Game Drives & Safaris in Botswana
The Ultimate Bucket List Experience
When people say Botswana is one of the best safari destinations in the world, they’re not lying. Botswana has some of the most untouched and raw wildlife out there; and game drives here aren’t just another activity. They’re the reason many travelers (including me) make their way to Botswana in the first place.
Why You Should Go on a Safari in Botswana
Botswana is home to some of the best conservation areas in Africa. From the lush Okavango Delta to the vast salt pans of Makgadikgadi and the predator-rich Savuti region, each ecosystem offers something different. But what really sets Botswana apart is its commitment to low-impact, high-quality tourism. Unlike other destinations where you might see 10 jeeps surrounding a single lion, here you’ll likely have fewer crowds, and more wilderness.
What is a Game Drive, Exactly?
A game drive is basically a wildlife safari in a 4×4 vehicle—usually an open-air one—guided by a local expert who knows the land like the back of their hand. Drives usually happen early in the morning and late in the afternoon when animals are most active. You’ll cruise through national parks, private reserves, or community-managed conservancies, looking for wildlife and learning all about the environment you’re in.
Depending on the reserve or lodge, your drive might include a coffee break in the bush or a sundowner stop (aka: breakfast with a view).
Types of Safari Experiences in Botswana
- Morning and Afternoon Game Drives: The most common way to experience wildlife. These typically last 2–4 hours and are included in most lodge stays.
- Full-Day Game Drives: Ideal if you want to explore deeper into the park or combine different regions in one day.
- Boat Safaris: Incredible during the flood season. You’ll float silently past hippos and birds.
- Mokoro Rides: A traditional dugout canoe ride through the Delta’s narrow channels.
- Walking Safaris: Done with trained guides and often offered in private concessions. These are thrilling and more focused on tracking.
- Night Drives: Only possible in private reserves, but worth it to see nocturnal animals like bush babies and aardvarks.
Where to Go on Safari in Botswana
Okavango Delta: UNESCO-listed and rich in biodiversity. Expect hippos, elephants, lions, leopards, birds…
Chobe National Park: Known for its massive elephant herds and riverfront game viewing. Boat and land safaris are both great options.
Moremi Game Reserve: One of the best all-around safari destinations in Botswana, located in the heart of the Delta.
Savuti (Chobe Region): Famous for its predator sightings—especially lions and hyenas—and dramatic landscapes.
Makgadikgadi & Nxai Pans: A surreal and unique landscape. Not your typical “Big Five” safari, but still offers great sights & diverse fauna.
Things to Know Before You Go
- It’s not a zoo. Wildlife is wild—there’s no guarantee you’ll see the exact animal you’re hoping for, but that’s part of the adventure.
- Dress for comfort. Think breathable fabrics, layers for cool mornings and hot afternoons, and neutral tones that don’t scare off the animals.
- Bring binoculars. Seriously, don’t skip this one.
- Your guide matters. A good guide can turn a quiet drive into a fascinating learning experience. Most are incredibly knowledgeable and deeply passionate about conservation.
- Tipping is appreciated. If your guide made your trip memorable, a small tip goes a long way.
Final Thoughts
Game drives in Botswana aren’t just another activity—they’re an immersive way to connect with nature, learn about ecosystems, and see some of the world’s most majestic creatures in their natural habitat. If a safari is on your bucket list (and honestly, it should be), Botswana should be right at the top.
Get your camera ready, your safari hat (optional), and a healthy sense of curiosity—Botswana’s wild side is waiting.
Are you ready to start discovering Botswana?
Here are the tours I did and personally recommend!
Are you ready to start discovering Botswana?
Here are the tours I did and personally recommend!
