All Things Botswana Safari

Written By Erina Pindar

Photography by Teal Thomsen

Amongst seasoned travelers, Botswana is regarded as one of the most sensational safari experiences on the African continent.

Botswana offers a distinctive opportunity for exploration and adventure.

While safaris to Tanzania, Kenya, and South Africa remain beloved options, Botswana offers a distinctive opportunity for exploration and adventure. Through its exclusive, limited-camp experiences set against contrasting ecosystems, this country affords a unique, once-in-a-lifetime travel experience. Our most recent Smartie scouting venture took us all over Botswana; the ten-day trip encompassed several of the country’s most revered camps from the sweeping green floodplains of the Okavango to the dazzling star-dusted desert of Kalahari, all in the name of coming back with vetted recommendations for you.

We checked in with  Erina Pindar, SmartFlyer COO and Managing Partner, for her take on what sets Botswana apart from her recent safaris, including those to regions as distinct as Namibia. Our boots-on-the-ground research culminated in her answers to some of your most frequently asked questions about a Botswanan safari.

SmartFlyer: Is Botswana good for safari?

The country’s steadfast commitment to responsible tourism ensures that nature is preserved for future generations to keep.

EP: Undoubtedly, Botswana is among one of the most exceptional safari destinations in Africa. The country’s expansive landscape, diverse ecosystems, and low numbers of travelers make it a highly sought destination. The country’s steadfast commitment to responsible tourism ensures that nature is preserved for future generations to keep. Botswana’s wildlife is not only abundant but also allows for unforgettable sightings that are hard to come by elsewhere on the continent. Whether watching vast herds of elephants roam freely in their natural habitat or spotting rare predators like the African wild dog, get ready to be dazzled by nature in its purest form.

SF: How much does a Botswana safari cost?

EP: Botswana safaris offer unparalleled exclusivity through high-end, remote camps that create unmatched opportunities for incredible wildlife sightings and breathtaking scenery. These camps are situated on concessions granted to safari operators on a generous lease but with limited periods. Another essential aspect to consider is moving between camps. The diverse ecosystems are separated by great distances, making it necessary for visitors to use helicopters or light aircraft. A Botswana safari cost has a range depending on seasonality, but travelers can plan for rates ranging from $2,000 to $5,000 per person per night.

SF: What is the ideal length of a trip to Botswana?

EP: For an immersive trip encompassing a variety of adventures across the country, we recommend a seven to ten-night Botswana safari. This duration allows you ample time to indulge in the vast array of unique experiences and activities that this destination has to offer.

SF: When is the ideal time of year to visit Botswana?

The ideal time for a Botswana safari is during their winter, which runs from May to October.

EP: As it lies south of the equator, the seasons in Botswana are opposite to that in the northern hemisphere. The ideal time for a Botswana safari is during the winter period, which runs from May to October. For those traveling from the northern hemisphere, this syncs well with vacation and summer breaks as June through August are the coolest months, around 77°F during the day and dropping below freeze at night.

Not to be overlooked, September and October are the height of the dry season when wildlife gathers and roads and tracks are generally easier to navigate. Shoulder season is considered to be during November, April, and May when the weather can be unpredictable, however, there is no shortage of wildlife; in fact, these months are best for bird-watching. 

SF: What makes Botswana different from other safari destinations?

EP: Botswana is mineral-wealthy and agriculturally abundant, boasting a thriving economy that is not solely reliant on tourism for its national GDP. This allows for exceptional management of national parks, private concessions, camps, and lodges in contrast to how tourism is treated across other popular safari destinations.

The Okavango Delta’s floodwaters provide a rare opportunity for travelers to experience water activities in mokorus, Botswanan-style canoes…

Botswana’s diverse ecosystems form a rich tapestry of experiences within the country, each region offering a unique allure. For instance, the Okavango Delta‘s floodwaters provide a rare opportunity for travelers to experience water activities in mokorus, Botswanan-style canoes, winding amid the beauty of traditional grassland plains and palm islands. In contrast, the wide-open spaces of Kalahari Desert regions boast magnificent salt pans, adding an allure of their own that is not found anywhere else in the world. In addition to these other-worldly vistas, the desert plains are inhabited by fascinating creatures like meerkats, cheetahs, and lions, making it a destination for every wildlife enthusiast.

SF: What do you do in Botswana besides safari?

EP: While game drives are a significant component of the safari experience, Botswana has much more to offer. Take to the skies with a helicopter tour of the Okavango, glide amongst the grasslands in a mokoru canoe, or a serene fishing trip. Culturally-minded travelers may savor guided walks among the Bushmen, gaining rare insights into their way of life. For a bold exploration of the vast landscape, saddle up on a horseback riding tour or traverse salt pans on a quad-biking adventure. Cap off your Botswana safari with a visit to the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls, a mere stone’s throw away in Zambia and Zimbabwe.

Itching to go on a Botswana safari? Connect with a SmartFlyer travel advisor to start planning now!