Is tipping expected in luxury camps?

Yes. While service charges are often included, it is standard to tip your private guide and the camp staff. Budget roughly $20-$40 per day for the guide and $15-$20 per day for general staff.

Do I need malaria medication?

Botswana is a malaria-risk area. Consult your doctor for appropriate prophylaxis at least 4 weeks before you depart.

Planning a Luxury Safari in Botswana

To plan a luxury safari in Botswana, book your lodges at least 10–12 months in advance to secure prime locations in the Okavango Delta. Focus on fly-in safaris using light aircraft to bypass the long, arduous travel times between remote concessions.

Select your circuit. Divide your trip between the Okavango Delta (water-based activities) and the Linyanti or Selinda Reserves (land-based predators). Don't try to see too much; 3 distinct camps are better than 5 in a 10-day span.
Book fly-in transfers. Book internal flights through a specialized bush pilot service or your lodge. This is the only way to access high-end, private concessions where luxury camps are located.
Choose your level of exclusivity. Look for 'private concessions.' These areas allow off-roading, night drives, and walking safaris, which are strictly prohibited in the public Chobe National Park.
Coordinate your packing. Because you are using light aircraft, you are strictly limited to 15kg (33lbs) in soft-sided, non-rigid bags. If you bring a hard-shell suitcase, you will be forced to leave it at the base airport.

Is tipping expected in luxury camps?: Yes. While service charges are often included, it is standard to tip your private guide and the camp staff. Budget roughly $20-$40 per day for the guide and $15-$20 per day for general staff.
Do I need malaria medication?: Botswana is a malaria-risk area. Consult your doctor for appropriate prophylaxis at least 4 weeks before you depart.