10 Reasons to Visit Botswana

If you want to feel like you’re far from civilisation and surrounded by untouched beauty, it doesn’t get much better than the Okavango Delta. This natural paradise spans up to 15,000 square kilometres, which you can explore by land, water or air on a luxury safari.

Every year during the dry season, waters from the Okavango River flood the lowland plains to create an intricate ecosystem of swamps, lagoons and islands. This enormous river delta offers not only impressive views, but also the chance to see Botswana’s vibrant wildlife up close.

Animals come from far and wide to take advantage of the lush landscape and its abundant water sources. You’re likely to spot not only majestic megafauna like rhinos and elephants, but also smaller species such as frogs and water birds.

The Makgadikgadi Pans comprise an otherworldly landscape of stark salt flats and dry desert terrain. The harsh environment means that wildlife isn’t usually the main attraction here. But every year during the rainy season (roughly December–March), thousands of zebras migrate from the Okavango Delta to Makgadikgadi to take advantage of the seasonal rains and fresh grasses.

Apart from witnessing massive herds of migrating zebras, the Makgadikgadi Pans also offer fascinating cultural experiences in which you can learn how the San people have thrived in this environment for millennia. Adventure seekers can also set out on quad bike excursions across the seemingly infinite plains.

Nowhere on Earth has more elephants than Botswana: an estimated 130,000 of them, to be exact.

If you’ve ever dreamt of seeing hundreds of wild elephants at once, look no further than the Linyanti Reserve. Here you can observe some of the world’s largest elephant herds, who move through two ancient wildlife corridors that are protected by the reserve. You’re pretty much guaranteed a sighting – or several.

The elephants tend to gather around the waterways in the dry winter months (May–August). You can enjoy this spectacle from front-row seats on the deck at DumaTau. As you watch them play and cool off in the waters, it’s impossible not to gain a newfound sense of respect and admiration for these majestic creatures.

Some of Botswana’s most captivating species are big cats. Lions, leopards and cheetahs are present throughout various wildlife areas, and the Moremi Game Reserve is an especially ideal destination for spotting these elegant felines. Linyanti and Savuti are also renowned for their big cat populations.

All three of the aforementioned areas also boast large numbers of wild dogs – sometimes called painted wolves – which are endangered throughout Africa. These smaller creatures are famous for their beautiful multicoloured fur and interesting calls, which some say resemble birdsong. Botswana is one of the best places in the world to spot these rare and fascinating canines.

Most safari-goers flock to Botswana during the dry season from May to October, when big game is most visible. However, the other half of the year offers its own perks – especially for avid birdwatchers.

Botswana’s green season, which runs from November to April, brings rainier weather, higher temperatures and an astonishing array of avian species, many of which are migratory. We especially recommend visiting the Central Kalahari Game Reserve during these months, when birdwatching is excellent and the landscape is blooming with wildflowers across the desert.

Some of the most sought-after birds in Botswana include the kori bustard, African fish eagle and Pel’s fishing owl. And if you visit during the rainy season, you might get to spot more than 500 others amid its green landscapes.

Botswana is an ideal destination for those seeking solitude and uncrowded landscapes. With more private concessions and fewer national parks than some other nearby countries, it promises the rare luxury of having a piece of its vast and beautiful wilderness nearly all to yourself.

The unifying theme across its many diverse landscapes is space: from rolling plains to the starry skies above. You can traverse these endless expanses on off-road expeditions or simply sit back and enjoy the peace and quiet.

Nowhere embodies these defining features of Botswana better than Vumbura Plains: an exclusive lodge featuring incredibly spacious rooms that open right out onto the wide-open wilderness of the Okavango Delta.

One of the most magical experiences in Botswana is exploring its rivers, channels and lagoons on a water-based safari. These adventures can take many forms. You can drift down the Linyanti River on a barge, spot elephants on a river cruise through Chobe National Park or speed through intricate waterways on a small power boat.

Perhaps the best way to explore the Okavango Delta in particular is in a mokoro, or traditional dugout canoe, with a local guide. This authentic form of transport allows you to quietly observe animals without disturbing them or damaging their habitats.

If you want to elevate your safari experience and fully connect with the natural world, consider a mobile safari expedition. These tailor-made trips allow you to move between different wildlife areas and spend each day and night exactly as you wish.

You’ll get to see an immense variety of ecosystems and seek out the species that strike your interest, all while enjoying the flexibility of an entirely private and bespoke itinerary. We especially recommend mobile safaris for intrepid families, small groups and anyone who’s ready for a genuine adventure.

Botswana’s largest Indigenous group is known as the San, or Basarwa. Residing mainly in the Kalahari Desert, the San people are known for their deep knowledge of the environment and a history stretching back at least 20,000 years – making them one of the world’s oldest continuous cultures.

You can learn about this group’s heritage through immersive cultural experiences or simply by speaking with local San guides, who share their expertise on walking safaris. You can also visit San rock art sites such as Tsodilo Hills, where you’ll find thousands of ancient paintings.

Visiting Botswana presents an ideal opportunity to support conservation efforts, both through the proceeds of your stay and by spreading awareness through tourism. This country is a pioneer in environmental protection, a champion of sustainable tourism and a guardian of endangered species.

One of the most notable conservation initiatives in recent history is the effort to stop rhino poaching, particularly in the Okavango Delta. Dedicated efforts from the government and various organisations have transformed the country into a refuge for endangered black and white rhinos over the past few years.

Both Botswana and South Africa are fantastic destinations for a thrilling safari. That said, there are a few significant differences between them that can help you decided which country to visit.

• South Africa boasts legendary parks like the Kruger and nearby private reserves such as Sabi Sands, which are ideal for spotting the Big Five (lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo and rhinos).
• Botswana’s most renowned destination is the Okavango Delta, which offers water-based safaris that aren’t as common in South Africa, and is also home to all of the Big Five.
• South Africa is a great choice if you want to combine safaris with time in Cape Town and the Winelands, while Botswana may be a better option for trips focused mainly on wildlife.
• Botswana has several remote reserves that can offer a more exclusive feel than South Africa’s most popular areas – but we can also help you find less-crowded alternatives in South Africa.
• Our travel designers often suggest South Africa for first-time safaris and family trips, and recommend Botswana for seasoned safari-goers looking for a more remote and adventurous experience.