botswana safari reddit

Botswana Safaris

Botswana safari guide – where & when to go, and what to see.

Botswana safaris are truly special. The country doesn’t see as many tourists as most other countries in Southern and East Africa, but this in no way diminishes the quality of the game viewing and safari experience Botswana has to offer – and in many ways, it’s a bonus. Rural Botswana is an inhospitable place for humans, but a country that manages to support an incredible diversity and density of animals. Botswana wildlife is hands down some of the best anywhere in the world.

Botswana is a large, wild country (approximately the size of France) with a decent – but very limited – road network where only the major roads are tarmacked. This makes Botswana a safari destination for the intrepid. If you’re planning on doing an independent, self-drive safari in Botswana a high-clearance 4WD vehicle and spirit of self-reliance are essential to get the most out of your visits to the national parks. The country is easily accessed from South Africa, with the capital Gabaronne just a few hours’ drive from Johannesburg.

Self-drive safaris are a big thing in Botswana and are popular with overland tours and independent travellers alike. You’ll need a rugged 4WD to access all areas, and be confident that you’re totally self-sufficient if camping on your own in the bush. If this safari-style doesn’t appeal then browse our guide to  safari companies in Botswana to speak to a professional.

Geographically Botswana is covered in scrub brush and savannah grasslands, with the occasional impressive geographic feature such as the Okavango Delta and adjoining Chobe National Park, huge salt pans, and the brutally picturesque Kalahari Desert. The country is landlocked and lies at a fairly consistent average elevation of 1,000m. The windswept and sand-based Kalahari Desert covers over 80% of the country in the south, west, and centre. To the north lies 15,000 km sq of the Okavango Delta, fed by the Okavango River and forming the northern border with Namibia .  To the east lie the great salt and clay desert of the Makgadikgadi Pans and occasional deciduous forests towards the Zimbabwe border.

One of the most impressive African rivers for wildlife, Okavango River supplies year-round water to much of northern Botswana, and ends in the inland Okavango Delta, support a vast array of Southern African mammal species. These include the big five , wild dogs , hippos , hyenas , honey badgers , and a broad range of gazelles and hoofed mammals.

Each year Botswana is home to one of Africa’s largest annual migrations , featuring huge herds of wildebeest, zebra, and other wild animals as they move from their winter ranges in the Makgadikgadi plains to the summer feeding grounds of the Nxai Pan region. Not as large in scale as the East African ‘ great migration ‘, but there are also far fewer tourists around to take away from the experience. This lack of tourists, the sheer scale of the wilderness and the abundance of game in Botswana’s national parks come together to make Botswana a safari destination that’s hard to better, wherever you visit in Africa.

Useful resources

Book a Botswana safari

Botswana wildlife

Botswana Tourist Board

Bostwana guidebooks

Botswana safari highlights

Okavango delta botswana, fly-in safari.

Safaris don’t come much better or more luxurious than an all-inclusive fly-in safari deep in the Okavango Delta . Take a four-seater flight over the wetlands, wildlife spotting as you’re flown to an exclusive, out-of-the-way lodge for a few days of game drives, safari walks , and boat trips .

Big five spotting

Go big game spotting at Chobe National Park – perhaps Botswana’s most famous national park . Boat safaris are a big draw here, with a waterfront teeming with wildlife… but you’ll have to be very lucky to see all big five from a boat – game drives in a 4X4 jeep are more the order of the day.

Leopard spotting in Moremi

The east side of the Okavango Delta Moremi Game Reserve is regarded as one of the top African leopard hangouts. On the fringes of the delta where water collects in small lagoons and fills grassy floodplains, antelope (and all sorts of other wildlife) are plentiful. Perfect leopard country.

Mokoro safaris on the water

The Okavango Delta offers ample opportunities to get out on to the water for some top-class wildlife viewing. Traditional wooden mokoros are a fun and eco-friendly way to head out on a canoe safari , though propeller boats are on offer too, and can easily be combined with superb walking safaris .

Best time to safari in Botswana

May to August is the best time to organize a safari in Botswana, as during this winter season the days are cool and sunny, and the lack of water drives the wildlife to congregate around permanent water sources. At this time getting around the country is fairly straightforward, with dust rather than water being the main obstacle. During winter months wildlife spotting is easy – simply find a river or watering hole and dig in to wait for the action. Bear in mind is that July and August is school holiday time, meaning more tourists than usual, higher prices for safari accommodation and tours, and busier national parks.

October to April is summer season in Botswana but brings with it severe heat and the rains – occasionally in extreme amounts. Getting around the country by road during summer can be disrupted by flooding, as many of the secondary roads are not tarmacked. Wildlife is also more dispersed and harder to spot, hidden by lush vegetation. An exception to this is in parts of the Okavango Delta where there’s so much flooding that many islands form, trapping wildlife which can be viewed from a boat – though vegetation still causes a problem.

Flights To Botswana

Search, track and book flights to Botswana, from anywhere in the world.

Botswana Accommodation

Find safari accommodation in Botswana – from budget campsites to luxury lodges.

Botswana Car Hire

Considering a self-drive safari? Research and book car hire in Botswana.

Activities in Botswana

Search and book things to do in Botswana – tours, excursions and activities.

National parks in Botswana

All national parks in Botswana are run by the Department of Wildlife and National Parks (DWNP), based in Gaborone, who enforce a strict no driving after dark rule in the parks. ( See this great article on driving in Botswana .)

Whilst not actually a national park or reserve, Botswana is renowned worldwide for the Okavango Delta region in the north of the country, providing water and supporting an incredible array of African wildlife.

Top Botswana national park picks

• Moremi Game Reserve

The only part of the Okavango Delta that’s officially a national park, Moremi covers almost one-third of the delta, and is packed with wildlife. There’s no public transport so you’ll have to get yourself there, but the trade-off is fewer tourists to share the plethora of wildlife with.

• Chobe National Park

Chobe National Park was Botswana’s first national park at an impressive 11,000 km sq. There’s easy access for spectacular game viewing from a boat on the Chobe river and the network of dirt and gravel roads. The Savuti area in south west Chobe is recognised as having one of the highest concentrations of wildlife in Africa.

Makagadikgadi Nzai Pan National Park

Feel the unfettered freedom of driving through the never-ending parched-white salt pans, or plan your trip for the when the rains come and bird life and herd animals abound, including one of Africa’s largest migrations .

Central Kalahari National Park

One of Africa’s largest protected area at a whopping 52,000 km sq. Braving the tough conditions of Central Kalahari National Park in your own 4WD may reward you with viewings of hyena packs and prides of lions in the unforgiving desert.

All national parks in Botswana

Use the map to locate all national parks in Botswana. Click the icons for more info.

Get Directions

• Central Kalahari Game Reserve
• Makgadikgadu National Park
• Nxai Pan National Park
• Okavango Delta

Botswana safari resources

Botswana safari companies.

Though Botswana has a relatively low number of inbound tourists each year, a very high proportion of these come for the wildlife. Around the capital Gabarone and also Maun – the de-facto capital of the Okavango Delta – there are numerous safari tour companies to suit all budgets. Check out our reviews of safari tour companies in Botswana .

Botswana safari lodges

Botswana has a focus on low-impact, high-end safaris, and the accommodation on offer reflects this. Luxury safari lodges are the primary accommodation in Botswana, though there are also mid-range accommodation in the tourist enclaves of Maun and Gabarone. If you have your own tent most safari lodges have an area where you can pitch up for the night, along with decent washing and BBQ facilities as standard. Search and book safari lodges in Botswana , or find all accommodation in Botswana below.

Search all Botswana accommodation

Read safari guides to all countries

Botswana safaris , Namibia safaris , Rwanda safaris , South Africa safaris , Tanzania safaris , Uganda safaris , Zimbabwe safaris

Do you have any experience of planning or going on safari in Botswana?

We’d love to hear any feedback or tips you may have – please get in touch , or add to the comments below.

Top countries for safaris

• Botswana safaris
• Kenya safaris
• Namibia safaris
• South Africa safaris
• Tanzania safaris
• Uganda safaris

Safari basics

• Safari animals
• How to find the right safari company
• When to go on safari
• What to take on safari
• Safari clothing – what to wear
• Safari rules & etiquette
• Wildlife spotting tips

Most read articles

• All about the ‘big five’ animals
• Collective nouns for animals
• Safari movies to watch before you go
• The world’s fastest land animals
• Apex predators
• 10 Fascinating African tribes
• The biggest animals in the world
• 17 Epic hybrid animals
• The world’s ugliest animals
• Why are flamingos pink?

Africa’s best game reserves

• Chobe National Park, Botswana
• Etosha National Park, Namibia
• Kruger National Park, South Africa
• Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya
• Moremi Game Reserve, Botswana
• Okavango Delta, Botswana
• Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

Session expired

Please log in again. The login page will open in a new tab. After logging in you can close it and return to this page.

• Travel Guides Plan your adventure
• Destinations Our favourite places
• Tours Book a trip
• Travel Companies Independent specialists
• Travel Guides
• Destinations
• Travel Companies

Safari in Botswana

An expert guide to botswana's best safari reserves, camps and experiences.

Anthony Ham

• In this guide

Okavango Delta

Chobe national park, central kalahari game reserve, makgadikgadi pans national park.

• Need to know
• Getting around
• How it works

Of all the places I’ve been on safari in Africa, I think Botswana tops the list. There is so much to enjoy and, unlike in bigger safari destinations, in Botswana you’ll see a lot more wildlife than other travellers.

Botswana is where I went on my first self-drive safari, and, to this day, it remains my pick as the best place to drive yourself out into the wild in Africa. All but the inner reaches of the Okavango Delta are accessible in your own 4WD, and the experience of driving out into, and sleeping overnight in, lion country, or the amazing world of elephants, or miles from the nearest human being, remains my favourite way of going on safari.

At the heart of Botswana’s appeal are its signature wildlife destinations whose names – the Okavango Delta, Chobe National Park, Central Kalahari Game Reserve – read like a roll-call of storied wildlife kingdoms. And it’s not just the wildlife. From the deep greens and blues of the Delta in flood to the yellows and reds of the Kalahari, or the blinding whites of the salt pans, there is something elemental about Botswana’s call to the wild. In the following pages I’ll explain some of my Botswana safari highlights, and how you can see them for yourself.

featured botswana safaris

Popular Botswana Safari Through the Delta

Discover Botswana

Explore the okavango delta, kwando, the kalahari and chobe.

Best of Botswana Lodge Safari

Makgadikgadi Pans & Okavango Delta Safari Adventure

Botswana's Northern Highlights

10 day small group tour.

Okavango Delta horse riding safari

Discover botswana's amazing wildlife.

Affordable Victoria Falls & Chobe Safari

Chobe Camping Safaris

Okavango Kayaking Expedition

Unique camp-to-camp safari adventure.

Botswana Wildlife Camping Safari

Botswana's hidden gems.

Unlike Africa’s safari giants like Kenya , Tanzania , and South Africa , Botswana remains blissfully under the radar. Yet, it too faces the travel industry's irritating habit of focusing on the popular easy sellers at the expense of everywhere else. There's much more to Botswana than the Okavango Delta. In this guide I'll show you some of my favourite lesser-known Botswana safari spots.

Aerial view of the vast Okavango Delta, one of the best safari destinations in Africa

The best safaris in Botswana

Popular highlights & hidden gems, kgalagadi transfrontier park, tsodilo hills, northern tuli game reserve, okavango panhandle, nxai pan national park, kwando reserve.

Okavango kayaking expedition

Pretty much every Okavango tour itinerary will include a paddle on a traditional mokoro canoe. For something very different, set out on a multi-day, camp-to-camp kayaking expedition through the Delta. Paddle the gentle water spotting the planet's greatest wildlife and camp each night under the stars. Truly unique.

See elephants and more in Chobe National Park

Chobe incorporates two distinct regions: Chobe River (close to the Zimbabwe and Zambia borders), famous for its large elephant herds; and Savute (in the west), where a juxtaposition of contrasting habitats and handful of pumped water holes sustain a melting pot of species.

Chobe in general, but especially the riverfront, has one of the highest elephant densities in Africa and close-up sightings are almost guaranteed. Lions and leopards are also possible here, with giraffe, zebra, buffalo, hippo and crocodiles all commonly seen.

Game drives are the order of the day in Savute where wildlife-viewing is good year-round. Savute is known for its predators – I’ve always had luck with lion, leopard and cheetah here, and on my last trip I spent an afternoon watching a highly active den of African wild dogs. As with the rest of Chobe, elephants are everywhere in Savute.

Explore water world in the Okavango Delta

This is a world without fences and, because of the water levels, human settlements are mostly restricted to the Delta’s perimeter, leaving the rest to wildlife.

In the southern part of the Delta, including in Moremi Game Reserve and Khwai Community Concession, expect a mix of luxury tented camps and budget campsites catering mostly to those on self-drive safaris. The deeper you go into the Delta, the more the crowds thin, with entire concessions given over to the exclusive lodges and tented camps that are such a feature of a safari in Botswana. For most of the tourist season, many of these camps and lodges can only be reached by small plane. Out here, I’ve had the wildlife entirely to myself.

Taste true wilderness in the Central Kalahari

Measuring 52,000 square kilometres, I think this vast wilderness is a signature Botswana safari experience. Known for its golden grasslands, salt pans, sand dunes covered in vegetation and wide former river valleys, it’s a soulful experience that’s custom-made for a self-drive safari.

The mammal density and diversity are not quite a match for the northern parks making it less well-suited to first-time safari travellers but for the feel of a true African wilderness, CKGR is tough to beat.

Hugging the park’s northern boundary, the Hainaveld consists of a handful of compact, segregated, privately-owned reserves. The denser habitat means the landscape is less scenic than inside the park, but pumped waterholes concentrate the game in the dry season. Several of the lodges employ local Kalahari bushmen with legendary tracking skills, who will also teach you about their way of life on a guided walk.

Off the beaten path in Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park

In the far south of Botswana, this transfrontier park spills over into South Africa. The Botswana side of the park receives far fewer visitors than the South African sections across the border.

The scenery here consists of a dense scrubland and some of the loveliest salt-pan scenery anywhere in Botswana. With a number of hills overlooking these pans, they’re spectacular places, especially at sunset, and many of the self-drive campsites take full advantage of these hilltop positions.

Kgalagadi is known for its classic Kalahari wildlife, and aside from the usual oryx (gemsbok), giraffe and wide range of antelope species, I’ve always had luck with the extravagantly horned greater kudu, lion, cheetah and even a fleeting glimpse of meerkats.

The park provides habitat for nearly 300 different bird species, and I was particularly thrilled when the elusive Kalahari scrub robin and the vivid violet-eared waxbill visited my campsite one evening.

Ancient history in the Tsodilo Hills

Rising from the barren, sandy plains of the Kalahari in a remote corner of north-western Botswana, these four hills project a certain kind of magic. Sacred to the indigenous San people and reputed to possess mystical powers (as Laurens van der Post found in the 1950s on a visit that formed the centrepiece of his classic The Lost World of the Kalahari), the Tsodilo Hills are best known as one of the world’s finest galleries of ancient rock art. More than 4,500 artworks – mostly paintings, but engravings, too – adorn the rock walls of the range, and some date back thousands of years.

Walking trails lead past the artworks that range in subject matter from whales and penguins (despite Tsodilo Hills being more than 1000 km from the ocean) to lions and human figures. I highly recommend you visit with a local guide to greatly enhance your visit.

Unless you’re self-driving and staying at one of the campsites in the shadow of the Tsodilo Hills, there is no accommodation nearby.

Explore Northern Tuli Game Reserve

In the far southeastern corner of the country and formerly divided into a number of segregated farms alongside the Limpopo River, NTGR is now one of the largest privately-owned conservation areas in southern Africa. The spectacular landscape, featuring rolling hills, basalt cliffs, ancient riverbeds and towering granite kopjes , is unlike anywhere else in Botswana. In fact, when combined with its impressive portfolio of wildlife, it remains a mystery to me why more people don’t visit this remarkable place.

Expect regular sightings of elephant, giraffe, lion, leopard and cheetah as well as less common species like eland and klipspringer, and over 350 bird species. Ground-level photographic hides, ancient archaeological ruins and a choice of horse-riding, walking or even cycling safaris complete a chocolate box-assortment of activities.

Spot the flamingoes of Makgadikgadi Pans

Makgadikgadi Pans is famous for hosting one of the largest zebra migrations in Africa. Every year, tens of thousands of zebra migrate east-west through the park, between the pans in the east and the Boteti River out west. From high on the riverbank at the latter, I’ve watched zebras swarm down to the water’s edge in a haze of raised dust, dizzying stripes and distinctive zebra barks.

I’ve also seen flamingos away on the eastern pans in flocks so vast that they seem to move as a single entity. And I’ve drawn near to habituated meerkats just outside the park, and seen brown hyenas and aardvarks close to sunset.

Birding in the Okavango Panhandle

Although not a big game destination, the broad and meandering Okavango River in the northwest of the country is a birder’s paradise, with over 350 recorded species including several iconic Okavango specialties. It is also popular among anglers, particularly around September, when the receding flood waters concentrate huge shoals of baitfish, attracting a melee of catfish, tiger fish, bream and birds. Activities are mostly by boat or on foot.

Other wildlife is far less common, and you’d be lucky to see much more than a crocodile or hippo in the river’s waters.

Zebra migration in Nxai Pan National Park

I’ve always loved Nxai Pan – it’s never busy, my sightings of lion, elephant and cheetah seem perfectly framed by these big horizons, and the baobabs by the salt pans here are a striking presence. With a handful of campsites (including at remote Baines’ Baobabs, a remarkable cluster of seven ancient baobabs (named after explorer and painter, Thomas Baines) and just one upmarket lodge, there’s rarely more than a couple of other vehicles at any sighting.

As well as plenty of elephant, and a good chance of seeing lion and cheetah, Nxai Pan has a couple of other wildlife highlights to draw you here. After the rains, thousands of zebra migrate here from the Chobe and Linyanti rivers after the rains forming part of Africa’s longest zebra migration. And for reasons unknown, Nxai Pan is the only place in Botswana where you can see springbok and impala in the same place.

Linyanti, Kwando and Selinda Reserves

Scattered along the northern waterways of the perennial Linyanti and Kwando rivers, and the seasonal Selinda spillway, the camps in these three neighbouring private concessions operate in a similar manner to those inside the Okavango Delta.

Game-viewing is as good as in the Okavango, with predator-tracking a particular specialty of the Kwando camps. Most camps offer game or wildlife drives, mokoro boat trips, and sunset boat excursions.

What you see in these parts depends very much on the time of year you visit. In Linyanti, for example, from May to October, expect to see lots of elephants, while zebras migrate through the area, usually from February to April. At other times, wildlife can be very scarce, although the November-to-April wet season is excellent for birding in all three concessions, with migrants from Europe and North Africa here en masse.

Chitabe & Qorokwe concessions

In 25 years of African travel, I’ve never seen as much high-quality wildlife as I have in these fabulous Okavango concessions. Over two recent days, I saw leopards, nearly 30 lions, dozens of elephants, a pack of 20 wild dogs, and a cheetah mother with six sub-adult cubs.

Splash Camp

Rory Sheldon

Splash Camp is a small camp in the private Kwara Reserve. Operated by Kwando Safaris who have better responsible travel credentials than most: locally based, no greenwashing, and supporting valuable community projects.

Khama Rhino Sanctuary

Botswana doesn’t have many rhinos but most of them are here in this small, little-known sanctuary, in Paje, east of Central Kalahari Game Reserve. On a recent visit, I was waylaid for nearly an hour by two male black rhinos fighting for dominance right along the main track.

See the baobabs of Kubu Island

For the best of the pans, Kubu Island is a glorious ‘island’ of baobabs south of Makgadikgadi. This was the first place I ever camped in Botswana, and the magic has never left me.

Camp out in Khutse Game Reserve

The southern extension of the CKGR, Khutse gets very few visitors (except on weekends). I love its remote campsites (I once slept here, 40 km from the nearest person), its classic Kalahari scenery, and its lions, leopards and so much more.

Nata Bird Sanctuary

Out in the east of the Makgadikgadi Pans, the pans of this rarely visited community sanctuary draw up to 250,000 flamingos and other waterbirds from November or December until March or April.

Planet Baobab

A budget-friendly option with self-drive access, offering all the activities of its more expensive sister camps on the edge of the pans.

Savute Under Canvas

Easily the pick of the mobile camps in Chobe, &Beyond’s tented camp moves around the park almost weekly and captures the spirit of a mobile camp at its best.

Botswana Camping Safaris

Into Botswana & Zimbabwe

15 day small group tour, botswana safaris: need to know, everything you wish you'd known before you booked, inside tip: self-drive safaris.

Much is made of Botswana aiming for high-end, low-density safari tourism and it’s not uncommon for a luxury camp in the Delta to cost well over US$1,000 per person per night in high season. But it’s actually the mid-range, rather than budget, traveller that finds it difficult to build a reasonably priced safari in Botswana.

Much as the Botswana government prefers not to publicise the fact, it has a fantastic network of campsites around the country. Some are privately run, others are run by the Botswana Department of Wildlife and National Parks (DWNP). Standard camping fees are USD $50/25 per adult/child. You can book directly through the park authorities or the private operators of the campsites, but you're better off booking through an agent. Renting a 4WD camper can seem expensive, but a two-week self-drive safari could end up costing the same for two people as one day on a fly-in, fly-out safari.

The best times for safari in Botswana

My favourite time to visit Botswana is during the dry season, June to September. During this time, most 4WD tracks are open, water levels in the Delta are ideal for mokoro trips and wildlife watching.

This period also corresponds with the high tourism season (which usually starts in June or July), so it’s also the busiest (and most expensive) time of year. During these months, it can also get extremely cold overnight and early morning throughout much of the Kalahari.

May or October can be a good compromise, although there’s a risk that the rains could linger or arrive early.

Access to the Delta may be limited, but the best months for birding are from November to March or April, when hundreds of migratory species arrive from Europe and North Africa.

Getting there & around

Although Gaborone is the capital of Botswana, the overwhelming majority of safari visitors to Botswana fly into Maun, in the country’s north-west. Maun is right alongside the Okavango Delta and not far from the Kalahari, and it has lots of safari companies, hotels, camps and restaurants and places to stock up on supplies making it the ideal gateway town.

Those heading to Chobe National Park may fly into Kasane, in the north-east. Kasane receives fewer international flights than Maun, but its proximity to Victoria Falls (84 km away by road, across the border in Zimbabwe) makes it well worth considering.

How a Botswana safari works

There are two main ways to go on safari in Botswana. One is to fly into Maun or Kasane (perhaps stay overnight, perhaps not) and then fly into one of the airstrips of the Okavango Delta or Chobe National Park. There you’ll be picked up by your accommodation, and then fly in and out of however many tented camps you’ll be staying in.

You can book all of this yourself, but most international visitors tend to book it via a tour operator.

The other option is a self-drive trip. You can fly into Maun or Kasane (or even Johannesburg) and pick up a 4WD, which will usually have a rooftop tent or other camping equipment. You’ll then drive yourself from one campsite to the next. Road and driving conditions in Botswana are significantly better than elsewhere in Southern Africa, but you’ll need to take obvious precautions such as driving during the day time and ensuring you’ve got sufficient supplies for long journeys.

Safari in the Okavango Delta

About the author.

Anthony is a renowned travel journalist and guidebook author and is one of the world's leading authorities on Africa safari, wildlife and conservation. He has been travelling to Africa for more than two decades to research Africa safari guidebooks for Lonely Planet. He is widely published in The Age, Sydney Morning Herald, The Monthly, Virginia Quarterly Review (VQR), National Geographic Traveler, BBC Wildlife, Lonely Planet Traveller, Africa Geographic, The Independent, Travel Africa, among many others.

Featured tours

Okavango Honeymoon

Luxury honeymoon in botswana.

The Fantastic Family Safari

Family-friendly adventure exploring victoria falls and chobe national park.

Other guides you might like

Safari in kenya, kenya's best safari reserves and camps.

Stuart Butler

South africa safari, an expert guide to safaris in south africa, wildebeest migration safaris, an essential guide to planning a migration safari in tanzania and kenya.

Hans Cosmas Ngoteya

Safari in zambia, an expert guide to zambia's best safari parks, camps & lodges.

Sarah Kingdom

Safari in tanzania, an expert guide to tanzania's best safari parks & camps, where and how to see the big 5 on safari in africa, safari in africa, our travel writers' top africa safari picks, zimbabwe safaris, an expert guide to the best safari camps in zimbabwe, chimpanzee trekking, an expert guide to seeing chimpanzees in the wild.

Philip Briggs

Namibia safari, an expert guide to the best safaris in namibia.

Melanie van Zyl

Featured tours view all.

Why Horizon Guides?

Impartial travel guides

Our guides are written by the leading experts in their destinations. We never take payment for positive coverage so you can count on us for impartial travel advice.

Expert itineraries

Suggested itineraries and routes to help you scratch beneath the surface, avoid the tourist traps, and plan an authentic, responsible and enjoyable journey.

Specialist advice

Get friendly, expert travel advice and custom itineraries from some of the world's best tour operators, with no spam, pressure or commitment to book.

Our guides are 100% impartial and are written by independent, professional travel journalists. We make money by charging carefully-screened travel companies to list their business on our website. Our advertisers have no influence on our editorial content and we never accept payment for positive coverage.

Read more about how we work and what we believe in here .

• Travel guides
• Work with us

Sitemap , Privacy Copyright © 2024 Horizon Guides

Botswana Safari: Find Your Ideal Itinerary

A safari in Botswana is arguably the ultimate country for viewing African wildlife. The country’s undisturbed wilderness makes it one of the most sought after African safari destinations . It’s the best place to go for wildlife enthusiasts who are seeking something beyond the normal jungle experience.

But there are so many types of safaris … so how do you choose? This Botswana Safari guide explains the types of safaris, then helps you choose where and when to go based on what you want to see and experience.

Each of the Botswana safari regions is beautiful in its own way, with each providing a different kind of experience. To the north along the Chobe River lie the wild and wet areas of the Okavango Delta and the vast Makgdikgadi and Central Kalahari Pans. To the south is the Southern Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, whose boundaries overlap with South Africa.

Visa requirements for travel to Botswana

When arriving for your exciting Botswana Holidays , be prepared to pay a $30 tourism fee. It is payable by all nationals (except SADC citizens) by cash/card.

Citizens of the USA, Britain, Australia, Canada and the EU:

• Passport must be valid for at least six months after your departure date.
• Proof of sufficient funds and outgoing travel documents are also necessary.
• No visa is required for stays of up to 90 days.

If you wish to extend your stay beyond 90 days, you will need to request for an extension from the Immigration Department.

Nationals of other countries should contact their Botswana embassy to verify visa requirements.

ⓘ The Botswana Government has introduced new immigration rules for children under 18 years of age. They must provide a certified copy of their FULL birth certificate with a valid passport. If the child is traveling alone, with another adult or with only one parent, then an affidavit from the non-accompanying parent is needed for the child to travel.

Getting to Botswana

Although said to be a long haul destination it is relatively simple to get there. Qatar Airways, Singapore Airlines, Ethiopian Airlines, Air Namibia, Airlink, Air Botswana and Air India all fly direct to Botswana.

Botswana’s main airport is Sir Seretse Khama International Airport (GBE), located 11km/7miles north of Gaborone, the capital. Most of the international airlines fly into Gaborone or nearby Johannesburg, then connect with the safari areas by a small aircraft.

From the UK or USA, the easiest and most direct way to get to Botswana is via Johannesburg. You can fly South African Airways ( www.flysaa.com ) or Virgin Atlantic and then catch your required connecting flight. These flights leave Heathrow and JFK daily.

ⓘ TIP:  Investing in a Botswana travel guide will enhance your trip. Bradt’s Botswana Safari Guide covers all three tourist areas. It also includes detailed flora and fauna information for each safari area.

Best time to visit Botswana

To be honest, there is no correct answer to this. Each season has its own charm, with one season may be one person’s favorite but equally opposite for someone else.

The peak safari season in Botswana is from April to September, when the days are nice and warm and the nights a bit chilly. The spring season, September to December, finds prices at their lowest, but the temperatures can reach the high 90s.

Wildlife enthusiasts seeking the perfect chance to see all animals on their bucket list should concentrate on March through May and July to October. These are generally the best months for game viewing.

The best months to visit greatly depend upon which park or game reserve you are visiting. For instance, Nxai Pan Park is only rated fair during July to October, but the Okavango Delta is rated excellent. The safest year-round choice is Chobe National Park .

Best places to stay

In true expedition style, Botswana has a number of safari lodges and mobile camps. They range from basic to deluxe to cater to all types of travel styles. Most of these camps are located in magnificent settings and vistas for the ultimate safari experience.

You can also experience Botswana in your rented 4×4 vehicle, as it can double up as a camper home. This allows you to explore the country at your own pace, as you move from one campsite to another. You can lie awake in your vehicle bunk listening to the sounds of the wild beasts that come alive after dark. Best of all, you can build a bonfire, gaze at the night sky, and wait for wildlife spectacles to unfold from your front-row seat.

What type of Botswana safari would you like?

For endless safari possibilities — the Okavango Delta has no parallel. It is a place where a large number of wild animals roam and rule unlike anywhere else on earth.

For stark desert beauty — visit the Kalahari Desert . The largest unbroken stretch of sand on the globe stretches from Makgdikgadi in the north to Kgalagadi in the south.

For an African river cruise — the life-giving Chobe River is literally bursting with wildlife. You’ll see elephants swimming and hippos grunting around you as you cruise on the river.

For an incomparable wetlands safari — spend a few days at the Moremi Wildlife Reserve. It lies in the center of the Okavango Delta.

To encounter big cat populations — the enormous Kgalagadi Transfrontier National Park is a special place.

Witness zebra and wildebeest migration — at the Makgadikgadi Pans. (Only at certain times of the year.)

For a shining example of Botswana’s conservation work — visit Khama Rhino Sanctuary. It’s a safe haven now for black and white rhinos.

ⓘ TIP:  You can easily combine your safari with two nights at Victoria Falls. Activities include tours of the falls, whitewater rafting, game drives and cultural tours. The best time to see the falls is from February to May, when the water will be flowing at its greatest volume.

Botswana wildlife

Botswana has a healthy wildlife population. Elephant, Giraffe, Hippo, Buffalo, Zebra, Wildebeest, Lion, Leopard, Hyena and Cheetah are fairly common, and the rhino has been reintroduced. The easiest places to see these is in the northern parks that have a permanent source of water.

The Moremi and Okavango Delta contain the largest population of the highly vulnerable African wild dog and rare antelope species of Red Lechwe , Puku and Sitatunga.

Botswana has no endemic bird species. However, several have limited distribution including African Cuckoo Hawk, Bradsfield’s Swift, Olive Woodpecker, Red Phalarope, and African Grass Ow l among others.

Why should I consider a safari in Botswana?

Botswana is a wildlife wonderland which comes at a high price. As a result, higher budgets translate to fewer tourists, much better conversation and some of the most prolific animal and bird viewing.

On a safari to Botswana, the only crowds you will have to deal with are the animals. Let them make the rules, as they have been the rightful owners of these lands for millennia.

Botswana safari trip FAQs

However, as with any destination certain precautions need to be taken before traveling.

Botswana is one of the safest travel destinations in Africa. All the tourist areas of Botswana are totally safe and minimum criminal activity in and around the safari lodges. But as in everywhere else around the world, reasonable travel precautions for personal safety need to be taken. For instance: Don’t wear expensive jewelry, don’t flash your wallet or cash, and don’t venture into unfamiliar places alone, after dark

Remember that most of the parks and game reserves in Botswana are unfenced, so there is always a chance of an incident with wild animals. Safari guides will monitor your safety while game viewing, so if you obey the basic rules and regulations set down for your safety, you will have no issues.

Yes. Actually, tap water is considered safe to drink throughout southern Africa. However, bottled and filtered water is readily available and will be provided in the safari vehicle and at camp.

Botswana is a malaria risk, so anti-malaria medication should commence at least a week prior to the start of the trip. You will also be required to furnish a Yellow Fever certificate at every border post, else you can be refused entry. Get inoculated against this disease ten days before departure.

Botswana uses 220 volts electricity, so travelers will need a voltage converter for 110 volt devices. It is best to travel with your own adapters. Appliances such as hairdryers or electric shavers are not advised. They will trip the circuits, as most of the camps in Botswana have low wattage fuses.

Botswana’s local currency is the Pula (P), but private concessions and banks only accept US Dollars, Pound Sterling, Euro, and South African Rand. ATMs are available in larger towns and cities, but hard to find elsewhere.

ⓘ TIP:   Anti-malaria medication is available on Amazon.

Inspired? Pin this post and share it with your friends!

Share this story with others

Written by Dan

Professional photographer specializing in street, food and travel shots.

You may also like...

How to Plan the Perfect African Safari

30 Important Things to Do Before Traveling Abroad (Checklist)

10-Day Egypt Itinerary: Pyramids, Nile & Beyond

• Africa Africa
• Cambodia Cambodia
• Malaysia Malaysia
• Nepal Lifetime Experiences!
• Philippines
• Singapore Singapore
• Taiwan See our Taiwan destination page for more.
• Curacao Travel photos and articles
• Dominica Exhilarating adventures, breathtaking landscapes and fairy-tale coral reefs
• Jamaica Heartbeat of the World
• Sint Maarten/ St Martin The Friendly Island
• Belize Belize
• Panama Panama
• Andorra Andorra
• Austria Austria
• Belgium Where Benelux begins
• Croatia Croatia
• Czechia Czech Republic
• France France
• Germany Germany
• Greece Greece
• Hungary Hungary
• Ireland Ireland
• Italy Italy
• Montenegro Montenegro
• Netherlands Netherlands
• Slovakia Slovakia
• Spain Spain
• Switzerland Switzerland
• U.K. United Kingdom
• Vatican City Vatican City
• Israel + Palestine Land of Creation
• Saudi Arabia Hello World
• Türkiye You Will Want to Stay Forever
• United Arab Emirates Discover all that’s possible
• Mexico Mexico
• United States United States of America
• Australia There’s NOTHING like Australia.
• New Zealand New Zealand travel inspiration, articles, and tips for curious travelers
• Argentina Argentina travel inspiration – destinations, things to do, and tips for the curious traveler.
• Brazil Brasil – sensational!
• Colombia Colombia is magical realism
• Ecuador All you need is Ecuador
• Peru Land of the Incas
• 1-day itineraries
• Weekend Getaways
• 1- to 2-week itineraries
• food and drink
• Things to Do
• travel planning
• know before you go
• cruise ports
• cruise tips
• Viking Grand European Tour Daily journal entries from our Grand European Tour, a river cruise from Budapest to Amsterdam, with activities, experiences and tips.
• photo gallery Travel photos by As We Saw It
• photo essays Photo Essays
• photography tips Photo Tips

The Ultimate Botswana Self-Drive Safari Itinerary: A Complete Travel Guide + Map

December 15, 2023

Paula Martinelli

If you are dreaming about an adventure trip to Botswana, and wondering how to go on safaris, you are in the right place! Going on a Botswana self-drive safari is the best way to discover the country! This is the Ultimate Botswana Self-Drive Safari Itinerary that will take you to the removed, isolated, and wild parts of the country…and the best way to experience Botswana’s landscape and wildlife are by road trip.

I combined my Namibia trip itinerary and Botswana self-drive safari itinerary, and I am here to share all I have learned and discovered along the way.

In this very detailed Botswana Self-Drive Safari 10-day itinerary, I covered the most important regions and safaris in Botswana, from Chobe National Park to the Okavango Delta.

During my 10-days in Botswana, I self-drove my 4×4 rental truck to the most amazing safaris in Botswana, I slept in the tent on top of the truck, cooked all my meals, took thousands of photos, and learned all about how to explore Botswana independently (not an easy task!).

Don’t travel to Botswana before you read these very important articles:

• 28 Things You Must know about Self-Drive and Camping in Botswana
• Ultimate Guide to the Best Safaris in Botswana
• Botswana Camping Safari

Botswana Self-Drive Safari itinerary Overview

10 days doing a self-drive safari in Botswana is an ideal amount of time to discover the best safaris in Botswana and to visit the most incredible areas in the country.

However, it is not easy to self-drive in Botswana because of the poor road conditions. Also, if you are short on time, you can spend less time and concentrate on the Chobe River Front safari, as it is very well located in the country. You can fly into Kasane Airport (BBK) and you can pick up your 4×4 rental car at the airport .

Check Expedia or Skyscanner to see which airlines can take you to Botswana and compare prices to get better deals. If you are looking for domestic flights to Kasane you can book them through Air Botswana .

Here is an overview of how to spend a perfect 10-day self-drive safari in Botswana:

Botswana Self drive Safari Map

Renting a Car for your Botswana Self Drive Safari

You will need to have a 4×4 vehicle to go on a self-drive safari in Botswana . It can be confusing renting a car in Botswana since there are different providers, offering different options.

First of all, you will need to decide if you will rent a 4X4 truck or a 4×4 truck with a tent on top (if you are planning to camp around the country).

I recommend booking your car way in advance , and you can quote below, to have access to cars from many major companies which you can compare the best prices and find the best deal for you.

You can save on your rental car when you book through this site . I use and recommend Discover Cars because it is the most reliable rental car source, and it allows you to compare the prices of different plac es.

10-Day Botswana Self Drive Safari Itinerary

Day 1 botswana self drive: arriving in botswana.

Let’s start day 1 of my 10-day Botswana self-drive safari itinerary. I had spent the previous 10 days self-driving in Namibia and it is a great itinerary to combine Namibia and Botswana. I crossed the border to Botswana on the ground at the Ngoma border crossing  in the Caprivi Strip.

I got my Botswana Visa at the border checkpoint. There was a line, and it took about 1-hour to get my visa and pass the inspection of my car and food. The procedure was easy and uncomplicated!

Even better, I had the chance to make new friends while I was in line. I met this very nice couple from Zambia that were traveling home. They asked if I could give them a ride to the Zambia border which was on my way to Botswana. 

DRIVING THE CAPRIVI STRIP

The driving from Namibia to Botswana on Caprivi is one straight line all the way to the border. You will pass many villages, plenty of cows and people walking on the side of the road.

I stopped along the road to donate all my food (meat, fruits, and vegetables) as we cannot enter Botswana with food.  It is a great opportunity to get to know some local people, and also, they will appreciate you sharing the food with them.

STOP AT KASANE FOR SUPPLIES

Next, I stopped in Kasane to refill my gas tanks (the truck had 2 gas tanks), got someand money from the ATM, bought food and water – This is the last opportunity to refill before you head to the National Parks.

BEST ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS

CAMPING OPTION

Mwandi View is the place i stayed and recomend. They have areas for camping in your own tent, or you can rent one of their large tents, with private bathroom and a small kitchen. The views are incredible and you can see animals from the infinity pool. Restaurant with incredible food is avaialbe.

LODGE OPTION

The Residence Kazungula is a marvelous guest house located in Kasane, with free Wi-Fi, parking on-site, a complete kitchen, and a pool. They can also arrange a variety of activities including game drives, boat cruises, and day trips to Victoria Falls. 

ALL-INCLUSIVE OPTION

If you are looking for a great accommodation option, with all-inclusive, the Jacklberry Chobe is the best option. With drinks, meals, and 2 wildlife activities per day included, plus terrace and gorgeous views of the river

DAY 2 BOTSWANA SELF DRIVE SAFARI : Explore Chobe National Park

On day 2 of my Botswana self-drive itinerary, I spent 10-hours driving safari at Chobe National Park . 

SELF-DRIVE SAFARI AT CHOBE RIVERFRONT

Chobe is one of the best places for a safari on the Planet, and I really recommend spending at least 2 days here .

Even if I had done other safaris before, this is the most I have seen animals in one single day: hundreds of zebras, waterbok, giraffes, springboks, and of course elephants. 

The best spot to see the big cats, including lions is at the Ihaha Camp . I drove in the morning and afternoon but didn’t get lucky enough to see any.

SEE THE LARGEST HERD OF ELEPHANTS IN THE WORLD

At around 1:30 p.m. I stopped to see a herd of elephants at a waterhole close to the Elephant Grave when more elephants arrived from everywhere and I was surrounded by hundreds of elephants. This was the highlight moment of my trip to Chobe . 

Back to the Mwandi Camp to enjoy the sunset from the infinity pool, while watching some elephants at the waterhole, cook dinner, and crashed from this tiring day.

DAY 3 Botswana Itinerary: Self-Drive Safari at Chobe then Drive to Savuti

On my second and last day of self-drive safari at Chobe National Park , I started my day very early (5 a.m.) and enjoyed 5 hours of safari.

GO ON A RIVER CRUISE SAFARI AT CHOBE

Another specialty and a must-do are to go on a river-cruise safari .  This is a must-do activity at Chobe National park as you can see the wildlife from a boat is totally different experience than from a car. During the water safari, you have the chance to see hippos, crocodiles, and f you are lucky you can also see elephants swimming.

DRIVING OFF-ROAD TO SAVUTI

After lunch, I began my journey south through Chobe to my next destination: Savuti. There are no gas stations or stores until you exit Okavango Delta. Make sure you are full-on fuel, water, and food before leaving Chobe (Kasane town).

The driving to Savuti was very challenging (and scary) and it is not for the faint-hearted! I only recommend self-drive here if you are a very experienced driver and have some basic mechanical knowledge because things can, and will happen to the car.

The “road” is very isolated, and only a 4WD can drive here. The “roads” you will follow are nothing more than dirt roads and trails. At times you will follow some old tire tracks through grass fields, and other times you will be driving through deeply rutted sandy “roads”. You cannot drive on a rainy day (or wet season). I drove for 7-hours without seeing another car. I had 1 flat tire and had to change it on a very deep sandy road and got stuck on the sand a couple of times. The speed limit is around 15km/h and you will be driving very slowly on very bumpy roads.

TOP TIP: If you are going on a self-drive in Botswana, most of the driving will be off-road. I recommend carrying a backpack as it will protect your belongings on bumpy roads. Check here the Review on Top Backpacks on the market today.

ARRIVAL AT SAVUTI

Arrived at the remote Savuti Gate and I had to pay for my entry permit – it costs US$85 for 3 days of the game reserve. The only way to enter the Savuti Gate (and all other gates) is to have proof of camping reservations. 

I finally arrived at the Savuti Camp near dark, found my reserved camping spot, and cooked dinner. The camping staff came to warn me that it was life-threatening to be out of my tent at night because it is very common for hyenas and lions to visit the campsites at night.

I spent 2 nights at the Savuti Camp . All 14 campsites lie under shady trees while some have a view of the Savuti Channel. There is a large elephant-proof ablution with shared bathrooms and showers. The campsite is operated by SKL Camps.

If you are looking for a lodge at Savuti, Ghoha Hills Savuti has accommodations with free WiFi and free private parking for guests who drive. There’s a fully equipped private bathroom with a shower and free toiletries. The lodge offers a continental or buffet breakfast.

DAY 4 Botswana Itinerary: Self-drive Safari at Savuti

The Savuti is a region within the heart of the Chobe National Park that is secretly located. Savuti covers almost 5,000 square kilometers and includes the Savute Marsh and Channel, the Mababe Depression, and Magwikhwe Sand Ridge – each feature fashioned by the tectonic instability of the region.

It is the best place to spot big cats, including lions and leopards. It is also renowned for the masses of game, and it has its own unique scenery such as the Baobab Gallery trees and rock paintings. I recommend spending at least 2 days in Savuti. 

EXPLORE THE VAST WILDLIFE IN SAVUTI

Start your first day at Savuti doing what is the best thing to do, with a self-drive safari.

Start your day very early (before 7:00 a.m) as the chances to see active animals are higher. I started my first day seeing a lion eating his kill and it was a pretty amazing experience to just park my car very close, behind the bushes, and just observe, smell, and hear while he was enjoying his breakfast.

During my day of safari at Savuti , I saw many giraffes, springbok, and elephants. In the afternoon I visited the Baobab Trees and the rock painting.

I saw many bones of animals and mostly close to the campsite – which makes me think that predators hang out around campsites. At night I was visited by a very large hyena and I also could hear the lions roaring all night from a distance. Exciting!

VISIT THE ROCK PAINT AND BAOBAB TREES

Expend the afternoon exploring more of the Savuti beauty!

Savuti is not only about wildlife, here you can also find ancient art – search the rocks of the Gubatsa Hills for delicate, stylized paintings of buffalo, giraffes, the magical eland, and other animals. They were painted in natural ochres, blood, and possibly snake venom up to 1,500 years ago by the San people. They still shine despite being fully exposed to the elements.

Then, visit the incredible Baobab Trees. The baobab trees boast a circumference of around 7 meters (23 feet) and a height of around 5 meters (17 feet). Take some time out to reflect in the shade of the centuries-old trees, humbled by their large presence and the secrets that flow deep within their roots. Savuti is incredible!

DAY 5 Botswana Itinerary: Self-Drive Safari in Savuti, then Driving to Okavango Delta

Morning safari at savuti.

Early in the morning, I saw 2 lionesses with 9 cubs – 7 older and 2 younger. I heard from the locals that they live under the bush, and they were just enjoying the early morning sun. I parked my car, and took amazing pictures, and observed them for over 1-hour from a very close distance. They didn’t seem to be bothered by my presence. This was certainly one of the highlight moments of my trip to Botswana.

I saw many other animals during my second day of safari in Savuti, and even if I really wanted to see leopards, I had no luck seeing any. 

DRIVE TO OKAVANGO DELTA

After lunch, I started driving to the Okavango Delta and I drove all the way to the next camping site destination in Kawai . It was 3.5 hours of very bumpy and sandy road, and again, driving at a very low speed. 

Upon arrival at Khwai Gate you need to pay for the permit again;  remember to have cash with you as they don’t accept credit cards. 

The camping site is situated in an area called Dombo Hippo Pools, and guess what you can see a lot? You are right, hippos.

The Khwai Camping Site  is very basic. The camping site has a tree, running water, and a fire pit area, and a small ablution is available. The game views and bird watching in this area are superb. The campsite is operated by SKL Camps.

If you are looking for amazing luxury glamping in Botswana, O Bona Moremi Safari Lodge offers it all. All means, drinks, and laundry service are included plus all the game drivers and night drives.

VILLA OPTION

If you are looking for a great option, Khwai Villa provides accommodations with free private parking. All units come with a balcony with river views, a kitchenette with a fridge and an oven, and a private bathroom with a shower.

DAY 6 Botswana Self-Drive Safari: Okavango Delta Safari

Explore the khwai region.

The day of my self-drive safari in Botswana was exploring the Khwai region, part of the Okavango Delta. 

The Okavango Delta is like the crown jewel of safaris in Botswana , as this area is usually known for the abundance of water, stemming from the Okavango river – which starts in Angola – and is also dubbed “the river that never finds the sea”. Instead of ending in the ocean, the water seeps away into the Kalahari desert. 

I was up early and went on a long game drive to explore this region. There are large tracts of Mopane forest with pools and floodplains interspersed. I saw a lot of different animals including hippos, crocodiles, water buffalos, red lechwe, waterbucks, and blue wildebeest.

This area is challenging to drive, as there are deep mud pools on many of the trails and some wet areas that make it impossible to pass.

I spent 2 nights at the Xakanaka Campsite . This area offers many options for day trips, such as Khwai and Third Bridge. There are two boat stations close to the camping site. The camping area is very simple and is located by the water, that is the reason there are so many hippos on this campsite. An ablution (communal bathroom) is available. 

If you are looking for an all-inclusive lodge accommodation, the Khwai Experidtions Camp offers all meals, drinks, and game reserves. Located on a gorgeous facility with a patio with incredible views, including wild animals come to visit.

DAY 7 Botswana Self-Drive Safari: Okavango Delta Safari

I didn’t sleep very well, as the animals are very active at night around this area. I could hear lions and hippos, and I saw a couple of hyenas searching my campsite for food at night. The only thing the hyena found and decided to take with her was my sneakers…ha!

EXPLORE THE XAKANAKA REGION

After spending 2 nights at the Khwai Campsite, I moved on to another camping in the Okavango Delta, Xakanaka – so I could explore different areas.

The drive to Xakanaka took around 2-hours and it was also very challenging. The roads are rutted and winding. During the rains, it is almost impossible to drive, with some very deep waterholes on the road and the journey can take up to 4-hours.

The game reserve in this area is phenomenal – but a day doing a self-driving safari is exhausting – the vegetation is very dense and there are a lot of dead trees on the ground. Also, there are so many holes with water and mud, which makes the driving very challenging if you are trying to spot animals, take pictures, and drive. 

After a whole day of self-drive safari –  with a 1-hour break for a nap under a tree in the middle of the day – time to go back to the camp, cook dinner, and get some rest. 

While I was cooking, a hippo crossed right in front of me which left me speechless for a few minutes – “What was it? a hippo!?” Yes, it was a hippo!

DAY 8 Botswana Self-Drive Safari: Okavango Delta

Spend the morning driving at xakanaka.

\My day 8 of my self-drive safari in Botswana was spent driving around the Xakanaka area. 

Xakanaxa occupies a narrow strip of land surrounded by marshes and lagoons . At night you can easily hear the animals, especially elephants, or be serenaded by hippo grunts. 

This area is one of few offering a year-round land and water game-viewing experience, possible to explore by car or powerboats.

On a day of safari in this area , it is easy to spot a large variety of animals such as elephants, buffalo, hyena, giraffe, hippo, wildebeest, kudu, lechwe, and if you are lucky, lion and leopard, among many others.

DRIVE TO THE THIRD BRIDGE

After lunch, I head to my next camping destination, Third Bridge Campsite.

In a dry season, it is an easy drive but there was very deep sand after the 2nd bridge. Got to the camping, and this was my favorite campsite in Botswana because the location is absolutely gorgeous, just by the river and the wildlife is very abundant here. 

TOP TIP: Make sure you pack lots of water, as you will be very isolated in this part of Botswana. I thought I had enough water, but with the hit and humidity, I ran out of water 2 days earlier than I had planned and I had to boil water from the Okavango Delta to drink. It is smart to also pack some portable water filters.

I spent 2 nights at the Third Bridge Campsite . This campsite was my favorite during my self-drive in Botswana. It is an excellent choice as there are so many options for game drives and there is always animal activity in camp. There is a boat station at the camping site, making water activities extra options. Booking is through Xomae

DAY 9 Botswana Itinerary : Water Safari at Okavango Delta

1. morning safari at third bridge.

I spent the last day of my self-drive safari in Botswana doing the best thing you can do in Botswana: safari. The wildlife in this section of Okavango Delta is incredible for safari, and you feel all the time that you are truly amongst the wildlife.

At lunchtime, I was back at the campsite to skip the mid-day sun and cool down in the shade of the trees, while cooking lunch. When a herd of elephants had the same idea and I had to share my shade with them. It was a magical moment, and one of the highlights of my trip to Botswana. 

2. Water Safari at Okavango Delta

I took the afternoon to do a water safari and it was just incredible, I strongly recommend if you are visiting the Okavango Delta to go on water safari, as you will have a different view and will see so many different animals. I had the chance to visit the Hippo Pool, which is a lagoon with hundreds of hippos.

While on a water safari at Okavango Delta, it is the best option for bird-watching too. The tour took longer than planned – around 4 hours – because our boat broke and we had to ask for help.

In the evening, my campsite got visited by many hyenas and I spent my last night camping in Botswana and hearing the lions roaming. Absolutely fascinating!

DAY 10 Botswana Itineray: Return Back to Namibia

I woke up very early (as usual) and spent a few hours driving around on a self-drive safari before heading back to Namibia. 

I saw a large variety of animals just around the campsite, and I started to feel sad to leave Botswana. I certainly had one of the best trips of my life. Just being in the wild, surrounded by majestic animals, and enjoying the solitude of incredible nature. I truly recommend doing a self-drive safari in Botswana as once in a lifetime adventure. 

The drive back to Namibia was long but safe. The road conditions are mostly well-paved the whole way. 

I stopped for an overnight in Ghazni, as it was dark and it is not recommended to drive in the dark because of the wildlife on the roads. If you don’t have an extra day, I would recommend skipping the morning safari in Botswana and starting to head back to your departure destination. 

I spent another day and night in Namibia before I headed back home, as this was a great farewell from my amazing Africa trip! You can read here my full Namibia Itinerary if you are looking to combine your trip or continue your Africa Trip.

BONUS SECTION: The Unique Tourism in Botswana

Botswana has a very unique tourism industry, based on a sustainable tourism model. Botswana relies on a  low volume high revenue tourism strategy , and it serves as an example all over Africa and the Planet. In other words, it is not cheap to visit Botswana!

The business model in Botswana helps the local economy and assists with keeping balance in the fragile ecosystem and controlling the number of tourists. Higher prices help to support this sustainable system of tourism in Botswana.

TRAVEL BOTSWANA INDEPENDENTLY: If you choose to travel independently to Botswana, keep in mind that the planning will take time and (a lot of) patience. It took me about 3 months of hard work to plan my itinerary in Botswana, especially, to be able to book all the campsites. Communication with Botswana is challenging and it may take days, or even weeks to answer back to you. Plus, consider that you will be driving in very remote and isolated areas. You will need to have some basic mechanical skills (changing tires), and expertise in driving off-road (mud, deep sand, crossing water, etc.).

TAILOR-MADE TRIP IN BOTSWANA: A popular alternative to visiting Botswana is to hire an expert local company. They can incorporate any destination into your travels or even any animal species that you hope to see. You can create a bespoke itinerary, and design your ultimate safari to match your interest, budget, and travel dates. I highly recommend Wild Wonderful World , as they put together incredible itineraries, and part of the profits are used on amazing conservation efforts in Africa

I have great news for my readers, I used and I recommend Wild Wonderful World – I partnered with them to offer a discount to you! Just sign in below to receive a discount code directly in your email.

Botswana Self-Drive Safari | Trip Planning Resources

Planning a trip to botswana.

If you are going to travel to Botswana, pre-planning, researching, and understanding what you are looking for in a destination will help make your travels far more successful and safe. Here is some further information I think you might need to plan your Botswana self-drive safari itinerary.

For planning my trip to Botswana I used the Lonely Planet guidebook, which contains helpful information.

Best Time to Visit Botswana

The best time to visit Botswana is during the dry season between May and October when you can expect warm, sunny days (22°C-35°C) and chilly nights. This is also when the water levels in the Okavango Delta are at their highest, creating the waterways and channels Botswana is famed for.

The green season – from November to April –  is a great time to travel if you don’t mind the odd shower. Visitor numbers and prices are lower, the scenery pops with verdant foliage, and animals give birth to their young.

What to Pack for a self-drive safari in Botswana

You want to pack light….but at the same time, you will be so remote for many days that you will want to pack heavy. So, let me help you PACK SMART! 

• GPS and a good Botswana map . 
• Extra flashlights and batteries 
• A well-equipped First Aid kit (including a snake bite kit)
• Rehydration solution
• Satellite phone
• Inflatable LED Solar Lantern. 
• Bring a warm blanket for cold nights.
• Camera and safari lens
• Toilet paper
• light hiking pants
• long sleeves shirts
• good face cover
• polarized sunglasses
• Hand sanitizer
• LifeStraw Filtered Water Bottle and Emergency water supply
• External battery charger

PACK SMART ALERT!

If you are planning to carry a backpack for your trip to Botswana, I have compiled a very detailed review of the Best Backpacks for Travel in the market today – Also, I recommend bringing a waterproof jacket for your trip, check my complete review guide on the Top Jackets for Travel and pack smart!

Airports in Botswana

Botswana’s main airport is  Sir Seretse Khama International Airport (GBE) , located 11km/7miles north of Gaborone, the capital.

If you are flying from South Africa, you can take a direct flight from OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) , Johannesburg, or Cape Town International Airport (CPT) .

It is also common to fly into Maun Airport (MUB) and  Kasana Airport (BBK) . When combining a safari in Botswana with a visit to Victoria Falls, it is common to fly into Maun and depart from  Victoria Falls Airport (VFA) in Zimbabwe or  Livingstone Airport (LVI) in Zambia.

Borders of Botswana

Botswana is bounded by  Namibia  to the west and north (the Caprivi Strip),  Zambia  and  Zimbabwe  to the northeast, and  South Africa  to the southeast and south. The Zambezi River border with Zambia is only several hundred yards long. The point at which the borders of Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe meet in the middle of the river has never been precisely determined.

Price to Travel to Botswana

When you travel to Botswana you can easily spend 1,000 to 2,000 Dollars per day/ person. This kind of money will bring you to some of the most exclusive lodges, and to areas that aren’t accessible any other way, including private flights to the lodges. Of course, you can plan your self-drive safari in Botswana and save tons of money – which will force you to do a lot of planning yourself. 

Prices below are the average for 10-day for 2 people (it doesn’t include international flights):

Accommodation in Botswana

Keep in mind that booking wild campsites in Botswana is extremely challenging and requires lots of patience and persistence.

I have done all the work and wrote this very detailed guide for Camping in Botswana – with all the best options for accommodations.

The campsites in Botswana are run by different private operators, The gates and reception have booking agents, but I strongly advise you to reserve your accommodation before your trip to Botswana, as the number of campsites is limited. You will be turned away if no space is available, and you will have a long trip back to the nearest town.

Things in Botswana move much more slowly than I am used to. The booking in Botswana is a very manual process, still, carbon copy receipt based rather than Internet bookings. Please read everything you should know before you go camping in Botswana before you make any reservations. 

If you are planning to stay at lodges, Booking.com  is the best option as it is a reliable source and they have a 24-hour cancellation policy that I have used several times.

Renting a car in Botswana

You will need to have a 4×4 vehicle to go on a self-drive safari in Botswana , either if you decide to go with a tour operator, or if you decide to go on an independent adventure.

Request a quote and save on your rental car when you book through this site. I use and recommend Discover Cars because it is the most reliable rental car source, and it allows you to compare the prices of different places.

Self-driving in Botswana

Self-driving in Botswana can be a challenge depending on your level of experience but also depending on the season.

I recommend you rent a fully equipped 4×4 car, preferably with a GPS with camping sites and other important GPS coordinates pre-programmed. This will help guide you to stay on track and be able to orientate yourself, ensuring your drive will be a safe one for you and your close ones.

You can always ask one of our staff members for advice on what routes are recommended at the moment since this might change from one part of the year to another. Remember; in the African bush anything is possible so coming prepared and aware are factors that can help your drive be a successful one that will give you, your friends, and family memories for life.

Additional Tips for your Self-Drive Safari in Botswana

• Currency: The local currency in Botswana is Pula. They widely accepted South African Rand. You can use an ATM in one of the main towns. Always carry money with you, as most places do not accept credit cards.
• Fuel:  on long drives pick up fuel regularly in the major towns as there can be long distances between stations.
• Supplies:  Snacks and drinks are available at most of the fuel stops and the bigger towns had a well-stocked Spar Supermarket. 
• Maps/GPS: Download maps onto your phone which can be accessed offline. Also, keep a paper map in the glove box just in case!
• SIM cards:  it’s easy to pick up a pay-as-you-go SIM in the airports as well as in local mobile network stores.
• Internet: If you are planning to go on a mobile camp safari, note that you won’t have access to the internet. I spent 10 days in Botswana without internet access. 

Travel Insurance for your trip

I never leave my home without travel insurance which is designed to help cover your expenses if something goes wrong on your trip. Things can go wrong, and you don’t want to get stuck paying tons of money if you get sick or have an accident without travel insurance. 

World Nomads Travel Insurance  has been designed by travelers for travelers, to cover their trip essentials. Especially if you are like me, travel insurance is ideal for adventurous travelers. Travel smarter and safer – You can do your quick quote below and find out how little you can pay for the essential benefit of Travel Insurance for your next trip!

Botswana Self Drive Safari Conclusion

This is my very detailed Botswana Self Drive Safari Itinerary, and I hope this can help you to plan your Botswana Trip!

I have done other safaris in Africa before, but Botswana surpassed my high expectations. Nature, the diversity of wildlife, and the hospitality in Botswana made it an incredible trip.

Botswana is not a cheap destination to visit, therefore if you want to visit on a budget just like me, be prepared to have to start planning your trip well in advance in order to book your accommodation (good luck with that!), book your car and start to study the maps, since you will be driving on very remote and isolated areas. You need at least to feel somehow familiar with the region you will be driving. 

I truly recommend anyone to go on a trip to Botswana, and if you are convinced, continue reading as I prepared the whole BOTSWANA TRIP PLANNING section here for you!

Here is some further information I think you might need to plan your  trip:

• 21-Days Namibia and Botswana Self-Drive Road Trip Itinerary
• Namibia self-drive road trip Itinerary
• 28 Things you need to know before you go Camping in Botswana
• The Best Camping Safari in Botswana

Follow + Share

If you found this guide useful, follow me on Instagram to stay up to date with my travels & Subscribe to my YouTube Channel to keep you with my workout videos.

I would love it if you could follow me on Pinterest and share this guide on my social media.

Plan your Trip

You can plan your trip with this easy guide and have access to the best services I recommend and you can get discounted prices.

Ultimate Botswana Camping Safari Guide (for Independent Travelers)

Namibia & Botswana Itinerary: Ultimate 3-Week road trip from the Dunes to Safaris

Camping in Botswana: 30 Things You Absolutely Need to Know!

28 thoughts on “the ultimate botswana self-drive safari itinerary: a complete travel guide + map”.

Such an amazing drive and so impressed you did a self drive! I visited here on tour and it was such an amazing country!!!

Wow! What an amazing experience! I totally would love to do this one day and I like how detailed your blog post is. Hoping to go in the near future. 🙂

This drive looks amazing! I’m always hearing that Botswana is one of the best places to experience Safari in Africa, moreso than the typical Kenya or Tanzania. I can’t wait to plan a visit! Thank you for sharing.

This is such a complete post with its itinerary and other details that nobody would want anything else! Thank you very much for this. It’s just a matter of time, and people would start traveling again. 🙂

This is so cool! Beautiful photos and Botswana sounds like a great experience for a self drive safari. Botswana just got a place on my list on where to take an safari in Africa.

What a great self drive adventure through Botswana and such a detailed post. BTW, I never look as lovely and glamorous as you when I have traveled through parts of Africa! 😉 I normally end up being covered in dust.

These pictures make me want to go on safari!!! I can’t believe you drove over that bridge. What an amazing adventure.

Absolutely stunning pictures and amazing itinerary. I can’t imagine how much work went into planning this trip but I’m sure it’s helping many others interested in taking a similar adventure in the future!

Wow! what a great and detailed post! Oh how I would love to visit Botswana and do a self-driving tour

HI Marika, I hope that one day you get to go on a self-drive in Botswana. It is so incredible and unique, a real adventure.

What nice feedback Michelle, thank you so much. Yes, it was a lot of work planning as I couldn’t find much information for an independent trip to Botswana and the booking process was a lot of planning and hard work to be able to schedule.

I know, right?! Ha… That bridge. Now looking at my pictures and remembering all the adventures I went through during this trip, is insane and I am so thankful I only had some minor problems with this trip.

I love it Alma…haha…believe me, I was so dirty on these pictures too. My hair is always braided for a reason, and my boots were so dirty and dusty at the end of the trip that I didn’t even want to pack them back in my backpack. I am so glad you enjoyed this post.

HI Cosette, thanks for reading and I am so glad you enjoyed this itinerary. I so hope you get to travel to Botswana, you will absolutely love it.

Thank you so much for your kind comment, I hope this itinerary helps a lot of people who dream about self-drive independent to Botswana. I cannot wait to be able to travel safely again.

Hi Jade, glad you enjoyed this post. Oh, Botswana is simply incredible for safari and you really feel that you are super isolated the whole time, only sharing the wild with the gorgeous animals. It is just an incredible feeling.

Thanks Taylor, glad you enjoyed it. I so hope you get to go to Botswana too.

The self-drive is not an easy task in Botswana, that is the reason I was honest to say that I don’t recommend it unless you have great off-road skills and some mechanical. I am sure you had an amazing time in Botswana, it is amazing, isn’t it!?

Que fotos mais maravilhosos, que lugar de tirar o folego, acredito ter sido uma experiência única. Parabéns, o blog está ótimo, a viagem super detalhada e muito descritiva. Obrigada por com partilhar…

Obrigada Patricia e fico feliz que gostou desse artigo.

Hey Paula, I just wanted to say thank you for sharing your adventure experience. I’m originally from Tanzania and now I live in New York now. I run a tour company here in the USA bringing American to Tanzania. Trying to expand my business to other parts of Africa and Botswana clicked my head from reading your self drive experience in Botswana!

Hello Protus, thanks for your comment and I am glad you found my article about Botswana. This place really holds a special place in my heart, and I cannot wait to go back to Africa. Tanzania is very high on my bucket list.

We are going in december and are very nervous about the road conditions between Kasane and Maun – would you be able to share some images of the worst parts you’ve crossed to give us an idea?

Hello – it will depend on the weather conditions, as you will be driving between towns and also, off-road. I got lucky because when I visited Botswana it was not raining and I could drive off-road to many “roads” where normally you cannot drive if it is raining. If you see my pictures, you will see a lot of deep sand where you can only drive if you have a 4×4 vehicle appropriate for off-road, but if you are driving during the rain, you will have to cross the same roads on the mud or even water ponds.

Thanks for all your research and your effort in documenting everything in detail! We have read everything and planned the entire self-drive safari according to your itinerary, only in reverse order (from Maun to Kasane). Do you have any tips on how to plan the individual days? How to explore a certain area around a camp? How to plan the boat trips? And do you still consider your itinerary perfect or would you have liked to stay longer or shorter in a particular camp/area?

Below is what we have booked for the fall:

Wednesday Maun Thursday South Gate Friday Third bridge (depending on availability) Saturday Third Bridge Sunday Xakanaka Monday Xakanaka Tuesday Khwai Wednesday Savuti Thursday Savuti Friday Mwandi Saturday sleep in Kasane, but explore Ihaha and Chobe river during the day

Hello Bastiaan – I am so glad to hear that my itinerary is helpful and you are using it to help to plan your trip. When I planned my trip to Botswana it took me around 3 months to put this itinerary together, as they are not a lot of information on the web, and there is no road to follow. Have you checked my other blogs about Botswana? I have great advice on how to explore each safari area, and also, how to plan your camping safari, in case you are camping along the way. Or if not, I also give great recommendations on places to stay. Check these other articles, and if you still have any questions, please let me know: https://www.paulapinstheplanet.com/botswana-safari-chobe-okavango-delta/ and this one should be good too https://www.paulapinstheplanet.com/botswana-camping-safari/

Hi Paula, I didn’t see your reply until now. Thanks for responding! We have read all your blogs on Botswana and have everything booked according to your itinerary (camps, vehicle, days at each location). Just one question we have is how to make the most of the day trips from the camps? Did you use local maps or did you randomly explore and hope to find good spots for game viewing?

Hello Batiann – That is so nice my blogs about Botswana helped you to plan your trip, it is not an easy task as it is remote and doesn’t have much information on Botswana on the web. Now, how you can make the most of your trips from the camps, buy a Lonely Planet book about Botswana (this is what I used and was very helpful) and I bought the maps at the entrance of the National Parks in Botswana where you can see main spots to visit and see wildlife. Other than that, just drive, drive, drive and you will see a lot anyways. It is very wild and the chances to see wildlife are high anyways.

Leave a Comment

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

THE 10 BEST Botswana Safaris

Safaris in botswana.

• Nature & Wildlife Tours
• 4WD, ATV & Off-Road Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Okavango Delta
• Victoria Falls
• Kalahari Breeze Safaris
• MOKORO TRAIL DISCOUNTED PACKAGE
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. From Victoria Falls: Chobe National Park Small Group Tour

2. 5-Day Explore Zimbabwe, Zambia and Botswana

3. Chobe Full Day Safari Trip

4. 1 Day Okavango Delta Mokoro/Canoe Daytrip

5. Chobe Extended Day Trip from Victoria Falls - Zimbabwe

6. Chobe Full Day Trip From Victoria Falls

7. Full-day Safari Tour in Chobe

8. Chobe Safari Day Trip From Livingstone

9. 2 Nights 3 Days Chobe Safari ex Livingstone/ Victoria Falls

10. Chobe Safari Game Drive: Full Day

11. Chobe National Park from Victoria Falls

12. 2 Day 1 Night Chobe Safari ex Livingstone/Victoria Falls

13. Chobe Full Day Trip

14. Moremi Full Day Trip In The World Renowned Moremi Game Reserve

15. Guided Full Day Chobe National Park Tour from Livingstone

16. Victoria Falls Day Trip from Chobe - Silver Package

17. 2 Nights Okavango Delta Mokoro WildCamping Tour, all-inclusive

18. From Victoria Falls: A Full Day Chobe Safari with Lunch

19. chobe 3hr sunset boat cruise

20. Luxury Okavango Safari - 3 Day

21. 11Day WILDERNESS TRAIL:Okavango,Moremi&Chobe -WildCamping Safari +Victoria Falls

22. 11 Days and 10 Nights Private Northern Explorer Tour

23. 4-Day Discover Victoria Falls, Chobe and Hwange Park

24. Chobe Day Trip -Botswana

25. 2 nights 3 days Overnight Mokoro Trail Okavango delta

26. 13 Day WILDERNESS TRAIL: Best Of Northern Botswana -WildCamping + Victoria Falls

27. The Best of Botswana & Vic Falls - By Walking Stick Safaris

28. Madikwe Game Reserve Day Tour (Minimum per booking: 5 People)

29. 1 Night Madikwe Game Reserve

30. 9 Day Best Of Northern Botswana & Victoria Falls - Mix of WildCamping & Lodges

What travellers are saying.

Travelling Without a Passport

Botswana Vs. Tanzania Safaris: How to Choose

Imagine how great life would be if planning your next tour was as easy as throwing a dart at a world map, without giving it a second thought. If you are, in fact, lucky enough (and free-spirited enough!) to book your travels this way; then power to you!

But, for the rest of us, research plays a huge part in determining where to go next. The challenge arises when comparing Botswana Vs. Tanzania, as both destinations offer ridiculously thrilling wildlife encounters, but in reality, these two destinations are wildly different in the experiences that they provide. How will you decide between booking a Botswana Vs. Tanzania safari? Read on to find out:

Why you need to visit Botswana

Watching a lion stalk its prey as it wades through the floodplains of Botswana is an indescribable experience. Learning first hand about the history and traditions of the bushmen in the Kalahari, or floating along shallow waters of the Okavango Delta on a mokoro – a traditional canoe – is a cultural experience you can’t miss. If that wasn’t enough, the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans in the north-eastern part of the country will make you feel like you’re on another planet.

Diverse and varied landscapes including Chobe National Park , Moremi Game Reserve , Maun, Savuti, or Kasane, spirited locals with incredible stories to share, and the chance to jump over to Victoria Falls for the day are just a few of the reasons why you should visit Botswana.

When to visit Botswana

With the rainy season known to be between December through March, the best time to visit is from June to October or November. It’s usually around this time when travellers descend upon the country, and the dry months are the best time of the year to spot wildlife, especially around watering holes as there’s less water available across the country. Just don’t be surprised if an elephant reaches into your shower block in Botswana to drink directly from the tap!

If budgets restrain you, it is advised that you wait to travel until November when prices drop, and the crowds lessen. Botswana does experience the majority of its rainfall from March to May, so if you have set travel dates over this period, then Botswana might be your best bet.

See Also: Best time to visit Botswana

What to see and do in Botswana

• Visit the Khama Rhino Sanctuary on the edge of the Kalahari Desert to see these endangered creatures, but also to learn more about conservation efforts in the region.
• Drive through Chobe National Park, where herds of up to 50,000 elephants have the run of the place.
• Take a trip to Ghazni, a small township where you can gain a greater understanding of cultural practices and traditions.
• Marvel at the ancient rock paintings and majestic rock formations in the little-known Tsodilo Hills.
• Wander past the giant baobabs trees on Kubu Island, located in the centre of the Makgadikgadi Pan area.

Suggested tours in Botswana

• Botswana Delta Experience (5 days)
• Botswana Explorer (7 days)
• Wild Botswana from Maun to Kasane (9 days)
• Okavango Experience (10 days)
• Wild Botswana (11 days)

Why you need to visit Tanzania

From the moment that you step into Tanzania, you might begin to regret every travel decision you’ve ever made, wondering why on earth you didn’t visit Tanzania sooner! World-class diving sites scattered across the Zanzibar archipelago, one of the seven great summits; Kilimanjaro, savannah plains that stretch as far as the horizon, and panoramic national parks that host unparalleled opportunities for wildlife sightings are just a few of the magical sights you’ll discover here.

Just a moment’s glance at Tanzania will tell you there’s something for everyone, and you won’t be disappointed.

When to visit Tanzania

Similar to Botswana, the peak travel months in Tanzania are known to be from June through September where the temperatures are enjoyable, the skies are a vibrant blue, and a sudden downpour of rain is unlikely to interrupt your adventure. Another critical difference between Tanzania and Botswana is that Tanzania is much more of a ‘year-round’ destination; even in the wet season, you are going to be treated to prime wildlife sightings and the annual birthing season of wildebeest.

As for the Great Migration , this event can be witnessed from July to October.

What to see and do in Tanzania

• Spend time with the Maasai people to learn more about their nomadic way of life.
• Driving through the Ngorongoro Crater is a must-do experience, as this is where you will find hundreds of flamingos and other creatures on the crater floor.
• Your East African experience would not be complete without a visit to the Serengeti National Park where you can spot zebras, elephants, lions, wildebeest, giraffes, gazelles, and so much more.
• Take time to relax in Zanzibar on the northern beaches or stroll through Stone Town where you’ll find opulent forts and richly-adorned houses that show traces of the many cultures that ruled the area from years past.  
• Hike to the top of Kilimanjaro if you’re feeling brave and up for the ultimate challenge.

Best safari tours in Tanzania

• Predators in Action Budget Safari  (5 days)
• Tanzania Camping Adventure (6 days)
• Taste of Tanzania (7 days)
• Serengeti Migration Safari (9 days)
• Serengeti Safari and Zanzibar (12 days)

Travel on: An African safari

Do you have any tips on Botswana Vs. Tanzania safari? Let us know in the comments below!

Gemma Music

Gemma is a travel-lover from Melbourne. When she's not surrounded by the great outdoors, Gemma can be found spending her time with family and friends or planning her next trip overseas.

Related Articles

• North America

Your Guide to Easter Around the World

Easter is a time to celebrate new beginnings. The symbols and...

• Destinations

The Ultimate Seven-Day Itinerary in Egypt

The soft river breeze wafts through my hair as the sails...

Best Safari Destinations in Africa for 2024

“There is something about safari life that makes you forget all...

How to Spend One Week in Malaysia

Get unlimited access to the world's best travel stories. subscribe now., privacy overview.

• Find Your Dream Adventure
• Customized Travel
• Best Time To Go
• Your First Safari
• Photography
• Active Adventures
• Mark Nolting Collection
• Group Departures
• Honeymoon Getaways
• Safari Specials
• Voluntourism
• City Touring
• Romantic Getaways
• Food & Wine
• Last Minute
• South Africa
• East Africa Combo
• Southern Africa Combo
• Republic of the Congo

Where should I go on my first safari: Tanzania or Botswana?

Introduction

At the Africa Adventure Company, our first-time clients will most often visit either Tanzania or Botswana. This is a result from several factors, including:

• Domestic Transport Infrastructure
• Multiple ways to see (walking, boating, game-drive) world-class quality wildlife year-round
• Excellent Luxury and Mid-Range Accommodations, including many family-friendly options
• Cultural Experiences, especially Tanzania

But of course, this is no way implying that your options are limited to these two countries. AAC prides itself on both the quality and diversity of experiences we offer our clients: take a look at some of our many itineraries here . Or if you’re looking for even more customization, give one of our safari consultants a call.

We will discuss the comparable factors between Tanzania and Botswana in three separate blog posts:

To facilitate your navigation, click this drop-down Table of Contents:

The main draw for the camera-wielding tourists visiting these two countries is the wildlife. But a great photo can become a spectacular photo – given the right lighting, composition and background. Both Botswana and Tanzania provide scenic landscapes to capture iconic wildlife photos.

Tanzania in particular has been recognized for its natural beauty. For instance, Travel & Leisure listed Tanzania as one of the Most Naturally Beautiful Countries in the World .

Much of Tanzania is what visitors imagine to be “quintessential Africa,” especially the acacia-covered savanna of Serengeti National Park. Only the wide open plains of the Serengeti could play host to the year-round spectacle known as the Great Migration: where thousands upon thousands of wildebeest and zebras gallop across the savanna..

The seemingly endless plains of the Serengeti are not the country’s only scenic landmark. To the east lies Ngorongoro Crater, the world’s largest intact caldera and a World Heritage Site. To see the crater from atop its rim is worth a trip to Tanzania in and of itself – not to mention that it possesses one of the largest permanent wildlife concentrations in Africa!

And when you arrive in Kilimanjaro International Airport, you can’t help but see Mt. Kilimanjaro. Though not nearly as tall as Mt. Everest, Kilimanjaro is no less impressive, for the 19,400 ft peak juts an awesome 16,000 ft above the surrounding plains.

As photogenically scenic as Tanzania is, don’t discount Botswana. In a country the size of Texas that has merely around 2 million people and nearly 40% of the country’s land is dedicated to wildlife conservation, you can be assured of unspoiled views.

Sure, it doesn’t have a single landmark comparable to Mount Kilimanjaro. But it does have those “quintessential” open expanses, especially if you venture out to the Central Kalahari, Nxai Pan or Makgadikgadi Pans, and the Okavango Delta.

But what distinguishes Botswana from Tanzania is the abundance of riverine and wetlands landscapes. To have such scenes in the background of your photos truly enhances the wonder!

Vehicles on Safari

Vehicles are divided into two categories: open and roof-hatched.

When driving within and between parks while in Tanzania, you will be in a roof-hatched vehicle. The good thing is that once you are in a wildlife area your guide will open the roof hatch or “pop-top” to allow for viewings – especially for felines in trees!

Furthermore, the windows are very large and open to allow photographers to snap photos lower to the ground. Additionally, many of these vehicles have air-conditioners that help you cool down in the mid-day heat.

In Botswana, open vehicles are the norm, as most of the wildlife areas are private concessions or reserves. These vehicles have 2-3 rows of elevated seats without side windows or a permanent roof. Thus, these vehicles typically provide the least obstructed views, and therefore a more immersive experience.

Another added bonus of an open vehicle is that these same areas also permit night drives. You’ll find some of the most interesting animal sighting you will be before dawn and after dusk.

Notable Wildlife

Though both countries are superb wildlife destinations, it’s important to consider where certain animal species are more likely to be seen. Furthermore, there are also differences between the national parks and game reserves within the countries themselves.

Fortunately, buffalo are widespread throughout both Tanzania’s and Botswana wildlife areas. As a member of the Big 5, it’s an excellent species to tally on your checklist. Herd size varies from a handful of elderly bulls to well over 100.

A highlight to any safari would be witnessing lions attempt to hunt a buffalo. Though wounded, old or newborn buffaloes are most commonly hunted by lions, it’s not uncommon for lions to target a full-grown bull!

Elephants are nature’s largest terrestrial animals. They’re also one of its most social and intelligent. some of nature’s most intelligent and sociable creatures. It’s also arguable that baby elephants are the most adorable juvenile animals in Africa!

Like buffalo, most wildlife areas in both Tanzania & Botswana will feature sizeable elephant populations. But Botswana has the edge, for two reasons:

• Botswana reportedly has 40% of all elephants in Africa.
• Botswana has the Chobe River and the wetlands of the Linyanti region and Okavango Delta.

Not only can you witness the elephants swim across rivers (see the video in Animal Migrations Section), you are also able to view the elephants from a boat – or even a canoe! Selous Game Reserve is the one place in Tanzania where you can do the same.

Leopards are strikingly beautiful felines. But because they prefer forested areas and are solitary, they can be more challenging to spot. Thus, there is no guarantee that you will see a leopard in either Botswana or Tanzania.

The single best area to spot a leopard in either country is the Mashatu Game Reserve, an off-the-beaten-path wildlife area in Botswana. But for first timers, there are better options. The Okavango Delta and Linyanti region in Botswana, the northern and western portions of the Serengeti in Tanzania, and Tarangire National Park in Tanzania are all good leopard areas.

Arguably Africa’s most iconic animal, a safari without a lion seen would truly be a disappointment! Fortunately, both Botswana and Tanzania possess multiple wildlife areas with lion populations.

But Tanzania has the edge, for one specific reason: tree-climbing. Unlike leopards, lions are generally not arboreal. For reasons that are still debated, there are three wildlife areas in Tanzania with such lions: Lake Manyara National Park, Tarangire National Park, and Serengeti National Park

Black & White Rhino

Most large animals in Sub-Saharan Africa are vulnerable to shrinking habitats and human conflict. But few are undergoing as precarious of a population decline as white and black rhinos, fueled by demand for their ivory horns. But not all hope is lost; there are numerous valiant conservation efforts throughout the continent with promising results.

White Rhinos cannot be seen in Tanzania. In Botswana, they can only be seen within the Okavango Delta.

Black Rhinos, however, can be seen in several wildlife areas in Tanzania. The best area is the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, followed by the Serengeti. In Botswana, black rhinos currently can only be seen at the Okavango Delta, especially Chief’s Island.

Seeing a cheetah is always an incredible experience; but it’s even better to see one in motion! Cheetahs run at sustained speeds of 40 mph, but can reach up to 70 mph in short bursts.

You can’t go wrong with visiting either Tanzania or Botswana to see cheetah. In particular, the Okavango Delta, Linyanti region, and the Serengeti all possess optimal, wide-open plains. These plains enable cheetahs to attain their famous, jaw-dropping speeds and are home to large antelope populations for them to hunt.

Check out this video from BBC’s Dynasties series, featuring Sir David Attenborough and our friend Nick Murray, to see footage of the amazing cooperation, endurance and efficiency exhibited by Wild Dogs! Of the two countries, Botswana has more locations with a good chance to see wild dogs, namely Linyanti region & the Okavango Delta. Yet, Tanzania’s Selous Game Reserve is also a great choice.

Gorillas & Chimpanzees

See the Primate Trekking Section

Animal Migrations

Tanzania – The Great Migration

Four wildlife areas have the privilege of sharing “the greatest show on earth.” The Great Migration’s path goes through the Serengeti National Park, Grumeti Reserve, Ngorongoro Conservation Area, and Kenya’s Maasai Mara National Reserve.

The migratory impetus for 1.3 million, 200,000 zebra and 250,000 Thomson’s gazelle (and, of course, numerous predators) is what’s called the “rainfall gradient.” Because the Serengeti has limited permanent water sources, animals must go where the vegetation is; more often than not, it’s where it’s just rained.

What’s amazing about this migration is not only the size, but its relative punctuality. Though by no means guaranteed, if you book a camp/lodge in the area and corresponding time, you will most likely witness the Great Migration. Keep in mind, May to October is when the wildebeest intrepidly cross the crocodile-infested Mara and Grumeti Rivers.

Check out our recurring blog post that tracks the progress the Great Migration has made:

Migration Update – East Africa

However, the quality of wildlife sightings remains high even when the migration is elsewhere. In fact, you might prefer it: rates are cheaper and its far less crowded with other vehicles!

Animal migrations do occur in Botswana, but not on the same scale as in Tanzania. The Zambezi River and Okavango Delta provides a year-round water that keeps most of the wildlife nearby. But when the rains arrive, some animals do venture southward to Nxai and Makgadikgadi Pans; if you like zebras, here’s a good bit of trivia: Makgadikgadi Pans National Park has the continent’s 2nd largest zebra migration!

And if you’re lucky, you’ll be able to witness elephants crossing the Chobe River, as in the video above! They cross to eat the vegetation in Namibia’s Caprivi Strip and southeastern Angola. This is less of a migration, however, and more of an irregular to-and-from movement.

5. Gorilla & Chimpanzee Trekking

Note: Gorillas cannot be seen in either Tanzania or Botswana. If your priority is to see gorillas while in Africa, see our trips to Rwanda and Uganda . If they’re not your top priority but something you would still really like to do, then AAC can easily arrange a short extension to your traditional safari!

Chimpanzees’ DNA is 98% identical to our own. So it should come as no surprise that they should exhibit similar behavior: they’re omnivorous, occasionally bipedal, and exhibit both group infighting and cooperation. Though gorillas tend to get more of the spotlight, it is highly recommended that you go on a trek and observe these equally fascinating creatures.

This is a great opportunity to explore wildlife outside of your game drive vehicle. Dont’ worry about really long or difficult treks: most treks will last no longer than half a day, while most treks should not be too arduous for anyone with adequate physical conditioning.

The best place to chimpanzee trek in Tanzania is Mahale Mountain National Park. How strenuous a trek is here depends on what time of year you visit. One reason for this is temperature: from December to May, it’s very hot. So chimpanzees will avert the seasonal heat by climbing higher up in the hills. As a result, the trek will be tougher.

Another reason is precipitation: rain makes the trails muddier and increase the availability of food at higher altitudes. But perhaps the biggest reason are fig trees. Around September, the fruits will fall to the ground and chimpanzees will scramble to get these tasty treats. The great thing about this trekkers is that fig trees only grow at lower altitudes!

Greystoke Mahale is an excellent, relaxing sanctuary to stay whilst chimpanzee trekking at Mahale Mountains National Park.

You cannot gorilla or chimpanzee trek anywhere in Botswana, or Southern Africa for that matter.

Birdwatching

An important note: you don’t have to be an avian expert in order to enjoy birding in Africa. It’s a daunting task, even for a seasoned birder: about 2100 species have been recorded in sub-Saharan Africa, 1400 of which reside nowhere else in the world! Even more unbelievable: some reserves and parks have recorded more than 500 bird species.

Now if you are an avian expert, there’s a good chance you already knew all of this! Rest assured, there are plenty of high-quality, specialist birding guides that we can book a tour with on your behalf.

So though you may not be an expert before or by the end of your safari, you should come away with a deeper appreciation for birdwatching by the end of your trip. Most guides have great knowledge about numerous species’ appearances and calls. In fact, a big reason why they know several calls is because they often indicate that a predator is nearby!

A good resource for newbies is our African Safari Field Guide . It provides descriptions and drawings of some of the more common varieties of birds you will see on safari.

Though the best time of year to birdwatch does not generally align with best time of year to see wildlife, most parks in Africa have good birdwatching year-round.

To Learn More, click the link below to see our in-depth blog post about Tanzanian and Botswanan birdwatching:

Birdwatching: Tanzania vs. Botswana

Join Our Community

Posts by country.

• According to AAC's Consultants
• Client Trip Reports
• East Africa
• East Africa Bush Tails
• Egypt, Ethiopia & Morocco

Galloping Gnus Newsletter

• Southern Africa
• Southern Africa Bush Tails
• Southern Africa Office Trip Reports
• Stay Longer, Stay Remoter
• Top 10 Lists

Annual Photo Competition

Our clients have shot breathtaking photos on their safaris

Client Reviews

It was an amazing trip!

It was an amazing trip! We lucked out with the weather – no rain. The other British couple (only 3 others in the group, the last a young German woman, all nice which made the trip enjoyable) had been on a similar tour with Letaka last...

Regina Santella

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience.

Looking for a unique destination for your next holiday? Try St Helena!

Botswana vs south africa: which is better for safari.

Struggling with which is the right safari destination for you? Tessa compares Botswana and South Africa.

06 Mar 2023

26 feb 2024.

Botswana is home to the Okavango Delta, the world's largest inland flood and is synonymous with exceptional game-viewing. South Africa boasts the vast Kruger National Park, well-known for its high chances of spotting the Big Five.

But which offers the better safari experience?

We asked Botswana local, and frequent visitor to South Africa , Tessa to help you decide.

Choosing between going on safari in South Africa versus Botswana can be challenging considering the wide range of experiences on offer. I was recently fortunate enough to travel to the South African bushveld and Kruger National Park and have compared the different safari experiences in these areas to help you determine which safari experience best suits your expectations and needs.

South Africa is easy to access with a direct flight from the UK to Johannesburg airport, and it is then a short hop from Johannesburg airport to the Kruger National Park , either by driving or a quick light aircraft. There is no time difference either making the trip even more seamless.

Access to Botswana is more limited with the need to fly first to South Africa, and then with flights only coming once a day from Cape Town and Johannesburg to Maun, the main access point for safari. You then the need to transfer from Maun to the Okavango Delta by small charter aircraft which whilst a fantastic experience and adventure in itself, also pushes up the cost of a Botswana safari. This makes a Botswana safari a more exclusive and adventurous experience that is worth the extra effort if your budget allows it.

Ease of access - win to South Africa & the Kruger.

2. Landscapes

The Kruger and Okavango Delta have vastly different landscapes, and whilst there is variation within each region, they broadly differ in two main ways: water and elevation.

The waters of the Okavango Delta are a major drawcard to the Botswana experience and our flat sandy expanses differ from the South African landscape which varies from rugged mountains to rolling hills and thick bushveld. Whilst Botswana landscapes do vary within the region, there are fewer variations in the overall landscape and someone looking for changes in altitude, dramatic lodge settings and geology will find greater differences between lodges in South Africa. The permanent South African rivers tend to be wider and more forceful than the sedate calm flood waters of the Okavango wetlands and even the impressive Chobe River in full flood is slower and more peaceful than the South African rivers when they are flowing. Many rivers in the South African lowveld where most lodges are based are seasonal however with sandy river beds that flow only during extreme rainfall. The rocky and varied terrain also creates opportunities for high points of elevation and lookouts over the surroundings which are very limited in Botswana’s flatter landscape.

Whilst a stay at a camp like Xugana Island Lodge makes the most of the Okavango Delta experience, it is a great contrast to the rugged experience of Leopard Hills which is a great example of a South African elevated lodge making the most of the view.

Winner? Both are wonderful in their own rights, it simply depends on what you like in a landscape, but Botswana offers a more unique experience that can't be replicated elsewhere.

3. Wildlife

Both Botswana and South Africa have exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities and the big five available for sightings, but the landscape and habitat favour certain species, so if you have a favourite here is a guideline on where you are more likely to see them.

The Sabi Sands in Greater Kruger is known for its leopard density and whilst there are many lodges in Botswana where leopards are often seen, the Sabi Sands are hard to beat. Leopards love the rocky hills and large trees found in the lowveld here whereas they are more elusive in Botswana’s wide open spaces. Lions, rhinos and the other big five are also often seen. Large elephants with significantly sized tusks known as “tusker” are also more likely to be seen in the Kruger Park and its surroundings conservancies. Rhinos are also more common in the Kruger National Park than in Botswana where there are only a very limited number and these tend to be found in Moremi Game Reserve. In short, if you are looking to quickly tick the Big Five off your wildlife sightings, you will likely do this quicker in the Kruger.

Botswana is known for its density of elephants and large herds are often seen thanks to its open expanses, but big tusks are very rare. Buffalo, wildebeest and zebra can all be seen in very large numbers, and Botswana is home to the world's largest zebra migration. The water-adapted antelope including the sitatunga, red lechwe and puku are all seen in Botswana. Botswana also has the Makgadikgadi salt pans which complement an Okavango Delta safari itinerary, and it is in the Makgadikigdi pans that you can not only see Springbok, but you can also interact with meerkats as they go about their day - a highlight for many visitors. Jack’s camp offers a wonderful meerkat interaction and if well timed you can also see the significant wildebeest and zebra migration.

Best for wildlife : it entirely depends what you are looking for - if you want to quickly tick off the Big Five then South Africa, if you want vast herds of elephants, unique water adapted animals and spend time with meerkats, Botswana.

4. Bird life

Both South Africa and Botswana have impressive bird lists, but the Okavango stands out as a birder’s paradise. Find any water and there will be a selection of water birds to see that are impressive whether you have an active interest in birding or not. The sheer volume of birdlife, their dramatic colours and the entertainment that watching their actions can bring are more accessible in Botswana where the water is slower, closer and a greater part of the safari experience. This combined with open grasslands makes bird photography also more accessible than the shrubby woodlands of the bushveld in South Africa. Special sightings to look for include flamingos, wattled cranes, African skimmers, the carmine bee-eaters, pygmy geese and many more.

A stay at Kanana Camp gives you access to a heronry for the ultimate Botswana birding experience.

Best for birdlife : Botswana is a clear winner here

5. Safari activities

Many lodges in both Botswana and South Africa are on private concessions which is where we would generally recommend our clients stay. This allows lodges to offer night drives and to drive offroad for exceptional sightings. In National Parks, regardless of country, driving hours are regulated and so is offroading.

This means that the day-to-day safari experience tends to be similar, but Botswana has the added advantage of being able to offer traditional mokoro experiences, game viewing from motorboats, sunset cruises down Chobe river and fishing, as well as the activities offered in South Africa notably walking, game drives and night drives.

Mokoro experiences tend to be slower and calmer, with less of a focus on game viewing, instead, taking the time to look at the little things as you slowly cruise past. Being able to view animals from the water level is incredibly unique and special. Motorboats offer a similar viewpoint but offer better game-viewing experiences due to the greater distances they can cover.

Mobile safaris which range from a very simple camping experience to the more luxurious offerings of mobile operators like Golden Africa Safaris are also more common in Botswana. Whilst this mode of travel and safari experience is also found in East Africa it is not common in the South African bushveld.

In South Africa, a self-drive or self-catered safari is easy and accessible, whilst for a similar experience in Botswana a more rugged vehicle and a greater sense of adventure are required.

Range of activities : Botswana takes the edge here thanks to its water-based activities which are a unique safari experience, although, particularly if your first safari, you won't be disappointed by the range in South Africa.

6. Culture and people

If going on safari in areas close to large communities is what you are looking for then South Africa will suit you better. With great tribal diversity and larger communities close to the bushveld, you are more likely to be meeting someone who lives in the area.

If you would prefer to avoid bumping into people then the small population of Botswana at 4 people per square kilometre compared to South Africa at 49 is the right place for you. In Botswana communities mostly live on the outskirts of the wildlife areas and are seldom seen when visiting the area. The exceptions are Xaxaba, Khwai and Mababe villages. Khwai Guest House located in Khwai village will allow you to see rural life and wildlife coincide.

Locally owned properties are developing in Botswana but the options in South Africa like Buffalo Ridge Safari are more established.

Tribal diversity: South Africa takes the edge here and you are more likely to come across local people than in Botswana.

7. Lodge density, road quality and network

South Africa has a higher density of lodges which results in more roads whilst, in Botswana, there are large open expanses without any road network that are seasonally flooded. This is notable when flying over the area.

In South Africa, the game reserves have been formed over decades and most lodges in the South African bushveld now fall within the Greater Kruger Park without fences dividing them from each other. The historical use of these areas means that the old fence lines or tarred roads cutting through this area are a reality. The smaller reserves and higher lodge density are a stark contrast to Botswana’s wild places. The high-end and luxury lodges are adept and creative in making your safari connect you to the wild without feeling the higher density of lodges but if true exclusivity and space are what you are looking for then Botswana and properties like Jacks Camp are a better bet.

Botswana has traditionally followed a high-income – low-volume tourism model and for the most part (Chobe riverfront excluded) crowds are not found. In Botswana, private concessions are much larger with fewer camps and lodges on each concession. In the Botswana there are more opportunities for sighting wildlife alone and it is still possible to do a drive without seeing another vehicle.

Botswana roads whether in a National Park or private concession require 4x4 and are rougher, untarred and ungraded. This is not a considerable difference but does lead to a sense of a wilder experience in Botswana and makes self-driving in Botswana a much more adventurous experience than in South Africa, where in particular, in Kruger National Park, the roads are tarred and you could drive round in a mini!

Fancy doing it yourself? Consider self-drive Botswana if engaging 4x4 sounds exciting or Self-drive Kruger if you’d prefer to stick to graded roads on your self-drive safari.

Winner : South Africa is better for a more connected network, but we love the lower density of lodges in Botswana.

8. Combine it with...

Traditionally, landlocked Botswana is considered a more pure safari destination and offers a greater variety of parks within the country from the Okavango Delta to Chobe to Madikgakigaki through to the Kalahari desert, It can be easily combined with Victoria Falls or neighbouring Namibia with its stark, desert landscapes - a wonderful contrast to the waterways of the Okavango Delta.

In contact, the South African wildlife experience can easily be combined with Cape Town, the Winelands and the Garden Route or the beaches of Mozambique for some post-safari rest and relaxation.

Winner : for a wide variety of different safari landscapes then Botswana, for a more rounded trip with beaches or other cultural elements then South Africa takes the biscuit.

9. Wilderness

Of course, a safari is about the wildlife you see, but for many people, a holiday to Africa is also about exploring pure wilderness. Feeling at one with nature, getting off the beaten track, not seeing another sole.

Here Botswana wins hands down. The limited number of people and lodges, lack of roads and vast space all give a real sense of wilderness that South Africa simply can't match. It is this exclusivity, this sense of having the landscape to yourself that is one of the key draws of a Botswana safari and that is especially associated with the Okavango Delta, although it is worth noting that there are areas within Botswana, particularly Chobe National Park where it can become more crowded.

One of the key draws of Kruger National Park in South Africa is how accessible it is, but this naturally means more people visiting and even in the private conservancies, there are more lodges, more closely packed, meaning that whilst you can go off-track here and take activities such as walking or night safaris, it is unlikely to provide the same vast, expansive sense of wild that you can get in Botswana.

Winner : Botswana

Whilst the costs of a safari will vary depending on the time of year you visit, the type of accommodation you stay in and the duration, it is fair to say that generally, a Botswana safari will be more expensive than a South African safari (although this is certainly not always the case).

Why are Botswana safaris generally more expensive? There are a number of reasons for this, firstly your international flight will be more expensive as you will fly from the UK to Johannesburg, and then from there onto Maun in Botswana. Secondly, you generally have to fly between lodges due to a limited road network and the Okavango floods which is more expensive. Thirdly, Botswana operates a low tourism volume, higher price model which tends to mean safaris cost more. Fourthly, there is less variety in accommodation, with more luxury lodges and fewer affordable options to choose from.

It is worth noting, that whilst South African safaris can be cheaper due to ease of access and a greater variety of lodges at different price points meaning you can choose to stay in a more basic option at a lower cost, South Africa still has plenty of luxury, high-end lodges which may command a similar per night price to that of Botswana, so it's not to say that it is always a cheaper option. We would typically suggest our clients stay in a private reserve for a more exclusive game-viewing experience, and whilst these lodges may be a little cheaper than an equivalent to those in Botswana, there isn't always a significant per night difference.

Winner : in most cases, South Africa is a more affordable option.

11. When to go

Whilst the abundant wildlife means that both are year-round wildlife destinations, peak safari season for both the Kruger and Okavango Delta is during the dry season which is from May to October. Peak flood season which coincides with the dry season is from June to August in the Okavango Delta and this is a particularly good time for water-based activities as well as general game viewing.

The green season which is also when it is best for birding and low season so expect lower rates is from November to April for both.

Best time to visit Botswana

Best time to visit South Africa

No matter which safari option you choose the safari experience and thrill of discovering wild animals in their natural environment will be unforgettable.

In a nutshell, Botswana offers a wilder more exclusive safari experience than those found in South Africa within a unique setting. South Africa has a broader range of accommodations, experiences and landscapes and is more accessible.

Plan with an expert

Have a look at our original holiday experiences and then contact us with your brief, or call 01768 603 715

A tailor-made itinerary just for you

Our experts will send you a detailed holiday itinerary specified to your desires. It's our service promise to you.

Value guarantee

Tailor-made doesn't mean expensive! Ask about our price promise and book with financial security.

Thank you for making an enquiry

Our travel experts will be in touch soon. Feel free to call us on 01768 603 715.

Start planning your next adventure

Give us a call on 01768 603 715 , chat with an expert instantly on WhatsApp or fill in the form below and we’ll be in touch.

Tell us about you...

Tell us about your trip….

Please enter your comments.