Big Five Safaris

Botswana is one of the best safari destinations in Africa because of its unspoiled wilderness, uncrowded reserves and parks, as well as eco-conscious experiences. Sightings of elephants, buffaloes, and lions are common, while leopards can be elusive. It’s also challenging to spot rhinos in Botswana.

Why Should You Go on a Big Five Safari in Botswana?

Pristine Environments

Encounter the Big Five in Botswana’s pristine, unspoiled wilderness. From the stunning waterways that make up the Okavango Delta to the breathtaking wilderness of Chobe National Park, the environments you’ll travel through while on a Botswana safari are awe-inspiring.

Less Crowded Reserves

Botswana boasts exclusive reserves and private concessions with fewer tourists. This means uncrowded spaces, allowing you to feel truly immersed in nature. This also allows for Big Five sightings where your safari vehicle is the only one around!

Dramatic Predator-Prey Interactions

The Big Five includes two predators: leopards and lions. While on a safari in Botswana, you may have the opportunity to witness incredible predator-prey interactions, like a group of lionesses stalking a herd of wildebeest or a leopard pouncing on an impala.

Sustainable Safari Experience

Travelling to Botswana for a Big Five safari gives you the opportunity to support conservation-focused tourism that protects iconic wildlife and environments. From solar-powered boats and safari vehicles to rhino conservation projects, you’ll participate in ecotourism initiatives that make a difference.

Authentic Safari Experience

Botswana safaris offer intimate experiences that are perfect for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers. Not only is it home to the Big Five, but Botswana is made up of an array of stunning locations that make for incredible photo backdrops.

Best Destinations for a Big Five Safari in Botswana

Okavango Delta

The world’s largest inland delta, the Okavango Delta, is famous for its scenic floodplains and abundant wildlife. It’s an excellent wildlife destination as it’s home to the Big Five (rhino sightings are rare, though) as well as hippos, zebras, and giraffes.

Chobe National Park

Chobe National Park is Botswana’s most biologically diverse park, meaning that it’s a haven for wildlife. This makes it a must-visit destination for a Big Five safari in Botswana. From large herds of elephants seen roaming the wilderness to dramatic interactions between big cats and their prey, a safari in Chobe National Park will leave you with memories to last a lifetime!

Moremi Game Reserve

Moremi Game Reserve is the oldest protected reserve in the Okavango Delta and combines mopane woodland and floodplains, offering diverse habitats and rich wildlife. Some of the most endangered African species call this reserve home, including white and black rhinos (although seeing them is rare). Moremi also boasts over 500 species of birds, making this destination a fantastic choice for birders.

Khama Rhino Sanctuary

As recently as 1900, rhinos were extinct in Botswana. However, in the second half of the century, conservationists reintroduced 95 rhinos to the Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park. Under threat from heavy poaching, the rhinos were moved to Khama Rhino Sanctuary in 1992, and since then, the population has thrived. So much so, in fact, that a few individuals were successfully released back into the Okavango region. However, while you do stand a chance to see these real-life unicorns in the delta, Khama Rhino Sanctuary offers the best opportunity to tick this final sighting off your Big Five list.

5 Tips for a Big Five Safari in Botswana

1. Go in the Dry Season

Book your Big Five safari in Botswana during the dry season, from May to October. At this time of the year, water sources are scarce, so animals gather around the last remaining waterholes, making wildlife spotting easier.

2. Go With Experienced Guides

Book tours with experienced guides who specialise in Big Five tracking. Discover Africa works exclusively with trusted partners who are experts in the field, so when you book with us, you know you’ll be guided by knowledgeable professionals.

3. Wear Safari Colours

Wear lightweight, neutral-coloured clothing on your safari. This will help you be more comfortable in the heat and blend in better with the environment. Also, binoculars are a good idea to pack, as they really enhance your safari experience by allowing you to see into dense brush where animals may be hiding.

4. Be Patient

While on safari, it’s important to be patient and persistent, as some Big Five members, like the leopard, are elusive. Allocate time for many game drives to maximise your chances of seeing all five species.

5. Pack Photography Equipment

For the best shots possible during your Big Five safari, pack telephoto lenses for capturing distant wildlife.