Botswana is one of Africa’s most breathtaking and untouched travel destinations. Known for its vast wilderness, incredible wildlife, and low-impact tourism model, it offers some of the most authentic safari experiences in the world.
If you’re planning a trip in 2026, this complete guide covers the top things to do in Botswana, from exploring the Okavango Delta to unforgettable Chobe safaris and cultural experiences with the San people.
Whether you’re travelling overland, on a luxury safari, or backpacking through Southern Africa, Botswana deserves a spot on your itinerary.
1. Explore the Okavango Delta by Mokoro
The Okavango Delta is Botswana’s crown jewel and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This inland delta transforms dry Kalahari sands into a lush maze of water channels, lagoons, and islands.
Why Visit the Okavango Delta?
- Incredible wildlife sightings
- Unique water-based safaris
- Peaceful, untouched landscapes
- Traditional mokoro (dugout canoe) experiences
Gliding through the delta in a mokoro canoe is one of the most unique things to do in Botswana. You’ll move silently past reeds and water lilies while spotting birds, hippos, and antelope.
For the ultimate experience, consider:
- Camping in the heart of the delta
- A guided bush walk on one of the islands
- A multi-day delta excursion from Maun
Best for: Nature lovers, photographers, adventure travellers.
2. Go on Safari in Chobe National Park
If you’re searching for the best safari in Botswana, Chobe National Park should be at the top of your list.
Chobe is famous for having one of the largest elephant populations in Africa. Seeing hundreds of elephants gather along the riverbanks is a truly unforgettable experience.
Top Activities in Chobe
- 4×4 game drives
- Chobe River boat safaris
- Sunset cruises with wildlife sightings
- Birdwatching excursions
The Chobe River boat safari offers a completely different perspective compared to land-based drives. Watching elephants swim across the river or hippos surface near your boat is pure magic.
Best time to visit: May to October (dry season for peak wildlife viewing).
3. Experience the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans
The Makgadikgadi Pans are among the largest salt flats in the world. During the dry season, they resemble a lunar landscape — vast, white, and endless.
Things to do in Makgadikgadi:
- Quad biking across the pans
- Sleeping under the stars on the salt flats
- Visiting meerkat colonies
- Witnessing zebra migration (seasonal)
If you visit after the rains (November–March), parts of the pans transform into shallow lakes that attract flamingos and migrating wildlife.
4. Visit the San (Bushmen) Communities in Ghanzi
Botswana isn’t just about wildlife — it’s also rich in culture and history.
In Ghanzi, you can meet members of the San people (often referred to as the Bushmen), one of the world’s oldest surviving cultures.
Cultural experiences may include:
- Learning traditional tracking skills
- Understanding bush survival techniques
- Listening to storytelling and music
- Discovering traditional uses of plants
This experience offers deeper insight into Botswana’s heritage and adds meaning to any safari adventure.
5. Take a Safari Walk
While game drives are incredible, a guided walking safari offers a completely different experience.
Exploring on foot allows you to:
- Identify animal tracks
- Learn about ecosystems
- Notice smaller wildlife and insects
- Feel fully immersed in nature
Walking safaris are available in certain areas of the Okavango Delta and private concessions.
6. Discover Moremi Game Reserve
Located within the Okavango Delta, Moremi Game Reserve combines both water and land safari experiences.
Moremi is known for:
- High predator populations (lion, leopard, wild dog)
- Diverse landscapes
- Fewer crowds than many other African parks
It’s considered one of the most beautiful reserves in Africa and is perfect for travellers seeking remote wilderness.
7. Stay by a Watering Hole
Many lodges and camps throughout Botswana are built near natural watering holes. Staying near one gives you the chance to watch wildlife gather throughout the day without even leaving your accommodation.
This slow, peaceful wildlife viewing is one of Botswana’s underrated experiences.
8. Cross Into Zimbabwe at Victoria Falls
Many travellers combine Botswana with Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe. From Chobe (Kasane), it’s an easy land border crossing.
Victoria Falls is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World and makes a perfect addition to a Botswana itinerary.
Popular activities include:
- Walking the falls
- Helicopter flights
- Sunset cruises on the Zambezi River
- Adventure sports
Best Time to Visit Botswana in 2026
Botswana has two main seasons:
Dry Season (May–October)
- Best wildlife viewing
- Cooler temperatures
- Peak safari season
Green Season (November–April)
- Lush landscapes
- Fewer tourists
- Lower accommodation prices
- Great birdwatching
Your ideal travel time depends on whether you prioritise wildlife density or lower costs.
Travel Tips for Botswana
- Book safaris in advance during peak season
- Carry some cash for small towns
- Ensure your passport has 6 months validity
- Plan transport carefully — distances are long
- Consider overland tours if travelling solo
Final Thoughts: Is Botswana Worth Visiting?
Absolutely.
Botswana offers:
- Some of Africa’s best wildlife encounters
- Uncrowded, low-impact tourism
- Authentic cultural experiences
- A feeling of true wilderness
From drifting through the Okavango Delta to watching elephants roam in Chobe National Park, Botswana delivers adventure without over-tourism.
If you’re planning an African safari in 2026, Botswana should be high on your list.
