KEY TAKEAWAYS
- Learn how to choose the perfect destination and the right time to visit Botswana
- Discover how to select good safari operators and accommodation
- Understand how you can prepare for the journey and embrace the experience
Are you planning to go on a Botswana luxury safari? If yes, then I must say you have great taste in picking the travel destinations. Experienced travelers considered the Botswana safari one of the best wildlife experiences in the world.
Just imagine watching a beautiful elephant family on the riverbank, giraffes eating leaves from the top of the tree, sounds amazing, right?
Read this article because I am going to share my own experience, and I will explain how you can plan your perfect safari according to your style. Yes, I am not kidding, you can customize your safari. So let’s just dive into the article.
Choose the Right Time to Visit
Look, I want you to keep one thing clear in your mind: the weather can significantly impact your experience. Because the climate in Botswana changes throughout the year.
According to my own experience, I suggest you visit Botswana in the dry season, between May and October. This is the time when the big five and birds flock to this place.
According to me, and some expert travelers, too, the best part of this season is when the wildlife gathers around the water sources; it’s just magical.
If you visit during the wet season (November to April), you can enjoy beautiful green landscapes, but at this time of the year, you may have difficulties watching wildlife.
So choose the time according to your personal interest and enjoy the safari.
Select Your Ideal Destinations
Botswana has a lot of mesmerizing destinations, each of which offers unique experiences. For example Okavango, it is one of the most iconic safari places in Africa, and this place is famous for its rich biodiversity and stunning canals.
Chobe National Park is one of the best places to watch huge elephants (I love this one the most). It is easily accessible and perfect for both water and land safaris.
The Kalahari Desert provides arid landscapes with its unique wildlife.
These are some destinations that I love the most; there are some other amazing destinations too. You can do some research on these places and select the ones that align with your desires and interests.
Choose a Reputable Safari Operator
Selecting a reputable safari operator is very important. A good safari operator can provide you with an excellent and seamless experience. To ensure you choose the right one, I suggest you check reviews, ask your friends or family (if they have already visited this place).
And don’t just stick to one, search for at least three or four operators, talk to them, ask about their experience, and guide them. After you feel satisfied with the answer, only then finalize them. Keep in mind that a good safari operator will tailor your safari according to your preferences and not how they want.
Decide on Your Accommodations
Botswana is one of the places that has stays that suit the budget of every traveler. They usually have multiple options like tented bush lodges, mobile fly camps, luxury Botswana safari camp suites with stunning views, and pools too.
If you want to live close to wildlife like me, you can pick a stay close to nature. No matter where you decide to stay, try to book your stay in advance, especially during the peak season.
Customize Your Activities
Yes, I agree that the core of safari is often game drives, but not in Botswana because it offers many activities that can beautifully enhance your entire safari experience.
I highly recommend that you do not forget to do activities like mokoro rides, birdwatching, guided walking safaris, and visiting local communities.
Because these activities can give you a lifelong experience. I discussed these activities with my safari operator in advance, and you can do that as well to customize your activities.
DID YOU KNOW
The Botswana safari tourism market generated a revenue of USD 2,573.0 million in 2023 and is expected to reach USD 3,948.3 million by 2030.
Prepare for Your Journey
If you have travelled even once, then you might know how important the preparation is before the journey starts. Although the safari is quite different from trips and vacations, its preparation is not that different.
Carry your essential travel documents: your visa, passport, and insurance, like you do on any trip. Now, when it comes to clothes, try to pack breathable clothes if you’re visiting there in the dry season. Also carry sunscreen and insect repellent.
Now, some important equipment, a waterproof camera, a torch for emergencies, and if you want to enjoy wildlife closely, try to carry binoculars. If you still think you can easily forget these things, try to make a packing essentials list. Tick on the items when you pack them.
Trust me, preparing in advance can make your trip more comfortable and tension-free.
Embrace the Experience
Once you arrive in Botswana, try to let yourself be free from phone and social media or any other distractions for a while. Push yourself a bit to soak in the stunning wildlife.
Just randomly talk to your guide, ask them about their experience with that place. Talk to the other travellers. If possible, try to take part in cultural things to get to know them. Enjoy activities with a full heart.
Keep one thing in mind, Botswana luxury safari is not about staying in suites or riding the jeeps, it’s about indulging in nature and experiencing the stunning wildlife.
How long should I spend on a Botswana safari?
According to me, spending at least 10 days in Botswana will give a bunch of beautiful memories and experiences.
Is the Okavango Delta really too expensive?
It is the most expensive and exclusive safari destination in Africa.
What is the best currency to take to Botswana?
The pula is a stable and widely accepted currency in Botswana.
What is the most eaten food in Botswana?
Shredded meat, such as beef known as seswaa, is very common. It is the national dish and is often served with a green salad called morongo.
