safari vehicle for the drive to Moremi Game Reserve.

…A mobile camping safari, the first for us, has proven by far the best safari experience. We were close to the natural environment, we visited secluded places as if the areas we visited were only for us and saw a multitude of animal life in many situations so striking that every sighting was a real novelty… – read more reviews

➦ Moremi>Khwai>Savuti

Over the next several days you’ll move on from Moremi to Khwai Concession and then Savuti, a corner of Chobe. Your tent will be your home, and you’ll get to see the best wildlife in Botswana on twice-daily game drives.

Your tent will be out up and taken down for you – all you have to do is relax.

The hottest part of the day will be spent at your leisure in camp. After lunch, you’re free to nap, read, or get to know your fellow travellers.

Savuti will be your last night in your tent before travelling to Kasane. This town is the northern entry point to Chobe National Park.

➦ Chobe and Kasane

Chobe is known for its large herds of elephants , buffalo, prides of lions, and spectacular bird population.

You’ll stay in a town lodge, and enjoy a 3-hour sunset river cruise on the Chobe River that evening. While the bed will feel good, you’ll miss falling asleep to the sounds of the wild!

➦ The next day you and your group will cross into Zimbabwe to Victoria Falls . Your guide will lead you through the lush rainforest and to the famous Falls. It’s a sight and sound you’ll never forget.

The area is a playground for the adventurous! You will have the option of booking from a list of activities. Speak to your tour guide to see what’s available in the current season! Think bungee jumping, bike tours, golf, and so much more.

This tour ends at the Livingstone airport.

🛶 ✔️ If you love this Wild Camping Safari , find out more & BOOK YOUR TRIP !

5. 🎖️ Spend 11 Days on the Wilderness Trail

🎖️ The 11-Day Wild-Camping Safari

• Wilderness Trail Okavango, Moremi & Chobe – and Victoria Falls

Rated : ⭐️ 5 out of 5 | Duration: 11 Days | Book Here

• Free pick-up from anywhere in Maun, including the airport.
• mokoro rides, river cruises, and the Big 5 (elephants, lions, rhinos, leopards, and Cape buffalo) on morning and afternoon game drives
• guided tour of Victoria Falls

You’ll stay in comfortable but wild camps in the middle of the bush, with mid-range lodges in Maun, Kasane, and Victoria Falls.

➦ Mokoros into the Okavango Delta

Similar to the previous tour, you’ll get to experience the bush from the water in a traditional mokoro canoe. Plus, you’ll be guided on an amazing safari walk in the Delta.

After returning to Maun from your Delta island, you and your group will spend a night in a mid-range lodge. The next morning you’ll choose a seat (there are no bad ones) in the safari vehicle for the ride to Moremi.

Let me start by saying that I rarely write reviews….. the service has to have been something so exceptional that I feel compelled to sit at my computer and type something, telling others to do what I did. THIS company is absolutely deserving of all the highest accolades!!!! – read more reviews

➦ Moremi>Savuti

From Moremi, you’ll head straight to Savuti, a corner of Chobe National Park. Mornings and late afternoons will be filled with incredible wildlife sightings on your game drives.

After lunch, the hottest part of the day will be spent like the animals, being lazy. You can use the time to read, catch a nap, rinse out a few things. Or just enjoy being in Africa.

Then on to your lodge in Kasane after an early morning game drive. Once you’ve had the chance to relax a bit, you’ll head out on a breathtaking boat safari on the Chobe River. You might see elephants and other wildlife come down for a drink.

The following day will see you cross into Zimbabwe. You’ll be led through the rainforest to stunning Victoria Falls by your guide, and in the evening float out on a sunset Zambezi River cruise.

Say goodbye to your safari family at the Livingstone Airport.

🛶 ✔️ If this tour fits your timetable, find out more & BOOK YOUR TRIP !

6. Botswana’s Nxai Pan, Okavango Delta, and Linyanti

🎖️ Botswana’s Nxai Pan, Delta, and Kwando

• Incredible Game Drives and Boat Safaris in Chobe and the Okavango Delta!

Company Rated : ⭐️ 4.9 out of 5 |Duration: 9 Days | Book Here

• safari walks, morning and afternoon game drives to watch for the Big 5 (elephants, lions, rhinos, leopards, and Cape buffalo)
• a mokoro ride in the Okavango Delta
• see the famous Baines’ Baobabs

Begin your safari by flying from Maun directly to Nxai National Park. This is an excellent area for spotting for predators like lions, jackals, and even the rare brown hyena.

And more different bird species than you can imagine.

Your thatched-roof suite has its own private shower and viewing deck, so you don’t miss anything that’s going on around you.

I absolutely loved Go2Africa’s customer service. They were incredible at creating an itinerary that was personalized exactly to what I wanted… They also fit everything into my budget. I had another company quote me 3x the amount that Go2Africa charged me… I cannot say enough positive things about this company. I truly hope to use them again – Christine (read more reviews )

➦ Nxai Pan > Okavango Delta

Fly from the arid Nxai Pan to Kwara Concession in the lush Okavango Delta. Here you’ll get to know an entirely different ecosystem. Mokoro rides, the traditional carved canoe (mainly made from fibreglass these days) are one highlight of time in the Delta.

Another highlight of Kwara is its hide, which will allow you to watch the animals undetected – excellent for photography.

➦ Okavango Delta > Linyanti Channel

Your next flight will take you to the Linyanti Channel, between the Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park. Linyati is known for its population of critically endangered wild dogs!

Your final three days will be spent on classic safari activities – game drives, wildlife spotting, and sundowners around the campfire.

This is a customizable tour – work with your tour provider to create your dream safari!

🦁 Find out more about this Botswana safari & BOOK YOUR TRIP !

7. 🎖️ 6 Days in Chobe, Savuti and the Khwai!

🎖️ 6 Days in the Okavango Delta ( Khwai ) , Chobe National Park

Rated : ⭐️ 4.5 out of 5 | Duration: 6 Days | Book Here

• a boat cruise on the Chobe River
• morning and afternoon game drives to seek out the Big 5 (elephants, lions, rhinos, leopards, and Cape buffalo)

This 6-day safari makes the very most of your time, travelling from Kasane into Chobe National Park . You’ll journey through the park to its remarkable, remote corner of Savuti through to Khwai in the Okavango Delta.

The fun starts with a boat cruise from Kasane into Chobe National Park. You’ll see the epic wildlife , such as elephants, Cape buffalo, and of course hippos and crocodiles in and along the Chobe River.

After a good restaurant meal, a game drive takes you into the park to spot the animals and birdlife . It ends with at your Chobe camp with a delicious campfire dinner.

I’m always amazed at the quality of meals a safari cook can prepare over a campfire!

After another amazing early morning game drive and brunch, an afternoon safari will end at your Savuti camp. The next day brings two more phenomenal game drives to spot the big cats and other African wildlife in the area.

I have done many safaris in Africa and do have a broad basis for comparison and I would recommend without hesitation B G and Moonlight Safaris for any type of wildlife trip in Botswana.  – read more reviews

➦ Khwai, Okavango Delta

A morning departure from camp is followed by a game drive in the direction of the Savuti March and Channel. The variety and amount of the wildlife in this area is astonishing.

You’ll enjoy lunch along the way, and end the day at Khwai Concession, in a corner of the incredible Okavango Delta. This is a good chance to see endangered African wild dogs !

A game drive fills the morning, and in the afternoon you’ll explore the Delta’s waterways on a mokoro . This is a traditional carved canoe, and it’s a beautifully quiet and peaceful way to travel through the area.

Take in the sunset before heading back to camp.

In the morning, a final game drive will end back at camp, and you’ll depart again for Kasane, spotting wildlife along the way.

This safari is a great one to combine with other shorter tours of the area. Think Victoria Falls and the Kalahari!

🦛🦒 If a 6-day safari is perfect for you, find out more & BOOK YOUR TRIP !

🌍 Short on Time ? Check out this spectacular 3-Day Safari in the Okavango Delta ! Mokoro boats and 4×4 vehicles get you to where the animals are! ⭐️ 4.5 out of 5 stars | Learn More & Book !

💲 CURRENCY : Botswanan Pula

🌤️ Best Time to Visit : May-October

🔌 Electricity : Plugin Type D or G; 230V & 50 Hz

What is the best time of year to go on safari in botswana?

If catching a glimpse of Botswana’s epic wildlife is your goal, the best time for a safari would be the dry season, from June to October .

Throughout these months, the likelihood of spotting animals rises as they tend to gather around the more limited water sources. This makes them much easier to find. Plus, there’s less vegetation that could get in the way of seeing them.

It’s also easier to get around Botswana’s parks this time of year. The lack of rain in the dry season eliminates the chance of problems like roads being washed out .

With lower temps and humidity, the dry season is the perfect opportunity to enjoy Botswana safari wildlife. So if you’re looking for an unforgettable wildlife experience, this is a great time to go!

But really? There’s no bad time to explore Botswana .

You can learn more about the weather around Africa in this article about winter and the other seasons, top to bottom.

☞ Botswana Tip : If you’re starting your safari in Maun and have some time to kill, find the Best Things to Do & Places to Eat in Maun .

What to Pack for a Wildlife Safari in Botswana

Here is my quick packing list for a safari . For a comprehensive list, and tips on how to travel with just a single carry-on for any length trip, read this full guide .

Essentials for Africa:

• malaria meds
• insect repellent with DEET
• toothbrush & toiletries
• small towel
• hair clips, ties, razor
• wide-brimmed hat with strap/ clip
• sunglasses and cord/ chums
• camera / extra batteries & SD card
• downloaded travel maps
• flashlight / headlamp
• charging cables
• power adapter
• laundry sheets
• foldable daypack
• filtered water bottle
• downloaded map app
• period products
• clothes that cover shoulder/knees
• toilet paper

More, For Cold Nights/Mornings

• thick socks
• warm nightclothes
• fleece layer jacket
• neck gator or scarf
• long-sleeved shirts
• thin down jacket

More, For Hot Days/Nights

• short-sleeved shirts
• light, loose, linen-y pants
• underclothes
• light sleepwear
• closed toed shoes
• thin scarf /bandana – soak, wear on neck

Botswana Wildlife Safaris: Frequently Asked Questions

➤ what is the best month to see animals in botswana.

The dry winter months from May to October tend to be the best time for wildlife viewing across Botswana. This is when animals congregate in increasing numbers at water sources as the dry season progresses.

There are also fewer leaves and less grass to hide behind. But the wet season, November to April, also has its charms. The scenery is greener, there are many newborn animals, and migratory birds are present.

➤ What animals can you see in Botswana on safari?

Botswana is especially known for its large populations of the Big 5: lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffaloes.

Botswana is also home to a variety of other mammals including cheetahs, hippos, hyenas, wild dogs, and a range of gazelles and hoofed mammals like sable antelope and springbok.

The Delta and other regions like the Makgadikgadi Pans also see migratory movements of large herds of wildebeest, zebra, and other animals.

As well as mammals, Botswana is a paradise for birdwatchers. There are over 600 species of birds found across its diverse ecosystems.

➤ What is Botswana’s best wildlife?

Botswana is known for everything from its enormous elephant herds and prides of lions to its adorable meerkats and packs of endangered African wild dogs.

➤ Does Botswana have good safaris?

➤ Does Botswana have good safaris? Botswana is an exceptional safari destination for several reasons: • Its diverse wildlife – it’s home to an impressive variety of wildlife • The unique landscapes -from the lush Okavango Delta to the stark beauty of the Kalahari Desert . • Its conservation efforts – Botswana is recognized for its strong commitment to wildlife conservation and responsible tourism • The seasonal dynamics – the seasonal flooding of the Okavango Delta creates a singular ecosystem that attracts a wide range of animals and birds.

➤ Will I have to put up my own tent on a mobile safari?

This depends on the safari. Some safaris will require you to be responsible for your own tent. In each of the mobile tours discussed above, your tents will be put up and taken down for you.

➤ Is Africa Safe for Travelers?

When it comes to traveling, safety is an important topic. This is especially true for destinations like Africa, a continent often shrouded in misconceptions and stereotypes. The short answer is, Africa can be a safe travel destination with the right preparation and awareness. Each country has its own unique set of circumstances.

The key to a safe trip lies in doing your research, taking necessary precautions, and approaching your journey with respect and openness.

➤ Diverse Experiences, Diverse Safety Profiles: Safety conditions vary widely across Africa’s 54 countries. Some areas are remarkably safe for tourists, while others may have advisories due to political instability or health concerns

You must research the specific country you plan to visit. Countries like Botswana, Namibia, and Ghana are known for their stable governments and friendly attitude towards tourists.

➤ Common Precautions: As with any travel destination, basic safety precautions are necessary. Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.

Use reputable transportation services, and keep copies of important documents like passports and visas in a safe place. Emailing them to yourself is ideal. Avoid travel to areas known for higher risks of crime or political unrest.

➤ Health Safety: Health is another essential aspect to consider. Some African countries require vaccinations, like Yellow Fever, and it’s wise to take precautions against malaria in certain regions.

Access to quality healthcare can vary, so travel insurance with medical coverage is highly recommended.

➤ Cultural Sensitivity and Respect: Understanding local customs and laws is essential. Some behaviours that are acceptable at home might be frowned upon or even illegal in parts of Africa.

For example, camo-coloured clothing is illegal in some countries . A respectful attitude towards local customs goes a long way in ensuring a safe and enjoyable trip.

➤ Engage with Local Knowledge: Locals often provide the best insights about safe areas to visit, times to travel, and places to eat. Engaging with the local community not only enhances your travel experience but also contributes to your safety.

Check Travel Advisories: Always consult your country’s travel advisories before planning your trip. These advisories provide up-to-date information about safety, health risks, and any travel warnings.

Summing It Up: An African Safari in Botswana

Botswana is an absolute paradise for any nature lover. My experiences here have been some of the best of my life! Whichever safari you choose, you will experience the heart of Africa’s wilderness.

From lions and cheetahs to elephants and giraffes, this country is home to Africa’s most epic wildlife. And there’s nothing like seeing them in their natural habitat .

Whether you’re after a luxurious lodge safari or a camping adventure to see Africa’s epic animals , Botswana has it for you.

You’ll end up with a new respect for the remarkable tapestry of the natural world in Africa. And you won’t be able to wait for your next trip!

Happy travels!

You might also like:

➦ The National Animal of Botswana: What It Is and Why It Was Chosen ➦ The 89 Most Inspiring and Memorable African Safari Quotes ➦ Amazing Ways to Volunteer with Elephants in Africa ➦ The Best Luggage for Safari: Top Bags and Backpacks Reviewed

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I had been travelling for years before I first went to Africa. Once I had been on my first safari, I was hooked. Now I go back every chance I get. I've lived in Botswana, explored the wild coast of Namibia, toured Southern Africa and so much more.

There's no place that has more to offer a traveller than this enormous and stunning continent. I write about it here to hopefully inspire you to experience it for yourself, and to make your travels easier. It'll be the trip of your life! Happy travels!

Botswana Botswana Botswana

Embrace your wild side

Spot silhouettes of leopards against the red evening light. Be awed by centuries-old Bushmen paintings hidden among Baobab groves. In Botswana, be at one with some of the most majestic creatures to grace the earth—together under the inky, star-filled sky. Explore our seasonal calendar and choose your perfect time to go.

Every step brings a new discovery

Eagle Island Lodge

Okavango Delta

Nestled on its own private island deep in the Botswana wetlands, Eagle Island Lodge is at the heart of the Okavango Delta's wild wonders.

Savute Elephant Lodge

Chobe National Park

On the edge of the Savute Channel, our harmonious lodge overlooks the Chobe National Park watering hole where elephants, hyenas and cheetahs gather before you.

Get a taste for local village life in Maun, the starting point to your adventure in the Okavango Delta.

Kasane lies at the meeting point of Botswana, Namibia, Zambia and Zimbabwe. Here you'll find the gateway to Chobe National Park.

Livingstone

Both a hub for visitors to Victoria Falls and a fascinating place to visit in itself, Livingstone boasts a host of adventures for explorers.

Victoria Falls

One of Southern Africa's most breathtaking sights, Victoria Falls lies over the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe and is home to several unique plant and animal species.

THE CALL OF THE WILD

Grand Tour of Botswana

Embark on the ultimate Belmond adventure in Botswana with a stay at out two uniquely enchanting safari lodges.

Includes: Four- or six-night stay at any combination of our Belmond Safari Lodges All meals, local beverages and activities while on safari National park fees Light aircraft transfers between lodges Emergency insurance

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Our Support of the Wild Entrust Africa Conservation Project

We’ve joined forces with Wild Entrust Africa to help mitigate the lethal conflict between predators and people in Northern Botswana. With the help of our partnership, six camera traps will assist the project’s ground-breaking scent-mark research, which keeps predators away from livestock and safely inside protected wildlife areas.

Our guests can visit the Wild Dog Research camp and listen to a Botswana Predator Conservation Programme researcher talk about their fascinating and invaluable work.

Learn more about Wild Trust

Contact us to arrange your visit

A pair of unforgettable adventures

Unpredictable wet and dry cycles create a dynamic landscape alive with a vibrant, raw energy—and wildlife to match.

In the heart of UNESCO wetlands, this newly renovated lodge offers boutique tents and thrilling helicopter safaris.

Your private savannah sanctuary

Exclusive Places

Enjoy the untamed decadence of your own secluded oasis amongst the wild wonders of the savannah.

Curl up with a book in the reading nook, or take a cooling dip with spectacular views, then sink into your dreamy four-poster bed by night. Our private tented rooms are the height of luxury living in the wild.

Indulge with:

• Stylish indoor and outdoor relaxation spaces
• Secluded outdoor rain shower
• Private splash pool

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Packages & Tours

Explore Africa with Belmond

From the buzz of Cape Town to the drama of Botswana, embark on the ultimate tour of Africa with Belmond.

Plan your next adventure

WILD INSIDE HORSE SAFARIS

BOTSWANA SAFARI

Set in the Tuli area of Botswana, in the expansive Mashatu game reserve, this is an amazing 'mobile' riding safari for those who are wild at heart. With 29,000 hectares to ride through, you simply cannot run out of new places to explore! The safari includes riding between three different stunning and unique camps over a seven day period.

This part of Botswana has a very wild feel about it, allowing you to relax and submerse yourself in to nature and your horse.

With around 700 elephants in the Mashatu reserve, this safari offers intense wildlife viewing, with other species including zebra, giraffe, kudu, eland, blesbok, wildebeest, impala and the occasional pride of lions or shy leopard.

Explore bushy scrub-land, rest under the magical Mashatu trees, and ride alongside rivers, including the stunning Limpopo River, home to hippo and crocodiles. Canter freely through the reserve and end each day resting and dining at camp.

Location : Northern Tuli Block, Botswana.

Nights : Seven.

Rider Limitations : For experienced riders only.

Season : January - December (all year).

Dates : Set dates throughout the year.

Riding : 3-5 hours per day. 

Included : All-inclusive of all riding, food and drinks, accommodation, and airport transfers.

Not Included : Flights, insurance.

Extra Costs : Tips for staff. Recommendation is around £15/$18 per day.

There will also be a conservation levy on arrival to Mashatu wildlife reserve in Botswana of £8.15/$10 per night.

(£57/$70 for seven nights).

Luggage : Rider's luggage will be moved by vehicle between camps. Due to the small aircraft from Johannesburg Airport to Botswana there is a strict luggage limit of 18kg. Luggage must also be in a soft case. No hard cases as these cannot go in the cargo hold. 

Flights : Flights must be booked to arrive and depart from OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg.

Riders will then take a charter flight to Botswana, which is booked for you and included in the cost.

Flights on arrival day must land at OR Tambo International Airport before 9.30am.

Flights on departure day must be no earlier than 8pm to arrive at Johannesburg airport in time from Botswana. 

Internet: This is a truly wild safari, and wi-fi will only be available at the stables as you arrive and leave.

The rest of the week you will have no access to internet! 

Discounts available for groups of eight.

ACCOMMOD ATION

This mobile safari includes three beautiful, unique camps:

CAMP TWO MASHATU

Named after the two giant Mashatu Trees that shelter it, t he trees give the camp a magical feel.

Riders sleep in walk-in A-frame tents with an en-suite bathroom.

Each tent is private and has it's own deck area for morning coffee. 

The sounds of Africa surround camp and guests can fall asleep to the sounds of wildlife.

This camp includes a rondavel lounge area and dining room. 

A camp built high in the arms of the Mashatu and Leadwood trees!

Guests share airy and cool sleeping pods, with a dining and lounge area overlooking the river.

Shared showers and toilets are also built up in the trees.

This camp is the ultimate 'tree house'!

KGOTLA CAMP

An open air camp where guests sleep on beds around a large fire and sleep under the amazing African night sky! ​

£3345

Single Supplement: £4001

(Feb, March)

£3828

Single Supplement: £4916

High Season

(April-Nov)

£4402

Single Supplement : £5691

Prices are per person sharing.

Single supplement is optional for solo travelers  who do not want to share a room. 

SAMPLE ITINERARY

Please note this is a sample only, individual experiences may vary slightly.

This itinerary acts as a guide to give you an overview of what your safari will be like.

DAY 1 : ARRIVAL DAY, STABLES TO CAMP TWO MASHATU

Riders will be greeted at the airport and transferred to reception at the stables. After an orientation and late lunch you will be introduced to your horse! Your horse will have been matched to you based on your experience, personality and any specific requirements you made before your trip.

You will then head out for a test ride, followed by an afternoon ride to camp Two Mashatu, giving you chance to get to know your horse and form a bond. As you set out on your first ride within the Mashatu Reserve you will already start to see some of the wildlife species!

Riders will head  back to camp at sunset for a delicious three course dinner. Sit around the fire after dinner and finally fall asleep in your tent, immersed in the African bush, and listen to the sounds of animals calling.

​ DAY 2: CAMP TWO MASHATU TO TREE CAMP

The day begins early as riders set out from Two Mashatu. Riders become at one with nature as they head out along the Limpopo river to the next camp.

Enjoy taking amazing pictures of the nature surrounding you, canter freely through the open bush, and learn about the flora and fauna from your guide.

You may bump into giraffe, zebra, wildebeest, impala, blesbok and kudu to name but a few!

Riders have the chance to relax and nap after lunch, before heading out again to explore. You are likely to see elephants and witness one of nature's giants from the back of a horse! Large herds of elephants pass by the group, stirring up the ground and taking everyone's breath away.

Dinner is served at Tree Camp, overlooking the Majale river. 

DAY 3 : TREE CAMP TO KGOTLA CAMP

After breakfast riders head out into the reserve again for further exploration and wildlife spotting. The group passes by rock formations, giant baobab trees and elephant trails, and riders have long canters through open scrub. Lots of wildlife can be seen along the way. The ride takes you along the Matlouse River and finishes up for lunch.

The group can choose between an afternoon walk or a ride to a rock formation known as 'The Ampitheatre'.

Dinner is served around the campfire at the Kgotla camp and riders sleep in the boma, with the stars and African night sky as their ceiling!

DAY 4 : KGOTLA CAMP

Day four includes a morning ride into the valley to view amazing sand formations. Combined with amazing wildlife sightings, the morning's ride will make sure rider's go home with their cameras  full!

After lunch, guests are taken on an excursion to the nearby Lentswe Le Moriti village to get a taste of local life, followed by a short and easy climb in the Mmamagwa Hills. As you enjoy sundowner drinks and snacks at the end of the climb you will be overlooking the Tuli area, with South Africa, Botswana and Zimbabwe spread out before you!

DAY 5: KGOTLA CAMP TO TREE CAMP

After breakfast the group saddles up for a long day of riding. By this point you will be well and truly bonded to your horse after so many beautiful experiences together.

The group travels through Elephant Valley, along ancient trails left behind by herds of elephants. You are likely to see plenty of wildlife along the way, including more elephant sightings.

Riders are often sore after this long, challenging ride so the afternoon is used for a game drive to allow aching muscles to relax!

Guides will try to track big cats to provide guests with great photo opportunities.

The night is spent back at Tree Camp.

DAY 6 : TREE CAMP TO CAMP TWO MASHATU

An early wake up with a hot drink brought to you in your tent. Riders head out for the morning on a long ride back to Two Mashatu camp, tracking animals with the experienced guide. The group rides along the beautiful Limpopo river and may spot hippo or crocodile!

Riders pass along empty river beds in search of tracks or spoors, and watch naughty baboons shrieking and playing in the trees.

On return to Two Mashatu Camp riders can relax around the pool before gearing up again for the afternoon ride and sundowners.

DAY 7: CAMP TWO MASHATU

A full morning ride in the reserve to explore the Pitsane River.

Great wildlife viewing is guaranteed as the group passes by regular watering holes which attract wildlife from all around. Riders take snack breaks under the  giant Mashatu trees between spotting wildlife.

After lunch riders can choose another afternoon ride or a bush walk for their sundowners. The group eats their last dinner together before retiring for the night.

DAY 8 : DEPARTURE DAY

One last morning ride in the reserve, before saying goodbye and  heading back to Johannesburg airport.

Africa will have well and truly captured your heart, and you will already be planning your next trip back!