Southern Africa

highlights

Botswana offers a diverse range of safari experiences, from the Okavango Delta’s floodwaters to the elephant herds of Chobe National Park and the wildlife-rich Moremi Game Reserve. With over 25% of its land dedicated to conservation, Botswana boasts the world’s largest elephant population.

Head northeast, and you’ll encounter the marshes of the Linyanti, Kwando, and Selinda Reserves, alongside Savute, forming a “mini-Okavango” rich with elephants during the dry season. For the more adventurous, the Central Kalahari Game Reserve awaits, a vast wilderness inhabited by the San Bushmen for over 80,000 years.

The Kalahari Desert, covering about 70% of Botswana, is one of the flattest places on earth. The Okavango Delta, part of this vast desert, receives seasonal floodwaters from the Angola Highlands. Here, the African wild dog thrives, with some of the highest pack densities in Africa.

Best Times to Visit

Dry Season (May to October): Best for wildlife viewing, particularly elephants.

Green Season (November to April): Fewer crowds, lush landscapes, and excellent birdwatching.

travel tips

What to Pack: Light, neutral-colored clothing for safaris; warm layers for mornings and evenings.

Local Airports and Transportation: Maun and Kasane are key airports for safari access.

Visa Requirements: Most travelers do not require a visa.

Immunization: Malaria prophylaxis is recommended for certain areas.

luxury experiences

Exclusive safaris in private concessions across Okavango and Chobe.

Helicopter flights over the Okavango Delta or private mobile safaris in the Kalahari.

Must-Have Local Food

Biltong: A dried cured meat snack popular throughout Southern Africa.

How to Say "Hello"

Setswana: “Dumelang”

English: “Hello”

Kalanga: “Mau shuga”