Botswana, a country known for its diversity of landscapes and wildlife, offers a safari experience like no other. Whether you’re floating through the lush Okavango Delta or exploring the stark beauty of the Kalahari, there’s an adventure waiting for every type of traveller. But where should you start? What experiences will make your Botswana safari unforgettable? In this guide, we dive into the top 10 things to do in Botswana, with a few extra hidden gems thrown in for good measure. Get ready to discover a land of wilderness, awe-inspiring sights, and truly unique experiences. Top 10 Incredible things to do in Botswana.
One of the most thrilling parts of a safari is encountering Africa’s most iconic animals—The Big Five. And in Botswana, the odds are in your favor. Chobe National Park, a game reserve known for its diverse ecosystems, is a prime location for spotting these majestic creatures. The park’s habitats range from the lush Chobe River to the remote Linyanti Wetlands and Savuti, each area offering a new opportunity for adventure.
Have you ever wondered where the largest concentration of elephants in the world can be found? In Chobe, of course, with over 126,000 of them roaming freely! Imagine the sight of herds crossing the river as you sit on a game vehicle, camera in hand, ready to capture the magic. But the Big Five aren’t limited to elephants. Lions, leopards, rhinos, and buffaloes roam here too, making this the ultimate safari destination for wildlife lovers.
While Chobe may take the spotlight for its elephants, Moremi Game Reserve is a prime spot for leopard sightings. Nestled within the Okavango Delta, this reserve offers a chance to spot these elusive predators in their natural habitat. Just picture it: you’re quietly observing a leopard lounging on a tree branch, barely moving, with only the rustling of leaves and chirping birds breaking the silence.
Botswana’s reputation for offering exceptional wildlife sightings is undoubtedly well-deserved. And if you’re after an epic, wide-open adventure, the Central Kalahari Game Reserve should be on your list. Covering vast, untouched landscapes, this reserve provides a true wilderness experience, where you’ll encounter some of the most stunning and rare wildlife in the world.
If you’re seeking more than just wildlife sightings and want to connect with Botswana’s cultural heritage, consider embarking on a bush walk with the San people in the Central Kalahari Game Reserve. The San, known as the Bushmen, have inhabited Southern Africa for thousands of years, and their knowledge of the land, flora, and fauna is unparalleled.
As you walk with a San guide, you’ll gain insight into how they have survived and thrived in the Kalahari’s harsh conditions. You’ll learn how to track animals, identify edible plants, and even test your skills in a mock hunting exercise (don’t worry, no animals will be harmed). It’s an unforgettable cultural experience that adds a deeper dimension to your safari.
But the best part? You’re walking in the footsteps of a people who have lived in harmony with nature for centuries. Imagine walking across the vast desert landscape, knowing you’re following the same routes that have been used for millennia. How incredible is that?
Looking for a serene, peaceful way to explore Botswana’s UNESCO World Heritage site? A mokoro safari in the Okavango Delta is the perfect way to take in the stunning beauty of this watery wilderness. A mokoro is a traditional dug-out canoe, and gliding silently through the waterways of the delta is one of the most peaceful experiences you can have in Africa.
The best time to visit the Okavango Delta is between June and August when the seasonal floods from Angola expand the delta by up to three times its normal size. During this period, the waterways become teeming with wildlife. Hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and a variety of bird species are all part of the delta’s rich ecosystem. You’ll be guided by a local poler, who will steer the mokoro through the winding channels with a long pole, ensuring you get close to wildlife while remaining undisturbed.
For an even more memorable experience, why not combine your mokoro safari with an overnight camping trip? Picture yourself camping under the stars in the heart of the delta, surrounded by the sounds of wildlife—a truly magical experience.
Picture this: you’re on a boat, floating on the Chobe River, a chilled drink in hand as the sun dips below the horizon. The sky turns shades of pink, orange, and purple while elephants, buffaloes, and crocodiles are silhouetted against the glowing backdrop. Sounds like a dream, doesn’t it?
A sunset cruise on the Chobe River is a must-do experience for anyone visiting Botswana. With the largest concentration of elephants in the world, you’re practically guaranteed a sighting of these magnificent animals. And if you think the elephants are impressive, wait until you see the birdlife. From pelicans to kingfishers, the river is a birdwatcher’s paradise. You’ll leave this experience with unforgettable memories and plenty of pictures to share.
Botswana’s cutest residents are undoubtedly the meerkats of the Makgadikgadi Pans National Park. These little creatures have become a must-see attraction in Botswana, and they’re famous for their curiosity and adorable behavior. They’ve been so conditioned to human presence that they might even climb on your head for a better view—definitely a photo opportunity!
The best place to see these charming creatures is near Jack’s Camp, where early morning drives offer the chance to watch the meerkats leaving their burrows in search of breakfast. Watching them stand tall on their hind legs, scanning the horizon for potential threats, is a sight you won’t forget.
Now, let’s switch gears. While Botswana’s lush deltas and forested areas are stunning, the Makgadikgadi Pans offer a completely different landscape. This vast, seemingly endless expanse of salt-covered land creates an otherworldly experience that’s perfect for thrill-seekers.
A quad biking adventure across the pans will leave you with the sensation of being on another planet. The flat, wide-open spaces stretch endlessly, and you’ll feel the rush as you zoom across this surreal desert landscape. If you visit between December and March, you might even witness Botswana’s zebra migration as they traverse the pans in search of food. It’s an incredible sight that adds a sense of drama and awe to your journey.
Looking for an adventurous, immersive experience? Saddle up for a horseback safari. Botswana is one of the world’s best destinations for horseback riding, and riding through the Okavango Delta or Makgadikgadi Pans offers a truly unique perspective of the landscape and wildlife.
Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a complete beginner, horseback safaris are tailored to your skill level. Horses in Botswana are well accustomed to the surrounding wildlife, and you’ll have the opportunity to get up close to animals without startling them. As you ride through the bush, you’ll likely encounter wildebeest, giraffes, and even predators like lions and leopards.
If you’ve ever wanted to feel like a true adventurer, how about taking a hot-air balloon ride over the Okavango Delta? Watching the sun rise as the landscape comes to life below you is an experience that can’t be replicated. From above, you’ll get a bird’s eye view of the intricate waterways, marshes, and islands that make up this lush delta.
For a faster-paced adventure, why not soar across the delta in a helicopter? This is a fantastic option if you’re short on time or want to add a touch of adrenaline to your trip. Either way, taking to the skies offers an entirely new perspective of Botswana’s unique landscape.
Botswana’s wilderness is captivating, and there’s no better way to connect with nature than by sleeping under the stars. Star beds are luxurious outdoor “bedrooms” set on stilts above the treetops, allowing you to sleep with nothing but a mosquito net separating you from the night sky. Imagine drifting off to sleep while listening to the sounds of the African wilderness—the rustling of trees, the distant calls of wildlife, and the soft breeze blowing through the air.
Star beds are often part of a romantic getaway, making them the perfect option for honeymooners or those celebrating a special occasion. You’ll likely enjoy a private dinner or a picnic high in the treetops before settling in for the night. It’s the ultimate glamping experience, with all the comforts of home—and a sky full of stars.
For those who want to get closer to nature and experience the true essence of Botswana, a mobile camping trip offers a unique and immersive experience. Imagine this: instead of staying at a permanent lodge, you’ll camp in tents set up in remote areas far from the crowds. You’ll travel with a small group and a guide, exploring the wilderness at your own pace.
While this may sound like a “back to basics” experience, mobile camping is far from roughing it. Think of it as “glamping” in the wild. You’ll enjoy comfortable tents, delicious meals, and the thrill of waking up in the heart of the bush with nothing but the sound of wildlife around you.
Botswana offers some of the most unique and thrilling safari experiences in the world. From tracking the Big Five in Chobe to taking a peaceful mokoro ride in the Okavango Delta, there’s something for everyone. If you’re dreaming of a Botswana adventure, why not make that dream a reality? Desert Tracks is here to help you plan the perfect safari, whether you’re after wildlife, culture, or thrilling activities.
Contact Desert Tracks today to start planning your Botswana safari adventure. Let us turn your dream into a journey you’ll never forget.
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