Botswana stands out as the ultimate safari destination in Africa. The vast Okavango Delta, with its winding waterways, islands, and grassy plains, offers daily wildlife encounters that are nothing short of spectacular. Chobe National Park’s riverbanks are famed for hosting some of the largest elephant herds on the continent. The Linyanti region provides untouched, diverse habitats that support predators like lions and leopards. Further afield, the Makgadikgadi and Kalahari salt pans offer a unique desert-like landscape home to ancient Bushman culture and the adorable meerkat. Each region showcases a different facet of Botswana’s wild beauty, making the country a must-visit safari hotspot.
Gliding through the Okavango Delta by mokoro – Botswana’s safari magic begins on the water. Discover when to go, where to stay, and what to expect on safari in this ultimate guide.
Why Botswana is Africa’s Ultimate Safari Destination
- Unrivalled game viewing with minimal crowds
- Intimate, luxurious camps in pristine settings
- Beyond game drives, visitors can enjoy boating safaris, mokoro excursions, helicopter flights, walking safaris, fishing, horseback riding, private dining, sleep-outs, cultural visits, and conservation experiences.
- Strong conservation and community upliftment ethos
- Expert local guides with deep knowledge of the land and its wildlife
When to Go on Safari in Botswana
May to October – Dry Season: This is the prime safari season, with thinning vegetation and shrinking water sources that make wildlife easier to spot. Cooler months from June to August are especially good, with comfortable temperatures and excellent visibility.
September to October: Hotter and drier, but ideal for concentrated game viewing around permanent waterholes and rivers.
November to April – Green Season: Expect lush landscapes, dramatic skies, and excellent birding. Wildlife is still abundant, though harder to see in the dense vegetation. It’s a great time for photographers and travellers interested in seeing newborn animals.
Top Safari Lodges and Camps in Botswana
XIGERA SAFARI LODGE – Design-Forward Luxury in the Delta
Pronounced “Kee-jera,” this ultra-luxurious lodge in the Moremi Game Reserve is a celebration of African artistry and wilderness. Expect unique handcrafted interiors, serene mokoro excursions, and exceptional game viewing, including elephants, lions and hippos.
NORTH ISLAND – Wildlife-Rich and Wonderfully Remote
This private island lodge offers all the classic Delta experiences – game drives, mokoro, boat trips – alongside contemporary, nature-inspired suites with plunge pools and uninterrupted lagoon views.
DAUNARA SAFARI CAMP – Ideal for Families and Private Groups
This intimate camp with just four suites, including a two-bedroom family unit, offers flexibility and privacy. Overlooking a permanent lagoon, it caters for individual travellers or exclusive-use bookings, with tailored activities from game drives and walks to mokoro trips and cultural visits.
KANANA CAMP – Iconic, Authentic Okavango
On the Xudum River, Kanana is perfectly located to experience the diversity of animals and many bird species found within the Okavango Delta on game drives, in boats and mokoros.
JACK’S CAMP – Desert Drama and Iconic Style
Located on the edge of the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans, Jack’s is a legend. The 1940s-style tents are lavish, the views endless, and the experiences – meerkat encounters, quad biking, Bushman walks – are unlike anywhere else in Africa.
Botswana Safari FAQs
What animals will I see on a Botswana safari?
Botswana offers some of the best wildlife viewing in Africa. You can expect to see elephants, lions, leopards, buffalo, as well as cheetahs, African wild dogs, hippos, giraffe, zebra, antelope species like sable and lechwe, and hundreds of bird species. The Okavango Delta is especially rich in wildlife, while Chobe is famous for its huge elephant herds. There are only a very few rhinos in Botswana, most are in Khama Rhino Sanctuary in the south.
When is the best time to visit Botswana for wildlife?
The dry season from May to October is ideal for game viewing. Animals gather around rivers and waterholes, and vegetation is sparse, making them easier to spot. October can be very hot but delivers spectacular sightings.
Is a Botswana safari safe?
Yes, Botswana is one of the safest countries in Africa for travellers. Safari camps are well-managed and experienced in ensuring guest safety in wild environments. Always follow your guide’s instructions and camp protocols.
Is Botswana suitable for a first-time safari?
Definitely! Botswana offers a mix of iconic landscapes, high chances of seeing big game, and excellent guiding. Its safari experience is immersive yet comfortable, especially in the private concessions and Delta camps.
Is a Botswana safari family friendly?
Yes – for families with older children, it’s an unforgettable experience filled with wildlife, campfires, and shared adventure.
However, families with young children should note that:
- Most camps are unfenced and wild, so safety is important
- Long game drives can be tiring for little ones
- Not all camps accept children under 6
We can recommend family-friendly camps and design an itinerary with shorter drives, private vehicles, and flexible activities.
Is Botswana suitable for honeymooners?
Absolutely. Botswana is one of the most romantic safari destinations in Africa. You can expect:
- Luxurious honeymoon suites with private decks, pools, and outdoor baths
- Tailored service, private dinners, and value-added honeymoon specials
- Remote settings where you’re surrounded by nature, not other tourists
- A blissful blend of wild adventure and pampered relaxation that’s hard to match
At every opportunity in Botswana, the warm and friendly people hosting you will ensure you are spoilt and celebrated!
Are safaris in Botswana malaria-free?
Botswana is a malaria area, particularly during the wetter months (November to April). It’s important to take precautions, including mosquito repellent and consulting a travel doctor about prophylaxis. Many camps offer mosquito nets and repellent in the rooms.
How do I get around on safari in Botswana?
Most safaris are fly-in, using light aircraft to connect remote camps. This maximises time on the ground and offers stunning aerial views of the landscape. Some overland mobile safaris and lodge-to-lodge transfers are also available.
Flying-in by helicopter is the ultimate way to access the remote camps. Flying low over the Delta or the Makgadigadi Pans is a thrilling experience. Ask your consultant to arrange a champagne stop en route if you’re celebrating a special occasion.
Do I need a visa for Botswana?
Most travellers do not require a visa for stays under 90 days, including citizens of the UK, US, EU, Canada, Australia and South Africa. Always check the latest entry requirements before travel.
Can I use my phone or access Wi-Fi in the bush?
Some high-end lodges offer Wi-Fi in rooms or main areas, but connection can be slow and intermittent. Many travellers use this as a chance to disconnect and enjoy the wilderness fully.
What is a mokoro safari and is it safe?
A mokoro safari is a guided excursion in a traditional dugout canoe (now usually made of fibreglass to protect trees) used to glide through the Okavango Delta’s narrow waterways. Led by experienced polers from local communities, mokoro safaris are slow, silent, and deeply immersive – ideal for spotting birds, frogs, small antelope, and even elephants at the water’s edge.
Yes, they are safe when guided by trained professional polers who are skilled in navigating the channels and avoiding potentially dangerous wildlife. Camps have strict protocols to ensure guest safety on the water.
What to pack for a Botswana safari?
Bring lightweight, neutral-coloured clothing, avoiding white and bright colours. Essential items include:
- A fleece or jacket for chilly mornings and evenings
- Comfortable walking shoes and sandals for relaxing
- A wide-brimmed hat and polarised sunglasses
- A scarf, buff or bandana for dust protection and sun cover
- Binoculars (most luxury camps provide them, but it’s best to have your own)
- Insect repellent, sunscreen, and any personal medication
Talk to Our Botswana Safari Experts
Our lucky team visits Botswana regularly to stay up to date with the best camps, new openings, and logistics on the ground. We can help you design a trip that fits your style – from fly-in luxury to adventurous mobile safaris.
Get in touch with Liesl Matthews, Camille Rowe, Ilze Fox, Lise Kargaard for tailored Botswana advice. Alternatively, email us now at info@southerndestinations.com and we’ll but you in touch directly.
