Botswana Safaris

Introduction

A land of contrasts, Botswana has it all – twinking waterways of the Okavango Delta, vast white expanses of the salt-pans of the Makgadikdi, to the huge elephant herds which throng the Chobe River, and the isolation of the Central Kalahari. The ideal destination for those looking for relaxed, intimate sightings of incredible wildlife and fantastic birding. Widely considered to be the very best safari destination, Botswana’s lodges cater for a wide range of interests – from wildlife enthusiasts, families, photographers, active explorers and those simply wanting to experience safari at its finest.

What makes Botswana different?

Trips to Botswana always feel off the beaten path and lodges are built with a light eco-footprint, strategically positioned in the very best of the wildlife rich wildernesses, to take safari to the next level in terms of sightings and exclusivity. Combine this with top-class guiding from guides who know every inch of the national parks and concessions, and you have all the ingredients for a trip which will be a talking point for years to come.

Owl

Safari style

Conservation has always been top of Botswana’s agenda, and this is combined with an increasing awareness of the importance of educating and working with the local communities to further protect the fragile eco-systems. Speak to us to find the best style of travel for you through this wonderful country, and to make the very best of your time there. We can also include Botswana as part of a longer itinerary to see the mighty Victoria Falls, South Africa or include a few days of relaxation on the beach after your exciting safari days. It’s worth pointing out that the vast majority of lodges and camps in Botswana are unfenced, and so wild animals can and do pass through regularly – for many travellers this is part of the excitement of travel to this destination. Guests will always be escorted to and from their rooms after dark by a member of staff (and you can request to be accompanied at any time). If you would prefer to stay at fenced properties let us know and we can recommend accommodation accordingly.

Elephant central in Africa’s premier riverfront safari destination.

Remote wetlands teeming with abundant wildlife and notable wild dog populations.

Wildlife-rich oasis of rivers, lagoons, and unforgettable safari adventures.

Vast, otherworldly landscapes with unique wildlife and star-filled skies.

Famous wildlife documentary location with dramatic predator-prey encounters.

Vast, wild desert wilderness with elusive lion and ancient culture.

Gateway to the Okavango Delta and Botswana’s wild north.

A breathtaking natural wonder to start or end your safari journey.

Suggested Itineraries

All of the itineraries that you see on our website are just a sample of what is possible, every holiday that we operate is completely tailor-made to your requirements, likes and dislikes. Just let us know your ideas when getting in touch and we will craft your plans around these, get your feedback, and keep working on your itinerary until everything is perfect, for you.

Best time to travel?

Botswana is a destination that can be visited year round, and will deliver an exceptional safari experience – however, the changing environments of different areas mean that some areas are stronger for types of wildlife sightings at certain points of the year. Talk to us about what you are hoping to see and experience and we can design an itinerary to match!
 
Generally speaking we refer to three seasons in Botswana – the Dry season, Shoulder season and Green season. Typically, wildlife sightings in the Okavango Delta, Linyanti and Chobe regions are strongest during the dry season which runs from June-end of October, as the wildlife is most reliant on known permanent water sources, and the congregations of mixed species can be incredible to behold – this is the time for huge numbers of elephant sightings in Chobe in particular.
 
The initial shoulder season from April-June heralds the return of the floodwaters which have made their way from Angola, and the water levels around the Delta rise, meaning seasonal activities such as mokoro trips return, and wildlife becomes easier to track as the increased water levels form islands within the Delta basin. There is a second shoulder season period in November, when the safari prices drop, and the wait for the short rains begin – this is rightly a fantastic time to go and great value too.
 
Finally, the Green season runs from the end of November through to the end of March. During this time, the vegetation turns greener and travel to Nxai Pan is particularly worth-while as the zebra migration makes it’s way from the higher Delta area to these fertile grounds. Similarily, travel to the Central Kalahari is best timed during the Green Season.
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Light Aircraft

Many safari areas in Botswana are remote and only accessible by light aircraft. These smaller planes fly on semi-fixed schedules meaning that we can reliably commit to morning or afternoon flights, but their stops/ exact schedule will be contingent on other travellers itineraries (unless they are chartered on an exclusive basis.
 
If a light aircraft is included within an itinerary, the weight limit for baggage will be 20kg plus 5-7kg of hand luggage. In addition, your luggage will need to be softsided, with a maximum of one rigid side and close set wheels.
 
If you do not want to fly on light aircraft then be sure to get in touch and see how we can help – no-fly itineraries are very possible provided you are open to some slightly longer road transfers.

Why Book With Us?

Fully independent, we suggest an itinerary with accommodation and arrangements to match your requirements. 

Financial security and protection, We hold a full UK ATOL license and provide 100% financial protection through the Travel Trust Association. 

24-Hour UK and in country support, a member of our team in the UK is always ready to assist should you need us and we also have 24-hour support in country.

Expert knowledge, we have travelled extensively in the destinations that we offer, exploring experiences and accommodation so that we can design the perfect itinerary just for you.