Choosing a Botswana safari will expose you to a true African Eden. The country’s distinctive natural environment is reflected in its varied forest reserves, ancient wildlife corridors, private concessions, and wild waterways. From the islands of the Okavango Delta to the elephants of Chobe National Park, the biodiversity of the Khwai River and the white vastness of the Makgadikgadi Pans – Botswana offers a range of African safari experiences.
The most popular Botswana safari destinations are the Okavango, Chobe and Moremi National Parks, which all offer astonishing wildlife viewing all year round. The Big Five are found in high numbers throughout the country, and Botswana is home to the biggest elephant population anywhere in the world, estimated at over 130,000. Here, you can find about 550 types of birds, including the African fish eagle and the Cape Vulture. The Cape Vulture is an endangered species that is fully protected in Botswana. With its exclusive and remote African safari options, Botswana is one of the continent’s premier wilderness and safari locations. No wonder it continuously ranks as one of the must-visit destinations for travelers across the world.
Learn more about the wildlife to spot in Botswana and the things to do in Botswana so that you can get the most out of your safari vacation.
The best time to visit Botswana is during the dry season from May to October, when wildlife gathers around water sources and the Okavango Delta is at its most spectacular. Game viewing is excellent, and conditions are ideal for photography. The green season (November–April) brings dramatic skies and lush landscapes, perfect for birdwatching and quieter safaris.
Currency
Botswana‘s currency is Pula (which means ‘rain’ in Setswana). It is divided into 100 thebe (which means ‘shield’ in Setswana). Travelers’ cheques and foreign currency may be changed at banks, bureaux de change, and authorized hotels.
USD, Euros, British Pound, and the South African Rand are the most easily convertible currencies (and accepted by some establishments – but, generally, then an inflated rates of exchange will be applied).
Banking
Seven main commercial banks, as well as several foreign exchange bureaux, operate in Botswana. Operating hours are Monday to Friday 08h30 to 15h30 and Saturday 08h30 to 10h45.
Full banking services are available in major towns, although ATMs are sprouting up all over the country. Most credit cards are accepted at hotels and restaurants. Cultural sites and community art and craft outlets usually only accept cash.
Safari lodges and camps serve international-style cuisine, generally of an extremely high standard, along with local beer and imported wine and spirits. Good restaurants and bars can be found in main towns, often within hotels. Elsewhere, food is more basic: millet and sorghum porridge are the local staples.
Tap water is considered safe to drink, although outside main cities and towns, visitors are advised to check first and sterilize water if in doubt. Bottled water is available in most lodges. Milk is pasteurized, and dairy products, local meat, poultry, seafood, fruit, and vegetables are generally safe.
According to our most recent Botswana travel advice, a discretionary ten percent tip is typical for restaurant bills. In many places, a service charge is automatically added. It is customary to tip the game guide and lodge staff while on safari.
Botswana’s climatic pattern is typical of southern Africa, although its rainfall is lower than countries further east. The rains in Botswana come mostly between December and March when average minimum temperatures are in the low 20°s. Some days will be bright and sunny, some will have afternoon thunderstorms, and some will just be grey.
April and May in Botswana are generally lovely, with the sky clear and the landscape green. Night temperatures start to drop during these months, especially in the Kalahari. Note that places in and around the Okavango tend to have less extreme, more moderate temperatures than the drier areas of the Kalahari.
From June to August the nighttime temperatures in drier areas can be near freezing, but it warms up rapidly during the day when the sky is usually clear and blue. It’s now very much ‘peak season’ for most safari areas: the land is dry in most areas, so the animals congregate around the few available water sources.
This continues into September and October, when temperatures climb again, drying the landscape and concentrating the game even more. This is the best time for big game safaris – although October can feel very hot, with maximum temperatures sometimes approaching 40°C.
November is difficult to predict, as it can sometimes be a continuation of October’s heat, while sometimes it is cooled by the first rains; it’s always an interesting month.
In summer, lightweight, light-colored cotton is preferable. Avoid synthetic materials and black clothing, as they increase perspiration and discomfort. In winter, wear trousers, long-sleeved shirts/blouses and jerseys. From May to August, night temperatures can fall below zero degrees Celsius, so warm jerseys and jackets are vital, especially on morning and evening game drives. Garments of neutral colors that blend with the bush and forest are advisable for safaris and game viewing. Bring a light jacket and/or jersey for unexpected temperature changes or rain. Closed, comfortable walking shoes are a must in all seasons. Special attention should be given to protection from the sun. Bring a sunhat, good quality sunscreen, sun lotion, and polarized sunglasses. Wide-brimmed sun hats are essential.
Some hotels, lodges and guest houses offer internet access or WiFi (free or paid), and there are internet cafes in Gaborone and Maun. Internet access in more remote rural areas is often hard to come by.
Top experiences in Botswana include exploring the Okavango Delta, embarking on a Chobe River cruise to see elephants at sunset, and venturing into the Makgadikgadi Pans for surreal salt flat scenery. For an authentic safari, join Jenman African Safaris’ guided tours and experience both land and water-based game viewing across Botswana’s pristine wilderness.
Most travellers combine light aircraft transfers with 4×4 safari drives for efficient travel between camps. Domestic flights connect Maun, Kasane, and the Okavango Delta. For overland safaris, Jenman African Safaris offers guided tours that link Botswana with Zimbabwe and Namibia — a seamless way to experience the region’s top highlights.
Most visitors, including those from the EU, UK, USA, and South Africa, do not need a visa for stays under 90 days. However, your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates. Always confirm entry requirements with your nearest Botswana embassy before travelling.
