Botswana is one of Africa’s top safari destinations, offering incredible wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, and exclusive safari experiences. But when is the best time to visit Botswana? That depends on what you’re looking for. Whether you want prime big game sightings, lush green landscapes, or dramatic skies, this guide will help you decide.
Botswana has two main safari seasons—the dry season and the green season—both offering unique experiences. The Okavango Delta flooding, wildlife migrations, and birdwatching opportunities vary throughout the year. Sian and Vikki of Marula Hill Travel cannot recommend Botswana enough. But know what you want to see, and the season you want to travel in.
When is the Best Time to Visit Botswana for a Safari?
The best time to visit Botswana is during the dry season (May to October) for peak wildlife viewing. For lush landscapes and fewer crowds, the green season (November to April) is ideal. Read on for a detailed breakdown of what to expect each month.
Botswana Safari Seasons: Green Season vs Dry Season
Green Season (November to April) – Lush Landscapes & Dramatic Skies
The green season is characterised by summer rains, which transform the landscape into a lush paradise. This period is ideal for birdwatching, dramatic photography, and spotting newborn wildlife.
Although the rain can make some roads difficult to navigate, it brings fewer tourists and lower safari rates. The Makgadikgadi Pans come alive with water, attracting thousands of flamingos, while the Okavango Delta remains lush and full of life.
Dry Season (May to October) – Peak Wildlife Viewing
The dry season is widely regarded as the best time to visit Botswana for a safari, as animals gather around rivers and waterholes, making them easier to spot. The lack of rain brings clear, sunny days and comfortable temperatures, although early mornings and evenings can be chilly.
This period is also when the Okavango Delta floods, creating a spectacular water safari experience. However, it’s also the most popular time, meaning higher prices and more visitors at Botswana’s top safari lodges.
A Month-by-Month Guide to Botswana Safari Seasons
January & February – Lush Landscapes & Calving Season
These months bring hot temperatures and regular rain showers, creating lush greenery. Many animals give birth during this time, attracting predators and making for some exciting sightings. Birdwatchers will also enjoy the influx of migratory species.
March & April – The Transition to Dry Season
As the rains ease, wildlife sightings improve, and the bush remains lush. The scenery is spectacular, with vibrant greenery and dramatic skies. This is a great time for photography and offers the benefit of lower safari rates before the peak season begins.
May – The Start of the Dry Season & Okavango Delta Flooding Begins
May marks the beginning of the dry season, bringing cooler temperatures and clearer skies. The floodwaters from Angola start to fill the Okavango Delta, creating a unique wetland ecosystem, perfect for boat safaris.
June & July – Peak Safari Season & Cool Weather
These months are among the best for a Botswana safari. The Okavango Delta is fully flooded, offering unforgettable mokoro (canoe) safaris, while land-based game drives in Moremi Game Reserve and Chobe National Park deliver spectacular wildlife encounters. We love the delta, so for us, this is the best time to visit Botswana. Do read our blog Okavango Delta Safari: Africa’s Ultimate Wildlife Wonderland.
August & September – Prime Game Viewing in the Dry Heat
As water sources continue to dry up, large herds of elephants, buffalo, and antelope congregate around the Chobe River and remaining waterholes. Predators, including lions and leopards, take advantage of this, leading to high-intensity wildlife action.
October – Hot & Dry with Exceptional Wildlife Sightings
October is one of the hottest months in Botswana, but it delivers some of the best big game viewing of the year. As the dry season reaches its peak, animals crowd around the last remaining water sources, creating prime conditions for unforgettable safari experiences.
November & December – The Start of the Green Season
The first rains arrive, cooling the temperatures and turning the landscape green. While the wildlife disperses slightly, this period is fantastic for photographers looking for lush scenery and dramatic stormy skies. It’s also a more affordable time to visit, with lower rates and fewer visitors.
Chobe River Safari vs Okavango Delta: When to Visit Each?
- Chobe River Safari: Best from August to October, when large herds of elephants and other wildlife gather around the riverbanks.
- Okavango Delta: Ideal between June and August, when the floodwaters are at their peak, creating an incredible water-based safari experience.
FAQ: When is the Best Time to Visit Botswana?
Q: What is the best time to visit Botswana for a safari?
A: The dry season (May to October) offers the best wildlife sightings, while the green season (November to April) provides lush landscapes and fewer tourists.
Q: When is the cheapest time to visit Botswana?
A: The green season (November to April) is the most affordable time, as many lodges offer lower rates due to fewer visitors.
Q: What is the best time to visit Botswana for birdwatching?
A: The green season (November to March) is best for birdwatching, as migratory birds arrive in large numbers.
If this blog interests you then please read our blog:Why a Botswana Safari Adventure Should be on Your Bucket List?
Final Thoughts: When is the Best Time to Visit Botswana
The best time to visit Botswana depends on what you’re looking for:
- For peak wildlife viewing: Travel between June and October for the best big game sightings.
- For lush landscapes and fewer crowds: Visit between November and April during the green season.
- For the Okavango Delta water safari experience: Plan your trip between May and August.
No matter when you visit, Botswana offers an unforgettable safari experience, whether you’re gliding through the Okavango Delta, spotting herds along the Chobe River, or marvelling at the vast Makgadikgadi Pans.
Would you like help planning your Botswana safari? Get in touch today!
At Marula Hill Travel, is an award-winning boutique safari agency.We specialize in curating bespoke safari experiences. Let us help you plan an unforgettable beach safari adventure where you can enjoy both relaxation and exploration.
For an exciting Okavango Delta experience, contact Marula Hill Travel:
📩 Email: sian@marulahill.com
📞 Call/WhatsApp: +27 82 459 0648
📷 Instagram: @marula_hill_travel
🌍 Website: www.marulahill.com
Your dream Botswana vacation awaits.
