Top 10 Best Things to See and Do in Botswana
Botswana is a land of breathtaking landscapes, incredible wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. From vast deserts to lush wetlands, the country offers some of the best safari experiences in Africa. Here are the top 10 things to see and do in Botswana.
1. Explore the Okavango Delta
The Okavango Delta is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most iconic destinations in Africa. This lush oasis teems with wildlife and offers unique safari experiences such as mokoro (dugout canoe) trips, walking safaris, and boat cruises. The delta floods seasonally, creating a vibrant ecosystem for elephants, lions, and countless bird species.
Best Time to Visit: June to October, during the dry season when the delta is fully flooded.
2. Witness the Great Zebra Migration in Makgadikgadi Pans
The Makgadikgadi Pans, remnants of an ancient lake, come alive during the wet season with Africa’s second-largest zebra migration. The pans transform into a lush paradise, attracting thousands of zebra and wildebeest, as well as predators like lions and cheetahs.
Best Time to Visit: November to April, during the wet season.
3. Go on a Safari in Chobe National Park
Chobe National Park is renowned for its massive elephant population, estimated at over 120,000. The Chobe Riverfront is the main attraction, where boat safaris provide close-up views of elephants, hippos, and crocodiles. The park is also home to lions, leopards, and large herds of buffalo.
Must-Try Experience: A sunset boat cruise along the Chobe River.
4. Visit the Kalahari Desert
The Kalahari Desert offers a starkly beautiful landscape filled with unique wildlife such as meerkats, oryx, and brown hyenas. Visit the Central Kalahari Game Reserve for pristine wilderness or experience the cultural richness of the San people, one of the world’s oldest indigenous groups.
Highlight: Stargazing under the Kalahari’s crystal-clear skies.
5. Experience the Nxai Pan National Park
Nxai Pan National Park is famous for its iconic Baines’ Baobabs and vast open plains that come alive during the rainy season. Wildlife sightings include cheetahs, zebras, and springboks, as well as migratory birds.
Best Time to Visit: December to April for lush greenery and wildlife abundance.
6. Discover Tsodilo Hills
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Tsodilo Hills is a sacred site with over 4,500 ancient rock paintings dating back thousands of years. Often referred to as the “Louvre of the Desert,” it offers a glimpse into the spiritual and artistic life of the San people.
Highlight: Guided tours to understand the significance of the rock art.
7. Camp in Moremi Game Reserve
Located in the Okavango Delta, Moremi Game Reserve is known for its incredible biodiversity and is one of the best places for a game drive or walking safari. The reserve is home to lions, leopards, and the endangered African wild dog.
Insider Tip: Opt for mobile camping for an immersive wilderness experience.
8. See the Flamingos in the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans
During the wet season, the Makgadikgadi Pans attract thousands of flamingos that flock to the shallow waters to breed. Watching these elegant birds in such a surreal landscape is truly unforgettable.
Best Time to Visit: January to March, when the pans are flooded.
9. Witness predatory Action in Savuti
Savuti, part of Chobe National Park, is known for its dramatic predator-prey interactions. Lions, hyenas, and leopards are common, and the area is especially famous for its lion pride that preys on elephants.
Highlight: A game drive through the Savuti Marsh area.
10. Experience the Wild in Khutse Game Reserve
For a more off-the-beaten-path adventure, Khutse Game Reserve offers a remote and tranquil safari experience. The reserve is ideal for self-drive safaris and is home to giraffes, zebras, and various antelope species.
Pro Tip: Combine a visit to Khutse with a trip to the nearby Central Kalahari Game Reserve.
