Characterised by its rich abundance of wildlife, with one of the largest populations of elephants in Africa, Botswana is where the vast desert meets the lush and opulent Okavango Delta. These diverse and untouched landscapes alongside exclusive safari lodges, striking the perfect balance between luxury and authenticity, make Botswana one of the finest safari destinations in Africa. Discover 8 unforgettable ways to enhance your Botswana trip below.
A riverboat cruise on Chobe River provides an exceptional and alternative way to experience the wonders of Chobe National Park, one of Africa’s most ecologically varied parks. Cruise down Chobe River, which acts as a popular watering hole for local animals, and witness the waterside activities of giraffe, buffalo, antelope and large herds of magnificent elephants. Moving away from the hide and seek of game drives, a riverboat cruise offers sweeping cinematic views of a diversity of wildlife right in front of you. Enjoy a sunset sundowner along the river whilst you take in the beating rhythm of the African bush. Stay a few nights on the Chobe Princess for a truly bespoke experience.
Explore the lush Okavango Delta from the unique perspective of a traditional mokoro canoe. Weave through the endless waterways, surrounded by dense greenery and elegant water lilies, for distinct and extraordinary wildlife viewing. This is an immersive and authentic way to amplify your Botswana safari experience.
Move from the water to the sky and enjoy a breath-taking helicopter ride over the oasis of the Okavango Delta. Soar through the African sky to appreciate in full the landscape below; where animals from African bush elephants to leopards and hippopotamus enjoy the sparkling blue waters of the Delta which snake between its plush greenery and palm decorated islands. This surreal experience allows for panoramic views deep into the Okavango Delta, covering ground that wouldn’t be possible by mainstream forms of safari.
Moving away from the bountifulness of the Okavango Delta, the Makgadikgadi Pans National Park stands in stark contrast. Home to some of the biggest salt pans worldwide, it is a different kind of paradise. A vast dreamscape, it offers a solitude from the pace of the African bush. Despite its landscape, season dependent, its surrounding grassland attracts a Zebra migration that closely rivals that of the Serengeti in Tanzania. For an adrenalin rush, ride quad bikes across the salt pans with nothing but limitless silence and space surrounding you. Meet the friendly and curious resident meerkats who may, if you’re lucky enough, utilise your height as a vantage point as they look out over the salt pans for predators.
For an experience that goes beyond safari and an opportunity to tap into the rich culture of Botswana, spend time with the San Bushmen of the Kalahari reserve. Learn about the fascinating heritage of the San Bushmen, their traditions and practices which have survived through time. At one with the Kalahari themselves, they are the perfect guide for exploring the reserve in an informative and insightful manner.
For private, personal and expertly curated safari expeditions, the Barclay Stenner mobile camp offers an unparalleled experience. With expert guides that move with you across the best safari destinations in Botswana, from the Okavango Delta to the Kalahari, it is an intimate safari experience away from the crowds. Its mobile nature means that you get the most exclusive, one-of-a-kind interactions with African wildlife, without compromising on luxury.
For a deeper sense of connection with the African wilderness and up-close encounters with nature, experience the uniqueness of a horseback safari. Canter in symphony with the wildlife itself for a sense of unforgettable adventure. Experience this at the beautiful Macatoo Camp, deep within the heart of the Okavango Delta.
Take you safari to the next level by enjoying a night under the star strewn milky skies of the Okavango Delta. Sable Alley in the Khwai Private Reserve, along the eastern border of the Okavango Delta, offers the chance to enjoy the magic of an African safari in this raw and untouched way. Their sky beds, built on wooden platforms overlooking the watering hole, capture the enchantment of barefoot luxury.
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