Introduction: Why Botswana Should Be Your Next African Adventure
The first time I set foot in Botswana, tears welled up in my eyes as a herd of elephants crossed the floodplains at sunset, silhouetted against the orange sky. That moment in 2018 cemented my love affair with this remarkable country, and I’ve returned four times since. There’s something magical about Botswana that keeps pulling me back – perhaps it’s the pristine wilderness, the absence of mass tourism, or the genuine conservation success stories that make this country shine.
With some of Africa’s most spectacular wildlife viewing opportunities, diverse ecosystems, and a strong commitment to sustainable tourism, Botswana offers an unforgettable safari experience that’s worth every pula (that’s Botswana’s currency, by the way). But planning a week in this vast country requires strategy – you want to maximize wildlife encounters without spending half your precious time in transit.
This guide draws from my multiple visits (including my most recent trip in January 2024) to create the perfect 7-day Botswana itinerary. I’ll share exactly how to make the most of your time, where to splurge and where to save, and how to avoid the expensive mistakes I’ve made in the past. Let’s dive into the ultimate week in Botswana for 2025!
Understanding Botswana: What Makes It Special
Before we jump into the day-by-day itinerary, let’s get oriented. Botswana is a landlocked country in Southern Africa, roughly the size of Texas but with a population of just 2.4 million people. What makes it truly special is its dedication to conservation – nearly 40% of the country is protected in the form of national parks and game reserves.
This commitment to wildlife isn’t just talk. Botswana has banned trophy hunting (though this policy has seen some changes in recent years), implemented a high-value, low-volume tourism model, and maintains some of the strictest anti-poaching measures in Africa. The result? Thriving elephant populations (the largest in Africa), healthy predator numbers, and ecosystems functioning much as they have for thousands of years.
The country’s main attractions include:
- The Okavango Delta – a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the world’s largest inland deltas
- Chobe National Park – home to massive elephant herds and spectacular riverfront game viewing
- The Makgadikgadi Pans – surreal salt flats that transform from dusty expanses to flamingo-filled wetlands depending on the season
- Moremi Game Reserve – a wildlife-rich protected area covering much of the eastern Okavango Delta
- The Central Kalahari Game Reserve – a vast wilderness offering a completely different desert ecosystem
When to Visit Botswana
Timing is everything in Botswana. The country has distinct wet and dry seasons that dramatically affect wildlife viewing, accessibility, and prices:
- Dry Season (May to October): This is the traditional high season. Animals gather around permanent water sources, making them easier to spot. The weather is mild to warm during the day but can be quite cold at night (I’ve needed a heavy jacket in July mornings). This is generally the best time for wildlife viewing but also the most expensive.
- Wet Season (November to April): The landscape transforms with summer rains, turning brown plains vibrant green. Many animals give birth during this time, making it excellent for seeing young wildlife. Birding is spectacular as migratory species arrive. Prices drop significantly (I’ve seen up to 40% discounts), but some areas become inaccessible due to flooding.
- Shoulder Seasons (November and April): These transitional months can offer the best of both worlds – decent wildlife viewing with lower prices. My November 2022 trip hit this sweet spot perfectly.
For a one-week trip in 2025, I’d recommend May, September or October for first-time visitors who prioritize wildlife viewing, or November/April if you’re more budget-conscious and don’t mind occasional rain showers.
The Perfect 7-Day Botswana Itinerary
With limited time, this itinerary focuses on Botswana’s wildlife highlights while minimizing travel time. I’ve structured it to provide a diverse experience of ecosystems while keeping logistics manageable.
Day 1: Arrival in Maun & Okavango Delta Introduction
Most Botswana safaris begin in Maun, the gateway to the Okavango Delta. After landing at Maun International Airport, you’ll feel the excitement building as small safari planes taxi on the runway.
On my first visit, I made the mistake of rushing straight to my next destination. Now, I always recommend spending at least half a day in Maun to:
- Visit the Old Bridge Backpackers for lunch overlooking the Thamalakane River (their burger is surprisingly good)
- Browse handmade crafts at the Maun Market for souvenirs that actually support local artisans
- Take a scenic helicopter flight over the Delta (a 30-minute flight costs around 2,700 Pula/$200 USD and gives you a spectacular overview of the ecosystem)
Money-Saving Tip #1: Book your helicopter flight in advance through operators like Helicopter Horizons rather than through your lodge. I saved nearly 900 Pula ($70 USD) doing this in 2023.
For your first night, I recommend staying at Crocodile Camp Safari Resort or Thamalakane River Lodge. Both offer comfortable accommodations with river views at a reasonable price point (1,200-1,800 Pula per night). I’ve stayed at both and prefer Thamalakane for its quieter setting and better food.
Day 2-3: Moremi Game Reserve
Moremi Game Reserve forms the eastern portion of the Okavango Delta and offers some of Botswana’s most diverse wildlife viewing. On my visits, I’ve consistently seen lions, leopards, wild dogs, elephants, and countless other species here.
You have two main options for exploring Moremi:
Option 1: Stay at a lodge within the reserve
This is the premium experience. Lodges like Sanctuary Chief’s Camp or Mombo Camp offer incredible luxury with prime wildlife viewing. However, they come with astronomical price tags (often $1,500-3,000 USD per person per night).
A more reasonably priced alternative I discovered on my third visit is Moremi Crossing. At around $450-550 per person per night all-inclusive, it’s still expensive but offers authentic delta experiences including mokoro (traditional canoe) excursions.
Option 2: Day trips from Maun
For budget travelers, staying in Maun and taking a guided day trip into Moremi is much more affordable. Companies like Delta Rain offer full-day safari tours for around 1,300 Pula ($100 USD) per person. The downside is the long drive (about 2.5 hours each way) and missing the magical early morning and evening wildlife activity.
Money-Saving Tip #2: If you’re traveling with 3+ people, consider hiring a private guide and 4×4 vehicle for your Moremi exploration. I paid 3,900 Pula ($300) for a vehicle with driver/guide for a full day in 2024, which was cheaper than four individual tour spots.
Whichever option you choose, don’t miss the opportunity to take a mokoro excursion through the delta channels. Gliding silently through papyrus reeds as tiny reed frogs call and fish eagles soar overhead is a quintessential Okavango experience. The sound of water gently lapping against the mokoro while your poler shares stories in hushed tones is something I still dream about.
I’ll never forget when my guide Kenneth spotted fresh leopard tracks during our mokoro trip. He explained how to read the sand, showing how recently the big cat had passed. “A tinti mintsi, she is very close,” he whispered in Setswana before translating. That mixture of slight fear and immense wonder is what makes Botswana special.
Day 4-5: Chobe National Park
From Maun, you’ll travel to Kasane, the gateway to Chobe National Park. This journey can be done by:
- Air: A small plane flight takes about 1.5 hours and costs approximately 3,000 Pula ($230 USD) with operators like Mack Air. The aerial views are spectacular, and I highly recommend this option if your budget allows.
- Road: This is a long journey (about 8-10 hours) on sometimes rough roads. While budget-friendly, I wouldn’t recommend it for a short itinerary as it consumes too much valuable time.
Chobe National Park offers a completely different experience than the Okavango. Famous for having Africa’s highest concentration of elephants, the riverfront area provides extraordinary wildlife viewing. During the dry season, I’ve seen herds of 200+ elephants coming to drink, along with buffalo, giraffes, and numerous antelope species.
The absolute must-do activity here is a sunset boat cruise on the Chobe River. As the afternoon light turns golden, you’ll cruise past elephants swimming between islands, hippos grunting in the channels, and crocodiles sunning on sandbanks. The smell of the river, earthy and primal, mixed with the sweet scent of wild sage from the banks, creates a sensory experience beyond compare.
For accommodation, I recommend:
- Mid-range: Chobe River Lodge offers comfortable rooms from about 2,500 Pula ($190 USD) per night.
- Budget: Thamo Telele in Kasane provides clean, basic rooms from 800 Pula ($60 USD) per night.
- Luxury: andBeyond Chobe Under Canvas offers a premium tented safari experience from $450 USD per person per night, all-inclusive.
Spend your days here doing:
- Early morning game drives along the riverfront (the best time to see predators active)
- Afternoon/sunset boat cruises (a must-do experience)
- A visit to nearby Kasane for local culture and perhaps lunch at the Chobe Chilwero with its spectacular views
Money-Saving Tip #3: Book your Chobe boat cruise directly through operators in Kasane rather than through your hotel. I paid 350 Pula ($27) for a 3-hour cruise with Kalahari Tours compared to the $60 my hotel was charging for the exact same trip.
Day 6: Victoria Falls Day Trip
While technically in Zimbabwe (or Zambia, depending which side you visit), Victoria Falls is just an hour’s drive from Kasane and makes a perfect addition to your Botswana itinerary. Known locally as “Mosi-oa-Tunya” (The Smoke That Thunders), this is one of the world’s largest waterfalls.
My first mistake at Victoria Falls was wearing my favorite shoes. Within minutes of walking the trails along the falls, I was soaked from the spray! Now I recommend wearing sandals or water shoes, rain gear, and protecting cameras/phones in waterproof cases.
For a day trip from Kasane:
- Arrange a transfer through your accommodation or with Khandu’s Overland Africa
- Bring your passport for border crossing (you’ll need a Zimbabwe or Zambia visa, approximately $30-50 USD)
- Allow a full day for the experience (7am-5pm)
- Budget around 1,300-1,500 Pula ($100-115 USD) for transportation and park fees
At the falls, follow the walking trails, feel the thundering power, and perhaps enjoy lunch at the historic Victoria Falls Hotel. The colonial-era terrace has spectacular views down the gorge toward the bridge, and their cucumber sandwiches surprisingly hit the spot after a morning of humid exploration.
If you’re adventurous, consider adding activities like:
- White water rafting on the Zambezi (from $120)
- A helicopter flight over the falls (from $150 for 12-15 minutes)
- Bungee jumping from the Victoria Falls Bridge (not for the faint-hearted!)
Day 7: Return to Maun and Departure
On your final day, you’ll return to Maun for your international departure. This can be done via a morning flight from Kasane to Maun (approximately 1.5 hours).
If your flight schedule allows for some free time in Maun, consider:
- Visiting the Nhabe Museum to learn about local culture and history
- Shopping for last-minute souvenirs at the Botswanacraft center
- Enjoying a final meal at Marc’s Eatery, a local favorite with excellent pizza and salads
As you leave, take a moment to appreciate what makes Botswana special. On my last departure in 2024, the sunset painted the sky in impossible shades of orange and purple as we taxied down the runway. That sight, along with the memories of elephants crossing endless floodplains and lions roaring in the night, will stay with me forever – and I’m certain they’ll stay with you too.
Where to Stay in Botswana: Accommodation Options
Accommodation in Botswana ranges from simple campsites to ultra-luxury lodges costing thousands of dollars per night. Here’s an overview of your options:
Luxury Safari Lodges
Botswana pioneered the concept of luxury wilderness camps, and the country excels at high-end safari experiences. These lodges typically include:
- All-inclusive rates covering accommodation, meals, drinks, and activities
- Extraordinary locations in private concessions with exclusive wildlife viewing
- Expert guides and personalized service
- Limited guest numbers (often just 8-16 guests total)
Expect to pay $800-3,000 per person per night for the premium experience. While eye-wateringly expensive, these lodges deliver incredible value through the quality of wildlife experiences and exclusivity.
Some standout luxury options include:
Lodge | Location | Approximate Cost (pp/night) | Highlight |
---|---|---|---|
Jao Camp | Okavango Delta | $1,700-2,800 | Stunning elevated suites with private plunge pools |
Selinda Camp | Selinda Reserve | $1,500-2,500 | Exceptional predator viewing and photography opportunities |
Sanctuary Baines’ Camp | Okavango Delta | $800-1,400 | Beds that roll out onto private decks for sleeping under the stars |
Mid-Range Options
For travelers with more modest budgets, these options provide good value:
- Mobile Safari Operators: Companies like Africa Wanderer and Letaka Safaris offer multi-day guided camping safaris from $350-500 per person per day. These include comfortable tented accommodation, all meals, and expert guiding.
- Permanent Tented Camps: Places like Mma Dinare and Chobe Elephant Camp offer excellent safari experiences from $400-600 per person per night.
- Lodges in Maun/Kasane: Staying in gateway towns and taking day trips into wildlife areas is much more affordable. Options like Crocodile Camp in Maun (from $120/night) or Chobe Marina Lodge in Kasane (from $200/night) provide comfortable bases.
Money-Saving Tip #4: Travel during green season (November-March) for dramatic discounts on accommodation. I’ve seen luxury lodges offer up to 40% off their peak season rates, which can save thousands on a weeklong trip.
Budget Accommodation
Botswana isn’t known for budget travel, but options do exist:
- Public Campsites: In Chobe and Moremi, basic government campsites cost around $50 per person per night. You’ll need your own equipment and a 4×4 vehicle.
- Backpacker Lodges: Old Bridge Backpackers in Maun and Thebe River Safaris in Kasane offer dormitory beds from $25 and private rooms from $50.
- Guesthouses: Local guesthouses in Maun like Crocodile Camp provide simple but clean accommodations from $60-80 per night.
On my second trip to Botswana, I mixed accommodation types – splurging on two nights at a luxury lodge in the Delta, then using mid-range options elsewhere. This approach gives you the best of both worlds: the extraordinary exclusive safari experience plus a more sustainable budget overall.
Getting Around Botswana
Botswana’s vast size and limited infrastructure present some transportation challenges. Here are your options for navigating this beautiful country:
Flying
Small aircraft flights between safari destinations are the most time-efficient option. Companies like Mack Air operate scheduled and charter flights between Maun, safari camps, and Kasane.
Benefits include:
- Spectacular aerial views of landscapes and sometimes wildlife
- Maximizing time spent on safari rather than in transit
- Accessing remote camps impossible to reach by road
Drawbacks include:
- Cost (expect $200-400 per segment)
- Strict luggage limitations (usually 15-20kg in soft bags only)
- Potential for motion sickness in smaller aircraft
Self-Drive
Renting a 4×4 vehicle gives you independence but comes with challenges. I did this on my third visit and while rewarding, it was occasionally stressful.
Companies like Drive Adventure and Britz offer fully equipped 4x4s with roof tents from around $150-250 per day.
Essential considerations:
- You must have a proper 4×4 with high clearance for game reserves
- Navigation can be challenging – GPS often doesn’t work, and signage is minimal
- You need to be self-sufficient with spare tires, extra fuel, and supplies
- Deep water crossings in the Delta require experience and confidence
My biggest self-drive mistake was underestimating the sand roads in Moremi. Without proper tire pressure adjustment, we got stuck twice in one day. Go lo fa feta (“it will pass” in Setswana) became our mantra as we dug ourselves out!
Guided Safaris
For most visitors, joining a guided safari is the best option. These range from day trips from Maun or Kasane to multi-day mobile camping adventures. Benefits include:
- Expert guides who know where to find wildlife and can interpret behavior
- No need to worry about navigation, driving conditions, or logistics
- Cultural insights and information you’d miss otherwise
Reputable operators include Botswana Specialists and Africa Wanderer.
Public Transportation
While buses connect major towns like Gaborone, Maun, and Kasane, they don’t access wildlife areas. Public transport is best used only if you’re on a very tight budget and have plenty of time.
Safari Tips for First-Time Visitors
Having made plenty of rookie mistakes during my first Botswana safari, I’m determined to help you avoid the same pitfalls:
What to Pack
Packing right makes a huge difference to your comfort and experience:
- Clothing: Neutral colors (khaki, olive, brown) for game drives. Avoid bright colors and pure white which can alarm animals and show dust.
- Layers: Mornings can be surprisingly cold, even in summer. Pack a warm jacket, fleece, and light rain shell.
- Sun protection: A wide-brimmed hat, high SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, and light long-sleeved shirts. The African sun is intense, even in winter.
- Footwear: Comfortable closed shoes for walks and sandals for around camp.
- Binoculars: Essential for wildlife viewing. I recommend 8×42 or 10×42 magnification.
- Camera equipment: Bring the longest lens you can manage (at least 300mm for wildlife), extra batteries, and plenty of memory cards.
- Medications: Personal prescriptions, anti-malarial tablets (if visiting during wet season), anti-diarrheal medication, and basic first aid items.
Money-Saving Tip #5: Instead of buying specialty safari clothing, simply wear what you already own in neutral colors. I’ve seen tourists spend hundreds on “safari outfits” when regular cotton pants and shirts work perfectly well.
Wildlife Viewing Etiquette
Respectful wildlife viewing enhances everyone’s experience:
- Remain quiet during sightings – loud voices can disturb animals
- Never ask guides to approach animals too closely or disturb natural behavior
- Stay seated in vehicles unless guides confirm it’s safe to stand
- Turn off camera sounds and flash photography
- Be patient – the best sightings often develop over time
I’ll never forget watching a leopard on my second Botswana trip. After 30 minutes of seemingly nothing happening, he suddenly descended from his tree and made a successful impala kill right in front of us. The other vehicle had left after just five minutes, missing the incredible action.
Health and Safety
Botswana is generally safe, but some precautions are necessary:
- Malaria prevention: Botswana has malaria risk, particularly in the north during rainy season (November-April). Consult your doctor about appropriate prophylaxis.
- Water: Stick to bottled or filtered water outside major hotels.
- Wildlife safety: Always follow guide instructions around animals. Never walk around safari camps at night without an escort.
- Travel insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance with evacuation coverage is essential. Medical facilities in remote areas are extremely limited.
On my first night at a tented camp, I nearly walked to dinner alone after dark. Thankfully, a staff member stopped me – there was a leopard on the pathway! Now I always wait for my escort, no matter how short the distance.
Costs and Budgeting for Botswana
Let’s be honest – Botswana is expensive compared to many African destinations. The country deliberately positions itself as a premium safari destination through its high-value, low-volume tourism model. Here’s what to expect cost-wise:
Budget Breakdown
Category | Budget Option | Mid-Range Option | Luxury Option |
---|---|---|---|
Accommodation (per person/night) | $25-80 | $200-400 | $800-3,000 |
Meals (per day) | $20-40 | Included in safari packages | Included in safari packages |
Transportation (between major destinations) | $30-100 (public transport) | $200-400 (flights) | $250-500 (private flights) |
Activities (game drives, boat cruises) | $50-100 per activity | Included in safari packages | Included in safari packages |
Park Fees (per day) | $10-40 depending on the park |
Total Budget for 7 Days
- Budget traveler: $1,500-2,500 per person (staying in backpacker lodges, using public transport where possible, joining group activities)
- Mid-range traveler: $3,500-5,500 per person (mix of modest safari camps, some flights, private activities)
- Luxury traveler: $7,000-15,000+ per person (staying at premier safari lodges, private flights, exclusive experiences)
Money-Saving Tip #6: Consider a mixed approach. My last trip combined two nights at a luxury delta camp ($2,700) with five nights at mid-range accommodations ($1,500), giving me the premium experience without the premium price tag for the entire week.
Payment and Currency
The local currency is the Pula (BWP), currently exchanging at roughly 13 Pula to 1 USD.
- Major hotels and safari lodges accept credit cards (Visa/Mastercard primarily)
- ATMs are available in Maun, Kasane and major towns
- Keep some cash for small purchases, tips, and remote locations
- Most safari packages require substantial deposits (30-50%) months in advance
I’ve found that budgeting about 100-150 Pula ($8-12) per day for incidentals and tips works well.
Responsible Tourism in Botswana
Botswana takes conservation seriously, and as visitors, we should too. Here’s how to ensure your visit has a positive impact:
Supporting Conservation
Botswana’s wildlife exists largely because tourism makes it economically valuable. By visiting, you’re already supporting conservation, but you can amplify your impact:
- Choose operators and lodges with clear conservation commitments
- Consider properties owned by community trusts that direct profits back to local people
- Visit Cheetah Conservation Botswana in Gaborone if your itinerary allows
- Support the Elephants for Africa research station near Maun
Cultural Sensitivity
Botswana has a rich cultural heritage worth respecting:
- Ask permission before photographing local people
- Learn a few basic Setswana phrases (“Dumela” for hello, “Ke a leboga” for thank you)
- Dress modestly when visiting villages or towns (cover shoulders and knees)
- Support authentic cultural experiences rather than contrived “performances”
Environmental Impact
Minimize your footprint with these practices:
- Avoid single-use plastics – bring a reusable water bottle
- Stay on established roads and tracks during game drives
- Use biodegradable toiletries, especially in camps with basic waste systems
- Never litter, even biodegradable items like fruit peels
Money-Saving Tip #7: Being eco-friendly often saves money too. A good quality reusable water bottle with built-in filter (like a LifeStraw) costs about $40 but saves buying bottled water throughout your trip – good for your wallet and the environment.
Conclusion: Your 5-Step Action Plan for Botswana
Botswana stole my heart from my very first visit, and I’m confident it will captivate you too. This remarkable country offers wildlife experiences unlike anywhere else on earth, with a conservation approach that ensures future generations can enjoy these treasures.
To make your Botswana dreams a reality in 2025, follow this 5-step action plan:
- Book accommodation 9-12 months in advance. The best lodges fill up extremely quickly, especially for peak season (July-October). If you’re reading this and planning for 2025, start making reservations now.
- Sort your flights next. International flights to Johannesburg or Cape Town, then connections to Maun, should be booked 6-8 months out for the best rates. Internal light aircraft transfers should be arranged simultaneously with your accommodation.
- Arrange necessary vaccinations and medications at least 2 months before travel. Consult a travel doctor about malaria prophylaxis and other health requirements.
- Invest in quality binoculars and camera equipment. Don’t wait until the last minute – practice with your gear before the trip to ensure you can use it effectively when that leopard appears.
- Read up on Botswana’s wildlife and ecosystems. Understanding what you’re seeing dramatically enhances the experience. I recommend The Behavior Guide to African Mammals by Richard Despard Estes and Wildlife of the Okavango by Peter Joyce.
When I think back on my Botswana experiences – watching a leopard stalk through golden grass, hearing elephants trumpet across floodplains, or simply sitting by a campfire under the Southern Cross – I’m reminded that these moments are increasingly precious in our crowded world.
Botswana offers the rare opportunity to experience wilderness as it should be: vast, untamed, and full of life. It’s not the cheapest destination, nor the easiest to navigate, but few places on earth will reward your efforts so richly.
As they say in Setswana, tsamaya sentle – go well on your Botswana journey.
Frequently Asked Questions About Botswana
Is Botswana safe for tourists?
Yes, Botswana is one of Africa’s safest countries, with low crime rates and political stability. The main safety concerns are wildlife-related (always follow guide instructions) and health issues like malaria in northern regions during rainy season. Exercise normal precautions in cities and towns, just as you would anywhere else.
When is the best time to visit Botswana?
The dry season (May-October) offers the best wildlife viewing as animals congregate around permanent water sources. July-September provides optimal conditions but with peak pricing. For better value with still-good wildlife viewing, consider shoulder seasons (May or November). The green season (December-March) brings lush landscapes, newborn animals, and dramatic bird migrations, with significantly lower prices.
Do I need a visa for Botswana?
Many Western countries including the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and most EU nations don’t require visas for tourist stays up to 90 days. However, visa requirements change, so always check the official Botswana government site before traveling. Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date.
How much does a safari in Botswana cost?
Botswana is one of Africa’s most expensive safari destinations due to its high-value, low-impact tourism model. Budget travelers can manage with $200-300 per day for basic accommodations and activities. Mid-range experiences cost $400-600 per day, while luxury lodges range from $800-3,000 per person per night, all-inclusive. A typical one-week safari ranges from $2,000 (budget) to $15,000+ (luxury) per person.
Is Botswana suitable for families with children?
Botswana can be wonderful for families, but it’s best suited for children aged 8+ who can appreciate wildlife viewing and handle early mornings. Many luxury lodges have minimum age requirements (typically 6-12 years), though some offer special family programs. Consider private safaris rather than shared vehicles with young children. The malaria risk in northern Botswana should also factor into your decision when traveling with kids.
How many days do I need in Botswana?
A minimum of 5-7 days is recommended to experience Botswana’s highlights without feeling rushed. This allows you to visit the Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park. If possible, 10-14 days would be ideal, allowing you to add destinations like the Makgadikgadi Pans or Central Kalahari, and spend more time in each location for a deeper experience.
Do I need special vaccinations for Botswana?
Standard travel vaccinations like Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and routine immunizations should be up-to-date. Yellow Fever vaccination isn’t required unless you’re arriving from a Yellow Fever endemic country. Malaria prophylaxis is recommended for northern Botswana, especially during rainy season. Always consult a travel health professional before your trip for the most current recommendations.
Can I self-drive in Botswana?
Self-driving is possible for experienced 4×4 drivers, but presents significant challenges including deep sand, water crossings, and navigation difficulties. You absolutely need a proper 4×4 vehicle with high clearance, not just an AWD SUV. Self-driving works best in the dry season (May-October) as many tracks become impassable during rains. First-time visitors are generally better off with guided safaris unless you have extensive 4×4 experience.
References
- Botswana Tourism Organization – Official tourism site with planning information and conservation news
- Experience Botswana – Comprehensive guide to destinations, activities and practical information
- Safari.com Botswana Guide – Detailed information on parks, reserves and seasonal considerations
- Gondwana Collection: Best Time to Visit the Okavango Delta – Seasonal guide to Delta conditions
- Zambezi Travel Guide: Botswana – Expert advice on planning and destinations
- Eyes on Africa: Botswana Safari Planning – Detailed safari planning resource
- Expert Africa: Botswana Safari Prices – Comprehensive breakdown of costs
- Chobe National Park Official Site – Information on Botswana’s elephant haven
- Lonely Planet: Botswana – Travel guide with practical information
- Rhino Africa: Botswana Travel Guide – Detailed planning resource with maps and itineraries
- SafariBookings: Botswana – Reviews and ratings of Botswana safari operators
- Wilderness Safaris: Botswana – Information on ecosystems and conservation
- Natural World Safaris: Botswana – Expert insights on planning a Botswana trip