Go somewhere different this year – Botswana is bursting with amazing landscapes, culture and history and a truly awe-inspiring place for wildlife lovers. The best time to visit the country to go on safari is generally recognised as the dry season which falls between June and September – the most popular time to go.
There are many different ways you can see the rich and abundant wildlife in Botswana, whether you want to go on safari, visit a nature reserve or check out the historic and geological wonders of the land.
A Pick of Top Places to Visit:
Okavango Delta
The life-giving Okavango river passes through the Kalahari Desert in a complex maze of smaller tributaries dotted with islands of lush forest and swamps. The whole area is huge and ever changing with the flow of the river and the movement of tectonic plates below. The area comprises of three main areas: the Panhandle, the Delta, and the dryland. You can expect to share the area with wildlife such as elephants, buffalo, antelopes, leopards and lions. Additionally, the delta is home to rare species of birds which makes it perfect if you’re interested in birdwatching.
Expect to see:
- Meerkats – they are native to the Kalahari Desert that spreads across Botswana, Angola, Namibia, and South Africa.
- African elephants – there are more in Botswana than any other country.
Makgadikgadi Salt Pans
The Makgadikgadi National Park consists of many salt pans and is the home of one of the world’s only breeding colonies of greater flamingos as well as many migratory species of birds like the great white pelican. The salt pans themselves are an arid landscape, the only vegetation being a form of algae. However, you will see the vast and unusual shapes of baobab trees on the edges of the salt pans. In the rainy season, you will see the migration of animals such as wildebeest and zebras. Additionally, the site has a fascinating history of human habitation since the Stone Age, evidenced by archaeological artefacts such as primitive tools.
San Rock Art at Tsodilo Hills
A UNESCO World Heritage site in the Ngamiland District, the ancient art painted on the rocks of the hills here has a huge cultural and archaeological significance in the wider world. Some the paintings have been estimated at 24,000 years old, and continue to be of importance in the spiritual traditions of the San people of the Kalahari.
Where to Stay
Here are a few types of accommodation you can go for during your stay. Whatever your needs, Wexas can help you plan your perfect holiday, whether that’s to get back to nature and sleep under canvas, or settle in the lap of luxury, Botswana will deliver.
Lodges or Chalets
Who says you have to scrimp on comfort while on safari? A luxury lodge will give you a comfortable and relaxing stay and can come with optional facilities like a pool or catering for you to indulge in.
Bush Camps
Taking a step back from the extravagance of some holidays, why not experience an authentic view of nature from your doorstep, but with a little luxury thrown in.
Tented Camps
This is by far the most cost effective option and lets you immerse yourself in nature off the beaten track to truly experience the wonders of this country. You’ll see a lot of wildlife this way, so if you’re thinking of visiting Botswana for the animal and bird life, this could be the choice for you.
Twice as large as the UK, Botswana is a large and diverse place. Make sure you book a holiday with enough time to really get to know it and make the most of your time in this beautiful place.
