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Imagine yourself on a Botswana safari—an experience like no other in one of Africa’s most pristine and wildlife-rich regions.
You’ll glide silently through the shimmering waterways of the Okavango Delta, an ideal start to your Botswana safari itinerary.
Next, explore Chobe National Park River, known for its large elephant herds and game-rich riverbanks, particularly in the dry season when animals congregate by the water. It’s a thrill to see these majestic elephants roam freely along the Chobe River, their silhouettes casting long shadows in the golden sunset.
Further south, the Kalahari Desert provides a striking contrast to the lush Delta, with its expansive horizons and unique desert species. The Central Kalahari Game Reserve or the Makgadikgadi Pans will introduce you to a more rugged, yet equally captivating, side of Botswana’s wilderness.
This is not just a safari destination; it’s a journey into Africa’s untouched wilderness, offering an exclusive, authentic, and sustainable safari experience.
Discover the best times to visit, the must-see regions, and the incredible wildlife you will encounter. Get practical tips on accommodation options, how to get there, and what to pack.
Whether you’re planning your first safari or you’re a seasoned traveller, this is your ultimate resource for creating an unforgettable Botswana safari – time and again.
Why go on a Botswana Safari?
A Botswana safari stands out for its unrivalled wilderness, breathtaking landscapes, and abundant wildlife. Here’s why Botswana should top your list when planning a safari:
Exclusive Wilderness
Botswana’s policy of low-volume, high-value tourism ensures that you’ll experience its vast and remote wilderness areas with minimal crowds. You’ll often find yourself alone in nature, surrounded by nothing but the sights and sounds of the wild.
Incredible Wildlife Encounters
Botswana is home to Africa’s Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, rhinoceros, and buffalo. It’s also one of the best places to see the endangered African wild dog and boasts the largest population of elephants on the continent, particularly in Chobe National Park.
Diverse and Pristine Landscapes
From the lush wetlands of the Okavango Delta to the stark beauty of the Makgadikgadi Pans and the desert landscapes of the Kalahari, Botswana’s varied ecosystems provide a home to an astonishing array of wildlife. Each region offers a distinct safari experience, ensuring you’ll never have the same adventure twice. The country’s natural beauty is unparalleled, making every moment a visual feast.
Commitment to Conservation
Botswana is a leader in wildlife conservation, with over 40% of its land dedicated to protecting wildlife and natural habitats. By choosing a Botswana safari, you’re supporting sustainable tourism and helping to preserve the country’s unique ecosystems for future generations.
Luxurious Accommodation
Experience the height of luxury with Botswana’s exclusive lodges and camps. Enjoy world-class amenities, personalised service, and stunning views, all while being immersed in nature.
Unique Safari Activities
Beyond traditional game drives, a Botswana safari offers a range of unique activities such as mokoro (dugout canoe) safaris, boating safaris, walking safaris, and helicopter tours. These experiences provide different perspectives and unforgettable memories.
Rich Cultural Experiences
Engage with local communities and learn about the rich cultural heritage of the Batswana people. Participate in cultural tours and interact with the San Bushmen to gain insights into their ancestral traditions and way of life.
Exceptional Birdwatching
With over 400 bird species, Botswana is a birdwatcher’s paradise. The diverse habitats attract a wide variety of birds like the Southern Ground Hornbill and the Pel’s fishing owl, making it an ideal destination for ornithologists and nature enthusiasts alike.
Choosing Botswana for your safari means embracing an adventure that combines luxury, exclusivity, and unparalleled wildlife experiences.
When to Go on a Botswana Safari
The best time for your Botswana safari depends on what you want to experience. Botswana’s seasons dramatically affect its wildlife and landscapes, so understanding the climate and when animals are most active can enhance your safari experience.
Dry Season (May to October): Ideal for Wildlife Viewing
The dry season is considered the best time for a Botswana safari, especially for spotting large mammals. As water sources dry up, animals congregate around rivers and waterholes, making them easier to find.
- May to August: These months offer cooler daytime temperatures (around 20-25°C) and chilly nights. It’s an ideal time for game drives and mokoro safaris in the Okavango Delta, as the region begins to flood, and wildlife becomes concentrated around shrinking water sources.
- September to October: Temperatures start to rise, often reaching over 30°C. Wildlife viewing is at its peak as animals gather in large numbers around waterholes, particularly in Chobe National Park and Moremi Game Reserve.
Dry Season
Month Temperature (°C) Wildlife Activity Best Regions to Visit
May - August 20-25 (day), chilly nights Animals congregate around water sources Okavango Delta, Chobe National Park September - October 30+ Peak wildlife viewing Chobe National Park, Moremi Game Reserve
Wet Season (January to March): The Secret Season
The wet season, also called the “secret season,” sees fewer visitors but offers a unique safari experience. The rains bring lush, green landscapes, and many animals give birth, attracting predators. It’s also the best time for birdwatching as migratory species flock to Botswana’s waterways.
- January to March: During this period, Botswana’s landscape is transformed into a vibrant, green paradise. Game viewing can be more challenging, but the beautiful scenery and newborn animals make it a special time to visit. This is also the peak season for migratory birds, with over 400 species making the region a paradise for bird enthusiasts. Camps generally offer lower rates during this period, making it more affordable for those looking for a quieter experience.
Wet Season
Month Temperature (°C) Wildlife Activity Best Regions to Visit
January - March 25-35 Lush landscapes, newborn animals, migratory birds Okavango Delta, Moremi Game Reserve
Shoulder Season (November, December & April)
The shoulder months are transitional periods between the wet and dry seasons. During these months, wildlife sightings can still be excellent, and the lush landscapes make for picturesque scenes. Camps usually offer lower rates than in the peak season but higher than in the wet season. These months are perfect for travellers looking to avoid crowds while still enjoying abundant wildlife at a moderate cost.
- November & December: Early rains rejuvenate the vegetation, attracting wildlife, though not in the same concentrated numbers as the dry season. However, these months offer the chance for more private and relaxed Botswana safari trips, along with favourable pricing.
- April: As the rains subside, wildlife becomes easier to spot again, while the landscape remains lush. This is an excellent time for those seeking lower prices and fewer crowds without sacrificing the safari experience.
Shoulder Season
Month Temperature (°C) Wildlife Activity Best Regions to Visit
November, December & April 20-30 Lush landscapes, wildlife activity picks up Chobe National Park, Central Kalahari
Flooding Season (May to September): The Okavango Delta
The flooding season in the Okavango Delta is a spectacular time to visit. As the floodwaters from the Angolan highlands arrive, the delta transforms into a lush, water-filled paradise, attracting a plethora of wildlife.
- May to September: The delta is at its most beautiful, with waterways perfect for mokoro (dugout canoe) safaris. Wildlife is abundant, and the scenery is breathtaking, making it an ideal time for photographers and nature lovers.
Summary
- Dry Season (May to October): Best for large mammal sightings, cooler temperatures, and concentrated wildlife around water sources.
- Wet Season (November to April): Best for lush landscapes, birdwatching, and witnessing newborn animals.
- Flooding Season (May to September): Best for mokoro safaris and experiencing the Okavango Delta at its most vibrant.
By understanding the seasonal changes and planning accordingly, you can tailor your Botswana safari to match your interests and ensure an unforgettable adventure.
Top Destinations to Visit on a Botswana Safari
Botswana offers a variety of safari destinations, each with its own unique landscapes and wildlife. From the watery channels of the Okavango Delta to the vast deserts of the Kalahari, there’s something for every type of traveller.
Okavango Delta: Africa’s Largest Inland Delta
The Okavango Delta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of Africa’s most unique destinations and a truly unmissable Botswana safari destination. This massive inland delta floods seasonally, creating a lush ecosystem that attracts a diverse array of wildlife.
Wildlife: The Okavango Delta is a haven for elephants, lions, leopards, buffalo, hippos, and crocodiles. You might also spot African wild dogs, red lechwe, and sitatunga. Bird enthusiasts will be thrilled by over 400 species, including the African Skimmer and Pel’s fishing owl.
Top Activities: Glide silently through the delta’s waterways in a traditional mokoro (dugout canoe) for close-up views of wildlife. Walking safaris offer an intimate experience with nature, while boat safaris and game drives provide broader perspectives. For a breathtaking aerial view, consider a helicopter flight over the delta.
Chobe National Park: The Elephant Capital
Chobe National Park is renowned for its huge elephant population, with around 120,000 elephants roaming its plains. The park’s different regions, such as the Chobe Riverfront and Savuti Marsh, offer varied safari experiences.
Wildlife: Besides the impressive elephant herds, Chobe is home to lions, leopards, buffalo, hippos, and crocodiles. You can also see sable antelope, puku, and a variety of bird species, including Pennant-Winged Nightjar and Northern carmine bee-eaters.
Top Activities: A boat safari along the Chobe River is a must, where you’ll witness elephants, buffalo, and hippos coming to drink. Game drives in the Savuti region are exceptional, especially for predator sightings. Sunset cruises and fishing trips add to the adventure, making your experience even more memorable.
Moremi Game Reserve: Wildlife in Abundance
Located on the eastern side of the Okavango Delta, Moremi Game Reserve offers one of the richest concentrations of wildlife in Botswana. The reserve’s diverse ecosystems—from floodplains to forests—make it a prime location for spotting a variety of species.
Wildlife: Moremi is teeming with the Big Five (except rhinos), giraffes, zebras, wild dogs, cheetahs, and hyenas. Birdwatchers will delight in the large variety of birds, making it a paradise for nature lovers.
Top Activities: Game drives and walking safaris are the best ways to explore Moremi. Spotting predators in action and enjoying birdwatching are highlights. The reserve’s diverse landscapes provide stunning backdrops for photography enthusiasts.
Central Kalahari Game Reserve: Desert Beauty
For a truly remote safari experience, head to the Central Kalahari Game Reserve, one of the largest game reserves in the world. While the landscape is more arid than other regions, the wildlife sightings are no less impressive, especially after the rains.
Wildlife: The Central Kalahari is famous for its black-maned Kalahari lions, springbok, oryx, brown hyenas, and meerkats. The unique desert-adapted species make this region a fascinating place to explore.
Top Activities: Game drives through the Deception Valley are a must, offering a chance to see the desert’s wildlife up close. Cultural tours with the San Bushmen, the indigenous people of the region, provide a deeper understanding of the area’s history and traditions.
Makgadikgadi Pans: The Salt Flats
The Makgadikgadi Pans are the remnants of an ancient lake, now forming one of the largest salt flats in the world. During the wet season, the pans are transformed, attracting migratory birds and herds of zebra and wildebeest.
Wildlife: Wildebeest, zebras, and flamingos flock to the pans during the wet season, creating a vibrant spectacle. Meerkats are also a common sight, adding to the charm of this unique landscape.
Top Activities: Quad biking across the salt pans and watching the zebra migration are highlights of a visit to Makgadikgadi. In the dry season, the vast, eerie landscape offers spectacular stargazing, making it a perfect spot for night-time adventures.
Khwai: A Hidden Gem on the Delta’s Edge
Nestled along the northeastern tip of the Okavango Delta, Khwai is a community-run reserve that offers a more secluded and intimate safari experience. With its diverse ecosystems of woodlands, floodplains, and lagoons, Khwai provides excellent wildlife viewing opportunities while supporting sustainable tourism efforts.
Wildlife: The Khwai region is teeming with wildlife, including elephants, leopards, lions, and hippos. It’s also a great place to spot elusive African wild dogs and large herds of buffalo. Birdlife is abundant, with species such as the giant eagle owl and malachite kingfisher often making an appearance.
Top Activities: Night drives in Khwai are a standout feature, offering a chance to witness nocturnal species like the elusive aardvark and bush babies. Mokoro safaris are popular for exploring the waterways, and walking safaris provide a closer connection with nature. Birdwatching along the Khwai River is a must for any birding enthusiast.
Mababe: Gateway to the Wild
Situated between Chobe National Park and Moremi Game Reserve, Mababe offers a unique safari experience that blends the landscapes and wildlife of its more famous neighbors. Its location makes it a key wildlife corridor, ensuring remarkable animal sightings and a truly untamed safari experience.
Wildlife: Mababe is home to the Big Five, with frequent sightings of elephants, lions, and buffalo. Cheetahs, leopards, and hyenas are also common here, making it a hotspot for predator action. The wetlands and woodlands are a haven for birdlife, including species such as the saddle-billed stork and the African fish eagle.
Top Activities: Game drives through Mababe’s diverse landscapes provide thrilling opportunities for wildlife photography, particularly for predators. Water-based activities such as mokoro trips or boat safaris along the waterways are ideal for spotting hippos and crocodiles. Nature walks, guided by local experts, offer fascinating insights into the region’s flora and fauna.
The Panhandle: Gateway to the Okavango Delta’s Waterways
The Panhandle marks the northwestern entrance to the Okavango Delta, where the Okavango River flows into Botswana from Angola. This lush, riverine environment is known for its serene waterways and is a birdwatcher’s paradise, offering a different, quieter safari experience compared to the busier areas of the delta.
Wildlife: While large predators are less common in the Panhandle, the region is rich in aquatic species, including hippos, crocodiles, and an impressive array of birdlife such as the African darter, goliath heron, and the rare Pel’s fishing owl. Fishermen will be thrilled by the opportunity to catch the famed tigerfish in these waters.
Top Activities: The Panhandle is ideal for water-based activities such as mokoro rides and boat safaris, providing a peaceful way to observe the aquatic wildlife and bird species. Fishing trips are a major draw for those seeking adventure on the water, and cultural visits to nearby villages offer a glimpse into local life along the delta’s edge.
Accommodation on a Botswana Safari
Whether you’re looking for a luxury escape or an adventurous camping experience, Botswana safari lodges have a range of accommodation options to suit your preferences.
1. Luxury Lodges
Botswana is famous for its high-end safari lodges, which offer all the comforts of a five-star hotel while immersing you in the wilderness. These lodges often include private game drives, gourmet dining, and stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.
Top Picks: Sanctuary Chief’s Camp (Okavango Delta), Belmond Savute Elephant Lodge (Chobe National Park), Zarafa Camp (Okavango Delta).
2. Tented Camps
For a more intimate experience, tented camps provide the perfect balance of comfort and adventure. You’ll sleep under canvas, surrounded by the sounds of the bush, but still enjoy hot showers, comfortable beds, and excellent service.
3. Mobile Camping Safaris
Mobile camping safaris are ideal for those who want to stay as close to nature as possible. These camps move with you through different regions, allowing you to experience a range of environments and wildlife while still enjoying a high level of comfort.
Cost of a Botswana Safari
Botswana offers a range of safari experiences to suit mid-range to luxury safari experiences. Our expertly curated tours cover accommodation, local transport, all meals, and game drives, providing an immersive experience beyond the ordinary for this Southern African gem.
We focus on delivering an exceptional journey that is perfectly aligned with your budget, interests, and expectations. Let our Botswana safari travel experts guide you through the planning process.
Wildlife on a Botswana Safari
A Botswana safari is a wildlife enthusiast’s dream, offering some of the best game viewing in Africa. Botswana’s protected parks and reserves are home to a variety of species, from large predators to rare birds. The country’s ecosystems support a complex food chain where every species plays a vital role.
The Big Five
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Elephant: Africa’s Giants
Known locally as “Tembo,” elephants are the giants of Botswana’s wilderness.
Population: Botswana is home to over 130,000 elephants, the largest population in Africa. These magnificent creatures roam freely, especially in Chobe National Park and the Okavango Delta.
Social Structure: Elephants live in matriarchal family groups of 10 to 20 individuals, which can swell to over 100 around watering holes during the dry season.
Diet: Herbivores can consume 5% of their body weight in vegetation, up to 300kg, daily. This includes grasses, leaves, bark, and fruit. They drink up to 200 litres of water per day.
Unique Traits: Known for their massive size and migratory patterns, they travel great distances in search of food and water.
Ecosystem Role: By uprooting trees and creating clearings, elephants shape their environment, benefiting other species like zebras and antelopes.
Predators: While adults have few natural predators, calves are sometimes vulnerable to lions and crocodiles.
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Lion: Kings of the Savanna
Referred to as “Tau” by the locals, lions are the apex predators of Botswana.
Population: Thriving in regions like Savuti in Chobe National Park and Moremi Game Reserve. The black-maned Kalahari lions are unique to the Central Kalahari Game Reserve.
Social Structure: Lions live in prides of up to 10-15 members, including females, cubs, and one or more dominant males. Prides in Savuti can have as many as 30 members due to abundant prey.
Diet: Carnivores hunting medium to large herbivores such as zebras, wildebeests, buffaloes, and even elephants when prey is scarce.
Hunting Habits: Often hunt at night, using darkness to ambush prey. In the Kalahari, they target gemsbok and springbok, while in the Okavango, they pursue buffalo and lechwe.
Ecosystem Role: As apex predators, lions control herbivore populations, ensuring no single species dominates the ecosystem.
Predators: No natural predators, but face conflicts with other lions and challenges from hyenas.
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Leopard: The Elusive Hunters
Called “Nkwe” by the locals, leopards are the most elusive of the Big Five. Their solitary and stealthy nature makes them a thrilling sight.
Population: Found throughout Botswana, particularly in the Okavango Delta and Moremi Game Reserve.
Social Structure: Solitary animals with males defending large territories that overlap with those of several females. Females are known to defend their smaller territories from other females.
Diet: Opportunistic hunters preying on impalas, warthogs, and small mammals. Their ability to climb trees allows them to ambush prey from above. Did you know lions in fact have a broad diet and have been seen consuming alates (flying termites) emerging from the mound.
Unique Traits: Leopards in Botswana often hunt near water sources in the Okavango Delta, using their spotted coats for perfect camouflage in the thick bush.
Ecosystem Role: Control populations of small to medium-sized mammals, ensuring prey species like antelope and baboons are kept in check.
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Buffalo: Africa’s Tank
Known as “Nare” in Setswana, buffalo are among the most formidable herbivores in Africa. Their aggressive nature when threatened makes them a force to be reckoned with.
Population: Large herds can be found in Chobe National Park and Linyanti, often seen grazing near water sources.
Social Structure: Buffalo live in large herds, sometimes numbering in the thousands. Herds provide protection from predators, with the strongest individuals forming a defensive ring around the calves. Older males known as “dagga boys”, will fall behind and form bachelor groups once they are no longer mating. These groups are notoriously bad tempered.
Diet: Grazers feeding primarily on grasses. They require abundant water and are often found near rivers and wetlands.
Ecosystem Role: Key grazers that help maintain grassland ecosystems by preventing overgrowth. Their dung supports a variety of smaller species, such as dung beetles, and works as a “compost” ensuring essential nutrients are returned back into the ground.
Predators: Lions are the primary predators, often targeting weak or young individuals. However, buffalo are capable of defending themselves, and adult bulls are known to charge lions to protect the herd.
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Rhinoceros: A Conservation Success Story
Referred to as “Tshukudu,” rhinos are a symbol of conservation success in Botswana. Both black and white rhinos have been reintroduced into protected areas.
Population: Home to both black and white rhinoceroses, though they are more difficult to spot due to their endangered status. The reintroduction of rhinos into protected areas like the Okavango Delta is a major conservation success story and a highlight of a Botswana safari.
Social Structure: Generally solitary, though females and their calves may form small groups. Black rhinos are more solitary and aggressive, while white rhinos are more social.
Diet: Black rhinos are browsers, feeding on leaves and shrubs, while white rhinos are grazers, eating primarily grass.
Ecosystem Role: Rhinos help shape the environment by grazing and browsing, which influences the growth of plant species. Their dung provides nutrients for plants and supports insect populations.
Predators: Few natural predators due to their size, but calves are vulnerable to lions and hyenas. The biggest threat to rhinos is poaching for their horns.
Other Notable Wildlife
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African Wild Dog: Endangered Predators
Locally called “Letlotse,” African wild dogs are one of the continent’s most endangered predators.
Population: Botswana is one of the last strongholds for the African wild dog, particularly in Moremi Game Reserve.
Social Structure: Live in packs ranging from 6 to 20 individuals, with a dominant breeding pair. Known for their high level of social cooperation, often taking care of injured or ill pack members. Wild Dogs are the only African carnivore where the older members in the pack are looked after by the healthy members.
Diet: Hunt in packs and are highly efficient predators, primarily targeting medium-sized antelopes such as impalas and lechwe. Their coordinated hunting strategy and incredible stamina make them one of the most successful hunters in the animal kingdom. Observing a pack of African wild dogs on the hunt is a thrilling highlight of any Botswana safari, showcasing their remarkable teamwork and agility.
Predators: Lions are their main competitors and frequently kill wild dogs, though they do not usually eat them, this is done more as a way to eliminate competition.
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Hippo and Crocodile: Kings of the Water
Hippos: Known as “Kubu,” these massive herbivores spend most of their day submerged in water to stay cool. They emerge at night to graze on grasses and can cover up to 10km.
Crocodiles: The Nile crocodile, or “Kwena,” is one of the largest reptiles in the world, and Botswana’s waterways provide a perfect habitat.
Where to See Them: The Okavango Delta and Chobe River are home to large populations of hippos and crocodiles, making them ideal spots for observing these water giants.
Botswana diverse ecosystems and commitment to conservation make it a premier destination for wildlife enthusiasts. Whether you’re tracking the Big Five or observing rare birds, a Botswana safari promises unforgettable encounters with nature.
How to get to your Botswana Safari
Reaching Botswana is straightforward, with multiple access points depending on your safari destination.
International Flights
Most international visitors arrive via Maun Airport, the main gateway to the Okavango Delta, or Kasane Airport, near Chobe National Park. Both airports have direct flights from Johannesburg, South Africa, which serves as the primary hub for international flights.
Maun Airport: The primary airport for travellers heading to the Okavango Delta and Moremi Game Reserve.
Kasane Airport: Convenient for Chobe National Park, and also close to Victoria Falls, making it ideal for multi-destination trips.
Charter Flights
Due to the remote nature of many Botswana safari lodges, you may need to take a scheduled charter flight from Maun or Kasane to reach your destination. These small planes can land on airstrips near the lodges, offering an incredible aerial view of Botswana’s landscapes.
Key Points:
Convenient Access: Charter flights provide seamless access to remote safari lodges, ensuring you spend more time enjoying your adventure and less time traveling.
Scenic Views: Experience breathtaking aerial views of Botswana’s diverse landscapes, from the lush Okavango Delta to the expansive Kalahari Desert.
Flexible Scheduling: Scheduled charters provide a seamless way to sync your travel plans with your Botswana safari adventure. While the airline company sets flight times and routes the day before each journey, this ensures that your travel is optimised for the best possible experience. Embrace the spontaneity and enjoy the journey, knowing that every detail is taken care of for you!
Exclusive Experience: Enjoy the privacy and comfort of a small aircraft, often with personalised service and fewer passengers.
Wildlife Spotting: The journey itself becomes part of the adventure, with opportunities to spot wildlife from above as you fly over game reserves and national parks.
Operators like Mack Air, Delta Air, and Major Blue Air provide reliable charter services, ensuring a smooth and luxurious start to your Botswana safari experience.
About Botswana: Country and People
Botswana is a country rich in natural beauty and cultural heritage. While its wildlife draws visitors from around the globe, the warmth and hospitality of its people leave a lasting impression.
Geography and Population
Botswana is located in Southern Africa, bordered by Namibia, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and South Africa. Covering an area of approximately 581,730 square kilometres, it is slightly larger than France.
Despite its vast land area, Botswana has a relatively small population of just over 2.4 million people. Most of the population resides in urban centres, such as the capital, Gaborone, Francistown, and Maun, leaving much of the country’s wilderness areas untouched. The country is predominantly flat, with the Kalahari Desert covering up to 70% of its land area.
Culture and People
The people of Botswana, known as Batswana, are renowned for their friendliness and welcoming nature. The country has a rich cultural history, with music, dance, and storytelling playing an important role in daily life. Traditional music often features instruments like the segaba (a single-stringed violin) and the setinkane (a type of thumb piano). Dance is also integral, with various traditional dances performed during festivals and ceremonies.
Botswana is also home to the San Bushmen, one of the world’s oldest cultures, who have lived in the Kalahari for thousands of years. The San are known for their deep knowledge of the natural environment and their traditional hunting and gathering lifestyle. Visitors can experience their way of life through cultural tours, which offer insights into their unique skills, such as tracking and survival techniques.
Languages
The official language of Botswana is English, which is used in government and business. However, Setswana is the national language and is spoken by the majority of the population. Other languages spoken in Botswana include Kalanga, Sekgalagadi, and various San languages.
Economy
Botswana has one of the fastest-growing economies in Africa, largely due to its diamond mining industry. The country is also known for its beef exports and tourism, particularly eco-tourism, which plays a significant role in its economy. Botswana’s commitment to conservation and sustainable tourism has made it a model for other countries in the region.
Festivals and Events
Botswana hosts several cultural festivals and events throughout the year. One of the most notable is the Maitisong Festival, held annually in Gaborone, which celebrates the performing arts with music, theatre, and dance performances. The Dithubaruba Cultural Festival in Molepolole highlights traditional Setswana culture, including music, dance, and traditional cuisine. Experiencing this cultural richness is a unique highlight of a Botswana safari, offering visitors a deeper understanding of the country’s history and traditions
Safety
Botswana is known for its political stability and safety, making it a reliable and secure destination for travellers. The country’s well-managed parks and reserves ensure a safe and enjoyable safari experience.
However, as with any travel destination, it is important to take standard precautions:
- Health Precautions: Ensure you have the necessary vaccinations and carry any required medications. Use insect repellent to protect against mosquito bites, especially in the wet season.
- Personal Safety: Keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings, particularly in urban areas.
- Wildlife Safety: Always follow the guidance of your safari guides and maintain a safe distance from wildlife.
What to Pack for your Botswana Safari
Prepare for an unforgettable journey through Botswana’s breathtaking landscapes, where every moment is a thrilling encounter with nature’s wonders. Here’s your ultimate packing guide to ensure you experience the epitome of luxury and excitement on your safari:
What to Wear on a Botswana Safari
- Neutral-Coloured Clothing: Choose sophisticated, lightweight fabrics in shades of khaki, beige, and olive. These hues blend seamlessly with the environment and exude timeless safari chic. Avoid bright colours to maintain the serenity of the wilderness. Expert guides stand by the motto, “Nothing bright/nothing white.” While you might get away with bright colours seated in a vehicle during a game drive, This rule of thumb applies most when doing a walking safari.
- Warm Layers: As the sun sets and the African night unfolds, temperatures can drop dramatically, especially during the dry season. Pack a plush fleece or a stylish jacket for those early morning and evening game drives.
- Comfortable Footwear: For walking safaris, opt for sturdy yet comfortable walking shoes that provide support and style. For relaxing around the camp, a pair of elegant sandals will keep you comfortable and chic.
- Hat and Sunglasses: Protect yourself from the intense African sun with a wide-brimmed hat and designer sunglasses. These accessories not only offer protection but also add a touch of glamour to your Botswana safari ensemble.
Gear and Essentials
- Binoculars: Elevate your wildlife viewing experience with a premium pair of binoculars. Spotting distant animals becomes an exhilarating adventure with the clarity and precision of top-tier optics.
- Camera: Capture the majestic beauty of Botswana safari wildlife with a high-quality camera equipped with a powerful zoom lens. Every snapshot will be a masterpiece, preserving your memories in stunning detail.
- Insect Repellent: During the wet season, mosquitoes can be more prevalent. Ensure your comfort with a high-end insect repellent that keeps the bugs at bay without compromising on luxury.
- Sunscreen: The African sun is strong year-round. Protect your skin with a high-SPF sunscreen that offers superior protection while nourishing your skin.
A Botswana safari transcends the concept of a mere holiday—it’s an exhilarating expedition into the heart of one of Africa’s last great wildernesses. Prepare to be captivated by the untamed splendour of Botswana, where every encounter is a story waiting to be told, and every vista is a masterpiece of nature’s artistry.
