Central Kalahari is so spacious and dry that animals are spread widely. The other parks however have more density of all kind of animals, also as a result of more water.
Botswana is a very friendly place. The government is stable and doesn't tolerate corruption. There are many locals who have small safari services and some larger safari companies, too. There are good choices and the prices are fair. The country has so much to offer - the wetlands of the Okavango Delta, the salt pans of Nxai Pan National Park, the bushveld of the Central Kalahari Game Reserve. I'd go back to Botswana in a heartbeat! But if you go in their summer, be prepared for blistering heat!
US
35-50 years of age | Experience level: over 5 safaris
Botswana has a very stable government and wildlife abundance that rivals east African countries. The Okavango Delta is just the beginning!
Email Hennie Lacock | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: over 5 safaris
You'll have to search far to experience African Wildlife and the African Bush better than in Botswana. It has endless scenic beauty wherever you go, the wildlife is absolutely amazing and the bird life will not let you down either.
You feel very well, nice people, very safe and amazed of such wild animal richness and beauty of Okavango Delta, Moremi, Savuti and Chobe. Tourism is quite well under control, so no crowded places which could make this experience more dangerous and less natural. I returned with 3000 photos of great memories of this nice and peaceful country. I hope disputes with bushmen could be resolved nicely for both sides. There are an old tribe and they have the right to live peacefully in its country. Such things also have a very positive side for respectful tourism which could be nicely used to benefit such community. I appreciate hunting has been finally banned in order to keep safe such great natural richness, which should not be for thirsty killers and 'macho men' feeling superior to others because of a huge prey. Nice country I hope to visit again soon.
CA
Email Jennifer Baird | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
I have now been to several spots in South Africa and Botswana. I can highly recommend Botswana - particularily the Okavango, Chobe River, Moremi and Makgadikgadi Pans. Each area has its own beauty - even at the end of dry season. The wildlife is rich. Camping wild is thrilling. The people are lovely. And if you are a meat eater - Botswana has the best beef in Africa!
After safaris at various locations in Botswana, Tanzania, and Zimbabwe, I put Botswana at the top of the list for multiple reasons. The concessions are better-managed, the variety of animals is better, the lodges are generally more consistently nice, and even the government employees are nicer. The Botswana government and concession owners are also more committed to protecting the wildlife in Botswana than other countries in Africa. It's an amazing place that is unlike anywhere else on Earth.
Botswana has it all. Excellent wildlife, wonderful people, and the ability to get away from hectic life.
Botswana was a great experience for me, besides of Chobe, Okavango Delta is also amazing. A lot of nature and wildlife to see. And as this is not a main destination for tourists, it makes the tour much better, because it is only you and the nature. So good!
The game reserves are not developed and there are no tar roads in the parks. The camps are unfenced and lions, baboons, hyenas, ratels and others visit at night. Ablutions are not five star. There are always places you can find to park and chill all on your own. Finding a spot on the river and watching the sun set over the Chobe river while enjoying a beverage cannot be beaten.
