Safari in Botswana

Rains continue, often in short, intense bursts, leaving the air fresh and the vegetation dense. Temperatures remain warm, making for comfortable safari conditions between showers.

Predators are active, taking advantage of the abundant young prey. The zebra migration is often still in full swing across the Makgadikgadi and Nxai Pans, a truly magnificent sight.

We recommend focusing on the Kalahari parks to witness the zebra migration and the incredible interactions between predators and their vulnerable young.

The rains begin to lessen towards the end of March, but the landscape remains wonderfully green and vibrant. Days are warm, and the air is often clear after the last of the seasonal downpours.

With water still widely available, wildlife is dispersed, offering a more intimate viewing experience. Birdlife remains phenomenal, and the Okavango Delta's water levels start to rise.

We find March perfect for photography, with dramatic skies and lush backdrops, especially in the southern Okavango Delta as it begins to fill.

April marks a beautiful transition as the rains largely cease, and the bush slowly begins to dry out. Days are warm and sunny, with cooler evenings, making for very pleasant weather.

Water levels in the Okavango Delta are noticeably rising, attracting more animals to its fringes. Game viewing improves as the vegetation thins, and migratory birds prepare to depart.

We love April for its excellent value and the chance to experience both the lushness of the green season and the beginnings of the dry season's concentrated wildlife.

The dry season is firmly setting in, with clear, sunny days and comfortably warm temperatures. Nights become noticeably cooler, requiring an extra layer for early morning game drives.

The Okavango Delta is now at its highest water levels, creating stunning waterways for mokoro excursions. Wildlife starts to concentrate around permanent water sources, improving sightings.

We recommend May for those seeking the magic of the Delta's floodwaters without the peak season crowds, offering superb game viewing and beautiful scenery.

June brings classic dry season weather: clear, sunny days, virtually no rain, and mild temperatures. Mornings and evenings are cool, sometimes chilly, perfect for safari activities.

Wildlife viewing is excellent as animals are increasingly drawn to the shrinking water sources. Large herds of elephants and buffalo are common in Chobe and Linyanti, and predators are active.

We find June to be an ideal month for traditional game drives and water-based activities in the Delta, as the conditions are perfect and wildlife is abundant.

July is characterized by dry, sunny, and pleasant weather. Days are warm, and nights are cool, offering perfect conditions for spending long hours on safari.

This is prime game viewing. Wildlife concentrations around waterholes are at their peak, making for consistent and spectacular sightings, especially of large herds and their predators.

We consider July one of the best months for a classic Botswana safari, particularly for those focused on big game and predator action in the Delta and Chobe.

August is very dry and warm, with virtually no rain. The bush is sparse, offering excellent visibility. Mornings are cool, quickly warming up to pleasant daytime temperatures.

Wildlife viewing remains phenomenal, with animals congregating at permanent water sources. Predator sightings are frequent as they stalk the concentrated herds. Elephant numbers in Chobe are immense.

We recommend August for serious wildlife enthusiasts who prioritize intense game viewing and don't mind the higher prices and busier lodges.

September is the hottest and driest month of the dry season, with temperatures soaring, especially in the afternoon. Water is extremely scarce, intensifying wildlife interactions.

This is arguably the most dramatic month for wildlife viewing. Animals are desperate for water, leading to incredible predator-prey dynamics around the remaining waterholes. Elephant herds are colossal.

We advise September for those seeking the raw, intense drama of the African bush, where every waterhole is a stage for survival.

October is incredibly hot and dry, often with the first pre-rain thunderstorms building in the afternoons, bringing a sense of anticipation. Humidity starts to rise.

Wildlife remains concentrated around water, offering excellent viewing despite the heat. The first rains can trigger some animal movements, and migratory birds begin to return.

We suggest October for experienced safari-goers who appreciate the intense wildlife action and don't mind the heat, often finding it a rewarding challenge.

The first significant rains arrive, breaking the dry spell and transforming the parched landscape into a vibrant green. Days are warm and humid, with refreshing afternoon showers.

This is the start of the calving season and the zebra migration to the Makgadikgadi and Nxai Pans. Birdlife explodes with the arrival of migratory species. Wildlife disperses with new water sources.

We love November for witnessing the rebirth of the bush, the arrival of new life, and the spectacular zebra migration, offering a different kind of safari magic.

December is warm and humid, with regular afternoon thunderstorms that bring life to the bush. The air is fresh and clean after the rains, and the landscape is brilliantly green.

Calving season is in full swing, providing excellent opportunities to see young animals and the predators that follow them. Birding is outstanding, with many species in breeding plumage.

We recommend December for birding enthusiasts and those seeking a quieter, more intimate safari experience, enjoying the lush scenery and vibrant new life.