Botswana continues to be a favourite amongst wildlife documentary makers and enthusiasts alike, and for good reason too. Ranking as one of the worlds most sparsely populated countries, it is predominantly made up of the Kalahari desert, savannah, wetlands and salt pans, making it a true wilderness experience.
The Okavango, home to the world’s largest inland delta, offers a captivating rhythm of life that supports an incredible diversity of wildlife, creating one of Africa’s most awe-inspiring spectacles. Here, alongside neighboring reserves like Linyanti and Selinda, you can embark on a remarkable semi-aquatic safari, gliding through crystal-clear waterways. The region is teeming with massive herds of elephants and buffalo, wild dog packs, big cats, a rich variety of bird species, and water-loving creatures such as Lechwe and Sitatunga.
In sharp contrast to the lush bush and wildlife-filled plains of the Okavango, the Makgadikgadi salt pans and the vast Kalahari Desert offer a strikingly different landscape. The salt pans, covering an area the size of Switzerland, provide an overwhelming sense of solitude and space, while the Kalahari, with its arid beauty and unique desert wildlife, presents an entirely different atmosphere. Together, these vast, open spaces create a unique, cleansing experience after a safari. Add in the opportunity to connect with the San bushmen, and you have the perfect mix for a wonderfully varied and unforgettable adventure.
Given the remoteness of many camps, light aircraft or helicopters are typically used for transport, offering an exciting addition to your safari experience. It also provides a remarkable opportunity to view this unique ecosystem from the sky.
A variety of exceptional camps and lodges cater to different preferences, ranging from comfortable to ultra-luxurious, featuring private plunge pools and bathrooms with stunning views. Some offer the added indulgence of being located on private concessions, providing an extra layer of exclusivity, while others are nestled within the breathtaking national parks.
Time difference: + 2 hrs GMT
Visa: No visas are required for most passport holders.
Health: You are advised to take anti-malaria pills for your trip. No specific vaccinations are required to enter. We do recommend you visit a travel health clinic prior to departure to make sure your standard travel vaccinations are up to date.
Language: The locals speak Setswana. But English is widely spoken everywhere.
How to get around: Due to the remoteness of many of the camps, most of our clients fly in small charter planes or scenic helicopters, giving you a great opportunity to see game from the air. We do not recommend self driving.
How to get there: You will fly into Johannesburg or Cape Town, South Africa, followed by a two hour direct flights into Maun, Botswana. There are regular direct international flights to South Africa from London Heathrow / major European cities and some of the major USA hubs, such as Atlanta and New York.
Who does it suit? Botswana is for those that are after a pure safari experience. It is ideal for honeymooners, older families, adventure types, horse riders.
Botswana can be a year round destination and has its advantages/disadvantages depending on how you look at it. The best months for safari are generally between April – October, when it is cooler and less chance of rain. The wildlife viewing gets increasingly better the later you go, as the bush continues to dry up forcing much of the game around the water sources. But be warned, October can be very hot. The months from November – March can be hot and steamy, broken up with occasional heavy afternoon thunderstorm. The bush is very lush and green, excellent for birders and lots of animals dropping their young. It is often a more affordable time of year to visit.
The central Kalahari area is at its best from February – May.
Botswana is a great destination on its own. Alternatively, if you want to extend your safari experience, then it combines well with Zambia and Zimbabwe – particularly for those that would like to incorporate the Victoria Falls. In addition, there are now direct flights from Botswana to Cape Town. For those looking to add some R&R at the end, then it combines well with Mozambique, Mauritius, Madagascar and Lake Malawi with flights going via Johannesburg.
Get in touch and let us start planning your special trip… info@sarahjamestravel.com
