In short
The best time to visit Botswana is generally May to October, during the dry season. Wildlife gathers around water, the vegetation is lower and game viewing is at its most rewarding; the green season, from November to April, mostly suits the Kalahari and birdwatchers.
- Best periodMay to October (dry season)
- Okavango DeltaJune to August, when the flood is generally at its peak
- Kalahari and MakgadikgadiGreen season, roughly December to March
- Suggested length6 to 10 days on the ground
What are the best months to visit Botswana?
Botswana has two main seasons. The dry season, from about May to October, brings sunny days, cool nights (sometimes cold at dawn in June and July) and wildlife that is easy to spot as water sources shrink. The green season, from November to April, brings rain, often as late-afternoon storms, lush scenery and many births among the herbivores.
- JanRainy
- FebRainy
- MarPossible
- AprGood
- MayGood
- JunIdeal
- JulIdeal
- AugIdeal
- SepIdeal
- OctGood
- NovPossible
- DecPossible
The Okavango Delta has a quirk: its water falls as rain in Angola during the southern summer, then takes several months to flow south. The flood therefore generally reaches the delta in the dry winter, around June to August, which makes boat and mokoro outings possible under clear skies. In September and October the water level drops, the heat builds and animals concentrate along the rivers, especially in Chobe, known for its dense elephant population.
Where to go by season: delta, Chobe or Kalahari?
The right timing depends first on what you want to see. Here is a simple guide, to be adjusted from year to year.
| Region | Generally favourable period | What you will experience |
|---|---|---|
| Okavango Delta | June to August | Flood waters, boat or mokoro outings, bush flights |
| Chobe and Savuti | May to October | Elephants at the water’s edge, boat and 4x4 safaris |
| Moremi | May to October | 4x4 safaris along the edges of wetlands |
| Kalahari and Makgadikgadi | Roughly December to March | Green landscapes, vast open spaces, a night under the stars |
Our experts' tip
Winter mornings (June–July) can be very cold in an open safari vehicle: pack warm layers for dawn departures. October, on the other hand, is generally the hottest month, but also one of the richest for wildlife sightings.
Which season should you choose: dry or green?
For a first trip we generally recommend the dry season: getting around is easier, tracks are more passable and sightings are more regular. The green season asks for a little more flexibility, because dense vegetation and plentiful water scatter the animals. It has its own appeal, though: greener scenery, fewer visitors in some camps and a fine season for birdwatching, with migratory birds arriving.
If you are torn between several countries, our guide First safari: which country to choose? compares Botswana with Kenya, Tanzania and South Africa.
Good to know
Conditions vary from year to year (rainfall, flood level). The dates above are guidelines: we help you fine-tune them to your calendar when preparing the trip.
Our trips to Botswana
We offer two trips in the heart of the country, plus a tour that crosses Chobe on its way to Namibia.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best month to visit Botswana?
There is no single best month, but July, August and September are generally the most balanced: dry weather, good wildlife viewing and water in the delta. The choice also depends on the region you visit.
Can you visit Botswana in the rainy season?
Yes, from roughly November to April. The country is then green and quieter, which suits the Kalahari and Makgadikgadi well. Storms and heat do call for more flexibility in the programme.
How long should a safari in Botswana last?
About a week is enough for a first taste of one or two major areas. To combine the delta, Moremi and Chobe, plan on around ten days, allowing for the long distances.
Your trip to Botswana, tailor-made
Tell us when you want to travel and what you dream of seeing: our team replies with a tailor-made proposal within 24 hours.