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Are you thinking of going on a safari of a lifetime and wondering, Is Botswana good for safari? In this post, I share what Botswana has to offer as a safari destination and why it will be the perfect choice.
Planning a safari trip is an exciting experience; however, you want to do everything possible to ensure that this trip of a lifetime becomes just that.
If you’re anything like me, you are doing all the research you can, comparing and contrasting African countries to find the absolute best one.
Perhaps Botswana appears on your search results, and you are wondering, “Is Botswana good for safari?”
This post aims to address the questions I have heard being asked about Botswana safaris. People often ask, Is Botswana good for safari?, Is Botswana safe for tourists? Is Botswana safari worth it?
After reading this post, you will have all the information you need to assess if Botswana is good for safari and make an informed decision to visit this beautiful with confidence.
This post addresses the key question: Is Botswana good for safari?
Is Botswana good for safari
Botswana is one of the best, if not the best, safari destinations in Africa. Botswana is less well known than its counterparts, such as Kenya and South Africa.
However, Botswana has a lot to offer, ranging from unspoiled wilderness to the most luxurious safaris you can ever imagine.
Moreover, Botswana safaris are more intimate and usually bespoke, making them even more special for visitors.
The country offers incredible wildlife sightings, with a high chance of seeing the Big 5, including the much-loved lions.
Additionally, Botswana has one of the largest elephant populations in the world. If you are a lover of large mammals, head to Botswana.
The country has adopted a low-impact, high-quality tourism model, which means fewer lodges, fewer vehicles, and therefore fewer tourists.
Above all, Botswana has some of the most incredible safari destinations.
Unforgettable Botswana safari destinations
Okavango Delta
The ultimate flex of Botswana tourism! The Okavango Delta!
If you go on safari in Botswana, I highly recommend visiting the Okavango Delta. You will not be disappointed. It is stunningly beautiful with excellent wildlife.
I’m sure you’ve seen it come up a lot on search results as you were doing your research. This is what I can say: no words and pictures can do the Okavango Delta justice; you have to experience it yourself.
Moremi Game Reserve
This is a classic Botswana safari destination, with a high chance of spotting the Big Five. In addition, Moremi Game Reserve is excellent for self-drive safaris.
If you love camping, add Moremi Game Reserve to your bucket list; it’s well known for it.
Makgadikgadi salt pans
Known as the great big nothing. Makgadikgadi pans will leave you in awe. It offers a variety of activities, including quad biking, horseback safaris, and cultural visits.
I know it is not that famous, but do not be mistaken, it is one of the unique safari experiences you can ever imagine.
Also, Makgadikgadi can be visited at any time of the year. Moreover, this area boasts some of the best Makgadikgadi luxury safaris in Botswana.
Chobe National Park
Think of Chobe National Park as a summary of Botswana’s wildlife in one area. Chobe National Park is a famous destination, and I enjoyed my time there.
However, the downside is that you are not allowed to go off-road, so you cannot track animals.
This means you might not be able to see some animals, even though they are present in the park. However, there is an animal I’m certain you will be able to see, drum roll please…elephants!.
Additionally, you can explore other activities, such as boat cruising, village visits, or simply getting to know the town of Kasane, home to Chobe National Park.
When going for a Botswana river cruise, aim for the afternoon when you can watch the sunset on the boat cruise. The view is breathtaking.
If you are visiting Botswana in December, make sure you visit Kasane, the town comes to life during the festive season.
Botswana luxury safari lodges
Is Botswana a good place for safari? Absolutely yes. If you want to experience the wild in luxury and comfort, then this is the way to go.
Botswana offers some of the most luxurious safari lodges and camps, making the country stand out as a premier safari destination.
In addition, Botswana has fewer safari lodges and camps, which makes the safari experience more exclusive and intimate.
Also, the small number of visitors means guides and staff will be more attentive to their visitors, making the overall experience special and unforgettable.
Botswana Safari activities
Another thing that makes Botswana a great safari destination is the types of safari activities you can do. You can do game drives, walking safaris, horseback safaris, and night safaris.
In addition, you can venture into water-based activities like boat cruises, a classic in Kasane. You can enjoy activities such as boat photography, mokoro rides, fishing, bush camping, sky beds, and cultural visits.
The point is, there is a lot you can do on your safari, it’s not only about game drives. Another activity I found tourists love is visiting small villages around their safari destination.
For example, if you are in Chobe, you can visit a small village called Kasenu, about 15 minutes from the Chobe Riverfront. The village is situated on the Namibian side of the river.
Bushmen tribe of Kalahari desert
Another reason Botswana is a great place for a safari is that you not only marvel at its wildlife but also experience one of the world’s most indigenous cultures.
You get to visit and interact with the Bushmen tribe, experience the San Bushmen culture and lifestyle. You will be up close, observing the physical characteristics of the Bushmen and learning about their environment.
This isn’t just a cultural visit; it is about understanding Botswana’s human story and experiencing its beginnings in real time. An experience like this will give you another perspective on Botswana.
Eco tourism Botswana
Aside from breathtakingly beautiful Botswana tourist attractions , the country has set high standards for socially and environmentally responsible travel. I particularly love this about my country.
Eco tourism in Botswana has been foundational, which is why Botswana is a leading destination for a sustainable safari experience.
The government of Botswana places an emphasis on travel that conserves nature, supports local communities, and minimises environmental impact, which is why there are fewer lodges and, hence, fewer tourists. This alone makes Botswana a great African adventure destination.
Botswana safari best time to go
As great as Botswana is as a safari destination, choosing the best time to go is vital. If you are visiting for the first time.
I highly recommend visiting during the dry season, which runs from May to September.
This period is perfect for wildlife viewing, and animal activity is at its peak. In addition, the weather is excellent around this time.
You do not want to visit during the rainy season, I mean, technically you can, but would you really enjoy your safari?
Speaking of which, people often ask, What is the best month to go? I say: August! Animal activity is at its highest peak. However, August is the most expensive month to visit.
Cost of safari in Botswana
Botswana is a good place for a safari; however, it is not an inexpensive destination. The safaris are premium, and that is reflected in the price tag.
For example, a luxury safari lodge can cost $700 to $ 1,500 per person per night, while a mid-range mobile safari can cost around $450 per person per night. These prices usually include accommodation, all meals, park fees, and activities.
Please note that these prices are estimates, as actual prices vary depending on the lodge, the time of year you visit, and the type of safari you choose.
Is Botswana safe for tourists
Yes, Botswana is generally safe for tourists. Attacks on tourists are unheard of, which makes Botswana a good safari destination.
However, as in any part of the world, please exercise caution. Botswana has reports of crime, especially petty crime, but not targeted at tourists.
Addressing my fellow female solo travellers, safety is our number one concern. Botswana is generally safe for solo female travellers. If you are visiting Botswana for a safari, you will be fine.
However, please make sure you book with a reputable safari company. If you intend to visit cities like Gaborone and Kasane, I encourage you to be extra cautious, especially with your belongings.
Reports of cell phones and laptops being snatched in crowded places are not uncommon. For nightlife in the city, as a solo female traveller, I will say, avoid it unless you have company.
In conclusion, yes, Botswana is not only good for safari, but exceptional.
