A safari in Botswana is arguably one of the best things to do in Africa. From the black-maned lions in the Kalahari Desert to the rivers, lagoons, swamps and islands of the Okovango Delta and the pachyderms of Chobe, a safari in Botswana is truly an unforgettable experience. And you can do all this while staying in some of the most luxurious bush camps.

Some of the most popular game reserves and National Parks include the Moremi Game Reserve, Chobe and the Okavango Delta among others. Other popular attractions include the salt pans of Makgadikgadi, the stone paintings on Tsodilo Hills.

If you are wondering when the best is time to head to Botswana or how to plan your African sojourn, our destination experts are waiting to help. Here is a list of the things to do in Botswana curated by our Safari World Tours specialists, which should definitely be part of your Botswana travel guide!

Embark on a Safari in Okavango Delta

Perhaps the most beautiful safari in Botswana occurs in Okavango Delta. In addition to the many animals – from buffalo and elephant herds and majestic big cats to graceful antelopes – you will also find a mysterious labyrinth of canals, lakes and lagoons in Okavango Delta.

This is a must-see on Africa vacations and one of the top things to do in Botswana. Some of the best ways to explore the wetlands include game drives, walking safaris as well as mokoro rides!

Go on a Game Drive in the Kalahari Desert

On a game drive in the Kalahari Desert, you can observe antelopes, wildebeest and springboks, and you will find endless expanses and a sense of absolute freedom!

The Central Kalahari Game Reserve is both the largest game reserve and the largest sand basin in the world. A truly unique desert, the Kalahari is well vegetated – marvel at the stretches of grasslands in the desert as you embark on your safari in a four-wheel-drive!

Explore the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans

Makgadikgadi Pans belong to the largest salt deserts on the planet. We especially recommend you visit Makgadikgadi during the rainy season. Large lakes form in the otherwise rather sparse salt landscape and attract crowds of waterbirds, including flamingos and pelicans.

Marvel at the Stone Rock Paintings of Tsodilo

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it consists of four large pieces of rock that rise abruptly from the Kalahari bush. On your tour of the Tsodilo Hills, marvel at the stone rock paintings of Tsodilo that are over one billion years old!

Nowhere else in the world hosts so many rock paintings, which is why the region is dubbed “Le Louvre of the Desert“.

See Elephants in Chobe National Park

Chobe is Botswana’s first national park. The elephant herds in Chobe National Park are the largest in Africa, and the best way to see them is on an exciting boat safari, where you can also spot hippos and buffaloes. A staggering 50,000 elephants can be found in Chobe, along with several predators such as lions and leopards.

Chobe was once inhabited by the San Bushmen. Even today many San paintings can be seen carved into the rocks.

Discover the Wonders of Savuti and Linyanti

In the western part of the Chobe National Park is the original Savuti and Linyanti area. Located off the beaten path, the brittle beauty of this marshy and savannah region will surely enchant you during your Botswana adventure tour.

Witness game all year round in the region, with the best opportunities in the winter months. The region is also home to an annual migration when the animals head south to Savuti in November to make the most of the grazing opportunities in Savuti Marsh.

Visit the Khama Rhino Sanctuary

In the Khama Rhino Sanctuary in Serowe, you will find Spitzmaul and Breitmaul Rhino species. The reserve offers not only these gentle giants a home but also many other nocturnal animals.

The animal shelter came up in 1992. The idea was to provide a boost to the waning rhino population and at the same time help the local community.

Explore Mokolodi Wildlife Park

From the lively capital of Gaborone, head to the Mokolodi Wildlife Park. On extensive game drives, you can observe giraffes, cheetahs and many other animals.

In the city, you will find the popular photo site of the Three Chiefs’ statues.

Safari World tours Botswana Tours Tuli Game Reserve A low level, horizontal, colour photo of a herd of thirsty eland and their reflections in the water.

Discover the Sights and Sounds of Tuli Wildlife Reserve.

The Tuli Wildlife Reserve is located in the east of the Kalahari Desert on the Limpopo River. It impresses with a particularly diverse landscape of massive rocks and rushing forests that alternate with species-rich wetlands.

Visit the Botswana National Museum

The Botswana National Museum in Gaborone is a charming collection featuring the work f local artists, crafts and paintings that brings the cultural heritage of Southern Africa alive and is well worth a visit during your tour of Botswana.

The multi-disciplinary institution also features an art gallery and botanical garden.

Discover all the best things to do in Botswana by booking your vacation with our experts at Safari World Tours. Contact us for your tailor-made and obligation-free tour itinerary.