Safari in Botswana

Botswana's Okavango Delta is one of the world's great natural wonders - a vast inland river delta teeming with wildlife. The country's low-volume,...

Botswana Safari at a Glance

6 safari regions, 86 parks & reserves, 219 wildlife species recorded.

Travel Advisories for Botswana

UK FCDO: See travel advice before travelling.

Best Time to Visit Botswana

The best months to visit Botswana are April, August, September, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Great, temperature 24.8°C, rainfall 134mm, sunshine 10.9 hrs, humidity 65.1%
  • February: Great, temperature 25.3°C, rainfall 85.6mm, sunshine 11.1 hrs, humidity 61.3%
  • March: Great, temperature 24.6°C, rainfall 49.9mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 58.6%
  • April: Great, temperature 22.7°C, rainfall 14.2mm, sunshine 10.6 hrs, humidity 52.4%
  • May: Great, temperature 19.9°C, rainfall 2.1mm, sunshine 10.6 hrs, humidity 41.7%
  • June: Great, temperature 16.9°C, rainfall 1.4mm, sunshine 10.5 hrs, humidity 41.7%
  • July: Great, temperature 16.7°C, rainfall 0.6mm, sunshine 10.6 hrs, humidity 36.6%
  • August: Great, temperature 20.2°C, rainfall 1.1mm, sunshine 10.8 hrs, humidity 31.3%
  • September: Great, temperature 24.5°C, rainfall 0.6mm, sunshine 11.2 hrs, humidity 28%
  • October: Great, temperature 27.1°C, rainfall 8.5mm, sunshine 11.4 hrs, humidity 30.1%
  • November: Great, temperature 27.3°C, rainfall 34.8mm, sunshine 11.4 hrs, humidity 43.9%
  • December: Great, temperature 26.2°C, rainfall 94.5mm, sunshine 11.2 hrs, humidity 56.7%

Wildlife in Botswana

Home to 219 recorded species including 64 iconic birds, 62 waterbirds, 54 birds of prey, 8 antelope & gazelle, 6 tropical birds, 5 big five.

Notable Species in Botswana

Recommended Packing List for Botswana

Based on average temperature of 23.0°C, typical conditions, humidity 46%.

  • Light layers - comfortable for 23°C weather
  • Binoculars - essential for every game drive
  • Sun hat & sunscreen - protection from the African sun
  • Sturdy walking shoes - for bush walks and uneven terrain
  • Neutral-coloured clothing - khaki, olive, and tan blend with the bush
  • Insect repellent - essential in most safari regions
  • First aid kit - basic medical supplies for remote areas
  • Torch / headlamp - useful for evenings at camp
  • Camera with telephoto lens - capture your safari memories

Safety & Health - Botswana

Botswana offers an unparalleled safari experience, and we find it to be one of the safest destinations in Africa for discerning travellers. By taking sensible health precautions and adhering to the expert advice of your guides, you are set for an unforgettable and secure journey. We believe careful preparation allows you to fully immerse yourself in the magic of the Delta.

Visa

For many of our readers from the US, UK, EU, Canada, and Australia, we are pleased to report that a visa is not required for tourist stays of up to 90 days. We always recommend checking the latest requirements with the Botswanan embassy or consulate in your home country before you travel, as policies can change.

Malaria

Botswana is a malaria risk country, particularly in the northern safari areas like the Okavango Delta, Chobe, and Moremi, especially during and after the rainy season (November to April). We always take prophylaxis when visiting these regions and strongly recommend you do too. Beyond medication, we advise diligent use of insect repellent with DEET, wearing long sleeves and trousers at dusk and dawn, and sleeping under mosquito nets where provided. The risk is lower in the drier southern parts of the country, but vigilance is still key.

Safari Calendar - Botswana

Botswana offers exceptional safari experiences year-round, but the 'best' time depends on your priorities. For classic big game viewing and predator action, we unequivocally recommend the dry season from June to September, when wildlife concentrates around shrinking water sources. However, for incredible birding, lush landscapes, and the magic of calving season, the green season from November to April offers fantastic value and a more intimate experience. We particularly love the shoulder months of May and October for a balance of good game viewing and fewer crowds, making Botswana a truly flexible safari destination.

January - Green Season

We love exploring the Central Kalahari Game Reserve this month, where the usually arid pans burst with life and offer incredible predator sightings.

February - Green Season

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

March - Green Season

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

April - Shoulder Season

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.

May - Shoulder Season

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 - Dry Season

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 - Dry Season

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 - Dry Season

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

September - Dry Season

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

October - Shoulder Season

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.

November - Green Season

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 - Green Season

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

Safari Regions

Botswana FAQs

What unique safari activities can I expect in Botswana, particularly within the Okavango Delta?

Botswana offers unparalleled water-based safaris, most notably traditional mokoro (dugout canoe) excursions, which provide a serene and intimate perspective of the Delta's intricate waterways and smaller wildlife. Motorboat safaris and guided walking safaris on islands are also common, allowing for diverse exploration beyond typical game drives.

Why is a Botswana safari often considered a premium experience, and what does that cost typically include?

Botswana's commitment to a 'high-value, low-volume' tourism model means safaris are often more exclusive and therefore command a higher price point. This typically covers all-inclusive luxury camp stays, expert guiding, light aircraft transfers between remote camps, and access to private concessions, ensuring an uncrowded and immersive wilderness experience.

When is the best time to visit Botswana for optimal wildlife viewing and to experience the Okavango Delta's unique water levels?

The dry season (June to October) is ideal for concentrated wildlife viewing as animals gather around shrinking water sources, and the Okavango Delta's floodwaters are typically at their peak, perfect for water-based activities. The shoulder seasons (April-May, November) offer lush landscapes and migratory birds, though wildlife can be more dispersed.

Beyond the 'Big Five,' what specific wildlife encounters make a Botswana safari truly special?

Botswana is a global stronghold for endangered African wild dogs, offering excellent chances to witness these fascinating predators in their natural habitat. The Chobe National Park is also renowned for its enormous elephant herds, often numbering in the tens of thousands, providing spectacular viewing opportunities unique to the region.

How do travelers typically get around Botswana's remote safari regions, and what key health precautions should be taken?

Due to the vast, undeveloped nature of many safari areas, light aircraft transfers are the primary and most efficient mode of transport between camps and airstrips. It's crucial to consult your doctor about malaria prophylaxis, as Botswana is a malaria risk area, and ensure routine vaccinations are up-to-date.

Recommended Books for Botswana

  • The Handbook of Bird Photography by Markus Varesvuo, Jari Peltomäki & Bence Máté - Excellent for birding photographers on safari - covers technique, equipment, fieldcraft, and post-processing with stunning example images.
  • Photographing Wildlife in Africa by Paolo Torchio - Practical guide specifically for African safari photography - camera settings, lens choices, composition techniques, and how to make the most of game drives.
  • Fodor's The Complete Guide to African Safaris by Fodor's Travel - Country-by-country planning guide with lodge reviews, practical logistics, packing lists, and insider tips. Often cited as the best all-in-one safari planning resource.
  • Lonely Planet Botswana & Namibia by Lonely Planet - Covers the Okavango Delta, Chobe, Etosha, Sossusvlei, and the Skeleton Coast. Essential for self-drive safaris through two of southern Africa's wildest destinations.
  • Lonely Planet Zambia & Mozambique by Lonely Planet - From Victoria Falls and South Luangwa to Mozambique's pristine coastline. Practical advice for two of Africa's most rewarding off-the-beaten-path destinations.
  • National Geographic Kids: Safari by National Geographic - Age-appropriate wildlife facts with stunning photographs. Great for getting children excited about the animals they'll see on safari.
  • Bradt Guide: Botswana by Chris McIntyre - Gold standard for Okavango Delta and Chobe planning - self-drive routes, camp reviews, and detailed maps. Essential for anyone planning a Botswana safari.
  • Lonely Planet Southern Africa by Lonely Planet - Covers South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique. Practical planning information with detailed park and city guides.
  • The Last Elephants by Don Pinnock & Colin Bell - Conservation-focused book combining beautiful photography with urgent storytelling about the threats facing Africa's elephant populations.
  • Here Is the African Savanna by Madeleine Dunphy - Beautifully illustrated picture book about the savanna ecosystem. Teaches children about the interconnected web of life on an African plain.
  • Safari: A Photographic Journey by Art Wolfe - Large-format coffee-table book from one of the world's most celebrated nature photographers. Stunning images from across the African continent.
  • The Kingdon Field Guide to African Mammals by Jonathan Kingdon - The definitive mammal field guide for Africa covering over 1,150 species with detailed illustrations. Considered the gold standard for safari-goers and researchers alike.
  • The Behavior Guide to African Mammals by Richard Despard Estes - Goes beyond identification to explain why animals behave as they do. Essential reading for safari-goers who want to understand the wildlife they observe.
  • Roberts Bird Guide by Hugh Chittenden, Greg Davies & Ingrid Weiersbye - Comprehensive southern African bird guide covering 960+ species with detailed range maps and illustrations. The birder's bible for safaris in South Africa, Botswana, and Namibia.
  • Cry of the Kalahari by Mark & Delia Owens - Riveting account of wildlife research in Botswana's Central Kalahari. An adventurous tale of two young researchers living among the wild animals.
  • Remembering Lions by Various Photographers - Part of the acclaimed Remembering Wildlife conservation book series. Features contributions from world-class wildlife photographers, with proceeds supporting lion conservation.
  • African Animals ABC by Stella Blackstone & Petr Horacek - Simple alphabet book with bold, colourful animal illustrations. Perfect for toddlers and young children preparing for their first safari. Ages 2–5.
  • Beat About the Bush: Mammals by Trevor Carnaby - The single best book for understanding animal behaviour on safari. Explains why animals do what they do - feeding, mating, territory, predator-prey dynamics. Makes every game drive infinitely more rewarding.
  • Sasol Birds of Southern Africa by Ian Sinclair, Phil Hockey & Warwick Tarboton - The southern Africa birding bible. Covers over 950 species with detailed illustrations, distribution maps, and habitat notes. The most trusted bird field guide for South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Mozambique.
  • Africa's Top Wildlife Countries by Mark W. Nolting - The most respected safari planning book in print. Detailed country-by-country guide covering parks, lodges, best times to visit, and what wildlife to expect. Updated regularly. The first book every safari planner should read.
  • The Safari Companion: A Guide to Watching African Mammals by Richard D. Estes - Part field guide, part planning tool. Explains mammal behaviour in a way that transforms game drives. Covers tracks, signs, social structures, and habitat preferences. A must-pack for serious safari-goers.
  • The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuscinski - Widely considered the greatest book ever written about Africa. Kapuscinski spent 40 years reporting from across the continent. Vivid, poetic, and deeply insightful. Essential pre-safari reading for understanding the continent.
  • Elephant Company by Vicki Constantine Croke - The extraordinary true story of James Howard Williams and the elephants who helped him build bridges, extract teak, and ultimately rescue refugees across the Burmese jungle during WWII. Gripping and moving.
  • When the Last Lion Roars by Sara Evans - An urgent, accessible account of the African lion's decline from 200,000 to under 20,000 in a century. Covers the science, politics, and human stories behind lion conservation. Eye-opening pre-safari reading.
  • Ivory, Horn and Blood by Ronald Orenstein - The definitive book on the poaching crisis devastating African elephants and rhinos. Covers the criminal networks, the rangers fighting back, and what travellers can do. Important context for any safari visitor.
  • Last Chance to See by Douglas Adams & Mark Carwardine - Witty and heartbreaking tour of endangered species by the Hitchhiker's Guide author. Combines humour with urgent conservation messaging.
  • Owen and Mzee by Isabella Hatkoff, Craig Hatkoff & Paula Kahumbu - True story of an orphaned hippo befriending a 130-year-old tortoise in Kenya. A heartwarming tale of unlikely friendship that teaches empathy.
  • Remembering Elephants by Various Photographers - Stunning coffee-table book from the Remembering Wildlife series. All proceeds go to elephant conservation - beautiful photography with a purpose.
  • Whatever You Do, Don't Run by Peter Allison - Hilarious memoir from a Botswana safari guide - true stories from the bush that will have you laughing out loud. A favourite among safari enthusiasts.
  • Poached by Rachel Love Nuwer - Gripping investigation into the illegal wildlife trade - from African poaching networks to Asian markets. Essential reading for understanding the threats to safari wildlife.
  • Safari Nation by Jacob S. T. Dlamini - Fascinating history of South Africa's national parks and their complex colonial legacy. Academic but accessible - changes how you think about safari tourism.
  • Safari: A Photicular Book by Dan Kainen & Carol Kaufmann - Mesmerising book with moving photographic images of African animals. Kids and adults love the magical moving pictures - perfect pre-trip gift.

Other Safari Countries in Southern Africa