One of the most significant factors impacting the cost of a luxury tour is the type of accommodation. Botswana is renowned for its high-end safari lodges and camps, many of which are located in remote and pristine areas such as the Okavango Delta, Chobe National Park, and the Kalahari Desert. These lodges often feature private suites, plunge pools, fine dining, and personalized service. Nightly rates for luxury accommodations can range from $800 to $3000 per person, depending on the time of year and the exclusivity of the property.

Botswana’s safari seasons play a major role in pricing. The peak season, which typically runs from June to October (the dry season), is when wildlife viewing is at its best. During this time, prices for luxury tours are at their highest due to increased demand. In contrast, the green season (November to April) offers lower rates but comes with the possibility of rain and less concentrated wildlife sightings. Shoulder seasons (May and November) may provide a balance between cost and experience.

The overall length of your safari package will significantly influence the cost. Typical luxury safari itineraries can range anywhere from 5 days to two weeks. Extended journeys not only provide more immersive experiences but also incorporate higher cumulative expenditures on accommodations, guided activities, and transportation logistics. For example, a 10-day tour might be structured on a “per person per day” pricing model which easily adds up to a premium cost.

Many luxury safari providers offer the option of private tours. Having an exclusive offer where your entire group is the sole focus can considerably hike the cost compared to joining a pre-planned group adventure. A private tour offers unparalleled flexibility and personalized service, ensuring that every aspect of the trip is tailored solely to you and your party’s preferences.

Many luxury tours are all-inclusive, covering accommodation, meals, beverages (including premium wines and spirits), game drives, guided walks, and other activities such as mokoro (dugout canoe) excursions or helicopter rides. Some packages may also include domestic flights between lodges or parks, which can add significant value given Botswana’s vast distances and limited road infrastructure. However, international flights, travel insurance, and gratuities are usually excluded.

Luxury tours in Botswana often include unique experiences that set them apart from standard safaris. These might include private sundowner cruises on the Chobe River, cultural visits to local villages, or photographic safaris led by professional wildlife photographers. Such add-ons can increase the overall price but also enhance the value of your trip.

Luxury Botswana tours are undoubtedly a significant investment, but they deliver exceptional value for those seeking a once-in-a-lifetime safari experience. Botswana’s low-impact tourism model ensures that visitors enjoy uncrowded game drives and intimate encounters with wildlife in pristine settings. Additionally, many luxury operators contribute to conservation efforts and local communities, making your trip not only enjoyable but also meaningful.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Okavango Delta is a paradise in Botswana’s crown. This vast inland delta is a haven for wildlife, including elephants, lions, hippos, and an array of bird species. Luxury lodges and camps, such as those by Wilderness Safaris and Belmond, offer unparalleled comfort while blending seamlessly into the natural environment. Travelers can explore the delta through serene mokoro (dugout canoe) rides, game drives, or guided bush walks, ensuring an intimate connection with nature.  

Known as the "Land of Giants" due to its large elephant population, Chobe National Park is a must-visit destination for wildlife lovers. The park’s Chobe Riverfront is particularly famous for its boat safaris, where visitors can witness herds of elephants and other animals gathering at the water’s edge. Luxury accommodations like Chobe Game Lodge provide exquisite service and panoramic views, making it an ideal base for exploring this wildlife-rich region.

Located on the eastern side of the Okavango Delta, Moremi Game Reserve offers a diverse ecosystem of woodlands, floodplains, and lagoons. It is one of the best places in Botswana to spot elusive predators such as leopards and wild dogs. Exclusive safari camps in Moremi provide a blend of opulence and adventure, with private game drives and gourmet dining experiences elevating your stay.

For a unique safari experience, the Makgadikgadi Pans—a series of salt flats in northeastern Botswana—are unmatched. During the wet season, the pans transform into a lush oasis attracting migratory birds and herds of zebras and wildebeests. Luxury lodges like Jack’s Camp offer a perfect mix of comfort and cultural immersion, with opportunities to interact with the San Bushmen and learn about their ancient traditions.  

For those seeking solitude and exclusivity, the Central Kalahari Game Reserve delivers an extraordinary experience. This remote wilderness is home to black-maned Kalahari lions, cheetahs, and oryx. High-end lodges provide a secluded retreat where travelers can enjoy stargazing under some of Africa’s clearest skies while savoring world-class cuisine.  

Mombo Camp: Located in the heart of the Okavango Delta, Mombo Camp is often referred to as the "Place of Plenty." Known for its exceptional game viewing, this lodge offers lavish suites with private decks and plunge pools, ensuring both comfort and exclusivity.

Zarafa Camp: Situated in the Selinda Reserve, Zarafa Camp epitomizes eco-luxury. With just four tented suites, guests enjoy personalized service, stunning views over Zibadianja Lagoon, and a chance to explore one of Botswana's most diverse ecosystems.

Sanctuary Chief’s Camp: Located in the Moremi Game Reserve, this award-winning lodge offers contemporary luxury paired with exceptional wildlife encounters. Its spacious pavilions feature private plunge pools and panoramic views of the delta.

Jao Camp: For those seeking seclusion, Jao Camp in the Okavango Delta offers a serene retreat. With elegant design, spa facilities, and expert-guided safaris, it’s perfect for discerning travelers.

The best time to visit Botswana is during the dry season, from May to October, is widely regarded as the ideal period. During these months, wildlife congregates around water sources, making game viewing in iconic areas like the Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park exceptional. June to September, in particular, offers cooler temperatures and breathtaking safari opportunities.

Dav Safaris specializes in curating bespoke tours that cater to your preferences, ensuring every detail is meticulously planned. From exclusive accommodations in opulent lodges to private game drives in the pristine Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park, their itineraries provide an unmatched level of comfort and personalization.