Botswana is a land of breathtaking contrasts, offering some of Africa’s most iconic safari experiences. From the lush waterways of the Okavango Delta to the vast, lunar-like Makgadikgadi Salt Pans, the country showcases an extraordinary range of landscapes and wildlife. This guide highlights the top five must-visit destinations:
1. Okavango Delta
A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Africa’s last true wildernesses, the Okavango Delta is a magical waterworld teeming with wildlife. Explore its winding channels by mokoro (dugout canoe) and witness elephants, hippos, and lions in an unforgettable wetland safari.
2. Chobe National Park
Known for having one of the largest elephant populations on Earth, Chobe is a big game hotspot. Take a sunset boat cruise on the Chobe River to see elephants swimming, hippos lounging, and crocodiles basking — all just meters away.
3. Moremi Game Reserve
Located on the eastern edge of the Okavango Delta, Moremi blends mopane woodland, floodplains, and lagoons. It’s perfect for spotting the Big Five and offers excellent chances of seeing wild dogs — one of Africa’s most endangered predators.
4. Makgadikgadi Salt Pans
Otherworldly and vast, the Makgadikgadi Pans are among the largest salt flats on the planet. Visit during the wet season (Dec–Apr) to witness massive migrations of zebra and flamingos, or in dry season for quad biking and star-gazing in surreal silence.
5. Khwai Community Concession
A pristine, community-run safari area near Moremi, Khwai offers off-road and night drives rarely allowed elsewhere. Expect intimate wildlife encounters, rich birdlife, and a chance to support local conservation efforts through eco-tourism.
