Botswana is one of Africa's most exclusive safari destinations. The Okavango Delta, Chobe River, Kalahari Desert and shimmering salt pans create a rare mix of water wilderness, elephant country and wide-open silence. Low visitor numbers, intimate lodges and outstanding guiding make Botswana ideal for travelers who want a private, authentic and wildlife-rich safari.
High price level
13-17 hours
+1 hour in winter
Botswana Pula
Adventure: High
Wilderness
Botswana's protected areas are wonderfully varied: the waterways of the Okavango Delta, predator-rich Moremi, elephant-filled Chobe, the ancient Makgadikgadi salt pans and the vast Central Kalahari. Together they create a safari country where every region feels distinct and deeply wild.
Discover all national parks
Botswana is famous for big game, especially elephants, lions, leopards, buffalo, wild dogs and huge seasonal herds. Because many camps are small and remote, sightings often feel calm and personal. From Chobe's riverbanks to Moremi's floodplains, the wildlife experience is among the best in Africa.
The Okavango Delta is a UNESCO World Heritage wilderness where floodplains, lagoons and palm islands turn the desert into a green maze. Explore by mokoro, motorboat, game drive or scenic flight and experience a safari that feels completely different from the classic savannah.
Botswana's culture is shaped by the Batswana, San communities and many local traditions. Village visits, storytelling, crafts and music add depth to a journey and give you a warmer understanding of life between the delta, desert and cattle posts.
In the Kalahari and Makgadikgadi Pans, Botswana becomes vast, quiet and almost lunar. The dry season reveals endless horizons, while the green season brings zebra migration, flamingos and dramatic skies. It is perfect for travelers who love space, silence and unusual landscapes.
Botswana combines beautifully with Victoria Falls. From Chobe or Kasane, you can cross into Zimbabwe or Zambia for one of Southern Africa’s most iconic natural wonders, then return to Botswana for a slower safari rhythm. It is an easy way to add drama, mist and a completely different landscape to a private Botswana journey.
The best time to visit Botswana is generally from May to October. These dry-season months bring sunny days, cool nights and excellent wildlife viewing, especially around permanent water in the Okavango Delta, Moremi and Chobe. July to October is particularly strong for classic big-game safaris.
November to March is the green season. It is warmer, afternoon thunderstorms are possible and some remote routes can become more challenging. In return, landscapes turn lush, birdlife is superb and the Makgadikgadi and Nxai Pan region can be spectacular with zebra migration and newborn animals.
April and November are attractive transition months. They often combine softer light, fewer travelers and good value with changing landscapes. Exact conditions vary by region, so we plan routes carefully around water levels, access and the safari style you want.
The chart shows typical average daytime temperatures, rainy days and rainfall for Botswana. The north around the Okavango Delta and Chobe can feel different from the Kalahari and salt pans, so these values should be read as practical planning averages.
Passport
To enter Botswana, you must have a valid Swiss passport that remains valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel date. We also recommend having at least 3 blank pages.
Visa
Swiss citizens are generally visa-exempt for tourist stays in Botswana, with stays limited to a maximum of 90 days per calendar year. For the most current details, check Botswana’s official eVisa portal before departure: evisa.gov.bw
Onward Travel
Border officials may ask for return or onward travel documents, accommodation details and sufficient funds. Keep confirmations easily accessible when traveling between Botswana, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Zambia or South Africa.
International Driving Permit
For self-drive trips, carry your Swiss driving license together with an International Driving Permit. Botswana drives on the left, and many safari routes require a suitable 4x4 vehicle.
Yellow Fever
Botswana requires an international yellow fever vaccination certificate from travelers arriving from countries classified as yellow fever risk areas. This usually does not apply when arriving directly from Europe.
Malaria
Malaria risk exists in northern Botswana, especially around Ngamiland, Chobe, the Okavango Delta, Moremi, Makgadikgadi Pans and Nxai Pan. It is recommended that you consistently use mosquito repellent and seek medical advice regarding preventive measures.
Vaccinations
Recommended basic travel vaccinations usually include:
Depending on itinerary and travel style, a specialist may also recommend Hepatitis B, Typhoid, Influenza or Rabies.
Travel Style
Botswana follows a low-volume, high-quality safari model. Many of the most beautiful camps are small, remote and reached by light aircraft, which keeps the wilderness feeling wonderfully exclusive.
Traffic & Infrastructure
Left-hand traffic applies. Main roads are generally manageable, but wildlife areas, sand tracks and pans can be demanding. Avoid driving after dark because of wildlife, livestock and unlit roads.
Luggage
Light aircraft transfers usually have strict soft-bag luggage limits. We confirm the exact allowance for your route before departure.
Area: 581,730 km² (about 14 times the size of Switzerland)
Population: around 2.3 million inhabitants
Capital: Gaborone
Languages: English, Setswana
Time Difference: Botswana is in the UTC +2 time zone. Compared with Switzerland, that means +1 hour in winter and no time difference during Swiss summer time.
Currency: The national currency is the Botswana Pula (BWP). Credit cards are accepted in many lodges and towns, but cash is useful for tips, small purchases and remote areas.
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