Things To Do In Botswana

Top Things To See In Botswana

In Botswana, the southern and eastern regions are adorned with the breathtaking expanse of the Kalahari Desert and the moonlike landscapes of Nxai and Makgadikgadi Pans. To the north and west, the enchanting aquatic realms of the Okavango Delta and Chobe River ecosystem unfold.

With so many beautiful landscapes, deciding where to go on a safari can be pretty tough. So, in this guide, we give you insights into some of the top Botswana Safari Attractions that are a must-add to your itinerary.

Okavango Delta

The Okavango Delta is one of the world’s largest inland deltas. It is formed where the Okavango River meets the Kalahari Desert.

It is referred to as “the river that never finds the sea” since the water in the delta is not emptied into the sea. The delta attracts wildlife in large numbers from herds of elephants, wild dogs, lions and cheetahs.

To get a good view of these animals, you can opt for an Okavango Safari in a dugout canoe, or hop in a classic game drive. If you are a little more active then you can get up close and personal with wildlife on a walking safari.

Moremi Game Reserve

The Moremi Game Reserve is small but still one of the best Safari Destinations in Botswana. Its small size allows you to see a variety of animals as they are more or less in one place.

It shares its borders with Chobe National Park and the Okavango Delta. This makes it easier to combine all three in one trip.

It’s best for viewing games and seeing migrations. The ecosystem in Moremi is home to all the major natural species in the region.

Chobe National Park

Chobe National Park is the third largest national park in Botswana but one of the most visited parks in the country.

It is famous for its huge elephant population hence it's popularly known as “the land of the giants”. The Park has three wildlife areas, Chobe Riverfront, Linyanti Marshes and Savuti.

Chobe has campgrounds for self-drivers, tented camps, and luxury fly-in lodges. One of its biggest advantages is that it is the most accessible to the town of Kasane.

Central Kalahari Game Reserve

The Central Kalahari Game Reserve is a remarkable safari location that features remoteness, a silent desert, and the sounds of lions roaring at night.

It is roughly the size of Denmark and one of the largest protected areas in Africa, though much of it is inaccessible.

This is a big-sky country, with black-maned Kalahari lions, a full complement of predators, and a wonderful sense of isolation. Springboks, bat-eared foxes, lions, leopards, cheetahs, jackals, and brown hyenas are also common.

Within the park, there are only two permanent lodging options. Birds abound, with larger species such as ostriches and kori bustards (the world's heaviest flying bird) among them.

Makgadikgadi Pans National Park

The Makgadikgadi Pans National Park is a large salt pan covering an area of 3,900 kilometres. This makes it one of the largest salt pans in the world.

It is located right in the middle of the Savanna in the northeastern part of Botswana. The area has low rainfall and the famous Boteti River of the area rarely flows to capacity.

It however has a few grasslands and everlasting pools that attract a lot of animals to the area. Common Botswana Wildlife to see here are the waterbuck, birds, bushbuck and hippos.

Top Things To Do In Botswana

We have seen now that Botswana is an outdoor lover’s paradise. With an incredible mix of wildlife, culture, and adventure, there are plenty of things that you must see and do on your trip. Here is a list of the Top 10 Things to Do in Botswana that you must engage in to add value to your trip.

Experience Game Drives

Botswana game drives never cease to capture the fascinating attention of travellers. The country itself is a wildlife paradise brimming with adventure at every corner.

• Where to Go: Chobe National Park and Moremi Game Reserve are prime locations.
• What You'll See: Elephants in Chobe and predators in Moremi are highlights.
• Why It’s Special: Guides with deep knowledge make each drive an educational adventure on your Botswana Safari Trips.

Spot Rare Animals

Going on a Safari in Botswana is special because you get to see these animals that half the people travelling to Southern Africa won’t get even a glimpse of.

• Unique Finds: The oryx in the Kalahari and sitatunga in the Delta are must-sees.
• Best Spots: Semi-desert and northern Botswana offer the best chances.
• Fun Fact: Spotting a sitatunga is a rare treat for any wildlife enthusiast.

Go Bird-Watching

Many clients claim they are "not into birds" before going on a Botswana safari. This is up until they are met with the thrilling challenge of spotting birds in the distant trees.

• Season: The summer months from November to March are vibrant with avian activity. Botswana transforms into a bird-watchers paradise, offering unique birding adventures.
• Birds to Spot: From the majestic fish eagle to the colourful carmine bee-eater. Other notable birds include Pel’s fishing owl, the Kori Bustard, pied kingfishers, oxpeckers, black egrets, and ground hornbills.
• Why It’s Enjoyable: The diversity of birds turns everyone into a birding enthusiast.

Meet The San Bushmen

One of the most Unique Things to Do in Botswana is to meet the San. They are the first nations of Southern Africa and are indigenous hunter-gatherer groups. They mastered this difficult terrain around 20,000 years ago, honing their survival skills through generations.

• Experience: Discover ancient skills and stories on a walk with the San.
• Learn About: The world’s oldest culture and gain profound knowledge of the land and survival techniques.
• Cultural Insight: A peek into one of the oldest cultures on Earth.

Aquatic Safaris In The Delta

You have to experience a lovely aquatic safari in the delta at least once during your visit to Botswana. Nothing beats this ultimate relaxation ride (mokoro ride) on a light and environmentally friendly fibreglass canoe. A mokoro ride is one of the most peaceful experiences you'll ever have: you'll be poled along quietly while your guide points out beautiful lilies, tiny painted reed frogs, and goliath herons.

• Activity: Glide through the Delta's channels in a traditional canoe.
• Highlights: Close-up views of delta wildlife and flora.
• Unique Aspect: The quiet approach of a mokoro brings you closer to nature.

Hot Air Balloon Safari Over The Delta

There is nothing more unique and exciting than going on a hot air balloon over some of the most beautiful landscapes in Botswana. Not only is it thrilling but it gives a bird’s eye view of the pristine wilderness areas on a Botswana Tour.

• Experience: Witness the Delta's landscapes from a new perspective at sunrise.
• What Makes It Unique: A serene flight over one of the most beautiful natural settings in Africa.

Sunset Cruise

A sunset cruise on the Chobe River is a traditional way to end the day on a Botswana Safari Tour. On this cruise, you can see fish eagles, crocs, hippos, a plethora of birds, and even water monitors from the boat.

The unique angles for wildlife photography that boat-based game viewing provides are an added benefit.

The crossing of elephant families from one bank to another, however, is always a show-stopper. The leader crosses patiently, feeling for submerged rocks and logs, testing the depth of the water, and essentially choosing the safest route.

• Location: The serene waters of the Chobe River.
• Wildlife Viewing: A new perspective on Botswana’s rich animal life.
• The Highlight: Elephants at dusk provide a breathtaking sight.

Track The Big 5

The Big 5 tops the list of what to see on a Safari In Botswana. There’s a good chance you’ll spot all of them, especially in Moremi, Chobe and the Okavango Delta.

The Rhino however is under great threat, but innovative conservation programmes have been put in place to help the animals live another day.

• Locations: Prime spots include Moremi, Chobe, and the Delta.
• Conservation Note: Efforts to protect species like the rhino are noteworthy.
• Safari Highlight: The excitement of encountering Africa's most famous animals.

Stay At Top Lodges & Camps

Choosing to stay at top lodges and camps is among the Best Things to Do in Botswana, blending luxury with nature. The country offers breathtaking views, whether in the Savuti Marsh, the Chobe floodplain, or the Okavango Delta. Even though most of the country is fairly flat, the sky appears higher and bluer. The clouds are more intense, and the sunshine more life-giving.

• What to Expect: Comfort and style amidst breathtaking scenery.
• Scenery: Unparalleled views of Botswana’s landscapes.

Meet the Meerkats

Interacting with meerkats on a Central Kalahari Safari is one of the most unique things to do in Botswana. Meerkats might look cute and fluffy, but they're Brave little animals with a strong sense of community and a smart way of keeping watch.

They're not scared of people and might even climb on someone to get a better look around! A Fun Thing to Do In Botswana for families is to go to the Kalahari Desert, where meerkats like to live and dig their homes in the sand.Top of Form

• Location: The sandy expanses of the Kalahari.
• Experience: These social creatures are always a delight to observe.
• Family Fun: An encounter sure to charm visitors of all ages.

Each of the above Botswana Attractionsand Activities offers a window into the soul of Botswana, from its thrilling wildlife and scenic landscapes to its ancient cultures and modern comforts.

Engaging in these activities will enrich your understanding and appreciation of this magnificent country, making your visit truly memorable.

Places To Eat And Drink In Botswana

In Botswana's cities and big towns, you'll find great bars and restaurants. But in the countryside and less touristy spots, the food is more traditional, like pap, a cornmeal porridge, often served with stew. This is a basic meal for many locals. Safari lodges and camps usually offer dishes that are more international in style. Some local favourites include:

• Pap: A thick corn porridge, a staple in the local diet.
• Seswaa: The national dish of Botswana, a stew made with meat, onions, and peppers, served over pap.
• Kalahari Truffles: Unique desert mushrooms are known for their deep, earthy taste.
• Mopane Worms: A protein-packed snack, these large grubs can be boiled, grilled, or fried.
• Morogo: A type of wild spinach, often served with pap and stews.
• Vetkoek: A savoury, fried dough ball, usually paired with curried ground meat.
• Serobe: A dish of cooked intestines and sometimes trotters from goats, sheep, or cows.

There is a vast array of Activities To Do in Botswana that suits everyone, whether you're seeking adventure or just want to unwind. We can rightfully say it is the perfect destination for exploring Unique Things to Do In Botswana and enjoying experiences that are hard to find anywhere else in the world.

Why Tourists Love to Travel to Botswana?

Travelers love coming to Botswana for many reasons. It's a place that greets you with open arms, filled with natural wonders and wildlife. Here's why it keeps people coming back:

• Incredible Wildlife: From the moment you arrive, the presence of big animals like elephants and giraffes is astounding.
• Unique Experiences: Botswana offers unique sightings, such as teenage elephants showing their might or the quiet drama of birds' mating dances.
• Unexpected Thrills: Even seasoned travellers find surprises here, like spotting a leopard when least expected.
• The Climate: Visiting during the austral winter reveals a different side of Africa, with cold mornings making safaris all the more adventurous.
• Camp Life: Staying in safari camps is an adventure in itself, offering cosy nights under the stars and close encounters with nature right on your doorstep.
• Changing Landscapes: Botswana's environment is always evolving, offering new scenes and experiences with each visit.

Our Botswana Safari experiences immerse you in a vibrant, ever-evolving landscape. From your first journey to your fifteenth, the variety of Activities to Do in Botswana keeps you yearning for more.

Itineraries For Experiencing Botswana

Below, explore our top-rated Botswana Safari packages, each carefully curated based on our customers' glowing reviews. Discover the perfect itinerary for your unforgettable Botswana adventure.

Things To Do in Botswana According to Season

Exploring Botswana offers a variety of experiences that change with the seasons. Here's how to make the most of your visit at any time of the year:

Dry Season (May to October)

The dry season in Botswana extends from April to October and is suitable for engaging in some Botswana Safari Activities such as:

• Wildlife Safaris: The visibility of animals like elephants and lions increases as they gather around water sources. This makes it the Best Time For Botswana Safaris.
• Bird Watching: Beginning in late September, migratory birds start arriving, adding a colourful spectacle to the already vibrant wildlife scene.

Rainy Season (November to April)

The rains arrive in Botswana in November and extend till April. Some Top Things to Do in Botswana during rains are as follows.

• Exploring the Kalahari: The desert comes alive with greenery, and game-viewing peaks as animals concentrate on the plains.
• Bird Watching: This season is ideal for bird enthusiasts, with numerous species thriving in wetter conditions, making it one of the top Things To Do In Botswana for bird lovers.

Any Season

As Botswana is popular as a year-round safari destination, here are a few things you can engage in all around the year during Botswana Travel.

• Visit the Okavango Delta: While the Delta floods from April to June, offering unique water-based activities, it remains a stunning destination to explore year-round with mokoro rides and fishing.
• Cultural Tours: Engage with local cultures, including visits to San Bushmen communities, an enlightening experience no matter the season.

Seasonal Tips

Follow the following tips to make the most of your travel to Botswana:

• Prepare for the Cold: From May to August, the mornings and evenings can be chilly, so pack accordingly.
• Stay Hydrated: The months leading up to the rainy season, especially October and November, can be very hot. Always carry water during your adventures.

Ultimately, like any other safari destination, choosing the Best Time to Visit Botswana depends on what you want to see and do. Be it the dramatic wildlife encounters of the dry season or the lush landscapes and birdwatching opportunities of the rainy season, the country has many amazing things to indulge in during Botswana Safaris.

Explore, Discover, and Cherish on Botswana Safaris!

In conclusion, Botswana shines as a matchless safari destination, filled with a variety of experiences and exciting adventures.

From the engaging Botswana Safari opportunities to the assorted Things to Do in Botswana, this country offers memorable moments for every visitor.

Let Falcon Safaris introduce you to the wonders of Botswana, encouraging you to explore, discover, and cherish this beautiful land. Come and craft your adventure in Botswana's wild landscapes.