Africa's premier wildlife destination with the largest concentration of elephants in the world

Botswana has a wealth of incredible wildlife that will delight any safari adventurer. With nearly half of the country a protected area or under some kind of environmental management, Botswana is home to an incredible abundance of animals who have found their haven here. The country is known for its biodiversity, from the black-maned lions of the Kalahari to meerkat colonies in the salt pans. In the lush north, you can find colossal herds of elephants in the Chobe and even swimming lions in the Okavango Delta. Botswana’s appeal extends to the country’s gorgeous and diverse landscapes, as well as its captivating cultures, including the Basawara and Batswana, who celebrate their unique way of life through tradition and art.

Highlights

1
Go on a mokoro ride through the Okavango Delta and experience the area’s incredible biodiversity.
2
Go birding in Nata Bird Sanctuary and spot massive flocks of flamingos on the Makgadikadi pans.
3
Take a sundowner cruise on the Chobe River while the elephants go swimming.
4
Visit Deception Valley, an oasis in the Kalahari Desert that attracts plenty of game.
5
Witness the ancient way of life followed by the Basawara people in the Kalahari.
6
Visit the colony of meerkats that reside near the Makgadikadi salt pans.
7
Sleep out under the stars and listen to the sounds of the African bush.
8
Take a game drive to see the enormous 'Marsh Pride' of lions in Savuti.

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Best time to go to Botswana

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Botswana's climate ranges from arid to semi-arid and is marked by hot and rainy summers, usually between November and March. This ‘green’ season is the best time to spot migrating birds, predators, and baby animals. However, many lodges in the Okavango Delta close during these months, so do check before you book. The dry season, between April and October, is the prime time to spot animals as they frequent water sources. This is also when the Delta floods, making it a great time for water-based activities. These months are a fantastic time to visit the salt pans, which will be dry from about June to September.

Featured Botswana stays

Boteti Tented Safari Lodge

Get lost in the splendour of the Okavango Delta at this safari tented lodge
From$16 /ppn
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