Botswana, located in the heart of Southern Africa, is a true wonderland of natural beauty and wildlife. From the intricate waterways of the Okavango Delta, teeming with wildlife, to the desolate great saltpans of the Makgadikgadi desert and the dry Linyanti Plains, Botswana's landscapes are nothing short of extraordinary.
The Okavango Delta, one of the most unique ecosystems on earth, is a wetland oasis in the midst of a harsh desert. Its waters are fed by rain falling 1,000 kilometers away in Angola, making it a true natural wonder. Here, you can explore the marshes and wetlands in a traditional mekoro (dugout canoe) and witness massive herds of elephants, among other wildlife, in their natural habitat. But it's not just the large animals that make the Delta special; it's the balance of this unique ecosystem, with rare sitatunga antelope and river-dwelling Lechwe roaming its waters and the vibrant birdlife, frogs, and fish adding color and life to the scene.
In Chobe National Park, home to one of the largest concentrations of elephants in Africa, you can witness a breathtaking game viewing experience. Here, the majestic predators of the savannah roam free, including lions, hyenas, and cheetahs. The Savute Marsh, known for its swimming lions, offers exceptional photographic opportunities, and the surrounding landscape is nothing short of awe-inspiring.
Botswana's wildlife is not limited to the savannah; the country is also home to endangered species such as African Painted Wolves and Cheetahs.
The Okavango Delta is a unique wetland system in Botswana, fed by the Okavango River and spreading over 15,000 square kilometers. It is a wildlife paradise with diverse habitats, including floodplains, lagoons, channels, and islands, attracting a wide range of animals, from elephants and hippos to crocodiles and lions. It is a breathtaking destination for a safari adventure.
The Savute region, located in Chobe National Park, is a wild and rugged terrain, home to a diverse range of wildlife such as lions, elephants, hyenas, and cheetahs. With its vast, open savannahs, rocky outcrops, and ancient riverbeds, it offers a unique and unforgettable safari experience for visitors.
Makgadikgadi, the world's largest salt pans, is a surreal and captivating landscape in Botswana. During the dry season, the vast expanse is barren and desolate, while the wet season transforms the area into a lush habitat that supports flamingos, wildebeest, zebras, and other wildlife. It is a unique and awe-inspiring destination for any safari enthusiast.
The Linyanti Wildlife Reserve in northern Botswana is a prime safari destination, known for its diverse habitats and incredible wildlife sightings. The area is home to large elephant herds, lions, leopards, wild dogs, and various antelope species. Visitors can enjoy game drives, boat safaris, and walking safaris while staying in luxury camps.
Botswana offers a range of excellent safari options for a first time safari, from open vehicle safaris and game drives to traditional mekoro (a type of dugout canoe) activity. The Wildlife is plentiful in the Okavango Delta as well as the drier Linyanti and Savute Regions
That depends on what experience you are after on Safari! June to August is high water season, which offers excellent boating and mekoro (canoe safaris). Between September and October, the climate is warmer and drier, resulting in large animal numbers congregating around water sources. The rainy Season between November and April, turns the Okavango Delta into a top birding destination
Botswana takes a strong stance on low-impact and sustainable safaris - thereby protecting their natural resources. There are strict quota systems in place, which means that it is a case of supply and demand - there are fewer lodges operating in pristine wilderness areas, so they fill up quickly and need to charge a higher fee to remain sustainable.
That said and done, if you are willing to travel in low season there are some amazing deals on offer and your safari expert can match your experience to your budget!
Book through a reputable safari operator, that has knowledge of the area, and understands your traveling style and what you want from your safari experience. We offer a complimentary 1-hour safari consultation to tailor make your perfect Botswana safari, that not only adheres to your budget but gives you the best value for your budget
Telephone: +27 11 083 5940
Emergencies : +27 11 083 5940
USA Telephone : +1 209 498 3705
Hoedspruit, South Africa