If you’ve been thinking about a safari in Botswana, its time to stop dreaming and time to start booking!

As with any trip you take anywhere around the world, there are some things to know that will help you have the best safari ever.

And if you still have questions, post them in the comments section at the end of this post, and I’ll get back to you with the answers.

1. Your Budget

Knowing your budget will determine many things about your safari choices.

• High season vs low season
• The type of safari eg fly-in safari, group safari, mobile camping safari
• Choosing the lodges and where to stay in Botswana

Ask about specials. Many large tour operators offer things like free flying, or free nights when you book a combination of their camps in one itinerary.

Some companies offer reductions on solo travellers as this space is growing rapidly, so instead of single supplements, a lot of lodges are charging better rates for singles to encourage them to stay.

There are honeymoon discounts and sometimes even family friendly discounts too.

Every lodge and company offers different specials, so let your booking agent know you’re looking for a great package deal and see what they can find for you.

2. Season

In terms of wildlife sightings, winter is always the best time to travel on a safari. And because of this, it brings in higher rates.

Winter is better because of the following:

• There is less vegetation so easier to spot the animals
• Rainfall is in summer, so during winter, animals congregate around the waterholes
• There are fewer bugs and mosquitoes
• The day time temperatures are more comfortable in winter than in summer

3. Water Camp vs Land Camp vs Combination Camp

All safari lodges in Botswana are classified as either a water camp, a land camp, or a combination camp.

This is based on the Okavango Delta and its water levels, and the activities that can be done at the safari lodge.

Water camps include some of the following (they are all different and the below activities are not guaranteed at every water camp, you need to do a bit of research here):

• Boating
• Mokoro trips
• Fishing (catch and release)
• Sunset cruises
• Barge trips

At the moment, October 2024, there aren’t many safari lodges that are solely water based camps as there isn’t much water in the Delta at the moment.

So, many offer mostly land-based activities and IF there is water nearby, you will need to be driven to the area by your guide, and can then enjoy some time out on the water.

Complaints do come in from people who have booked a year in advance, and by the time they travel, there isn’t any water. This is nature, and not one year is the same as the next, and these things can’t be predicted.

In saying that, there are a few camps that have water all year round, but activities still might be limited at certain times for safety reasons eg: too many hippos which makes some mokoro trips unsafe

Land camps include some of the following activities:

• Morning game drives
• Afternoon game drives
• Night game drives
• Guided nature walks

Combination camps combine a combination of some of the above.

Things like birding and bush picnics can be done at most safari lodges, it will depend on the water levels, length of the grass, time of year and other factors.

4. Wildlife Highlights

Wildlife in Bots is pretty much off the charts year round!

This makes Botswana an excellent choice, especially for those who are new at the whole safari travel experience.

However, if you are going to be searching for the Big 5, know that chances are you will not see any rhinos.

All (or 99%) of the rhinoceros in Botswana have been moved to a sanctuary for their own protection.

But, this doesn’t mean your sightings won’t be great!

Keep your eyes peeled for the endangered African wild dog, known for their teamwork and impressive hunting skills. And don’t forget about the rare sable antelope, with its stunning horns and graceful moves, or the elusive cheetah, the ultimate speedster of the savanna.

Find out about the Little 5 and the Ugly 5.

What about pangolin, aardvark and the smaller cat species that come out after dark? And don’t forget about our feathered friends either.

Also pay attention to the aquatic species if you’re near water – think of hippos and crocs, and keep your eyes on the water.

Watch the Pied Kingfishers hover and dart for food, listen to the call of the absolutely gorgeous Fish Eagle, and drop a line and try your luck at hauling in a husky Tiger Fish which will definitely give you a few bragging rights (catch-and-release at certain times of the year).

Its not just the ‘big guys’ that make a safari in Botswana great, its also about every other creature and critter that you will find during your stay.

5. Choosing the Right Safari Experience

There are a variety of different types of safaris available for travellers, it all depends on your personal preference.

Do you want to fly around Botswana and enjoy your safari with your creature comforts, or are you happy to bungle along the road as part of a group?

Is walking more your style, allowing you to pay closer attention to the bush, biology and nature that you miss when you’re in a game vehicle?

Different types of safaris offer different experiences for different people.

6. Cultural Experiences on Safari in Botswana

A lot of the lodges in Botswana are established by renting the land from the local village people. In return the lodge takes care of them, employs them, helps with medical issues and a whole lot more.

From some lodges it is possible to visit a village and meet the indigenous people.

If this is something you want to do, let your agent know before you travel so that this can be relayed to the camp and the village, and they can prepare for your visit.

Villages usually aren’t that close so I would put aside a whole day to go and experience life with the local people.

7. Packing Essentials

It’s not about packing a ton of stuff; it’s about packing correctly.

Forget name brands, high-heel shoes and designer outfits.

There are quite a few things I have mentioned from personal experience that you should always include in your luggage and I’ve given you all the information here in this post.

When it comes to clothing, don’t forget that most safari lodges offer a same-day laundry service, and very often its included in the rates (but do your due diligence, and check this before you travel).

This means you don’t need to pack a lot of clothing as you can wash as you go.

8. Safety Tips on Safari in Botswana

Embarking on a safari is an exhilarating experience, but safety should always be a priority as you explore Botswana’s stunning wilderness.

From staying aware of your surroundings to following guidelines from your guides, being prepared will enhance your adventure.

Here are some essential safety tips to keep in mind:

• Follow Your Guide’s Instructions: Your guide knows the terrain and wildlife best. ALWAYS listen to their advice and stick to their rules, whether you’re on a game drive or exploring on foot.
• Stay Alert: Wildlife encounters can happen unexpectedly. Keep your eyes open and be mindful of your surroundings.
• Keep a Safe Distance: Respect the space of wild animals, carnivorous or not. Never approach them too closely, and always observe from a safe distance, whether you’re in a vehicle or on foot.
• Stay in Your Vehicle: When on a game drive, remain inside your vehicle unless your guide instructs you otherwise. Don’t stand up and don’t hang your arms over the cars. This keeps you safe from curious wildlife.
• Be Prepared for the Environment: Bring plenty of water, wear sunscreen, and dress in appropriate clothing to protect against the elements, including insects.

For a more detailed guide on staying safe during your safari, check out my in-depth article on do’s and don’ts when you’re on a safari! Your safety is key to enjoying the adventure of a lifetime.