Best Time to Go to Botswana for a Safari

If you're wondering when to go to Botswana, the answer is dependendant on what you hope to experience. The dry season, from May to October, is the most popular time to visit Botswana. During these months, you can expect clear skies, cooler temperatures, and the best opportunities to see the Big Five in their natural habitat.

The shoulder seasons of October and April also offer favourable conditions, with dry and bright days ideal for exploring Botswana's stunning landscapes. Lying south of the equator, Botswana experiences a hot and dry climate, with occasional unpredictable rainy months in the summer and seasons opposite to those in the northern hemisphere.

In contrast, the green season, which runs from December to April, offers a different kind of beauty. During this time, occasional afternoon rain showers rejuvenate the landscape, transforming it into a lush, green paradise. This period is perfect for birdwatchers, as migratory birds flock to the area. Additionally, it's a wonderful time to witness the magic of newly-born wildlife taking their first steps.

Botswana has something to offer year-round, whether you prefer the dry, wildlife-rich months of the dry season or the vibrant, verdant landscapes of the green season.

April to November – Winter Season in Botswana

The winter season, also known as the dry season, spans from April to November in Botswana. During this period, you can enjoy clear, blue skies. The coolest months are from June to August, when temperatures in the Kalahari Desert can drop below freezing. Starting in September, the heat gradually intensifies, reaching its peak in October, sometimes becoming too hot for everyday activities.

Temperature extremes are much more moderate and pleasant in the Okavango Delta. Here, the height of the dry season coincides with the highest water levels of the year, creating ideal conditions for wildlife sightings. With less land available, land animals like elephants, lions, and buffaloes congregate around the remaining watering holes, making for spectacular wildlife viewing opportunities.

Outside of the Delta, the dry season makes travel easier as roads and trails become more traversable. Additionally, spotting wildlife is simpler with shorter grasses and dry plains providing less cover. Whether you’re exploring the vast Kalahari or the lush Okavango Delta, the winter season in Botswana offers some of the best conditions for an unforgettable safari adventure.

December to March – Summer Season in Botswana

The summer season in Botswana, from December to March, is characterized by the wet season with cooler temperatures and heavy showers. January and February are the wettest months, featuring short, sharp showers often followed by bright sunshine, making game drives still possible.

This period coincides with the birthing season for many herbivores, creating high chances for witnessing predator-prey interactions. Even in the Central Kalahari Game Reserve, you can find high concentrations of game animals taking advantage of the lush grasses and flowers covering the usually dry riverbeds. Photographers will appreciate the excellent light conditions, ideal for capturing the vibrant colors of the landscape.

In Setswana, the word for rain is ‘Pula,’ which plays a crucial role in the lives of locals. Rain is vital for growing crops and ensuring the survival of both people and animals in Botswana. Experiencing the summer season provides a unique perspective on the rich biodiversity and cultural significance of this beautiful country.

Visit The Kalahari Desert in Bloom

From December to March, the Kalahari Desert transforms into a vibrant landscape with the arrival of the rains. Dormant seeds in the desert soil sprout, resulting in a stunning display of desert-adapted plants and wildflowers. Witness the bright yellow devil's thorn, pink and white star flowers, and the striking purple Namibian eye. This burst of vegetation attracts various wildlife, including springbok and oryx, grazing on lush grasses and flowering plants. The Kalahari bloom also draws numerous bird species, such as waterfowl and migratory birds.

See Victoria Falls

Victoria Falls is a must-see natural wonder when visiting Botswana, best viewed from the northern town of Kasane. The falls are most spectacular from February to August, with it peaking around May. Kasane, situated on the Chobe River, offers prime vantage points for admiring this awe-inspiring sight. Visitors can opt for helicopter flights to enjoy panoramic views of the falls or join guided tours led by local experts for a more intimate and informative experience. These options cater to your preferences, ensuring a unique and unforgettable encounter with the breathtaking Victoria Falls.

Experience Wildlife Opportunities

For optimal wildlife viewing in Botswana, plan your visit based on the animals you wish to see and the best times for their activity.

Big Cats and Wild Dogs: Travel during the drier months, typically from April to October, when the sparse vegetation makes it easier to spot these elusive predators. Avoid November to March, as heavy showers can hinder visibility and accessibility.

Zebra Migration: Witness the second largest yet least known mammal migration by visiting Botswana's salt pans between March and April. During this period, thousands of zebras embark on their incredible journey across the landscape.

Meerkats: Head to the Makgadikgadi Pans between July and September. After the migratory herds have left, you'll have a better chance to observe meerkats in their natural habitat.

For a comprehensive overview of the diverse wildlife you can encounter, explore our Botswana wildlife page.

Explore the Okavango Delta on a Mokoro Trip

Experience the beauty of Botswana's Okavango Delta on a traditional Mokoro boat ride. This quiet, immersive journey is best experienced at dawn and dusk, as you glide effortlessly through the Delta's labyrinthine channels under the guidance of residents & experts. The Mokoro offers a unique vantage point to explore hidden waterways teeming with life. As you pole between swaying papyrus reeds and beautiful water lilies, each push gives a fresh perspective on the Delta's diverse ecology. Discover the Okavango Delta's diverse animals and plants in a unique and memorable setting.