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Botswana Safaris are among the most unforgettable wildlife experiences on the planet. From the lush Okavango Delta to the vast plains of Chobe National Park and the desolate beauty of the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans, Botswana offers a safari experience like no other. But before you set off on your African adventure, a bit of preparation goes a long way. Here’s a comprehensive checklist of 10 essential things to do before your safari in Botswana to ensure a smooth, enjoyable, and safe journey.
Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date. Depending on your nationality, you may need a visa to enter Botswana. While some travelers can obtain a visa on arrival, others must apply in advance. Check the latest entry requirements and make necessary arrangements at least a month before departure.
Botswana Safaris are in high demand, especially during peak travel seasons (May to October). To secure prime accommodations in game-rich areas like Moremi Game Reserve or Savuti, book your safari well in advance—ideally 6–12 months ahead. Early booking also allows you to choose guides and camps that match your travel style and budget.
Consult a travel health clinic about vaccinations required or recommended for Botswana. Common ones include Yellow Fever (if coming from a risk zone), Hepatitis A and B, and Typhoid. Botswana is a malaria-risk country, especially in the north, so anti-malarial medication is often advised. Don’t forget to pack a basic first-aid kit and any prescription medications.
Travel insurance is essential for any safari adventure. Make sure your policy covers trip cancellations, medical emergencies, evacuation, and lost luggage. Botswana’s remote camps and lodges often require air transfers, so coverage for those flights is also a smart move.
Most Botswana Safaris involve travel in small aircraft with strict baggage limits (usually 15kg per person in soft-sided bags). Choose lightweight, breathable clothing in neutral colors to blend into the bush. Don’t forget a wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, binoculars, and a good camera with extra batteries.
Game drives typically occur in the early morning and late afternoon—prime times for wildlife viewing. Prepare for long days with a flexible mindset. Some lodges offer walking safaris or mokoro (dugout canoe) excursions through the Okavango Delta, so be ready for varied activities. Knowing what to expect helps you pack and plan better.
Credit and debit cards are accepted in many lodges and larger towns, but cash is still useful, especially for tipping and small purchases. Notify your bank of your travel dates to avoid any payment issues. Carry some US dollars in small denominations—they are widely accepted.
Safaris can be thrilling but also physically tiring. Factor in downtime to relax and absorb the experience. Whether it’s enjoying the view from your tented camp in the Delta or sipping sundowners by the river in Chobe, build in quiet moments to reflect and recharge.
Botswana’s remote camps often have limited or no Wi-Fi and rely on solar power. Check ahead if you need to charge devices or use the internet. Bring universal adapters, a power bank, and keep devices charged when you can. Embrace the digital detox—it’s part of the magic.
Familiarize yourself with the animals you’re likely to see: elephants, lions, leopards, wild dogs, and a spectacular array of birds. Reading up on local cultures, including the San people or Tswana traditions, will enrich your understanding of Botswana beyond the wildlife.
Planning ensures that your time in Botswana is all about the experience, not the logistics. Whether you’re gliding silently through the Delta in a mokoro or watching a lioness stalk her prey in the Kalahari, Botswana Safaris are a soul-stirring journey into wild Africa.
