BOTSWANA
Botswana is synonymous with safari adventures, combining some of the most abundant and diverse wildlife populations on the continent with perhaps the most exclusive lodges in Africa.
With no fences around the parks and reserves, animals roam freely across huge swathes of the country. It is a land of enchanting contrasts, from the arid landscapes of the Kalahari Desert to the shimmering waters of the Okavango Delta. All home to a wide variety of big game species and the largest population of elephant in the world.
A personal favourite, Botswana is one of the last great wilderness areas left to explore and is one of the best big game safaris in all of Africa.
Best time to travel
MAY TO OCTOBER
Budget
$$$ — $$$$$
Top Attractions
THE OKAVANGO DELTA & SURROUNDS
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The OKAVANGO DELTA is an extraordinary oasis nestled in the heart of Botswana's wilderness. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the magnificent delta is a tapestry of winding channels, lush floodplains, and islands teeming with wildlife, making it one of the best big game safaris in all of Africa.
The Delta hosts some of the most exclusive lodges in Southern Africa. It is truly wild, accessed only by boat or air. With a notably lower tourism footprint than other destinations, you’re unlikely to see other people or operators during your stay.
Prices here are higher but reflect the astounding wildlife viewing on offer. Lion, Leopard, Cheetah and the African Wild Dog all thrive here.
Witness the Delta from the back of a safari vehicle, on foot, boat or in a traditional dug out canoe called a Makoro. Night drives and off roading are permitted, which gives you the best opportunity to get close to the wildlife.
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Just east of the Delta are the KWANDO, LINYANTI AND SELINDA RESERVES, renowned for their remote wilderness and prolific wildlife populations, including large herds of elephants and buffalo. These areas offer a variety of habitats, with game viewing concentrated along and around the waterways. During the dryer months, the Selinda Reserve is considered by many to offer the best predator viewing in Botswana.
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CHOBE WATERFRONT AND SAVUTI – the permanently flowing waters of the Chobe River make this area a hotspot for wildlife viewing during the dry season. Witness elephants swimming across the river into neighbouring Namibia while on a sunset boat cruise. South of the Chobe River lies the Savuti Channel, which rarely flows, yet still attracts large numbers of game to the surrounding grass plains and marsh. Also a popular destination for self driven safari tours.
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In central Botswana you will find the CENTRAL KALAHARI GAME RESERVE and the NXAI & MAGKADIGKADI PANS. Characterised by vast open plains, ancient riverbeds, and sparse vegetation, this remote region offers a unique safari experience, with very few visitors each year.