The Best Botswana Safari Itinerary
For a long time, Botswana has been considered one of the top safari destinations in all of Africa. Travellers seeking a genuine safari experience should consider this landlocked nation for its beautiful wilderness areas and diverse wildlife.
This Botswana safari itinerary will help you make the most of your first trip by taking you to famous wildlife reserves, beautiful landscapes, and cultural highlights.
Days 1–3: Elephants And River Safaris In Chobe National Park
Chobe National Park, which has one of the largest concentrations of game in Africa, is where your adventure begins. Elephants roam freely here, and they often gather along the Chobe River.
A traditional land-based game drive lets you follow lions, leopards, rhinos, and buffalo through the bush. While cruising down the river, you can see crocodiles sunning themselves on the banks, a variety of birds, and even elephants and buffalo taking a dip.
Tip for travellers: go in the late afternoon, when the golden light over the river is best for taking pictures.
Day 4–5: Makgadikgadi Pans – Sleep Under the Stars
After that, go south to the Makgadikgadi Pans, which are some of the biggest salt flats in the world. The strange, white space seems to stretch endlessly, making for great photo opportunities. You can explore by 4×4 or ATV, and at night, you can camp under a clear night sky full of shooting stars.
There are also unique desert animals like meerkats and brown hyenas that live in the pans. A local guide can help you find them!
Day 6–7: Bahurutshe Cultural Lodge – Learn About Local Customs
For a well-rounded experience, a full Botswana itinerary should include cultural experiences. Guests at the Bahurutshe Cultural Lodge stay in thatched rondavels and eat traditional foods like seswaa and maize meal. While here, you can also watch live music and dance shows, giving you a chance to connect with Botswana’s history and culture.
Days 8 to 10: Central Kalahari Game Reserve – A Remote Wilderness
The Central Kalahari Game Reserve is perfect for people who want to be alone. It is the second largest wildlife reserve in the world and is home to lions, wildebeest, zebras, and red hartebeest. Its sand dunes, acacia trees, and golden grasslands make for a beautiful setting for wildlife photography.
This is a destination for seasoned safari-goers who don’t mind long drives and fewer crowds in exchange for vast, untamed landscapes and stunning wildlife encounters.
Day 11–12: Khama Rhino Sanctuary – Conservation in Action
The Khama Rhino Sanctuary is a community-led conservation project that protects both black and white rhinos and a wonderful place to end this itinerary. With fewer than 30,000 rhinos remaining globally, this sanctuary offers an unparalleled opportunity to observe them in their natural habitat. It is also home to more than 30 other animal species, so it’s a great way to end your Botswana safari – surrounded by nature and wildlife!
Whether you’re drawn by Botswana’s dramatic salt pans, vibrant culture, or world-class wildlife, careful planning ensures you experience the best the country has to offer.
