If there’s one thing I’ve learned from exploring Botswana, it’s that no two safaris are ever the same. This country constantly reinvents itself, with each season offering something utterly spectacular. That said, if you’re after a textbook-perfect safari with all the trimmings, winter is widely considered the best time to visit Botswana for a safari. But let’s not be too hasty – every season has its own charm, and I’m here to break it all down for you.
Botswana’s ever-shifting landscapes promise a unique safari every time, Image Credit: Wilderness Jao
June to October: Dry Winter Safari Season
Winter is when Botswana puts on a show. By June, the bush has withered, water sources have dried up, and animals are left with no choice but to gather in predictable places – meaning you don’t have to play detective to track them down. The visibility is insane, and if you’re after those classic National Geographic-worthy game sightings, this is your moment.
Winter’s dry season brings Botswana’s wildlife into clear view, Image Credit: San Camp
What to Expect
Ironically, the Okavango Delta, fed by rainfall in the Angolan highlands, swells during Botswana’s driest months. The result? Herds of thirsty plains game, followed closely by big cats and other opportunistic predators. The Delta also comes alive with water-based safaris, where gliding silently past elephants in a mokoro is nothing short of magical.
Meanwhile, over in Chobe National Park, the elephant population swells to mind-blowing numbers, with enormous herds gathering along the Chobe River.
If you prefer exclusivity, the Linyanti Marshes and Tuli Block serve sensational game viewing without the crowds. And while the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans may look desolate, their stark beauty is something to behold.
Witness Chobe’s epic elephant gatherings – the best time to visit Botswana for a safari, Image Credit: Chobe Game Lodge
Highlights
- Top-tier game viewing, with predators on the prowl
- Water safaris in the Okavango Delta (because boats and safaris should mix more often!)
- Perfect weather – dry, sunny, and comfortably cool at night
Ideal For
First-time safari-goers who want to tick off the Big 5 with ease, photographers chasing golden light, and families steering clear of the high-risk malaria season.
Botswana’s dry safari season delivers unbeatable predator sightings, Image Credit: Wilderness
November to March: The Green Safari Season
Cue the drama – the first spring thunderstorms roll in, the air sizzles, and within days, Botswana’s landscape transforms from dusty brown to an emerald paradise. This is when the plains game make their move, drawn to the fresh, sweet grasses, and of course, the predators are right behind them.
Botswana’s summer rains set the stage for dramatic wildlife migrations, Image Credit: San Camp
What to Expect
With the rains come the zebra and wildebeest migrations, and let me tell you, watching thousands of animals move in unison is something you won’t forget. Over in the Kalahari, cheetahs take full advantage of the open plains, while lions revel in the extra cover that the tall grasses provide. And if you’re into birdwatching, you’ll be in your element – Botswana turns into an avian wonderland, with migrant species arriving in their thousands.
The Makgadikgadi Pans also take on a completely new personality, filling with water and attracting vast flocks of flamingos that turn the landscape into a sea of pink. Meanwhile, Tuli Block and Mashatu Game Reserve remain excellent year-round, with less rain than the Delta and plenty of action-packed sightings.
Botswana’s rainy season transforms the Makgadikgadi Pans into a flamingo paradise, Image Credit: San Camp
Highlights
- Birdwatching paradise – migrant birds arrive in full force
- Calving season, which means tiny, wobbly-legged antelope and hungry, opportunistic big cats
- Flamingo spectacle in the Makgadikgadi Pans
Ideal For
Adventurers who love an element of surprise, birders who want their minds blown, and photographers who live for dramatic skies and lush landscapes.
Large elephant herds traverse between the Moremi and Chobe National Park, Image Credit: African Bush Camps
April and May: The Shoulder Safari Season
The in-between months – the wildcards. Some years, the dry season sneaks in early, bringing game-viewing perks, while other years, the rains linger, keeping the landscape lush and bursting with life. Either way, it’s a fantastic time to visit, and with fewer people around – trust me – it feels like you have Botswana all to yourself!
Drift through Botswana’s waterways in peaceful, crowd-free months, Image Credit: African Bush Camps
What to Expect
This is when wildlife starts making their seasonal move towards permanent water sources, setting the stage for phenomenal game viewing. The Okavango Delta is already filling up, and the bush still holds onto its lush greenery without the sweltering heat of summer. Best of all, most of Botswana’s luxury lodges offer incredible deals, making this one of the most cost-effective times to experience this spectacular country.
Enjoy front-row seats to Botswana’s breathtaking wildlife at dawn, Image Credit: Wilderness Jao
Highlights
- Lower crowds, meaning a more intimate safari experience
- Great game viewing near water sources
- Water levels rise in the Okavango Delta, making boat safaris at some of the lodges possible
Ideal For
Honeymooners looking for a dreamy, crowd-free safari, those who want a bit of everything, and travellers who appreciate a good deal.
A magical safari season. Fewer crowds, golden sunsets, and private moments
How Many Days Do You Need for a Botswana Safari?
If you want to do Botswana justice, I’d say 7 to 10 days is the sweet spot. That gives you time to explore the Okavango Delta, Chobe, and maybe even the Kalahari.
But how you spend those days is entirely up to you – whether you want a pure Botswana experience or a mix of different destinations. Here are just a few of my favourite Rhino Africa tours to inspire your journey:
Short on time? Don’t worry. I assure you, a 4- to 5-day safari in one prime region still delivers unforgettable moments!
Water safaris in Botswana bring you eye-to-eye with giants, Image Credit: Wilderness
How Much Does a Safari in Botswana Cost?
Botswana is all about exclusive, low-impact safaris, so it’s not a budget destination. Here’s a rough price breakdown:
- Mid-range safari: $550 – $700 per person per night (4-star lodges)
- Luxury safari: $750 – $1,500 per person per night (5-star lodges)
- Ultra-luxury safari: $1,550 – $3,000 per person per night (private concessions and premier lodges)
Along with your accommodation, these rates usually include your safari activities, meals, drinks and park fees, making it a hassle-free (and unforgettable) experience.
Soak in all-inclusive luxury while enjoying Botswana’s exclusive safari experiences, Image Credit: Duba Plains Camp
Which is Better for Safari: Tanzania or Botswana?
Ah, the million-dollar question. The truth is, it all comes down to what kind of experience you’re after because these two destinations couldn’t be more different. Tanzania’s main drawcard is the Serengeti National Park and The Great Migration, while Botswana offers unmatched exclusivity and incredible water-based safaris – with completely different landscapes and cultural experiences to boot.
If you need help deciding, check out my guide on Southern Africa vs East Africa for the full breakdown.
Beautiful Botswana from a bird’s-eye view
So, When Should You Visit Botswana for a Safari?
No matter when you visit, Botswana delivers. Some months are better for water safaris, while others promise adrenaline-pumping predator action. The best time to visit Botswana for a safari? That depends on what you want out of your adventure. One thing’s for sure – you’re in for a remarkable adventure.
Need help deciding? Chat with our African Travel Experts, and we’ll match you with the perfect safari at the perfect time!
Featured Image: Wilderness Savuti
