How to plan a 7-day Botswana safari

Plan your 7-day Botswana safari by booking 3-4 nights in the Okavango Delta and 2-3 nights in Chobe National Park. Book accommodation 6-12 months ahead for dry season (May-October). Budget $400-800 per person per day for mid-range to luxury lodges, plus $150-200 for domestic flights between camps.

1. Choose your season and dates. Book for dry season (May-October) for best game viewing when animals gather at water sources. June-August offers cooler weather but higher prices. September-October provides excellent wildlife viewing with warmer temperatures. Avoid December-March rainy season unless you want fewer crowds and lower prices with limited game viewing.
2. Select your destinations. Combine Okavango Delta (3-4 nights) with Chobe National Park (2-3 nights) for diverse experiences. Add Central Kalahari (1-2 nights) if you have extra time. The Delta offers mokoro rides and water-based game viewing. Chobe provides massive elephant herds and river safaris. Most 7-day itineraries split time between these two main areas.
3. Book accommodation early. Reserve lodge accommodation 6-12 months ahead for dry season travel. Choose between mobile camping safaris ($400-600 per day), mid-range lodges ($600-1200 per day), or luxury camps ($1200-2000+ per day). All rates include meals, game drives, and activities. Book through safari operators rather than individual lodges for better coordination.
4. Arrange internal transportation. Book charter flights between camps through your safari operator - budget $150-200 per person per flight. Road transfers take 6+ hours and are not recommended for short trips. Most lodges include airstrip transfers in their rates. Maun serves as the main hub for Okavango Delta access.
5. Plan your international arrival. Fly into Maun (MUB) or Kasane (BBK) airports. Johannesburg offers the most connecting flights to both. Allow one night in Johannesburg if connecting from long-haul international flights. Some lodges can arrange direct charter pickup from Maun or Kasane airports on arrival day.
6. Get required documentation. Ensure passport validity for 6+ months with at least 2 blank pages. Most visitors get visa-free entry for 90 days. Bring yellow fever vaccination certificate if arriving from yellow fever areas. No other vaccinations required but malaria prophylaxis recommended for northern regions including Chobe and Okavango.
7. Finalize the details. Confirm all flight times and connections with your safari operator 2 weeks before travel. Pack in soft-sided luggage only - strict 20kg weight limits on charter flights. Arrange travel insurance that covers emergency evacuation. Bring cash (US dollars or South African rand) for tips and personal expenses.

How far in advance should I book?

Book 6-12 months ahead for dry season travel (May-October). Popular lodges fill up early, especially for June-September peak season. Shoulder seasons (April-May, October-November) offer more flexibility with 3-6 months advance booking.

Can I do a self-drive safari in Botswana?

Yes, but not recommended for first-time visitors on a 7-day trip. Self-drive requires 4WD experience, camping gear, and detailed planning. Most visitors choose guided safaris for better wildlife spotting and logistics handling.

What's included in safari lodge rates?

All meals, accommodation, game drives, boat trips, mokoro excursions, park fees, and airstrip transfers. Drinks policies vary - some include all alcohol, others charge for premium spirits. Tips, laundry, and charter flights between camps cost extra.

Is it safe to travel to Botswana?

Yes, Botswana is one of Africa's safest safari destinations with stable government and low crime rates. Main risks are wildlife encounters (always follow guide instructions) and medical emergencies in remote areas (ensure comprehensive travel insurance with evacuation coverage).