When to Travel Botswana
Botswana is one of Encompass Africa’s favourite destinations, not only due to the prolific and world famous wildlife viewing opportunities, but also due to the sheer variety of landscapes, environments and experiences this country has to offer. It is both desert and delta, and these contrasting areas offer unique and unforgettable activities involving both wildlife and people.
In this blog we will talk about when to travel Botswana, which is a question we are commonly asked.
Seasonal Travel
Most mainstream media suggest the best time to travel to Botswana is July to October, which is considered peak season for the Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park. Whilst it is true you will have great game sightings in the Okavango Delta region during these peak season months, our favourite time for guests to travel is in fact earlier in the year such as May, known as the green season. During this time lodges have far more affordable rates with some great special offers, and given that Botswana is one of the more expensive safari countries, travelling in the low and shoulder season really can make a big difference in cost.
For example, four nights in peak season can often be the same price as eight nights in the green season, so while the animals may sometimes be slightly harder to see due to the bushes being much thicker and greener, you have twice as long to see them. Another bonus is that there are far fewer travellers at this time of year, so you can often have areas to yourselves. Although, now that the cat is out the bag, the ‘secret season’ as it is often known is no longer that secret!
Green Season
For those interested in combining a delta safari with some time in the desert, the green season is the time to travel. It is during the green season that the zebra migration takes place in the Central Kalahari, which is a stunning sight to see. The rains bring new life to this desert region, wild flowers spring up and green grass grows rapidly, drawing animals to the area. Those that graze on the grass are often followed by black mane lions, so it is definitely an exciting time to be here.
Travel to suit you
We firmly believe that there is a time of year to suit each traveller’s preferences and interests, from keen birders, to photographers, to viewing animals with their young, and witnessing huge herds of elephants. In our book there is no bad time to be on safari but when to go on safari is a question that is very much integrated with what your interests are and your budget.
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