Botswana

Africa's premier wilderness destination where the Okavango Delta meets the Kalahari in spectacular fashion

Botswana Wildlife

Untamed African Wilderness

Botswana is the gold standard of African safari destinations. Home to the magnificent Okavango Delta, the vast Kalahari Desert, and the wildlife-rich Chobe National Park, this landlocked nation offers some of the most exclusive and pristine wilderness experiences on the continent.

The Okavango Delta is a natural wonder unlike any other: a vast inland river delta that floods the Kalahari sands each year, creating a lush oasis that attracts extraordinary concentrations of wildlife. Exploring by traditional mokoro canoe through lily-covered channels is an unforgettable experience.

Botswana's commitment to low-impact, high-value tourism means fewer crowds and more authentic encounters with nature. The country has set aside nearly 40 percent of its land for conservation, making it a sanctuary for elephants, lions, leopards, wild dogs, and hundreds of bird species.

Quick Facts

Best Season
May-Oct
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Avg Temperature
18-33°C
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Budget Range
$200-1500/day
Flight Time
17-22 hrs from US
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Language
English & Setswana
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Currency
Botswana Pula
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Visa
Visa-free 90 days
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Best For
Luxury Safari

Top Experiences

Okavango Delta

Okavango Delta Mokoro Safari

Glide through crystal-clear channels in a traditional dugout canoe, surrounded by hippos, elephants, and colorful bird life in this UNESCO World Heritage wetland.

Chobe Elephants

Chobe River Safari

Cruise along the Chobe River past massive herds of elephants at the waterhole, along with buffalo, hippos, crocodiles, and an incredible array of birdlife.

Kalahari Desert

Kalahari Desert Experience

Explore the vast red sands of the Central Kalahari Game Reserve, tracking black-maned lions and learning survival skills with the indigenous San Bushmen.

Scenic Flight

Scenic Delta Flight

Soar above the Okavango Delta in a light aircraft for breathtaking aerial views of winding waterways, islands, and wildlife moving across the floodplains below.

Makgadikgadi Pans

Makgadikgadi Salt Pans

Walk across one of the largest salt flats in the world, sleep under star-filled skies, and witness the zebra migration during the green season rains.

Wild Dogs

Track African Wild Dogs

Botswana is one of the best places to see endangered African wild dogs in the Okavango and Linyanti areas, with some of Africa's largest remaining packs.

Best Time to Visit

Green Season (Nov-Mar)

25-35°C

Summer rains transform the Kalahari into lush grasslands. Excellent birding, zebra migration at Makgadikgadi. Lower prices but some roads impassable.

Shoulder (Oct-Nov)

28-38°C

Very hot but dramatic. Wildlife concentrated at remaining water. First rains bring spectacular thunderstorms. Good value before peak season prices.

Travel Tips

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Budget Expectations

Botswana is a premium destination. Expect $500-1500/day for quality lodges. Budget travelers can self-drive and camp in Chobe and Makgadikgadi for less.

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Malaria Prevention

Malaria is present in northern Botswana, especially during wet season. Take prophylaxis, use DEET repellent, and sleep under mosquito nets.

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Neutral Safari Wear

Pack khaki, olive, and earth-toned clothing. Layers are essential as mornings can be cold in open safari vehicles. A warm fleece is vital for winter game drives.

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Bring Good Optics

Quality binoculars are essential for spotting distant wildlife and birds. A camera with a long zoom lens will capture the incredible encounters you will experience.

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4x4 for Self-Drive

Self-driving requires a fully equipped 4x4 with camping gear, GPS, and satellite phone. Roads are sandy tracks. Book a reputable rental company in Maun.

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Carry US Dollars

US dollars are widely accepted at lodges and for park fees. Carry small denominations for tips. ATMs are available in Maun and Kasane only.

Photo Gallery

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