Travel To Botswana - The Ultimate Travel Guide

Author : Unwild Planet

Nestled in the heart of Southern Africa, Botswana is a country of incredible contrasts, where vast wilderness is harmonized with some of the most effective conservation efforts in the world.

It’s a place where elephants traverse ancient migration routes, the Okavango Delta breathes life into the desert, and the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans stretch endlessly under a blanket of stars. From the abundant wildlife of Chobe National Park to the tranquil waterways explored by mokoro, Botswana offers an unmatched connection to nature.

Whether you’re an avid wildlife enthusiast or simply craving an off-the-beaten-path experience, Botswana has something extraordinary to offer. This guide will show you why Botswana deserves a place on your travel list and help you plan the journey of a lifetime.

In Botswana, timing is everything. The best season to visit depends on what you want to experience. Planning your trip to Botswana, choosing the right season:

Season	Months	What to Expect	Best For
Dry Season (10-27°C)	May - October	Clear skies, sparse vegetation, and concentrated wildlife near water sources.	Big game sightings (elephants, lions, leopards) in Chobe National Park and Moremi Game Reserve; photography; classic game drives.
Green Season (18-32°C)	November - April	Lush landscapes, newborn animals, and fewer tourists. Rain showers are frequent but short.	Witnessing the Great Zebra Migration in Makgadikgadi and Nxai Pans; bird-watching (migratory species); spotting newborn wildlife (especially in the Kalahari).
Flood Season (Up to 35°C)	June - August	The Okavango Delta floods, creating waterways that are ideal for mokoro (dugout canoe) safaris.	Mokoro and boating safaris in the Okavango Delta; unique aquatic wildlife encounters; serene water-based adventures.
Shoulder Season	April & November	Transition periods with mild weather, some rainfall, and fewer crowds.	Exploring multiple regions in one trip; combining game drives with scenic photography opportunities; relaxed pacing.

If you’re wondering which season to choose, Marina’s (Our Destination Expert) recommendation simplifies it:

Peak Time (June to August): Best for wildlife enthusiasts, offering incredible sightings, though it comes with higher costs due to peak season demand.
Wet Season Highlights (November to April): Perfect for birding enthusiasts and those craving a more tranquil and exclusive experience.

How to Travel to Botswana from India:

Botswana’s primary airports are:
1. Sir Seretse Khama International Airport (GBE) in Gaborone (capital city)
2. Maun Airport (MUB) – Gateway to the Okavango Delta
3. Kasane Airport (BBK) – Ideal for accessing Chobe National Park
Flight Route:

The most common route is India → Johannesburg (South Africa) → Botswana

Visa Requirements

Indian travellers need a visa for Botswana, which can be obtained through the Botswana High Commission in New Delhi. A transit visa for South Africa may also be required, depending on your layover duration.

Top Destinations in Botswana and Why You Should Visit

1. Okavango Delta

Why It’s Unique: The Okavango Delta is one of the world’s largest inland deltas that doesn’t flow into the sea. Instead, it spills into the Kalahari Desert, creating a lush oasis teeming with life. This natural phenomenon supports diverse ecosystems, from floodplains to lagoons.

UnWild Suggestion: Visit when the Delta floods in June-August transforming it into a water safari paradise where you can glide silently in a mokoro canoe alongside hippos and elephants.

2. Chobe National Park

Why It’s Unique: Home to the largest concentration of elephants in Africa, Chobe is the only place where you can see hundreds of elephants crossing the Chobe River at sunset. The park also boasts thriving populations of lions, buffalo, and rare sable antelopes.

UnWild Suggestion: Experience a boat safari along the Chobe River during the dry season (May–October), offering close encounters with elephants and crocodiles.

3. Savuti Channel Safari (Chobe National Park)

Why It’s Unique: The Savuti Channel is famous for its unpredictable flow, turning the landscape from dry plains to a lush waterway. This transformation supports abundant wildlife, including large prides of lions and hyenas. It’s also a key area for Botswana’s zebra migration.

UnWild Suggestion: Witness dramatic predator-prey interactions, especially during the dry season. Savuti is one of the few places where lions have adapted to hunt elephants, making it a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts.

4. Makgadikgadi Salt Pans

Why It’s Unique: These vast salt flats are remnants of an ancient super lake that existed over 10,000 years ago. The area offers unparalleled stargazing and surreal landscapes. During the wet season, it transforms into a temporary wetland, attracting thousands of flamingos and zebra herds.

UnWild Suggestion: Experience the Great Zebra Migration (November–April) and visit the ancient Baines Baobabs.

5. Moremi Game Reserve

Why It’s Unique: Situated within the Okavango Delta, Moremi is the first reserve in Africa established by local communities to protect wildlife. This mix of dry and wet ecosystems creates a perfect balance for game drives and water safaris.

UnWild Suggestion: Spot predators like lions and wild dogs, often seen hunting in packs, making it one of the continent’s premier wildlife destinations.

6. Central Kalahari Game Reserve

Why It’s Unique: Covering 52,000 square kilometers, it’s one of the world’s largest protected wilderness areas and home to the San people, one of the oldest human cultures. The harsh desert environment supports unique species like the brown hyena and desert-adapted lion.

UnWild Suggestion: Visit during the green season (December–April) when the desert bursts to life, offers spectacular wildlife and opportunities to learn about the ancient San culture.

Adventure Pairings: Destinations to Combine with Your Botswana Journey

1. Hwange National Park (Zimbabwe)

Why It’s Unique: Just across Botswana’s border, Hwange National Park is Zimbabwe’s largest protected area, renowned for its vast elephant herds and diverse ecosystems. The park’s waterholes attract a wide variety of species, from antelopes to predators, during the dry season.

UnWild Suggestion: Extend your Botswana trip to explore Hwange’s unique mix of wildlife and landscapes, especially during peak wildlife viewing months from July - October.

2. Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe/Zambia)

Why It’s Unique: One of the world’s most breathtaking waterfalls, Victoria Falls is just a short distance from Botswana’s Chobe region. Its sheer size and the spray that rises like smoke make it an awe-inspiring sight.

UnWild Suggestion: Combine your Botswana safari with Victoria Falls for thrilling activities like bungee jumping, white-water rafting, or a scenic helicopter ride over the falls.

Botswana's Finest Stays

1. Luxury Safari Lodges in Botswana:

Highlights: Located in prime wildlife areas, these lodges provide ultra-luxurious suites with features such as private plunge pools, open-air showers, and sweeping views of the surrounding landscapes. Guests enjoy gourmet dining, curated game drives, and tailored experiences.

Perfect For: Honeymooners, high-end travelers, and those seeking a five-star safari adventure.

2. Exclusive Tented Camps in Botswana:

Highlights: These high-end camps combine the nostalgia of classic safari tents with modern amenities such as ensuite bathrooms, luxurious furnishings, and dedicated staff. Located in remote areas, they offer seclusion and exclusivity.

Perfect For: Travellers who want to experience the charm of camping with all the comforts of luxury.

3. Private Villas and Suites in Botswana:

Highlights: Designed for ultimate privacy, these accommodations often include private butlers, guides, and chefs. With spacious living areas and exclusive facilities, they are perfect for families or groups.

Perfect For: Those seeking an intimate, personalized safari experience in complete seclusion.

4. Luxury Houseboats on the Chobe River

Highlights: These floating accommodations on the Chobe River provide a unique perspective on Botswana’s wildlife. Guests enjoy luxury cabins, fine dining, and uninterrupted views of elephants, hippos, and other animals along the riverbanks.

Perfect For: Travellers looking for a serene, water-based safari combined with high-end comfort.

Insider Travel Insights

Currency: The local currency is the Botswana Pula (BWP), and credit cards are widely accepted in lodges and hotels.
Health Precautions: Carry malaria prophylaxis and ensure vaccinations like Yellow Fever (if transiting through endemic areas) are up to date.
Packing: Lightweight, neutral-colored clothing, sturdy footwear, sunscreen, and binoculars are essential for safaris.

Explore Botswana with UnWild Planet: Travel with Purpose

Sustainability at the Core
UnWild Planet is dedicated to preserving Botswana’s wilderness. By collaborating with local organizations, we deliver eco-friendly safaris and accommodations while minimizing environmental impact.
Empowering Communities
Our journeys support local guides, celebrate cultural heritage, and contribute to community growth, ensuring a positive impact for those who call Botswana home.
Transformative Experiences
Travelling to remote wilderness like Botswana isn’t just about adventure; it’s about education and advocacy. Our trips immerse you in the ecosystem and conservation efforts, equipping you to become a voice for preserving these landscapes.

Whether you’re seeking close wildlife encounters, meaningful cultural experiences, or tranquil moments in nature, Botswana offers it all with a focus on sustainability. If you have any questions about planning your journey to Botswana, feel free to reach out - we’re here to help!