What You Need to Know About Planning a Safari in Botswana
A Botswana custom safari means setting off on an amazing journey through one of the the purest and most wildlife-rich areas of Africa. From spectacular safari camps in the Okavango Delta to the otherworldly Makgadikgadi Pans, there is something for every traveler in Botswana.
It can take a lifetime to understand the seasonal dynamics of the Okavango Delta. It's one of the wildest places on the planet with a dramatic seasonal flood, vast deserts and nearly one third of all the elephants in Africa. Botswana is also a pioneer in low-volume, high-revenue tourism, so the prime wildlife viewing areas are completely uncrowded, and you have the wilderness to yourself. This guide contains all the important details needed to organize your unforgettable Botswana safari; it will ensure that you are ready and knowledgeable for the trip ahead.
Experience the Seasonally Dynamic Okavango Delta
The Okavango Delta is the centerpiece of any safari to Botswana. This is the largest inland delta on the planet, where the Kalahari transforms into a massive wetland that changes with the seasons and has a maze of waterways, floodplains, and islands that are home to diverse wildlife—thus making it a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The Delta's Seasonal Changes
The safari periods in the Okavango Delta are marked by its yearly floods, reaching their highest point from June to August. This causes the delta's environment to change into a green and water-filled area that attracts plentiful wildlife and provides outstanding conditions for viewing animals. When the flood waters recede into the dry season, animals gather around the remaining sources of water for excellent sightings.
Unique Wildlife Viewing
The big five safari animals, which include lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, and rhinos, are found in the Okavango Delta. There is also a wide variety of other creatures such as hippos, unique antelope like lechwe and sitatunga, and many types of birds. A safari within Botswana's Delta offers different activities like a traditional mokoro (wooden canoe), walking on foot, or driving around in an off-road vehicle for game viewing.
Planning Your Visit
The Delta is a year-round destination, but the ecosystem changes dramatically. If your interest is in watching birds and exploring the waterways, it's best to come during flood season. On the other hand, the dry season allows for more focused encounters with wildlife via a game drive vehicle. No matter what time you go, the Delta's incredible scenery and variety of wildlife make for an unforgettable safari adventure.
Botswana Safari Packing List: Prepare for All Seasons
When getting ready for a safari in Botswana, remember it’s possible to encounter all four seasons in one day. It can be chilly on the morning game drives, hot in the middle of the day and then the temperature drops into the evening. Because of Botswana's different dynamic climate, it is essential to pack correctly for comfort.
Essential Safari Clothing
Picking the correct African safari clothes is important for your comfort on this trip. Go for light and airy materials in neutral colors such as khaki, beige, or green, which can help you blend into the environment better while also not absorbing too much heat. It's recommended to wear long sleeves and trousers to guard against both sun exposure and insects. Layering is essential because early mornings and evenings can still be cool, even during the warmer seasons.
Suitable Safari Footwear
It is important to have comfortable and sturdy footwear for walking safaris and bush excursions. We suggest wearing thick-soled shoes or tough trainers that will support your feet when you walk on diverse terrains. Also, it could be good to pack a pair of sandals or casual shoes for hanging around in camp.
Choosing the Right Safari Travel Bag
For your safari trip, pick a travel bag that is not heavy and can be easily packed. Soft duffle bags or backpacks are good choices because they are flexible and can be stuffed into the cargo hold. Guests also have a luggage weight allowance of 44 pounds total including all luggage, daypack/backpack, and all camera gear. All Next Adventure travelers receive a custom duffel bag for their trip!
Must-Have Safari Accessories
Invest in safari accessories to improve your comfort and enjoyment, such as a hat with a wide brim, sunglasses, sunscreen lotion, bug spray or insect repellent, and a reusable water bottle. Also, we highly recommend bringing a good pair of binoculars to see wildlife in detail. Of course, cameras are also on the list. Most people these days just travel with a smartphone, but there is a huge range of cameras available…
Best Safari Camps in Botswana for a Luxury Wildlife Outing
Botswana is famous for its safari camps, which offer a variety of choices, from lavish lodges to small tented camps, that provide a special base from which to explore the wild.
Luxurious Permanent Tented Camps
In Botswana, safari camps offer a mix of luxury and immersion in nature. These camps have roomy, nicely arranged tents with ensuite bathrooms. They are typically located in prime areas for watching wildlife. Many also include extra amenities such as small private plunge pools for a quick dip, private wooden platforms where you can relax, and high-quality dining choices - all aimed at making your stay more comfortable and lavish.
Exclusive Safari Camps for a Private Experience
Smaller, more intimate safari camps are available for a quieter and more personal experience. These camps provide exclusive lodgings and customized services. They focus on small groups or families, offering an individualized safari adventure with dedicated guides and activities tailored to your preferences.
Eco-Friendly Safari Camps
Eco-friendly safari camps in Botswana emphasize sustainability by using solar power, reducing waste, utilizing local materials and crafts and supporting conservation projects. Botswana has been a leader in developing a travel industry that preserves and protects these extraordinary destinations.
Family-Friendly Safari Camps
Family-friendly safari camps are ideal for families in search of adventure. They have expansive family tents, activities that are perfect for children, and flexible schedules that adapt to the needs of young explorers. Children's programs keep kids engaged and entertained while they learn about the environment and wildlife around them.
Botswana Safari Animals to Expect on Your Journey
On a safari in Botswana, you will encounter a rich diversity of safari animals, making your adventure even more magical. Here’s what you can expect:
The Big Five
Botswana shines as a place to spot the big five. The huge wild ranges in Okavango Delta, Chobe National Park, and Moremi Game Reserve offer impressive numbers of lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, and rhinoceros, but rhinos in particular can be elusive.
The Botswana Wild Dog
A very special sighting in Botswana is the African wild dog. These fascinating animals, which are at risk of becoming extinct, are known for their social packs and hunting abilities. Botswana is among the finest places in Africa to watch this intriguing predator in action.
Diverse Birdlife
Botswana, with more than 500 bird species, is a paradise for bird lovers. It has everything from the iconic African fish eagle to the stunning lilac-breasted roller. Birding in Botswana is very impressive. The country's mix of different habitats, like wetlands, woodlands and savannas, makes it perfect for birdwatching.
Predator Action
Wildlife reserves in Botswana are known for their intense predator activity. Witnessing a lion pride hunting, a leopard silently tracking its target, or wild dogs organizing and running in the pack is unmatched excitement. Such experiences will surely become cherished memories from any safari trip to Botswana.
A custom safari in Botswana is an adventure where you can see amazing wildlife, stay in spectacular safari camps, and learn about local cultures.
For more details and to begin planning your custom Botswana safari, contact Next Adventure. We are a group of specialists committed to creating personalized African safaris that offer stunning sights and unforgettable adventures. Embark on your safari in Botswana and discover the wonders that await you. Learn more about Next Adventure now.
