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Botswana is one of the best Big Five safari destinations in Africa because of its unspoiled wilderness, uncrowded reserves and parks, as well as eco-conscious experiences.
Why Should You Go on a Big Five Safari in Botswana?
Pristine Environments
Encounter the Big Five in Botswana’s pristine, unspoiled wilderness. From the stunning waterways that make up the Okavango Delta and the unspoiled Chobe National Park to the mesmerising desert landscape of the Kgalagadi, the environments you’ll travel through while on a Botswana safari are awe-inspiring.
Less Crowded Reserves
Botswana boasts exclusive reserves and private concessions with fewer tourists. This means uncrowded spaces, allowing you to feel truly immersed in nature. This also allows for Big Five sightings where your safari vehicle is the only one around!
Dramatic Predator-Prey Interactions
The Big Five includes two predators: leopards and lions. While on a safari in Botswana, you may have the opportunity to witness incredible predator-prey interactions, like a group of lionesses stalking a herd of wildebeest or a leopard pouncing on an impala.
Sustainable Safari Experience
Travelling to Botswana for a Big Five safari gives you the opportunity to support conservation-focused tourism that protects iconic wildlife and environments. From solar-powered boats and safari vehicles to rhino conservation projects, you’ll participate in ecotourism initiatives that make a difference.
Authentic Safari Experience
Botswana safaris offer intimate experiences that are perfect for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers. Not only is it home to the Big Five, but Botswana is made up of an array of stunning locations that make for incredible photo backdrops.
Best Destinations for a Big Five Safari in Botswana
Okavango Delta
The world’s largest inland delta, the Okavango Delta is famous for its scenic floodplains and abundant wildlife. It’s an excellent wildlife destination as it’s home to the Big Five (rhino sightings are rare, though) as well as hippos, zebras, and giraffes.
A fantastic way to spot members of the Big Five is by going on a mokoro safari. Set off in a dugout canoe with your guide to see the array of animals on the banks.
Chobe National Park
Chobe National Park is Botswana’s most biologically diverse park, meaning that it’s a haven for wildlife. This makes it a must-visit destination for a Big Five safari in Botswana.
From large herds of elephants seen roaming the wilderness to dramatic interactions between big cats and their prey, a safari in Chobe National Park will leave you with memories to last a lifetime!
Moremi Game Reserve
Moremi Game Reserve is the oldest protected reserve in the Okavango Delta and combines mopane woodland and floodplains, offering diverse habitats and rich wildlife.
Some of the most endangered African species call this reserve home, including white and black rhinos and lions. Moremi also boasts over 500 species of birds, making this destination a fantastic choice for birders.
Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park
The red sand dunes and semi-arid setting offer incredible backdrops for game drives and photographic safaris. Large herds of buffalo roam this park, and big cats are easily seen here. Keep your eyes open for the iconic black-maned lions of Kgalagadi as well as leopards prowling around.
Selinda Reserve
This reserve is renowned for its exclusivity and high-density wildlife. Of the Big Five, lions are often spotted here. Selinda’s animal populations are thriving due to the reserve being part of the Great Plains Project, which focuses on conservation tourism.
5 Tips for a Big Five Safari in Botswana
1. Go in the Dry Season
Book your Big Five safari in Botswana during the dry season, from May to October. At this time of the year, water sources are scarce, so animals gather around the last remaining waterholes, making wildlife spotting easier.
2. Go With Experienced Guides
Book tours with experienced guides who specialise in Big Five tracking. Discover Africa works exclusively with trusted partners who are experts in the field, so when you book with us, you know you’ll be guided by knowledgeable professionals.
3. Wear Safari Colours
Wear lightweight, neutral-coloured clothing on your safari. This will help you be more comfortable in the heat and blend in better with the environment.
Also, binoculars are a good idea to pack, as they really enhance your safari experience by allowing you to see into dense brush where animals may be hiding.
4. Be Patient
While on safari, it’s important to be patient and persistent, as some Big Five members, like the leopard, are elusive. Allocate time for many game drives to maximise your chances of seeing all five species.
5. Pack Photography Equipment
For the best shots possible during your Big Five safari, pack telephoto lenses for capturing distant wildlife.
