A Complete Guide to Key Species and Best Locations
Botswana is a haven for birdwatchers. Here's an expanded guide focusing on the best locations, key species, and tips for an unforgettable birdwatching safari.
The dry season (May to October) is ideal for birdwatching, as water levels are lower and birds congregate around water sources. The wet season (November to April) is also good for spotting migratory species and breeding activity.
Okavango Delta
Key species to spot in the Okavango Delta include the African Fish Eagle, Pel's Fishing Owl, and the rare Wattled Crane. The delta's wetlands attract numerous waterbirds, making it a hotspot for sightings.
Chobe National Park
Despite being better known for its large elephant population, Chobe is also rich in birdlife, especially along the Chobe River. Species to look for include the African Skimmer, Fish Eagle, and African Jacana. The park's diverse habitats, from riverine forests to savannas, support a wide range of birds.
Makgadikgadi Pans
During the rainy season, these salt pans attract large flocks of flamingos and other waterbirds. The pans' unique landscape offers a striking backdrop for bird photography.
Moremi Game Reserve
Located within the Okavango Delta, Moremi is an excellent place to spot raptors, kingfishers, and other woodland and water birds.
Chobe National Park is often frowned upon by African safari aficionados when compared alongside other wildlife viewing areas of Botswana. As a national park rather than a private concession, it is accessible via a variety of camps and lodges, rather than just the camps on the concession itself, hence it attracts larger crowns. In our opinion, however, Chobe along with Savute is definitely worthy of consideration when planning your Botswana safari.
One of Nature's Great Events
Witness the water flood into the desert to create a vibrant wetland. The hot, dry Kalahari Desert appears as an uninhabited wasteland unable to support life.
Standing in the middle of the largest salt pans on earth, a featureless terrain of white sand and salt, it would appear as though you are viewing the curvature of the earth as it meets the milky blue sky. A seemingly endless horizon and dramatic lunar expanse that stretches as far as the eye can see, this is a part of the Kalahari ecosystem, yet it could not be more different to the game reserve.
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Spend 10 days on this small group tour heading through Botswana staying in fully serviced en-suite tented camping.
From 4500 per person
Discover the Kweene Trails, an area of the Okavango Delta few visitors get the opportunity to survey.
From 12000 per person
A luxury Botswana safari taking in a selection of award-winning luxury camps combined with world-class game viewing.
From 23000 per personBotswana's rich avian diversity is supported by its protected areas and conservation efforts. You can contribute to conservation by following ethical birdwatching practices, such as maintaining a respectful distance from birds, avoiding disturbing their habitats, and not using playback calls that can stress birds.
Bird watching in Botswana offers an unparalleled opportunity to connect with nature and witness a stunning array of birdlife in their natural habitats. Whether you're a seasoned birder or a beginner, Botswana provides a perfect backdrop for an unforgettable birdwatching safari adventure.
