The Ultimate Guide to a Botswana Safari: Everything you need to know and 6 places you should visit

When to go on Safari to Botswana

Botswana is a year-round safari destination, but the best time to visit depends on what you want to see and do. In this blog, we'll take a closer look at when is the best time to go for wildlife on a Botswana safari.

Dry Season (May - October)

The dry season, also known as the high season, is the most popular time to go on a Botswana safari. From May to October, the weather is dry and the temperatures are cooler, making it an ideal time for wildlife viewing. During this time, animals tend to gather around water sources, making it easier to spot them. The grass is also shorter, making it easier to see animals that are hiding in the bush. This is also the best time to visit the Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park, two of Botswana's top wildlife destinations. However, with the dry weather comes higher prices and larger crowds, so it's important to book your safari well in advance.

Wet Season (November - April)

The wet season, also known as the green season, runs from November to April. During this time, the temperatures are hot and the humidity is high, but the landscape is lush and green, and the wildlife is abundant. This is the best time to see migratory birds, as well as newborn animals, which are always a treat to witness. The wet season is also the best time to visit the Central Kalahari Game Reserve, which is home to a variety of desert-adapted animals, including the Kalahari lion and the brown hyena. However, the wet season can also mean flooded roads, muddy conditions, and limited access to certain areas, so it's important to check with your safari operator before booking.

Shoulder Seasons (April - May, November)

The shoulder seasons, which run from April to May and November, are a great time to visit Botswana for those who want to avoid the crowds and take advantage of lower prices. During these months, the weather is mild, and there is still plenty of wildlife to see. The shoulder season is also a great time to visit the Makgadikgadi Pans, a stunning landscape of salt flats and grasslands that is home to large herds of zebra and wildebeest.

To summarise  the best time to go on a Botswana safari for wildlife depends on what you want to see and do. The dry season is the best time for wildlife viewing and for visiting the Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park, but it can be crowded and expensive. The wet season is the best time to see newborn animals and migratory birds, but the conditions can be muddy and difficult to navigate. The shoulder seasons offer a great compromise between price and wildlife viewing opportunities, and they are a great time to visit less crowded areas like the Makgadikgadi Pans. Whatever time of year you choose to visit, a Botswana safari promises an unforgettable wildlife experience.

What you can expect to see on a Safari to Botswana

Botswana is a wildlife enthusiast's paradise, offering visitors the chance to see some of the most impressive and diverse wildlife in Africa. From elephants and lions to giraffes and hippos, a Botswana safari promises an unforgettable wildlife experience. In this blog, we'll take a closer look at the incredible wildlife you can expect to see on a Botswana safari.

Elephants

Botswana is home to the largest population of elephants in Africa, making it one of the best places in the world to see these majestic creatures up close. Elephants can be found in many of Botswana's national parks and game reserves, including Chobe National Park and the Okavango Delta. Watching a herd of elephants bathing in a river or walking across the savannah is a truly awe-inspiring experience.

Lions

Lions are one of the most iconic animals in Africa and are a major draw for visitors to Botswana. The country is home to a healthy population of lions, and sightings are common on game drives and walking safaris. Watching a pride of lions lounging in the shade or stalking their prey is a thrilling experience that is sure to stay with you for years to come.

Leopards

Leopards are elusive creatures that are notoriously difficult to spot, but Botswana is one of the best places in Africa to see them in the wild. These solitary hunters are found in many of Botswana's national parks and game reserves, including Moremi Game Reserve and the Okavango Delta. While sightings can never be guaranteed, the thrill of spotting a leopard in the wild is well worth the effort.

Giraffes

With their long necks and striking patterns, giraffes are one of the most recognizable animals in Africa. Botswana is home to both the Masai and the South African giraffe, and they can be found in many of the country's national parks and game reserves. Watching a giraffe gracefully move through the bush or stretch to reach leaves on a high branch is a beautiful sight to behold.

Hippos

Hippos are one of the most dangerous animals in Africa, but they are also one of the most fascinating to watch. These massive creatures spend most of their days submerged in water to keep cool, but they come ashore at night to graze. Hippos can be found in many of Botswana's rivers and waterways, including the Chobe River and the Okavango Delta.

Zebras

Zebras are one of Africa's most iconic animals, known for their distinctive black and white stripes. Botswana is home to both the plains and the mountain zebra, and they can be found in many of the country's national parks and game reserves. Watching a herd of zebras running across the savannah is a sight to behold and a reminder of the incredible diversity of wildlife in Botswana.

Transform your Botswana Safari into an Unforgettable Adventure with Our Expert Tips

• Choose the right time of year: The best time to visit Botswana depends on what you want to see and do. Speak to your safari expert about what you expect to see and experience and we can point you in the right direction. Rates tend to increase during peak season, however it doesn't mean that travelling to Botswana in the other seasons can't be equally rewarding.

• Book your safari well in advance: Botswana is a popular safari destination, and the best lodges and camps can book up months in advance. To avoid disappointment, it's best to book your safari as early as possible. Many lodges and camps offer stay/pay promotions, where you pay for 3 nights and stay for 3 - these specials are only available if the camp has space.

• Choose the right lodge or camp: Botswana has a range of lodges and camps, from budget to luxury. When choosing a lodge or camp, consider the location, amenities, and price. Some lodges and camps are located in private concessions, which offer a more exclusive and personalized safari experience. Our safari experts have personally travelled to Botswana and experienced the camps we offer first hand - this means that they are well placed to offer you insider access and expert advice.

• Pack the right clothing and gear: Botswana can have extreme temperatures, so it's important to pack the right things. Lightweight, breathable clothing is essential, as well as a good pair of walking shoes. Insect repellent, sunscreen, and a hat are also must-haves. Binoculars and a camera are also essential for wildlife viewing.

• Listen to your guide: Your safari guide is an expert in the local wildlife and environment. They also provide you with valuable insights into the behavior of animals and help you spot wildlife that you might otherwise miss.

• Respect the wildlife: Botswana has some of the most amazing wildlife on the planet, and it's important to respect and protect it. Keep a safe distance from animals and never approach them on foot. Follow the park rules and regulations, which are in place to protect both visitors and wildlife.

• Take time to enjoy the experience: A Botswana safari is a unique and unforgettable experience. Take time to soak it all in, relax, and enjoy the moment. Don't worry about ticking off a checklist of animals or rushing from one sighting to the next. Take time to appreciate the natural beauty and wonder of Botswana.

Are you ready to explore the Okavango Delta like never before? Contact us to book your obligation free, 1 hour complimentary Safari Consultation!