Beauty of Botswana: A Journey Through Africa's Gem

What Makes Botswana a Must-Visit Destination?

​Botswana is renowned for its stunning landscapes, abundant wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. From the vast expanse of the Kalahari Desert to the lush wetlands of the Okavango Delta, Botswana offers diverse environments that appeal to every type of traveller. Whether you're an avid wildlife enthusiast, a keen photographer, or someone looking to immerse yourself in local cultures, Botswana has something to offer.

What Are the Top Natural Attractions in Botswana?

1. Okavango Delta

The Okavango Delta is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the world's largest inland deltas. This unique ecosystem transforms the desert into a lush paradise during the annual floods, creating a haven for a wide variety of wildlife. Visitors can explore the delta by traditional mokoro (dugout canoe), enjoying close encounters with hippos, crocodiles, and a myriad of bird species.

2. Khwai

Characterised by tall evergreen trees lining a wide floodplain, Khwai is situated to the north-eastern tip of Moremi Game Reserve, and has superb consistency and distinctive species of predator and prey.  Large prides of lions are often seen hunting buffalo, leopard sightings are steady, and Wild Dog action is excellent. Even in the low season, sightings here are prolific. Birdlife such as saddle-billed storks, wattled cranes, and many species of kingfishers and bee-eaters are common. Being outside the game reserve, night drives and walks are permitted.

3. Chobe National Park

Chobe National Park is famous for its large elephant population, estimated to be the highest density in Africa. The Chobe Riverfront is a prime spot for game viewing, particularly during the dry season when animals congregate near the water, but is very busy by Botswana standards. ​

4. Linyanti and Kwando

In the furthest corner of the Chobe National Park and north of the Okavango Delta lies Linyanti, Kwando and Selinda, some of the finest private reserves in Botswana.  Secluded and uncrowded, this short strip of swampy riverfrontage is reminiscent of the Okavango's permanent waterways with lagoons, reed beds, riverine forests and mopane woodlands.

​The Linyanti Swamp covers an area of almost 1,250km², which fills the area between the Kwando and Linyanti rivers.
Kwando is another huge private reserve covering 2,300km². Most of its western side is dense mopane forest, but along the Kwando River stretches a band of lush riverine forest, interspersed with open plains. Kwando is a wild reserve and attracts lots of big game. The Selinda Spillway is where you want to go if you are looking for luxurious and private safaris, or a horse riding safari. Camp location is very important in this area as the thick bush can make spotting animals more difficult. However, this area of Botswana offers more remote and quieter safaris than are possible in the busier national parks.

5. Kalahari Desert

The Kalahari Desert offers a stark contrast to the lushness of the Okavango Delta. This semi-arid sandy savanna is home to unique wildlife adapted to the harsh environment, including the black-maned Kalahari lion and the fascinating meerkat. The Central Kalahari Game Reserve is one of the largest protected areas in Africa and provides an off-the-beaten-path adventure.

6. Makgadkigadi Pans and Nxai Pan

West of Gweta, the tar road road to Maun slices through Makgadikgadi and Nxai Pan National Park. Because of their complementary natures regarding wildlife migrations, Makgadikgadi Pans Game Reserve and Nxai Pan National Park were established concurrently in the early 1970s, in the hope of protecting the entire ecosystem. In December of 1992 the area of the Nxai Pan National Park was extended south to the main Gweta-Maun road, so it adjoins the Makgadikgadi Pans Game Reserve, which was renamed 'The Makgadikgadi Pans National Park' to form one vast area covering just under 7,500km2, five times the size of the Mara National Reserve. The park incorporates Ntwetwe Pan, Makgadikgadi Pans, Nxai Pan, Baines' Baobabs and Kudiakam Pan.

What Wildlife Can Be Seen in Botswana?

Botswana is a wildlife lover’s paradise. The country’s diverse habitats support a wide range of species:
- Elephants: Especially prevalent in Chobe National Park.
- Lions: Including the unique black-maned lions of the Kalahari.
- Leopards: Often seen in Moremi Game Reserve and Khwai.
- Wild Dogs: the Khwai area is superb for Wild Dog action, hunts and kills are common.
- Rhinos:Both species have been reintroduced.
- Birds: Over 500 species, including the African fish eagle and the lilac-breasted roller.
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What Cultural Experiences Await in Botswana?

Botswana's culture is deeply rooted in its history and traditions. Visitors can experience:
- San People: Learn about the ancient hunter-gatherer lifestyle of the San people, one of the oldest cultures in the world. Guided bush walks provide insights into their survival techniques and traditions.
- Traditional Villages: Visiting traditional villages offers a glimpse into daily life in Botswana. Participate in cultural activities, dance performances, and local crafts.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Botswana?

The best time to visit Botswana depends on what you want to experience:
- Dry Season (May to October): Ideal for wildlife viewing as animals congregate around water sources. The temperatures are cooler, making it more comfortable for outdoor activities.
- Wet Season (November to April): The landscape is lush and green, birdwatching is at its best, and it’s a good time to see newborn animals. However, some areas may be inaccessible due to flooding. January to April the longest wildlife migration in Africa, when the Zebra come down to Makgadigkai and Nxai Pans from the north, is in full flow around around the pans and the Boteti River. The Central Kalahari grasslands are in full bloom, attracting thousands of grazers, to the joy of the predators, including the regal black-maned lions. ​

What Are the Accommodation Options in Botswana?

Botswana offers a range of accommodations to suit different preferences and budgets: 
- Luxury Tented Camps: Enjoy top-notch comfort and services in deluxe lodges located in huge private concessions, prices start at $800 per person per night, low season
- Mid-range Tented Camps: For a slightly less remote experience, from $400 per person per night
- Budget-Friendly Options: There are a range of scheduled group camping tours, from 3 to 20 days.  ​

Why Choose Indigo Safaris for Your Botswana Adventure?

Indigo Safaris, your safari experts, offer personalised and expertly created tours that ensure you experience the best of Botswana. With a deep understanding of the local environment and culture, we provide tailored itineraries that cater to your interests and needs.
Dream. Explore. Discover. With Indigo Safaris, every journey is crafted to create unforgettable memories. Whether you're navigating the waterways of the Okavango Delta or tracking wildlife in Khwai, we are committed to delivering exceptional safari experiences.
For more information on planning your trip to Botswana, visit our website or contact us today. Embark on an adventure that captures the true essence of Africa.