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Botswana

The sparsely populated landlocked southern African country of Botswana is a magical land where the animals rule the roost. With plains inhabited by buffalo, antelopes, wildebeest, zebras and elephants, Botswana’s incredible selection of wildlife makes it the ideal destination for a safari holiday. And with a diverse range of landscapes, from the dry Kalahari Desert to verdant grasslands and lush forests, Botswana’s flora matches its fauna in delivering the wow factor.

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What you’ll love most about Botswana

  • Explore the Okavango Delta, where you can experience the beauty of one of the world’s largest inland deltas. Wildlife thrives here in a maze of lagoons and islands, with mokoro rides, game drives, and walking safaris awaiting adventurers
  • Marvel at the Makgadikgadi Pans, one of the largest salt flats on Earth. In the wet season, these otherworldly landscapes transform into a wildlife paradise, attracting zebras, flamingos, and providing a unique setting for exploration and photography
  • Venture into Chobe National Park, Botswana’s first national park, to encounter Africa’s largest elephant herds. A boat cruise along the Chobe River reveals elephants, hippos, and crocodiles in their natural habitat, making for unforgettable wildlife viewing
  • Immerse yourself in the culture of the Kalahari Desert, where you can meet the San people and learn about their ancient way of life. The vast landscapes, home to unique species like the black-maned lion, are perfect for adventurous treks
  • Visit the Khama Rhino Sanctuary, a peaceful wildlife haven where you can observe endangered rhinos, zebras, and antelope. Game drives offer close encounters with these majestic creatures in a serene, bushveld setting
  • Hike the Tsodilo Hills, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its ancient rock art. With over 4,500 paintings to discover, these hills are a treasure trove of history, offering a glimpse into Botswana’s rich cultural and prehistoric past
  • Aerial view of elephants in Okavango Delta, Botswana

  • Lion cubs, Botswana

  • African jacana wading in the shallow waters of the Okavango Delta

  • Aerial view of Botswana Delta

  • Male oryx, Botswana

  • Elephants of Moremi National Park, Botswana

Average temperature

Information below is based on average highest temperature for each month.

  • 33℃
  • 32℃
  • 31℃
  • 29℃
  • 26℃
  • 23℃
  • 23℃
  • 26℃
  • 30℃
  • 32℃
  • 32℃
  • 33℃
  • 9
  • 6
  • 5
  • 3
  • 1
  • 0
  • 0
  • 0
  • 1
  • 4
  • 8
  • 8

Information above is based on the average number of days which experience some form of rainfall for each month.

Rainfall

When to Visit

Below gives you information and a rating of the best time of year to visit.

January

Botswana is in the peak of its rainy season, with lush greenery and abundant birdlife, making it a great time for birdwatching. However, wildlife viewing is more challenging as animals disperse, and some roads may be impassable due to heavy rains.

February

The rains continue, keeping the landscape vibrant and green. It's still a fantastic time for birdwatching, especially migratory species, though game viewing is less predictable. Flooding may occur in certain areas, so travel can be more limited.

March

As the rainy season starts to wind down, Botswana's landscape remains lush. While wildlife viewing is improving, animals are still more dispersed due to water availability. March offers fewer tourists and great opportunities for photography.

April

Botswana enters its transition period between the rainy and dry seasons. The weather is becoming more pleasant, and the landscape is still green. Wildlife sightings are increasing as animals begin to return to more predictable water sources.

May

The dry season begins, bringing cooler temperatures and clear skies. Wildlife becomes easier to spot as water sources dwindle, and the Okavango Delta begins its annual flood, attracting animals and offering excellent game viewing opportunities.

June

The weather is cooler, and the dry season is in full swing, making it one of the best months for safaris. Animals gather around waterholes, and the Okavango Delta floods, creating perfect conditions for wildlife viewing and mokoro (canoe) safaris.

July

Botswana's peak dry season offers excellent game viewing as animals concentrate around shrinking water sources. Cool mornings and evenings make for comfortable safaris, and the Okavango Delta is in full flood, making this an ideal time for exploring.

August

The dry season continues with excellent wildlife sightings, particularly in areas like Chobe National Park and the Okavango Delta. Temperatures are warming up, but it's still a great time for safaris and game viewing.

September

Temperatures rise as the dry season nears its end, but wildlife viewing remains superb. Animals are highly concentrated around water sources, and the skies are clear, making for excellent photography conditions.

October

One of the hottest months, October still offers exceptional wildlife viewing as animals cluster around the few remaining water sources. Although temperatures can be intense, it's a rewarding time for safaris in places like the Kalahari and Chobe.

November

Botswana's rainy season begins, bringing intermittent showers and thunderstorms. The landscape starts to green, and while game viewing can be more challenging, it’s a fascinating time to see newborn animals and experience the transformation of the landscape.

December

The rains intensify, creating a lush and green environment. It's a great time for birdwatching, and many animals give birth, offering the chance to see young wildlife. However, game viewing is more difficult as animals scatter and roads may become muddy.

Our Ratings

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