How to safari in Botswana 5 things to know about a safari in Botswana

Here are 5 things you need to know about how to safari in Botswana. Welcome, fellow adventurers, to this enchanting land. In Botswana, the sun is hot, the wildlife is wild, and the gin is cold. Cheers to a safari like no other!

As Bill Bryson once said, “I can’t think of anything that excites a greater sense of childlike wonder than to be in a country where you are ignorant of almost everything.” So, prepare to go somewhere different and be blissfully surprised by Botswana’s watery wonderlands and dry, dusty back roads.

When is the Best Time to Visit

Let’s start with the basics – Before you pack your bags and hop on the next plane, you’ll want to know the best time to go to Botswana for a safari? Well, it all depends on what you want to see. The best time to see wildlife is from May to September when the weather is dry and cool. During these months, the animals are more active and easier to spot. The lack of rain means they congregate around water holes and along river banks, making them easier to see. Plus, the grass is short, so sneaky predators can’t hide as easily. The annual flood waters reach the Okavango Delta around May, filling all the channels and trapping animals on the various islands that make up the paradise known as the Okavango Delta. Of course, this also means it’s the high season for tourists, so expect to pay a premium. 

But if you’re down to save a few bucks and don’t mind a little rain and the summer heat (with the savings, you can splash out on a private plunge pool), then November to April season is calling your name. The green season boasts a lush landscape and a ton of chirpy migratory birds, like the brightly coloured carmine bee-eater and beautiful blue woodland kingfisher. It’s so green that the Delta looks like a giant golf course from above. And don’t forget it’s calving season for many animals – cue the cutest of them all, baby warthogs. 

The Cost of a Safari in Botswana

Mom always warned us against discussing money, but we simply can’t resist sharing some sound advice. Let’s get real, Safari lodges are known for their high prices, and this is mainly due to the exclusivity they offer. Botswana has opted for a tourism model that charges more but accommodates fewer people. Versus mass tourism, this conservation model helps preserve the region’s delicate ecosystem while offering guests a unique experience without the crowds. It’s like a giant VIP room of nature experiences. The result? You get a vast, untamed wilderness all to yourself (minus a few cheeky monkeys). Not bad, huh? 

There’s no beating around the bush – this level of exclusivity is costly. The cost of a simple tented camp in Botswana will set you back the same as a top-of-the-line hotel in New York or Paris, minus the fancy bells and whistles. No butlers or room service, sorry.

So, what’s the damage? It depends on when you go, how much you want to spend, and what you want to do. But plan on shelling out anywhere from $700 to $4000 per person per night. The experience improves as the price increases, so expect better guides, better hosts, better experiences and better food at the higher-priced lodges. 

But here’s the silver lining – your tourism dollars are doing some serious good. You’re supporting conservation efforts and local communities while having the time of your life. So go ahead and treat yourself to the ultimate nature experience. You deserve it.

Getting Around in Style

Fortunately, most safaris operators include air transfers between camps, so you can travel in style and comfort. Fly Like an Eagle (or a rock star) in small planes – a Caravan or smaller Cessna (bush taxis) or helicopters, offering stunning views of the landscape below.

But be warned: these planes can be a bit bumpy, so if you’re prone to motion sickness, take some medication beforehand. Also, remember that luggage restrictions apply on these flights, but most lodges include laundry, making packing light a breeze. 

Activities on Safari

So, what can you expect to do on a Botswana safari? Plenty. From game drives to boat safaris to walking tours.

Game drives are the most popular activity and for good reason. You’ll head out in an open-air vehicle with a knowledgeable guide who will help you spot all the animals, from lions to elephants to giraffes. Boat safaris are also a great way to see wildlife, as you’ll glide along the waterways and spot hippos, crocodiles, and birds.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even go on a walking safari, where you’ll get up close and personal with the wildlife. But don’t worry, you’ll be accompanied by an armed guide who will keep you safe.

Where to Go in Botswana

Now, listen up, travellers! Suppose you want to make the most of your safari in Botswana. In that case, you’ll need to do a bit of region hopping, just like you would when island hopping in Seychelles – but without the fruity drinks with little umbrellas. 

And here’s our top tip for maximum safari fun: combine a land and water experience! That way, you can glide along the channels of the Delta in a mokoro exploring up close, and then kick things up a notch by tracking the big 5 on an open game vehicle – many lodges offer either land or water and so it’s always good to combine these lodges for the best experience. 

When it comes to where to go in Botswana, several regions are sure to delight any safari enthusiast. Of course, the Okavango Delta is a top contender, with its winding waterways and lush islands attracting diverse wildlife. But pay attention to some of the other areas Botswana has to offer.

For starters, the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans offer a surreal landscape, unlike anything you’ve ever seen. Imagine a vast expanse of white, cracked earth stretching out as far as the eye can see – it’s like walking on the moon, but with more flamingos. This is where you get to walk with Bushman, who will point out all the rare desert-adapted species, such as aardvarks, brown hyenas and the charming meerkats that rule the Pans. And suppose you’re lucky enough to visit during the rainy season (Feb and March). In that case, you might even witness the migration of zebras across the pans – the second largest in Africa. 

Meanwhile, the Chobe Riverfront is a paradise for elephant lovers, with the largest concentration of elephants in Africa. Watching these majestic creatures splash and play in the river is a sight to behold. And with plenty of other wildlife, such as lions, leopards, and buffalo, also in the area, you’re sure to have a memorable safari experience.

For those looking for a more off-the-beaten-path adventure, Linyanti is a lesser-known region worth visiting. This remote corner of Botswana is home to a wide range of wildlife, including rare species such as the African wild dog and the sitatunga antelope. And with fewer tourists in the area, you’ll feel like you have the savanna all to yourself.

Last but not least, the Savuti Marsh is another remote and hidden place worth exploring. This area is known for its large predator populations, including lions, hyenas, and cheetahs. And if you’re lucky, you might spot some rarer species, such as the wild dog. So, whether you’re a seasoned safari-goer or a first-timer, Botswana has something for everyone.