Planning Your First Botswana Safari
To plan a Botswana safari, focus on a 'fly-in' circuit between the Okavango Delta, Moremi Game Reserve, and Chobe National Park. Book your camps at least 10–12 months in advance to secure availability in these high-demand, low-impact wilderness areas.
- Choose your safari style. Decide between a mobile tented safari (moving camp every few days) or a fly-in safari (staying at permanent luxury lodges). Fly-in is easier for first-timers as it saves hours of driving on sandy tracks.
- Map your route. Combine three distinct biomes: the watery channels of the Okavango Delta, the predator-rich plains of Moremi, and the elephant herds of the Chobe Riverfront. Fly between airstrips using bush planes to maximize your time viewing animals.
- Secure your dates. Target the dry season from June to October. As water sources shrink, animals congregate near permanent water, making them much easier to spot.
- Book park permits and transfers. If you are self-driving, you must book campsite permits through the Department of Wildlife and National Parks months ahead. If using a tour operator, ensure they have confirmed your light aircraft transfers between camps.
- Do I need anti-malaria medication?
- Yes, consult your doctor 6 weeks before travel. Most of northern Botswana is a malaria-risk area, and prophylaxis is highly recommended.
- Can I drink the tap water?
- Most lodges provide filtered, purified water. Do not drink tap water in transit hubs like Maun or Kasane.
- Is it safe to drive myself?
- Only if you are an experienced 4x4 driver. The terrain involves deep sand, water crossings, and no cell service. For a first trip, guided fly-in safaris are safer and significantly more efficient.