Explore Botswana
Discover the best time to go & top destinations such as Chobe National Park and the Okavango Delta.
Salt pans and scrublands; meandering waterways reflecting the sky and larger-than-life elephant herds congregating on papyrus-lined shores… this is Botswana, a vast land defined by the Okavango Delta, the country’s emerald jewel. Coursing through the stark Kalahari, the Okavango Delta is undoubtedly the main attraction in Botswana (followed closely by the Chobe National Park). Nothing beats an Okavango Delta safari during the seasonal floods, when the landscape becomes a lush animal habitat.
Although more than 80% of Botswana is covered by the Kalahari Desert, its great diversity and unique landscapes play host to a wide variety of species, including a recorded 550 bird species, making Botswana a top bird watching destination in Africa. The massive Central Kalahari is home to giraffes, cheetahs, hyenas and wild dogs, among others, while the Chobe National Park is known for its herds of elephant and Cape Buffalo.
For luxury-seekers, Botswana is synonymous with high-end accommodation and luxury safari experiences. As though it was made for couples and honeymooners, there’s something deeply romantic about a Botswana safari, especially when you’re cocooned in one of the country’s famous 5-star luxury lodges.
Known as “the river that never finds the sea, explore the overgrown islands of the Okavango by mokoro, a traditional dugout canoe. Keep your eyes peeled for the elegant red lechwe and shy sitatunga, as well as the usual crowd: lion, cheetah, leopard, African wild dog, elephant and buffalo.
Covering almost 11 000 km² (6 836 square miles), Botswana’s Chobe National Park is famous for its large concentration of elephant and buffalo, which congregate along the Chobe River. This must-see wildlife destination includes the Savute Channel and Linyanti River, and offers adventures such as game drives, private river cruises, excellent birdwatching and exceptional photographic opportunities.
Top Experiences in Botswana
Discover the Delta by mokoro, sitting mere centimetres above the water, as you glide silently through the channels in search of elephant, red lechwe, crocodile and hippo.
A cruise on a motorised boat will cover greater distances on the Delta while offering fantastic sightings of water birds.
Game drives in the Okavango Delta promise up-close views of the area’s exceptional wildlife from an open safari vehicle.
Renowned as one of Africa’s top fishing destinations, go fishing in the still waters of the Okavango Delta.
Scenic helicopter flights over the Delta are a must-do – an aerial perspective is the ideal way to appreciate the Delta as one of the world’s greatest natural phenomena.
Considered one of the best wildlife destinations in Africa, the Chobe National Park is best explored on morning and afternoon guided game drives.
Recline in comfort on a riverboat cruise as it gently navigates over the still water of the Chobe River and marvel at the park’s wildlife as they congregate around the river edge.
When to Travel to Botswana
Game viewing in Botswana is best during the dry winter months of May to October, when animals are concentrated at water sources. The coolest months of June to August are considered the best time of year for a Botswana safari.
For keen birders, the wet summer season from November to March is considered to be the best time for birding, due to the arrival of migrants.
An Okavango Delta safari is rewarding any time of the year. The high-water season falls between June and August and offers the best opportunities for boat and mokoro safaris.