Botswana Safari Guide: Okavango Delta and Chobe

Botswana protects some of Africa's wildest country, and its approach to tourism keeps camps small and vehicle numbers low. If you want space and silence on safari, this is one of the best places to find it.

The Okavango Delta

The Okavango River flows from Angola into the Kalahari and spreads into an inland delta that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The channels and islands support elephants, lions, leopards, hippos and a huge variety of birds. Depending on the camp and the water level, you can explore by:

• Mokoro: a traditional dug-out canoe poled by a guide.
• Boat: for larger channels and lagoons.
• On foot: walking safaris on islands with an armed guide.
• Vehicle: game drives, including night drives in some private areas.

Chobe National Park

In the north, Chobe is known for one of Africa's largest elephant populations. Boat cruises along the Chobe River in the dry season let you watch herds drinking, bathing and crossing at close range. The Savuti area has strong predator viewing, and Moremi Game Reserve combines floodplains and woodland.

When to go

June to October is the dry season: the Delta fills with floodwater that arrives from Angola and animals gather around water, which makes sightings easier. November to March is green and quieter, with excellent birdlife and young animals.

Cost and style

Botswana follows a low-volume, high-value model with fewer camps and higher nightly rates than many other safari countries. That is what keeps the wilderness feeling private, and it means the country suits travellers with a larger budget or those who prefer a few nights somewhere special.

Combine it

Botswana pairs naturally with Victoria Falls and with South Africa or Namibia. If you also want gorillas, see Rwanda or Uganda. We plan Botswana trips to order, so read the Botswana destination guide and then tell us your dates for an itinerary and price.