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If you’ve ever googled ‘Botswana safari reviews,’ you’ve probably seen positive reviews everywhere. However, you might be wondering: Is it really all that, or just another overhyped destination? From experience, it is worth every 5-star review and more, given the epic wildlife, gorgeous safari lodges, and rich culture. 

Reading reviews about the destination you want to visit can be tricky because they often vary widely. Lucky for you, Botswana safari reviews are almost always positive. However, these reviews usually come from major sites like TripAdvisor, so I thought you might want to hear it from an average Joe.

As an ordinary woman born and raised in Botswana and passionate about safaris, I share my firsthand lived experience reviews of Botswana safaris.

In this post, you will learn about Botswana safari reviews from a local perspective, tips and tricks for making the best of your time in Botswana, and more. After reading this post, you will be convinced that Botswana is indeed a quintessential safari destination.

This post is all about Botswana safari reviews

Botswana safari reviews

Botswana Safari Reviews: Hospitality

I will add my perspective to Botswana safari reviews from a native’s experience. Firstly, hospitality! You will feel welcome in Botswana. We are friendly people. Although I was born and raised in Botswana, I went on my first safari in my twenties as a solo traveller, and they laid a red carpet for me.

So if you are pondering a Botswana safari, do it! You will be welcomed with smiles and a beautiful ululation, which in Botswana signifies joy, celebration, and happiness.

First Impression 

My very first safari in Botswana blew my mind. I was completely wowed! Most Botswana safari areas are so remote from towns and cities that when I went there, it felt like I was in a different country. I could not believe I had been living in Botswana my entire life and had no idea such beauty existed. A real-life Jurassic Park, it felt like.

Wildlife

When it comes to Botswana safari reviews, wildlife is consistently rated highly, and for good reason. I can assure you you will not be disappointed with wildlife sightings in Botswana, as the country boasts of prolific game.

The Okavango Delta is the crown jewel of Botswana safari areas. These inland areas attract an incredible concentration of wildlife, especially during the dry season, so I always recommend visiting then for the ultimate wildlife encounter. You will also have excellent opportunities for predator encounters here, including Okavango lions.

If you are a birder, I suggest heading to the Okavango Delta. It is spectacularly rich in birdlife.

You have to see this place for yourself. It is impossible to reduce the Okavango Delta to a few sentences and a couple of photos and do it justice. However, I can confidently say it is unforgettable and well worth the price.

Additionally, Moremi, Chobe, and Savuti offer incredible wildlife sightings. Travellers often pair these destinations with the Okavango Delta in a Botswana itinerary.

Although these areas are famous with safari enthusiasts, the quieter reserves like Central Kalahari and Nxai Pan National Park are equally breathtaking in their own way. Overall, the Okavango Delta is my absolute favourite, and I will confidently give it a 5-star.

Safety

I will touch on safety because I am aware that it is a big concern for international travellers. Yes, Botswana is a safe country to travel to, whether you are a solo female traveller or travelling with children.

More often than not, I travel solo on my safari expeditions, but I have never felt unsafe, given that there are no locks on doors except maybe in Chobe, because it’s located in town. Furthermore, these safari destinations are so remote and secluded, and the staff there are trustworthy.

Botswana safari reviews: The landscape

Botswana’s landscape is the kind that makes you feel small in the best possible way. It is a land of vast open space. Each area offers something unique. Go to the Okavango Delta, for example, and you will see what I mean. A living mosaic of palm trees, water lilies, lagoon, and open floodplains. It is truly a breathtaking sight.

On the other hand, Savuti has a raw, dramatic feel and is known to be unpredictable. It is the anything can happen place.

While I was visiting Chobe National Park, the atmosphere was different; it wasn’t as wild as the Okavango Delta, mainly because it’s located in Kasane. Outside of Chobe National Park, Kasane is just a regular town.

Safari lodges

I have been on a safari in the Masai Mara, and I can say this: Botswana safari lodges rank among Africa’s finest, if not the number one. They are gorgeous, the design is thoughtful, the overall setting is spectacular, and the service is consistently exceptional.

Although Botswana is known for its luxurious safari lodges, there are options for all travellers, including mobile safaris and camping.

Safari costs

Botswana safaris are expensive; there is no two ways about it. Although the prices tend to be high, so are the standards. I promise you, a safari in Botswana is well worth the cost.

Additionally, safari costs depend on several factors, so if you are on a tight budget, consider a mobile safari or camping. Furthermore, I highly recommend a safari package if you are visiting multiple camps and areas.

Food and culture

While on a safari in Botswana, you will get a taste of our culture. That will come in the form of food, music, dance, and decor. Most of the camps have a traditional food day, and the food is delicious.

If you want to take it a step further, you can visit the Bushmen of the Kalahari if you are in the area.

In conclusion, a Botswana safari is absolutely worth it.

This post was all about Botswana safari reviews

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