Explore Now

2 Weeks in Botswana: The Perfect Itinerary for 2025 (With Maps & Money-Saving Tips)

Discover the ultimate 2-week Botswana itinerary for 2025 with insider tips on safari planning, budget-saving strategies, and off-the-beaten-path experiences from someone who knows this incredible African destination inside out.

Introduction: Why Botswana Should Be Your 2025 Safari Destination

The first time I set foot in Botswana’s Okavango Delta, I was completely unprepared for how it would change me. After three visits spanning nearly a decade, I still get goosebumps remembering the moment a family of elephants silently crossed just meters from our mokoro (traditional canoe). The baby elephant stumbled slightly, causing ripples across the crystal-clear water, while the matriarch gave us a look that seemed to say, “Yes, you may observe, but remember whose home this is.” That profound connection with wildlife in an unspoiled environment is what keeps drawing me back to Botswana.

If you’re planning an African safari in 2025, Botswana offers something increasingly rare in our overcrowded world: vast, pristine wilderness with extraordinary wildlife concentrations and a genuine commitment to conservation. With its policy of high-value, low-volume tourism, Botswana delivers an intimate safari experience that’s worlds away from the crowded game drives you’ll find in some neighboring countries.

This comprehensive 2-week itinerary combines my personal experiences with the latest updates for 2025, including post-pandemic changes and new conservation initiatives. I’ll show you how to experience the best of Botswana’s diverse ecosystems—from the watery paradise of the Okavango to the parched beauty of the Kalahari—while sharing hard-won tips that will save you thousands of dollars without compromising your experience.

Ready to plan the adventure of a lifetime? Tsamaya sentle! (That’s “safe travels” in Setswana, Botswana’s main language.)

When to Visit Botswana: Choosing the Perfect Season for 2025

Botswana’s appeal changes dramatically through the seasons, and timing can make or break your safari experience. After visiting during both the wet and dry seasons, I’ve seen firsthand how the landscape transforms and wildlife behavior shifts throughout the year.

Botswana’s Seasonal Calendar for 2025

Season Months Pros Cons Price Level
Peak Dry Season July-October Best wildlife viewing, concentrated animals at water sources, clear skies Highest prices, most crowded, dusty conditions, hot in October $$$$ (Peak rates)
Shoulder Season May-June, November Good wildlife viewing, lower prices, fewer tourists May be chilly at night (May-June), very hot in November $$$ (10-30% lower than peak)
Green Season December-April Lush landscapes, newborn animals, bird migration, lowest prices Some roads impassable, wildlife more dispersed, afternoon thunderstorms $$ (30-50% lower than peak)

For my money, May-June represents the sweet spot for a Botswana safari in 2025. The landscapes are still relatively green, wildlife viewing is excellent as animals start to concentrate around diminishing water sources, and prices haven’t yet hit their July-October peak. The mornings and evenings will be cool (sometimes near freezing), but daytime temperatures are pleasant.

I learned this the hard way on my first trip in August. While the wildlife viewing was spectacular, I paid nearly double what I would have in May for essentially the same experience—and the dusty conditions played havoc with my camera equipment.

Insider Tip: The Hidden Value of Green Season

If you’re on a tighter budget, consider a January-March trip. During my February visit, I paid just 40% of high-season rates at luxury camps. Yes, there were afternoon thunderstorms (usually brief and spectacular), but the transformed landscape was breathtaking—vibrant green against dramatic skies that photographers dream of. Plus, many lodges offer special photography-focused departures during green season to capitalize on these conditions.

Getting to and Around Botswana: Transportation Guide for 2025

Logistics in Botswana can be complex, and transportation typically represents a significant portion of your safari budget. Based on my experiences (including a few transportation mishaps), here’s what you need to know for planning your 2025 trip:

International Flights to Botswana

Most international travelers arrive via Sir Seretse Khama International Airport (GBE) in Gaborone or fly into Maun Airport (MUB), the gateway to the Okavango Delta. For 2025, several new flight options have opened up:

  • Ethiopian Airlines has increased flights to Gaborone via Addis Ababa
  • Qatar Airways now connects Doha directly to Maun three times weekly (new for 2025)
  • South African Airways and Airlink offer regular connections from Johannesburg

On my last trip, I saved nearly $600 by flying into Johannesburg and taking an Airlink connection to Maun, rather than booking the entire journey on one ticket. The downside? I had to collect and recheck my luggage and ensure I had enough connection time.

Getting Around Within Botswana

Once in Botswana, you have several options:

1. Light Aircraft Transfers

The quintessential safari experience involves hopping between camps on small planes that land on dirt airstrips. While expensive (typically $300-600 per segment), these flights offer spectacular aerial views and save precious time. Many packages include these transfers, but expect strict luggage restrictions (usually 15-20kg/33-44lbs in soft-sided bags).

On my second trip, I ignored the soft-bag requirement and brought a hard-sided suitcase. The pilot made me remove all my belongings and leave the suitcase behind (it was eventually transported by ground at additional cost). Learn from my mistake!

2. Self-Drive Safari

For the adventurous and budget-conscious, self-driving is possible in many parts of Botswana. You’ll need a 4×4 vehicle with high clearance, and ideally some off-road driving experience. Rental companies in Maun and Kasane offer fully-equipped safari vehicles with roof tents, cooking equipment, and even satellite phones.

3. Guided Mobile Safaris

My favorite option is the guided mobile safari, where professional guides lead small groups between exclusive campsites in specially-equipped vehicles. Companies like Follow Me African Travel and Letaka Safaris offer fantastic experiences at roughly half the cost of staying at permanent lodges.

Money-saving tip #1: For 2025, several operators are offering “shoulder season specials” with up to 40% off if you book mobile safaris in May or November. I’ve found these trips offer an excellent balance of wildlife viewing and value.

The Perfect 14-Day Botswana Itinerary for 2025

After three extensive trips and countless hours researching and planning, I’ve refined what I believe is the ideal two-week itinerary for Botswana. This route maximizes wildlife viewing opportunities while showcasing the country’s incredible ecological diversity:

Days 1-2: Arrival and Chobe National Park (Kasane)

Begin your Botswana adventure in Chobe National Park, home to Africa’s highest concentration of elephants. I recommend staying near Kasane for easy access to the park’s Riverfront area.

The Chobe River forms the northern boundary of the park, creating a wildlife magnet, especially during the dry season. My jaw dropped watching over 200 elephants come to drink simultaneously during my last visit in June.

Where to Stay:

Essential Activities:

  1. Morning game drive along the Chobe Riverfront
  2. Afternoon boat cruise on the Chobe River (my favorite activity in all of Botswana!)
  3. Visit to a local community through the Chobe Enclave Conservation Trust

The boat cruises here offer a unique perspective, allowing you to approach elephants, hippos, and crocodiles safely from the water. Sunset cruises are particularly magical, but I actually prefer the morning light for photography.

Days 3-5: Savuti (Central Chobe)

From Kasane, journey south into the legendary Savuti region of Chobe National Park. This area is famous for its predators and unusual landscape shaped by the mysterious Savuti Channel, which flows and dries up in seemingly unpredictable cycles.

Savuti has completely transformed since my first visit. The channel, which was dry for decades, began flowing again in 2008, creating a lush paradise. By my 2019 visit, it had dried up again, returning to its harsh desert-like state. This dramatic cycle creates fascinating wildlife adaptations.

Where to Stay:

Wildlife Highlights:

  • Lion prides famous for elephant hunting
  • Large bull elephants at Savuti Marsh
  • Zebra migration (December-February)
  • Ancient rock paintings at Gubatsa Hills

One of my most memorable wildlife encounters happened at Savuti when a leopard killed an impala just 20 meters from our vehicle. As we watched in awe, a clan of hyenas appeared, followed by lions, creating an intense predator interaction I’ll never forget.

Days 6-9: Okavango Delta (Moremi Game Reserve)

The Okavango Delta, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is Botswana’s crown jewel—an inland delta where the Okavango River spills into the Kalahari sands, creating a vast oasis teeming with wildlife.

The eastern Delta is accessible by land via Moremi Game Reserve, offering spectacular game viewing without the extreme price tag of the fly-in camps deeper in the Delta.

Where to Stay:

Essential Experiences:

  1. Game drives in Moremi’s diverse environments
  2. Mokoro (traditional canoe) excursion through Delta channels
  3. Guided walking safari with an armed professional guide

Money-saving tip #2: Instead of staying at a permanent lodge, I’ve had amazing experiences on mobile safaris in Moremi with companies like Letaka. For about $2,300 per person for 7 nights (compared to $10,000+ at luxury lodges), you get spacious tents with real beds, excellent food, and world-class guiding. The real magic? Your camp moves with you, accessing different ecosystems while minimizing travel time.

My most treasured Okavango memory was gliding silently through the crystal-clear channels in a mokoro at sunrise. The water was so clear I could see tiny frogs clinging to underwater reeds, while red lechwe antelope splashed nearby and fish eagles called overhead. This multisensory experience—the gentle splashing, the earthy smell of water lilies, the dappled light through papyrus—exemplifies why the Delta is so special.

Days 10-11: Nxai Pan or Makgadikgadi Pans

For a complete contrast to the water-rich environments, head to Botswana’s spectacular salt pans. These vast, flat expanses were once prehistoric lakes and now create one of Africa’s most surreal landscapes.

For 2025, I recommend Nxai Pan National Park during green season (December-April) to witness the remarkable zebra migration, or Makgadikgadi Pans during dry season for unique meerkats encounters and incredible star photography.

Where to Stay:

Unique Activities:

  • Walking with San Bushmen to learn traditional survival skills
  • Meerkat encounters with habituated colonies
  • Quad biking across the vast salt pans (dry season only)
  • Sleeping under the stars at a fly camp

I’ll never forget spending a morning with a family of meerkats in the Makgadikgadi. These habituated but wild creatures have become so accustomed to respectful human visitors that they sometimes use people as lookout posts, climbing onto your head for a better view! It’s among the most charming wildlife encounters I’ve ever had.

The night skies here are among the clearest on Earth. On my last visit, we slept on bedrolls on the salt pan itself—no tent, just the infinite star-filled sky above. The silence was profound, broken only by the distant call of a jackal.

Days 12-14: Central Kalahari Game Reserve

For the final leg of your journey, venture into the heart of the Central Kalahari Game Reserve (CKGR), one of Africa’s largest protected areas. This vast, remote wilderness offers an authentic safari experience far from the crowds.

The Central Kalahari completely transforms between seasons. During my green season visit (February), the seemingly barren landscape had erupted into lush grasslands attracting thousands of oryx, springbok and wildebeest, with black-maned Kalahari lions in pursuit.

Where to Stay:

Wildlife Highlights:

  • Legendary black-maned Kalahari lions
  • Oryx and springbok in large numbers
  • Cheetah hunting on open plains
  • Fascinating desert-adapted species like bat-eared foxes

Money-saving tip #3: Most people book their entire Botswana itinerary with a single operator, but I’ve saved thousands by mixing and matching. For example, on my last trip, I used a local operator for a private mobile safari in Moremi, then added three nights at Tau Pan through their last-minute special (50% off within 30 days of arrival), and arranged my own accommodations in Kasane. This approach takes more planning but can literally halve your total cost.

The Kalahari offers a profound sense of wilderness that’s increasingly rare in our crowded world. During my three nights at Tau Pan, we didn’t see another vehicle once we left the main gate. The vastness, silence, and night skies create an almost spiritual experience that provides the perfect contemplative end to your Botswana adventure.

Cultural Experiences: Connecting with Botswana’s People

While wildlife is the main attraction, some of my most memorable experiences in Botswana have involved meaningful cultural interactions. The Batswana people are known for their warmth and the country’s stable democracy creates a welcoming atmosphere for visitors.

Authentic Cultural Opportunities

  • San Bushmen walks: Learn ancient tracking and survival skills from the original inhabitants of the Kalahari. The community-based projects near Ghanzi offer the most authentic experiences.
  • Bayei mokoro polers: In the Okavango, request guides from the local Bayei tribe, who have navigated these waters for generations using traditional dugout canoes. Ask them to teach you the “Ee-yo!” call they use to announce their presence around river bends.
  • Village visits: The Sankuyo Tshwaragano Management Trust near Moremi offers community-led village tours where tourism directly benefits local development.
  • Craft purchases: The baskets woven by women in northern Botswana are world-renowned. Buying directly from artisans in villages or at cooperatives like Mbanda Craft Cooperative in Maun ensures fair compensation.

During my last visit, I spent an afternoon with a Bayei elder who taught me how to pole a mokoro (harder than it looks!) while sharing stories about how the Delta has changed in his lifetime. When I clumsily spoke the few Setswana phrases I knew, his face lit up with genuine delight, reminding me how far a little cultural respect can go.

Useful Setswana Phrases

English Setswana Pronunciation
Hello Dumela doo-MAY-lah
How are you? O tsogile jang? oh tso-HEE-lay jang
I am fine Ke tsogile sentle keh tso-HEE-lay sen-tlay
Thank you Ke a leboga keh ah leh-BO-hah
Beautiful Montle mon-TLAY

Accommodation Options: Where to Stay in Botswana (2025 Guide)

Botswana offers a wide range of accommodation options, from ultra-luxury lodges to basic campsites. Having experienced everything from the most exclusive camps to pitching my own tent, I can offer perspective across the spectrum.

Luxury Lodges & Permanent Tented Camps

Botswana pioneered the luxury safari experience, with intimate camps in prime wildlife areas offering exceptional comfort in remote settings. These typically operate on all-inclusive rates covering accommodation, activities, meals, and drinks.

What to Expect at Luxury Properties:

  • Spacious tented suites or chalets with en-suite bathrooms (some with outdoor showers and private plunge pools)
  • Gourmet cuisine and premium beverages
  • Expert guides and private vehicles
  • Limited guest numbers (typically 12-16 maximum)
  • Costs: $900-2,500 per person per night

Top Luxury Operators for 2025:

My stay at Duba Plains remains one of my all-time travel highlights. Watching the camp’s famous lion pride hunt buffalo from the comfort of my private deck, followed by a candlelit dinner featuring impeccable food and wine pairings, epitomized the luxury safari experience. The price tag (around $2,200 per night) was steep, but the lifetime memories were worth every penny.

Mid-Range Options

For 2025, several excellent mid-range options provide great wildlife experiences without the ultra-premium prices:

Fixed Lodges & Tented Camps:

Mobile Safari Operators:

On my second Botswana trip, I opted for a 7-day Letaka mobile safari through the Okavango and Moremi. The experience was actually more authentic than my previous luxury lodge stay—we could stay out all day for game drives (rather than returning to camp for meals), and our guide could follow animal tracks off-road when needed, rather than staying on prescribed routes near the permanent camps.

Budget Options

For self-drivers and independent travelers, Botswana offers public campsites in national parks and private campsites outside park boundaries:

National Park Campsites:

  • Managed by SKL Camps
  • Must be booked well in advance (up to 11 months for 2025 peak season)
  • Basic facilities (some with hot showers, others very rustic)
  • Cost: $50-90 per site per night plus park fees

Private Campsites & Budget Accommodations:

Sustainability Tip: Most luxury camps now operate almost entirely on solar power and have eliminated single-use plastics. If staying at budget accommodations, bring a water purifier (like LifeStraw) instead of buying bottled water. This saves money and reduces plastic waste in areas with limited recycling facilities.

Wildlife Photography Tips for Botswana Safaris

As an avid photographer who’s learned the hard way what works (and doesn’t) in Botswana’s varied environments, let me share some practical advice for capturing memorable images:

Essential Equipment for 2025

While professional wildlife photographers carry extensive gear, you can capture excellent images with a thoughtfully curated kit:

Camera & Lenses:

  • Primary camera: A mirrorless camera with good low-light performance (the new mid-range models for 2025 offer excellent value)
  • Telephoto lens: Minimum 300mm, ideally 400-600mm (a 100-400mm zoom is versatile)
  • Wider lens: 24-70mm or similar for landscapes and camp life
  • Smartphone: Modern phones take excellent wide-angle shots and videos

Essential Accessories:

  • Dust-proof camera bag
  • Extra batteries (charging opportunities may be limited)
  • Plenty of memory cards
  • Lens cleaning kit (dust is constant in dry season)
  • Bean bag for stabilization (better than a tripod in vehicles)

On my first trip, I brought an expensive tripod that barely left my bag—it was too cumbersome for game drives. On subsequent trips, I used a simple bean bag filled with rice purchased in Maun, which provided perfect stabilization on vehicle doors and window frames.

Technique Tips by Habitat

Okavango Delta:

  • Water reflections create stunning opportunities—look for elephants crossing channels
  • Morning mist rising off waterways adds atmosphere (prepare for condensation on lenses)
  • Shoot from mokoros for unique low-angle perspectives
  • Use faster shutter speeds (1/1000+) for birds in flight

Kalahari & Salt Pans:

  • Golden hour light is magical on the open plains
  • Incorporate vast horizons and lone trees for scale
  • Use a polarizing filter to enhance the dramatic skies
  • Try night photography—the star visibility is exceptional

Riverfront Areas (Chobe):

  • Boat cruises offer eye-level shots of wildlife drinking
  • Look for elephants silhouetted against sunset skies
  • Morning light on the eastern bank is perfect for portraits
  • Be prepared for extreme contrast between dark animals and bright water

My Biggest Photography Mistake: On my first Botswana trip, I spent so much time trying to photograph everything that I missed truly experiencing some magical moments. Now I follow the “lens down” rule—after taking initial shots, I force myself to put the camera down and simply absorb the experience with all my senses. Some of my clearest memories are from these camera-free moments.

How Much Does a Botswana Safari Cost in 2025?

Let’s talk money—specifically, how much you should budget for different types of Botswana experiences in 2025. Prices have increased since the pandemic, but there are still ways to experience this magnificent country without completely emptying your bank account.

Sample Budgets for 14 Days

Luxury Safari (Per Person):

  • Accommodation: $1,200-2,000 per night at premier camps ($14,000-28,000 total)
  • Light aircraft transfers: $2,000-3,000
  • International flights: $1,200-2,500 (depending on origin)
  • Pre/post safari hotel nights: $300-500
  • Tips & miscellaneous: $1,000-1,500
  • TOTAL: $18,500-35,500 per person

Mid-Range Safari (Per Person):

  • Accommodation: Mix of mid-range lodges and mobile safaris ($400-700 per night, $5,600-9,800 total)
  • Transportation: Mix of light aircraft and road transfers ($1,200-1,800)
  • International flights: $1,200-2,500
  • Pre/post safari hotel nights: $200-300
  • Tips & miscellaneous: $600-900
  • TOTAL: $8,800-15,300 per person

Budget Safari (Per Person):

  • Accommodation: 10-day mobile camping safari plus budget lodges ($3,000-4,500 total)
  • Transportation: Road transfers or self-drive 4×4 rental ($800-1,500)
  • International flights: $1,200-2,500
  • Pre/post safari hotel nights: $150-250
  • Park fees & miscellaneous: $400-600
  • TOTAL: $5,550-9,350 per person

Money-Saving Strategies That Actually Work

Having traveled to Botswana on both high-end and moderate budgets, here are my tested strategies for saving money without compromising the experience:

  1. Travel during shoulder season (May/June or November) for 30-40% savings with excellent wildlife viewing
  2. Book mobile safaris instead of permanent lodges—the wildlife experience is often superior, and costs are 50-60% lower
  3. Mix and match operators rather than booking everything through one company
  4. Look for “stay 4, pay 3” special offers that many camps run during certain periods
  5. Book camps under common ownership consecutively to qualify for long-stay discounts
  6. Consider group departures instead of private arrangements (savings of 15-30%)
  7. Track last-minute specials through newsletters like SafariBookings (risky but can yield 50%+ discounts)

On my last trip, I saved over $4,000 by combining a mobile safari with shoulder season rates and a stay-4-pay-3 offer at my final camp. The experience was virtually identical to my previous high-season visit at premium camps, but at less than half the price.

What’s Included in Safari Pricing?

Understanding what’s included helps avoid surprises:

Typically Included Sometimes Included Usually Extra
  • Accommodation
  • All meals
  • Game drives
  • House beverages
  • Laundry (at luxury camps)
  • Park fees
  • Transfers between camps
  • Premium beverages
  • Walking safaris
  • Cultural activities
  • International flights
  • Travel insurance
  • Visa fees (if applicable)
  • Staff gratuities
  • Private vehicles

Packing for Botswana: The Ultimate Safari Checklist

After three trips to Botswana in different seasons, I’ve refined my packing strategy to include only what’s truly necessary while ensuring I’m prepared for all conditions. Here’s my tried-and-tested packing list for a two-week safari:

Clothing Essentials

  • 3-4 quick-dry, long-sleeve shirts (neutral colors like khaki, olive, tan)
  • 2-3 short-sleeve shirts or t-shirts
  • 2-3 pairs convertible safari pants (zip-off legs are incredibly practical)
  • 1 pair comfortable shorts
  • 1 light fleece or warm jacket (essential year-round for morning drives)
  • 1 windproof/rainproof shell jacket
  • 1 set of thermal base layers (May-August when mornings can be near freezing)
  • 5-7 pairs quick-dry underwear
  • Wide-brimmed hat with chin strap
  • Buff or bandana (multiple uses: dust protection, sun protection, etc.)
  • Comfortable closed-toe walking shoes
  • Flip-flops or sandals for camp
  • Swimsuit (many lodges have pools)

On my first trip, I overpacked dramatically, bringing formal evening clothes that never left my bag. Safari camps are casual—even at the most luxurious properties, “dressing for dinner” means a clean t-shirt and perhaps a light sweater.

Essential Gear

  • Binoculars (absolute must-have, 8×42 or 10×42 recommended)
  • Headlamp with red light function (essential for navigating camps at night)
  • Insect repellent with DEET (especially December-April)
  • High SPF sunscreen
  • Small day pack for game drives
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Power bank/portable charger
  • Universal plug adapter
  • Basic first aid kit and personal medications
  • Hand sanitizer and wet wipes

Packing Mistake I Made: On my first trip, I brought brand new hiking boots that caused painful blisters. In Botswana, you actually do very little walking, so comfortable, broken-in shoes are far more important than heavy-duty boots. Save weight and pack shoes you know are comfortable.

Camera Equipment

See the photography section for detailed recommendations, but remember:

  • Dust protection is critical
  • Bring twice as many batteries and memory cards as you think you’ll need
  • Consider a backup camera body or advanced smartphone
  • Pack lens cleaning supplies

Documents & Money

  • Passport with at least 6 months validity and blank pages
  • Printed and digital copies of travel insurance
  • Vaccination records (yellow fever certificate if coming from affected countries)
  • Cash in US dollars (newer bills, for tips and emergencies)
  • Credit cards (inform your bank of travel plans)

In Botswana, guides, staff, and drivers typically expect tips in US dollars rather than the local currency (Pula). I bring a supply of smaller bills ($5s, $10s, and $20s) in an envelope specifically for tipping.

Packing Tips for Flying on Light Aircraft

If your itinerary includes light aircraft transfers (common in Botswana), note these strict requirements:

  • Soft-sided bags only (no hard suitcases or bags with wheels/frames)
  • Maximum dimensions: 25cm x 30cm x 62cm (10″ x 12″ x 24″)
  • Weight limit: 15-20kg (33-44lbs) including hand luggage
  • Excess baggage may need to be left behind or incur substantial fees

I learned this lesson the expensive way when my hard-sided camera case had to be sent separately by road at considerable cost. Now I use a padded camera insert inside a compliant soft duffel bag.

Conclusion: Making Your Botswana Dream a Reality

After sharing all my experiences and tips from multiple trips to Botswana, I hope you’re feeling inspired rather than overwhelmed. This extraordinary country offers wildlife experiences that simply can’t be matched elsewhere in Africa, and with proper planning, you can create an unforgettable adventure that suits your interests and budget.

Botswana’s commitment to conservation and sustainable tourism means that your visit directly contributes to preserving these pristine wilderness areas for future generations. The country’s low-volume, high-value approach creates more intimate experiences and less environmental impact than mass tourism models.

Your 5-Step Action Plan for Planning Your 2025 Botswana Safari

  1. Determine your timing and budget – Decide when you can travel (considering the seasonal differences outlined above) and establish a realistic budget range based on the sample costs provided.
  2. Choose your must-visit regions – While my itinerary covers the highlights, you might want to focus more on specific areas based on your interests (bird photography, predators, elephants, etc.).
  3. Decide on your preferred travel style – Luxury lodges, mobile safaris, self-driving, or a combination? Each offers different advantages as discussed.
  4. Book well in advance – For peak season (July-October), aim to book 12-18 months ahead. For shoulder and green seasons, 6-9 months is usually sufficient.
  5. Prepare thoroughly – Follow the packing guidelines, arrange appropriate insurance covering medical evacuation, get necessary vaccinations, and brush up on your wildlife knowledge to enhance your experience.

As you stand at the edge of the Okavango Delta watching elephants silhouetted against a fiery sunset, or listen to lions roaring across the Kalahari plains under an impossibly starry sky, you’ll understand why Botswana inspires such passion in those who visit. The memories you create here will stay with you long after the dust of Africa has been washed from your shoes.

My final piece of advice? Once you’re there, take time to disconnect from technology and truly immerse yourself in the wilderness experience. The greatest luxury Botswana offers isn’t found in high-thread-count sheets or gourmet meals (though those are nice too), but in the increasingly rare opportunity to connect with nature in its purest form.

I wish you tsamaya sentle (safe travels) on your Botswana adventure! And when you return, I’d love to hear about your experiences in the comments below.

Frequently Asked Questions About Botswana Safaris

Is Botswana safe for tourists?

Botswana is considered one of Africa’s safest countries, with a stable democratic government and low crime rates. In safari areas, the main safety considerations involve wildlife encounters, which is why you should always follow guide instructions. In the few urban areas you might visit (like Maun or Kasane), exercise normal precautions with valuables. During my three visits, I’ve never experienced any safety issues beyond a curious elephant investigating our outdoor shower!

When is the best time to see specific wildlife in Botswana?

Different species are more visible in different seasons:

  • Big cats: Dry season (June-October) when vegetation is sparse
  • Elephants: Peak concentrations in Chobe from August-October
  • Birds: November-March for migrants and breeding plumage
  • Zebra migration: December-February in Makgadikgadi/Nxai Pan
  • Newborn animals: December-March during green season

How physically demanding is a Botswana safari?

Standard safari activities are accessible to most people with moderate mobility. Game drives involve sitting in vehicles (sometimes on bumpy roads), and boarding mokoros requires basic balance. Walking safaris are optional and can be tailored to different fitness levels. The main challenge for some visitors is the heat during September-November, when temperatures can exceed 40°C (104°F). Most lodges and camps can accommodate guests with mobility issues with advance notice.

What vaccinations do I need for Botswana?

While requirements can change, typically recommended vaccinations include:

  • Routine vaccines (MMR, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, etc.)
  • Hepatitis A and B
  • Typhoid
  • Yellow Fever (required only if coming from countries with risk of transmission)

Malaria prevention is recommended, especially from November to March. Consult a travel medicine specialist at least 6-8 weeks before your trip for the most current recommendations.

Can I combine Botswana with other African destinations?

Absolutely! Common combinations include:

  • Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe/Zambia) – Just a short drive from Kasane
  • Cape Town (South Africa) – Perfect urban contrast to wilderness experiences
  • Namibia – Combines well for a longer desert-focused adventure
  • Zimbabwe/Zambia – Great for more diverse safari experiences

For my third Botswana trip, I added on Victoria Falls and five days in Cape Town, which provided a wonderful balance of wilderness, natural wonder, and urban exploration.

How reliable is internet/cell service during a safari?

Connectivity varies widely by location. Major towns like Maun and Kasane have reliable 4G service. In the Delta and remote areas, connectivity ranges from spotty to non-existent. Most luxury lodges offer limited WiFi in common areas, while mobile camps and budget accommodations typically have no connectivity. I’ve found this digital detox to be one of the most refreshing aspects of Botswana safaris—embrace the opportunity to disconnect!

What’s the tipping etiquette on safari in Botswana?

Tipping is customary and appreciated in Botswana’s tourism industry. General guidelines include:

  • Guides: $10-20 per guest per day
  • Camp staff: $5-10 per guest per day (usually placed in a communal box)
  • Mokoro polers/trackers: $5-10 per activity
  • Transfer drivers: $5-10 per transfer

US dollars are preferred for tips. I typically bring an envelope of smaller bills specifically for this purpose.

Is Botswana suitable for a family safari with children?

Botswana can be wonderful for families, but with some caveats. Many luxury lodges don’t accept children under 12 due to safety concerns and the intimate camp setting. However, several operators offer family-specific programs and accommodations:

For families with younger children (6-11), private guided safaris or mobile safaris offer greater flexibility. I’ve seen children absolutely thrive on safari, developing a profound connection with nature that has shaped their worldview.

References and Further Reading