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Nestled in the heart of southern Africa, Botswana is a remarkable safari destination, captivating the adventurous souls who seek to experience the untamed beauty of the wild. With its vast landscapes that encompass diverse ecosystems, from the sweeping plains of the Kalahari Desert to the intricate channels of the Okavango Delta, Botswana offers an unparalleled safari experience. Beyond the breathtaking wildlife encounters, Botswana's commitment to eco-tourism ensures a harmonious coexistence between travelers and nature, making each journey into its wilderness not only exhilarating but also deeply respectful of the delicate balance that defines this remarkable safari haven.
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Regions in Botswana
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Botswana boasts a diverse range of safari regions, each offering a unique experience. The Okavango Delta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a labyrinth of waterways and islands that transforms the arid landscape into a flourishing oasis, creating exceptional opportunities for water-based safaris and mokoro (traditional dug-out canoe) excursions. Chobe National Park, known for its massive elephant herds, offers both land and river safaris along the Chobe River, showcasing abundant wildlife against a stunning backdrop. The Moremi Game Reserve encompasses a mosaic of habitats, from grassy floodplains to dense woodlands, fostering an array of wildlife and providing excellent game viewing.
The Makgadikgadi Pans unveil a surreal and expansive salt-flat landscape, home to unique desert-adapted species and offering a chance to interact with the indigenous San people. Lastly, the Central Kalahari Game Reserve presents a remote and rugged safari experience, characterised by vast plains and sparse vegetation, where visitors can track the elusive predators that thrive in this untamed wilderness. Each of these regions contributes to the rich tapestry of Botswana's safari offerings, promising unforgettable adventures for all who venture into the bush. |
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When to Travel
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Botswana's safari seasons paint a dynamic canvas of wildlife and landscapes. During the dry winter months, from May to September, wildlife congregates around the limited water sources, making it an excellent time for game viewing. The cool temperatures also make for comfortable exploration but it's worth noting it can get very chilly in the evenings and mornings.
As summer arrives, from November to March the greenery flourishes, birthing an explosion of life. This lush period not only showcases adorable newborns but also attracts migratory birds. The dense bush over this period can make it difficult to spot big game and the rainy season can make certain areas inaccessible. Both seasons offer distinct charms, allowing visitors to tailor their Botswana safari experience to their preferences. |
Adventurous Self-Drive Safaris
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Embarking on a self-driving and camping safari in Botswana is an unparalleled adventure that allows you to intimately connect with the untamed beauty of this remarkable land. As you navigate the diverse landscapes, from the intricate waterways of the Okavango Delta to the sweeping expanses of the Kalahari Desert, you become the architect of your journey, setting your own pace of your adventure daily. Setting up camp under the vast African sky, you'll feel the thrill of proximity to the wild, as the sounds of nocturnal creatures serenade your evenings. Cooking over an open fire and sharing stories around the campfire, you'll forge a deep connection with the land and its inhabitants. Self-driving and camping in Botswana is more than a safari; it's a transformative experience that enables you to become completely immersed in nature - creating lifelong memories along the way.
Important Note: Campsites in Botswana are generally unfenced so it’s crucial to remain vigilant at night. The government sites provide a private camping area but bathroom and shower facilities are shared. The road conditions can be very challenging, with mud, sand and a very basic network of bridges, meaning we do not recommend self-driving in Botswana for those without 4x4 experience. |
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Fly-in Safari
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Embarking on a fly-in safari over the Okavango Delta is an enchanting journey into one of Africa's most pristine and breathtaking landscapes. As you soar above the shimmering waterways and lush islands, you'll witness the intricate tapestry of life that thrives below. Touching down on remote airstrips, you'll step into a world teeming with wildlife, where expert guides lead you through both water and land-based adventures. From mokoro rides along meandering channels to exhilarating game drives in search of elusive predators, every moment is a testament to the Delta's unique allure. The range of available activities depends upon both the season and upon where in the Delta your accommodation is situated.
Visiting numerous regions on a fly in safari is certainly possible in Botswana with the countries network of remote bush airstrips. Khwai Private Reserve, Makgadikgadi Pans, Savuti and the Central Kalahari Game Reserve pair wonderfully with a brief fly in safari on the Okavango Delta. |
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Activities & Adventures
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Botswana offers a diverse array of safari activities that immerse travellers in the heart of its remarkable wilderness. Game drives take you on thrilling journeys across vast landscapes, offering close encounters with majestic elephants, stealthy lions, and elusive leopards. The unique mokoro rides glide you through the tranquil channels of the Okavango Delta, allowing you to observe the delicate ecosystems and aquatic creatures up close. Guided walking safaris reveal the intricate details of the bush, from the fascinating world of insects to the tracks of elusive predators. For bird enthusiasts, birdwatching safaris unveil a captivating array of avian species, while boat cruises along the Chobe River provide opportunities to observe hippos, crocodiles, and diverse birdlife. Night drives, on the other hand, offer a chance to witness the nocturnal wonders, unveiling the secrets of the bush that come alive under the cover of darkness. Whether by land, water, or under the stars, Botswana's safari activities promise an unforgettable and multifaceted exploration of its untamed beauty.
Important Note: Some regions are limited to only water or land-based activities during certain seasons. Climate conditions can impact the availability of certain activities throughout the year. |
Our Favourite Campsites & Lodges
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In Botswana, the variety of safari accommodations may be considered somewhat narrower in comparison to several other safari destinations. Typically, the lodging options consist primarily of upscale lodges, encompassing everything from authentic rustic tented camps to lavish luxury lodges, albeit with fewer choices available in the mid-range category. There are some magnificent lodges in the Delta that offer a range of water and land-based activities, such as Dukes Camp (pictured below right).
For those seeking something unique & romantic 'Sky Beds' (picture below middle) is an exciting way to become immersed in nature and allows visitors to observe the bush from another angle. The camps sleeping platforms overlook a waterhole frequented by game, particularly elephant! For adventure lovers , self-catered camping in one’s roof tent allows you to craft your own journey, setting up under star-studded skies. The campsites in Botswana are unfenced, meaning game can wander through camp so camping here is not for the faint hearted! However, sitting around the fire listening to the sounds of the bush is not to be missed! The campsites generally provide a reasonable level of space and privacy, a fire pit, water pipe (not always!) and some shade. The ablution (bathroom/shower blocks) in Botswana are generally large shared facilities that are reasonably well maintained. Whether it's opulent comfort or close-to-nature authenticity, Botswana's safari accommodations promise an unforgettable stay amidst its captivating landscapes! |
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