Where To Go And What To Do In Botswana When On Safari: A Comprehensive Guide
Here’s a curated list of the top safari attractions and what you can do in Botswana:
1. Okavango Delta
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Okavango Delta is the world’s largest inland delta, known for its stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife. Visitors can enjoy safaris via 4×4 vehicles, mokoro (dugout canoe), boat, or even on foot. The delta offers unmatched bird-watching opportunities and views of the Big Five. Fly-in safaris are popular for those seeking luxury, but road transfers are also available.
Activities: Game drives, boat cruises, mokoro safaris, guided walks.
2. Chobe National Park
Renowned for its large elephant population, Chobe National Park is a wildlife haven that attracts photographers and nature lovers. It is one of the most accessible parks in Botswana, especially from Kasane. The park is ideal for boat cruises, game drives, and sunset views along the Chobe River.
Activities: Game drives, boat safaris, bird-watching, sunset cruises.
3. Moremi Game Reserve
Located within the Okavango Delta, Moremi Game Reserve is perfect for spotting big cats, elephants, and the rare African wild dog. It is accessible by 4×4 vehicles, with light aircraft transfers available to more remote camps. Moremi offers one of the best wildlife viewing experiences in Botswana.
Activities: Game drives, bird-watching, walking safaris.
4. Makgadikgadi Pans National Park
The Makgadikgadi Pans are part of the world’s largest salt flat. Visitors can witness zebra migrations and enjoy unique activities such as quad biking across the salt flats and meerkat tours. This remote area offers excellent photography opportunities, especially for landscapes and wildlife.
Activities: Game drives, quad biking, photography tours, horseback riding.
5. Nxai Pan National Park
Famous for its Baines Baobabs, this park is known for its wildlife diversity, including elephants, lions, and giraffes. Nxai Pan is ideal for self-drive enthusiasts with 4×4 vehicles, offering a quieter, less-touristed experience compared to other parks.
Activities: Game viewing, photography, camping.
6. Central Kalahari Game Reserve
The Central Kalahari Game Reserve is the second-largest game reserve in the world, offering a rugged desert safari experience. Known for its remoteness, it is ideal for those looking for a more secluded safari. Visitors can encounter desert-adapted species like lions, hyenas, and springboks.
Activities: 4×4 game drives, camping, remote safaris.
7. Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park
Shared between Botswana and South Africa, Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park is a wild and remote part of the southern Kalahari Desert. With only basic campsites, it’s a destination for experienced 4×4 drivers looking for a true wilderness adventure.
Activities: Self-drive safaris, camping, bird-watching.
8. Tsodilo Hills
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Tsodilo Hills is an archaeological wonder with over 4,500 ancient rock paintings created by the San Bushmen. This culturally significant site is perfect for history enthusiasts seeking a break from traditional wildlife safaris.
Activities: Rock art tours, guided hikes, cultural exploration.
9. Linyanti Wildlife Reserve
This private reserve offers luxury safari experiences with high-end lodges and an abundance of wildlife. Known for large populations of elephants, lions, and leopards, Linyanti offers game drives, night drives, and mokoro expeditions.
Activities: Luxury safaris, night game drives, mokoro excursions.
10. Savuti
Located within Chobe National Park, Savuti is famous for its large lion prides and elephant herds. The dry, open savannah makes it ideal for game viewing. Visitors often choose fly-in safaris or 4×4 road transfers from the Okavango Delta or Maun.
Activities: Game drives, luxury lodges, camping.
Additional Attractions:
- Tuli Block: Known for its rocky landscapes and ancient baobabs.
- Khama Rhino Sanctuary: A conservation area aimed at protecting Botswana’s rhino population.
- Selinda Reserve: A luxury safari destination offering top-tier wildlife viewing.