Botswana

Bespoke safaris in Botswana: the Okavango Delta, Chobe and Moremi

Botswana is one of Africa’s most extraordinary and exclusive safari destinations. Vast natural spaces, few accommodation options, highly qualified guides and exceptional wildlife allow you to experience a safari in an intimate and authentic way, far from the most crowded routes.

A trip to Botswana can take you through the channels of the Okavango Delta, the plains of the Moremi Game Reserve, the wilds of Khwai and Savuti, and the banks of the Chobe River, home to large herds of elephants.

Each area offers different landscapes, activities and wildlife-spotting opportunities. For this reason, a safari in Botswana must be planned by carefully assessing the time of year, water levels, the location of the lodges, transport links and the type of experience desired.

South African Dream organises bespoke safaris and all-inclusive trips to Botswana, personally selecting itineraries, lodges, camps and transport links thanks to its first-hand knowledge ofsouthern Africa.

Enquire about your Botswana safari

Why choose a trip to Botswana

Botswana has adopted a tourism model focused on conservation and a limited number of visitors. Many lodges are situated within remote private concessions, accessible via short scenic flights.

This approach allows you to experience a safari characterised by:

• vast, uncrowded natural areas;
• a limited number of vehicles during game drives;
• small lodges and camps;
• highly specialised local guides;
• excellent opportunities to observe predators and elephants;
• safaris by 4x4, boat, mokoro and, in some areas, on foot;
• completely different landscapes within the same trip;
• the opportunity to combine a safari with a visit to Victoria Falls, Zambia or South Africa.

Botswana is ideal for couples, honeymooners, photographers, nature lovers and travellers wishing to experience an Africa that is still profoundly wild.

The main destinations in Botswana

Okavango Delta: The Okavango Delta is one of the most astonishing ecosystems on the African continent. Waters flowing from the highlands ofAngola reach Botswana and spread out across the sands of the Kalahari, creating a mosaic of channels, lagoons, islands, grasslands and woodlands. The experience varies considerably from one concession to another. Some areas are predominantly aquatic, whilst others allow you to combine off-road safaris with water-based activities. During your stay, you can take part in:

• off-road safaris;
• excursions in a mokoro, the Delta’s traditional boat;
• boat safaris;
• walking safaris in authorised areas;
• birdwatching;
• scenic flights by helicopter or small aeroplane.

Water availability varies from area to area and changes throughout the year. When choosing a lodge, you should therefore consider not only the category of the accommodation, but also its location and the activities actually available during your travel period.

Discover the Okavango Delta

Moremi Game Reserve: The Moremi Game Reserve protects one of the richest natural areas in the Okavango Delta. The area alternates between floodplains, lagoons, woodlands and drier zones, creating habitats suitable for a high concentration of wildlife. &You may encounter elephants, buffalo, giraffes, zebras, hippos, antelopes and numerous predators. Moremi is particularly renowned for sightings of:

• lions;
• leopards;
• wild dogs;
• hyenas;
• elephants;
• large herds of herbivores.

Some areas can be reached by land, whilst others are more easily accessed via short domestic flights.

Discover the differences between the Moremi Game Reserve and Khwai

Khwai: The Khwai Community Area lies along the north-eastern border of the Moremi Game Reserve and is renowned for the variety of its habitats and its excellent wildlife. The Khwai River creates a particularly favourable habitat for elephants, hippos, antelopes and predators. Depending on the concession and the camp chosen, daytime safaris, night safaris and off-road activities may be available. Khwai is an attractive choice for those seeking an immersive safari experience, with excellent photography opportunities and a more intimate atmosphere compared to the more popular areas.

Discover the differences between Moremi Game Reserve and Khwai

Chobe National Park: Chobe National Park is famous for being home to one of Africa’s largest elephant populations. The best-known area stretches along the Chobe River, near Kasane. Here, you can alternate between 4x4 safaris and boat safaris, observing the animals from completely different perspectives. During the dry season, large numbers of elephants, buffalos, antelopes and predators make their way to the river to drink. An afternoon boat safari is one of the most exciting experiences in Botswana and offers the chance to see hippos, crocodiles, elephants and an extraordinary variety of birds. Chobe can easily be combined with a visit to Victoria Falls, which can be reached by land from both the Zimbabwean and Zambian sides.

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Savuti and Linyanti: Savuti and Linyanti are among the wildest areas of northern Botswana. Savuti is known for its open landscapes, the channel running through the region and the high concentration of predators. Lions, leopards, hyenas and wild dogs can be spotted on particularly exciting game drives. Linyanti is characterised by watercourses, marshes, woodlands and little-visited private concessions. It is an excellent area for spotting elephants and predators, especially during the dry season. These areas can be incorporated between the Okavango Delta and Chobe, creating a comprehensive itinerary through different ecosystems.

Makgadikgadi Pans: The Makgadikgadi salt pans offer a landscape completely different from that of the Delta and the northern parks. During the dry season, the vast salt flats create stark and spectacular scenery. With the arrival of the rains, some areas are transformed and attract numerous animals, including zebras, wildebeest and migratory bird species. Depending on the area and the season, you can enjoy experiences such as:

• encounters with meerkats;
• excursions across the salt pans;
• off-road safaris;
• observing seasonal migrations;
• cultural experiences with the San communities;
• nights under the starry sky.

Discover Makgadikgadi Pans

Central Kalahari Game Reserve: The Central Kalahari Game Reserve is one of the largest nature reserves inAfrica. The landscapes are dominated by savannahs, open plains and ancient riverbeds. During the wet season, the region is transformed and offers excellent opportunities to spot herbivores and predators. &It is a remote destination, ideal for those wishing to discover a different, less-visited side of Botswana, best included as part of a longer itinerary.

Discover the Central Kalahari Game Reserve

Which part of Botswana to choose

There is no single area that is best for everyone.

The Okavango Delta is ideal for those wishing to combine land and water-based activities. Moremi and Khwai are particularly well-suited to those who prioritise wildlife sightings and photography. Chobe offers large concentrations of elephants and splendid boat safaris.

Savuti and Linyanti are recommended for those seeking predators and more remote areas, whilst Makgadikgadi and the Kalahari are perfect for those wishing to experience unusual landscapes and an experience different from a traditional safari.

In most cases, a good itinerary combines at least two or three areas, avoiding lodges that are too similar to one another.

How to organise a safari in Botswana

Fly-in safaris: Fly-in safaris use small aircraft to connect Maun, Kasane and the camps located in the most remote areas. Domestic flights reduce transfer times and offer spectacular views of the Okavango Delta. The aircraft generally have limited capacity and are subject to specific restrictions regarding the weight and type of luggage. This option is particularly suitable for:

• couples and honeymoons;
• short itineraries;
• lodges situated in private concessions;
• trips combining several areas of the Delta;
• mid-to-high-end or luxury safaris.

Mobile safari: The mobile safari allows you to travel through Moremi, Khwai, Savuti and Chobe whilst staying in tented camps set up in natural areas. It is one of the most authentic experiences in Botswana and allows you to follow a continuous overland route, accompanied by a professional guide and a dedicated team. There are various options available, ranging from adventure camping to mobile camps equipped with beds, en-suite bathrooms and full service.

Safaris with lodge accommodation and overland transfers: Some areas can be reached by land, particularly on itineraries between Maun, Moremi, Khwai, Savuti and Chobe. This option can reduce the number of domestic flights, but involves longer transfers and is subject to the condition of the airstrips and the season.

Safaris with an Italian guide: An Italian guide may be provided on some group tours or private itineraries, depending on the programme and availability. On fly-in safaris, activities are generally led by the individual lodges’ local English-speaking guides. Their knowledge of the wildlife, the area and seasonal conditions is a key part of the experience.

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How many days are needed for a trip to Botswana

To really get to know Botswana, a minimum of 9–12 days is generally recommended.

A basic itinerary might include:

• 3 nights in the Okavango Delta;
• 3 nights in either Moremi or Khwai;
• 2 or 3 nights in the Chobe area.

With 12–14 days, it is possible to add Savuti, Linyanti, Makgadikgadi or Victoria Falls.

For a more comprehensive trip combining Botswana and Zimbabwe or Botswana and Zambia, at least two weeks are recommended.

Stays of just one or two nights per area are generally not recommended: travelling between locations reduces the time actually spent on the safari and prevents you from fully appreciating the characteristics of each area.

When to visit Botswana

Botswana can be visited all year round, but each season offers a different experience.

May to August: The dry season brings generally pleasant temperatures during the day and cooler temperatures in the mornings and evenings. Animals begin to congregate near water sources and water levels in the Delta may rise gradually, although this varies depending on the year and the area. &This is one of the most popular times of year and must be booked well in advance. 

September and October: Sightings are generally excellent because the vegetation is sparser and the animals congregate near the water. Temperatures can, however, become very high, especially during the middle of the day.

November to March: The green season offers lush landscapes, spectacular skies, births and an excellent abundance of migratory birds. Rainfall often takes the form of showers and can vary considerably from one area to another.  It is an interesting time for photographers and travellers who are prepared to cope with more changeable conditions.

April: April is a transitional period. The vegetation is still green, temperatures are starting to drop and some accommodation providers are gradually switching to high-season rates.

When choosing the best time to visit, you should take into account your planned destinations, the activities you wish to undertake and your available budget.

How much does a safari in Botswana cost?

Botswana is generally more expensive than other African safari destinations. The main reasons are the prevalence of small lodges, the remote location of the concessions and the need to use domestic flights.

As a rough guide, per person in a twin room:

• a basic 7–9-day trip can start from around 4,000–5,500 euros;
• a 10–12-day itinerary covering the Okavango Delta, Moremi and Chobe can start from around 5,500–8,000 euros;
• a fly-in safari with exclusive lodges can start from around 7,000–10,000 euros;
• a luxury trip in high season can exceed 10,000 euros per person.

These figures are indicative and may vary significantly depending on the season, the lodges, the number of nights and the planned transport arrangements.

Prices refer to complete itineraries and exclude international flights. Any necessary domestic flights are either included or listed separately in the travel proposal.

Find out how much a safari in Africa costs

Botswana and Victoria Falls

Combining Botswana and Victoria Falls is one of the most comprehensive itineraries in southern Africa.

The proximity between Kasane and the falls makes it easy to combine:

• the Okavango Delta;
• Moremi or Khwai;
• Savuti;
• Chobe National Park;
• Victoria Falls.

The visit can be undertaken from either the Zimbabwean or Zambian side. The choice depends on the overall itinerary, the season and the available transport links.

Discover Victoria Falls

Botswana and Zimbabwe

Botswana and Zimbabwe allow you to create a comprehensive trip through a variety of environments.

After the Delta and Chobe, the itinerary can continue towards Victoria Falls and Hwange National Park. On longer trips, you can add Mana Pools, one of Zimbabwe’s wildest areas.

Discover safaris in Zimbabwe

Botswana and Zambia

Botswana can be combined with Zambia via Victoria Falls or by air links to South Luangwa and Lower Zambezi.

This combination is particularly suitable for those wishing to include walking safaris, river activities and less-visited parks.

Discover safaris in Zambia

Honeymoon in Botswana

Botswana is one of the best African destinations for a honeymoon.

Small lodges, suites nestled in nature, private dinners, scenic flights and exclusive safaris allow you to create a romantic and intimate itinerary.

The trip can end at Victoria Falls or with a beach holiday in the Seychelles, Mauritius or Mozambique.

For a honeymoon, we recommend alternating between lodges with different characteristics, avoiding stays that are too short and an excessive number of transfers.

Botswana or South Africa: which to choose

South Africa is generally easier to reach, offers a wider variety of accommodation and allows you to combine safaris with Cape Town, the Winelands and the Garden Route.

Botswana, on the other hand, offers a more exclusive and immersive safari experience, with remote areas, fewer vehicles and, on average, higher costs.

For a first trip to Africa on a tight budget, South Africa may be the better choice. For those who consider the safari the main focus of their trip and are looking for a more intimate experience, Botswana is an exceptional choice.

Discover trips to South Africa

Why organise your Botswana trip with South African Dream

Planning a trip to Botswana requires in-depth knowledge of the different areas.

Two lodges that appear similar may offer completely different experiences depending on their location, concession, water availability during the season and the activities permitted.

South African Dream can take care of:

• full itinerary planning;
• selection of lodges and camps;
• domestic flights and transfers;
• safaris and activities;
• combined trips to Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe and Zambia;
• assistance in Italian before and during the trip;
• economy, classic, luxury or mobile safari options;
• itineraries for honeymoons and special occasions.

We live and work in Southern Africa and have first-hand knowledge of many of the accommodation providers, guides and areas we recommend. This enables us to create well-balanced itineraries, avoiding unnecessary travel and selecting lodges that offer truly complementary experiences.

South African Dream organises only complete holiday packages and does not sell individual overnight stays, transfers or excursions.

Frequently asked questions about safaris in Botswana

Is Botswana suitable for a first safari? Yes. It is an exceptional destination even for a first safari, especially for those seeking nature, tranquillity and high-quality guides. However, it should be noted that the cost is generally higher than in South Africa, Kenya or Tanzania.

Is Chobe or the Okavango Delta better?The two areas offer different experiences and are best combined. Chobe is famous for its elephants and boat safaris, whilst the Okavango Delta offers more varied landscapes and activities that vary depending on the concession chosen.

Are Moremi and Khwai the same area? They are neighbouring but distinct areas. Moremi is a protected reserve, whilst Khwai comprises community areas and private concessions. The rules regarding night safaris and off-road driving may vary depending on the area.

When should I book? If you’re travelling between June and October, it’s advisable to plan your safari well in advance, especially if you’re looking for specific lodges or a fly-in itinerary.

Is it possible to travel with an Italian guide? Yes, on some tours or private itineraries, subject to availability. At the Delta lodges, activities are normally led by local English-speaking guides.

Are domestic flights necessary? Not always, but many of the more remote lodges in the Okavango Delta are mainly accessible by small aircraft. An itinerary may combine domestic flights and overland transfers.

Are international flights included in the prices? No. The price ranges shown on the page exclude international flights. Domestic flights, on the other hand, are either included or quoted separately when required for the itinerary.

Is Botswana suitable for a honeymoon? Yes. It is one of the best African destinations for a honeymoon, thanks to its intimate lodges, personalised service, spectacular scenery and the opportunity to combine a safari with a visit to Victoria Falls or a beach holiday.

Enquire about your Botswana safari

Tell us when you’d like to travel, how many days you have available, the number of participants and your indicative budget.

We’ll put together the most suitable combination of the Okavango Delta, Moremi, Khwai, Savuti, Chobe and Victoria Falls, selecting lodges, activities and transport links that match the time of year and the type of experience you’re looking for.

You’ll receive a comprehensive, personalised proposal, tailored to your travel vision and drawing on our first-hand experience in Southern Africa.

Request a travel proposal for Botswana

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