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2. Chobe National Park
Chobe National Park is the third-largest in Botswana and one of the best destinations for wildlife enthusiasts.
What to see or do: It’s one of the few places in Africa where you can find all of the Big Five animals. You can game drive, go on a boat safari on the Chobe River, or take a guided bush walk.
Don’t miss: Witnessing one of the largest elephant populations in Africa.
Insider travel tips: If you’re looking to avoid the crowds, plan your visit during the off-season. The best time to go for game viewing is during the dry season, from May to September.
Book your activities in advance to avoid disappointment.
3. Moremi Game Reserve
Moremi Game Reserve is a protected area in Botswana that covers about one third of the Okavango Delta and is considered one of the most beautiful reserves in Africa.
What to see or do: – Go on a game drive to spot the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo) as well as other wildlife such as giraffes, hyenas, zebras, and antelopes.
Don’t miss: – The stunning landscape of the Okavango Delta, which includes grassy plains, lagoons, and channels.
Insider travel tips: – Visit during the dry season (May to October) for the best game viewing opportunities.
4. Tsodilo Hills
Tsodilo Hills is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a collection of four rocky hills in the Kalahari Desert.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore thousands of rock paintings dating back tens of thousands of years, hike the area’s scenic trails, and take guided tours to learn about the history and geology of the hills.
Don’t miss: The San people, who have lived in the area for thousands of years, consider the hills sacred and offer tours to share their knowledge and traditions with visitors.
Also, be sure to check out the Rhinoceros Cave, which contains some of the most well-preserved and recognizable rock paintings in the area.
Insider travel tips: As the hills can get extremely hot during the day, it’s best to plan your visit in the early morning or late afternoon.
You’ll also need a 4×4 vehicle or a guided tour to access the hills, as the roads can be rough and difficult to navigate on your own.
And finally, be sure to bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and insect repellent with you, as the Kalahari can be unforgiving to travelers who aren’t well-prepared.
5. Makgadikgadi Salt Pans
Makgadikgadi Salt Pans, one of the largest salt flats in the world, located in the middle of the dry savannah of northeastern Botswana.
What to see or do: Experience the stunning sight of the endless white desert-like landscape stretching out in all directions, wild camping or taking a guided safari tour to spot rare desert animals such as meerkats, brown hyenas, and the famous Kalahari black-maned lions.
Don’t miss: Witness the stunning salt pan sunsets or sunrises that are beyond words!
Insider travel tips: Visit during the dry season from April to October when the pans are more accessible and game viewing is much better.
Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and comfortable sturdy shoes, as the pans can be very hot and unyielding.
6. Kalahari Desert
The Kalahari Desert is a vast semi-arid savannah that stretches across South Africa, Botswana and Namibia.
What to see or do: Marvel at the stunning red dunes of the Kalahari, which are some of the tallest in the world.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to stargaze in the desert’s clear night skies, which are some of the best in the world for astronomy.
Insider travel tips: If you’re visiting in the summer months, be prepared for hot temperatures during the day and chilly nights.
7. Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park
Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park is a vast wildlife reserve situated in the heart of the Kalahari Desert.
What to see or do: Visitors can look forward to seeing some of Africa’s most iconic wildlife such as lions, cheetahs, hyenas, giraffes, and more. There are plenty of activities available such as guided game drives, self-drive routes, and walking trails.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to witness the breathtaking sunsets over the vast desert landscapes.
You should also keep an eye out for the black-mane Kalahari lions – they are a unique and rare sight to see.
Insider travel tips: The best time to visit is during the winter months when the temperature is cooler and game viewing is better.
8. Linyanti Swamp
The Linyanti Swamp is a vast wetland located in the northern part of Botswana, near the border with Namibia.
What to see or do: The swamp is a haven for a variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, and endangered species such as wild dogs and roan antelopes.
Visitors can enjoy game drives, bush walks, and river cruises to experience the diverse flora and fauna that thrive in this unique ecosystem.
Don’t miss: A sunset boat cruise on the Linyanti River is a must-do activity.
Sipping on a refreshing drink while watching elephants and hippos wade through the sparkling waters as the sun goes down is an unforgettable experience.
Insider travel tips: Book a stay at one of the many luxury lodges within the Linyanti area to fully immerse yourself in the wild beauty of the swamp.
Some lodges even offer sleep-out platforms where you can spend the night under the stars, surrounded by the sounds of nature.
Don’t forget to bring warm layers, as it can get chilly at night.
Also, keep in mind that the best wildlife sightings occur during the dry season (May-October), when animals congregate near the river and waterholes.
9. Gaborone Game Reserve
Gaborone Game Reserve is a stunning wildlife sanctuary and one of the few urban game reserves in the world.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy a peaceful nature walk, game drive, or cycling through the park and witness some of Botswana’s beautiful wildlife.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunities to spot some of Africa’s big mammals such as zebras, wildebeests, giraffes, hyenas, warthogs, and different bird species.
Insider travel tips: Remember to pack sunscreen, a hat and insect repellent when visiting the park. On weekends, the park offers horse-riding for visitors, which can be a great way to explore the park.
Try to plan your visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon when temperatures are not too high, and animals tend to be more active.
10. Tswapong Hills
A scenic hill range located in eastern Botswana, known for its stunning landscape and rich history.
What to see or do: Hiking and trekking through the hills, taking in breathtaking views of the surrounding plains and rocky outcroppings. Explore ancient rock paintings and archaeological sites scattered throughout the area.
Don’t miss: Visiting the village of Moreomaoto, located at the base of the hills, to learn about the local culture and customs. Taking a dip in the refreshing waters of the nearby natural rock pools.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen, as the area can get hot and dry.
Consider hiring a local guide to help navigate the hills and learn more about the history and culture of the region.
11. Khama Rhino Sanctuary
Khama Rhino Sanctuary is a wildlife reserve located in Botswana that is home to a variety of wildlife species including rhinoceros, zebras, giraffes, and wildebeests.
What to see or do: Visitors can take guided safaris and nature walks to observe the animals and experience the sanctuary’s diverse landscapes, including savannah plains, rocky hills, and forested areas.
Don’t miss: One of the main attractions at Khama Rhino Sanctuary is the opportunity to see endangered rhinos in their natural habitat. Make sure to book a guided rhino drive to increase your chances of spotting them.
Insider travel tips: – The best time to visit the sanctuary is during the dry season (from May to September) when the animals are easier to spot as they congregate around the main waterhole.
12. Central Kalahari Game Reserve
Central Kalahari Game Reserve is a protected area in Botswana, covering an area of 52,800 km².
What to see or do: The game reserve is home to an abundance of wildlife, including giraffes, lions, cheetahs, hyenas, zebras, and many more. Visitors can enjoy game drives, guided walks, and camping in designated campsites within the reserve.
Don’t miss: The Deception Valley, with its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife, is a must-visit destination within the reserve. Visitors should also keep an eye out for the Kalahari black-maned lion, unique to the region.
Insider travel tips: The best time to visit the Central Kalahari Game Reserve is during the dry season (April to October) when wildlife is more concentrated around water sources.
13. Mashatu Game Reserve
Mashatu Game Reserve is a private wildlife reserve located in the Northern Tuli Game Reserve in Botswana.
What to see or do: – Go on game drives to see a wide variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, hyenas, giraffes, and more.
Don’t miss: – The opportunity to see the famous elephant herds of Mashatu. It’s one of the few places in Africa where you can see herds with over 100 individuals.
Insider travel tips: – Visit during the dry season (April to October) to see more wildlife as they gather around water sources.
14. Kubu Island
A unique and stunning rock formation located in the Makgadikgadi Pan of Botswana.
What to see or do: Experience the awe-inspiring natural beauty of the island, enjoy the scenic sunsets and observe the abundant wildlife in the surrounding area.
Don’t miss: Visiting during the dry season when the salt flats around Kubu Island are accessible and offer a surreal and otherworldly landscape.
Insider travel tips: Bring plenty of water and sun protection as the area can get hot, and be sure to have a 4×4 vehicle to navigate the rough terrain.
Also, consider camping on the island to fully appreciate its magic and tranquility.
15. Thamalakane River
Thamalakane River is a picturesque watercourse in northern Botswana that meanders through the ancient floodplains of the Okavango Delta.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a boat ride along the river, witnessing the stunning wilderness and wildlife of the region, such as elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of birdlife.
Fishing and bird watching are popular activities as well.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the dramatic sunset over the river, which promises to be one of the most beautiful and peaceful experiences in Botswana.
Insider travel tips: Visitors should carry sunscreen, insect repellent, and a camera to capture the beautiful sights along the river.
It’s best to visit the river between May and August when the weather is pleasant and not too hot, and the animal sightings are more frequent.
16. Nxai Pan National Park
A national park located in the north-eastern part of Botswana, spanning over 2,500 square kilometers.
What to see or do: Spotting wildlife like lions, zebras, elephants and various bird species in their natural habitat. Witnessing the stunning sunrises and sunsets against the backdrop of the pan.
Taking guided walks with San Bushmen to learn about their traditional lifestyles. Camping at designated campsites or staying at luxury lodges.
Don’t miss: Visiting the Nxai Pan, which is a large salt pan surrounded by grasslands and dotted with umbrella-shaped acacias. It is a popular destination for wildlife viewing, especially during the wet season when it transforms into a seasonal lake.
Insider travel tips: Bring warm clothing as temperatures can drop significantly at night. Plan your trip during the dry season (May-October) for the best wildlife sightings.
Book accomodations in advance, especially during peak periods. Apply insect repellent to avoid mosquito bites.
Carry your own water and food supplies as there are limited facilities within the park.
17. Gcwihaba Caves
Gcwihaba Caves is a complex of limestone caves located in the Ghanzi district of Botswana.
What to see or do: Explore the stunning underground world of the Gcwihaba Caves, which are filled with stalactites, stalagmites, and crystal-clear pools. Take a tour led by an experienced guide to learn about the geological history and cultural significance of the caves.
Don’t miss: Be sure to visit the ‘Sleeping Pool’, a still body of water that reflects the stunning formations above and is said to have healing properties.
Also, don’t miss the ‘Medicine Pool’, a small pond filled with clear water that is said to cure ailments.
Insider travel tips: – Wear comfortable shoes with good grip as the cave floors can be slippery.
18. Mokolodi Nature Reserve
Mokolodi Nature Reserve is a protected area located in the south of Gaborone, Botswana. It covers an area of 30 square kilometers and a wide range of flora and fauna.
What to see or do: Explore the reserve’s diverse habitats including the riverine woodland, savanna, and rocky hills.
Go on a game drive to see some of the wildlife living in the area, including giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, warthogs, and many more.
Don’t miss: Visit the Mokolodi Education Centre to learn about the conservation efforts and the work being done to protect the wildlife in the area.
Take a walk on the interpretive trail and admire the view from the top of the hill.
Insider travel tips: – The reserve is best visited during the dry season from May to September.
19. Kgale Hill
A hill located in Gaborone, Botswana.
What to see or do: Visitors can hike to the top of the hill and enjoy the stunning views of the city. It is a great spot for photography, picnics, and exercise.
Don’t miss: The opportunity to see unique rock formations on the hill. Visitors may also encounter baboons during the hike.
Insider travel tips: Bring plenty of water and wear comfortable shoes with good grip. Start the hike early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat of the day.
Be cautious of the baboons and avoid feeding them.
20. Tuli Block
The Tuli Block is a wildlife reserve located in Botswana known for its diverse flora and fauna.
What to see or do: – Go on game drives to spot elephants, lions, leopards, and other wildlife.
Don’t miss: – The opportunity to see the rare African wild dog.
Insider travel tips: – Bring binoculars for the best wildlife viewing.
21. Magkadigkadi Pans National Park
Magkadigkadi Pans National Park is a protected area located in the northeastern part of Botswana. It is one of the largest salt flats on Earth and offers a unique landscape.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the vast expanse of the salt pans, go on guided game drives to spot wildlife such as zebra, wildebeest, and flamingos, visit local villages, and learn about the rich cultural heritage of the area.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to experience a magical sunset on the salt pans. The reflections of the sun on the flats create a stunning and unforgettable scenery.
Insider travel tips: – Visiting during the dry season (April to October) is usually the best time to experience the park as it is less hot and the wildlife congregates around watering spots.
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