The best Botswana safaris from Johannesburg will start in Johannesburg and fly to Botswana’s Okavango delta and Chobe National Park.
Popular African Safari Packages
3 Days Gorilla Trekking Safari in Rwanda
3 Days Chimpanzee Trekking Safari in Nyungwe Forest, Rwanda
4 Days Nyungwe Forest National Park and Lake Kivu Safari
4 Days Golden monkeys And Gorilla Trekking Safari
5 Days Amboseli and Tsavo West Wildlife Safari
6 Days Mount Kilimanjaro Machame Route
8 Day Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater and Zanzibar
How to Plan Botswana Safaris from Johannesburg
Day 1: Departure from Johannesburg to Maun, Botswana
The journey for Botswana safaris from Johannesburg begins with an early morning flight to Maun, the gateway to the Okavango Delta. These safaris from Johannesburg typically start with a convenient 2-hour flight, landing you in Maun by mid-morning. Upon arrival, your safari adventure officially begins as you're greeted by local guides who specialize in crafting remarkable safaris from Johannesburg to Botswana's wilderness areas. The afternoon includes a brief orientation about the unique ecosystem you're about to explore, followed by a relaxing evening at a local lodge. This first day allows you to acclimatize while anticipating the wilderness experiences that await in the coming days. Don't forget to enjoy the distinctive ambiance of Maun, a frontier town that perfectly balances modern amenities with traditional Botswana culture.
Day 2: Safari in the Okavango Delta
The second day of Botswana safaris from Johannesburg takes you deep into the heart of the Okavango Delta. After breakfast, most safaris from Johannesburg continue with a light aircraft flight over the delta, offering breathtaking aerial views of this unique inland water system. This perspective during safaris from Johannesburg to the Delta reveals an intricate network of waterways, islands, and abundant wildlife below. Upon landing at your delta camp, you'll settle into your accommodation before embarking on your first water-based safari activity, typically a mokoro (traditional dugout canoe) excursion. Gliding silently through the crystal-clear channels allows for intimate wildlife encounters and bird watching. The day concludes with dinner under the stars, with the sounds of the bush creating an unforgettable atmosphere.
Day 3: Full Day Game Drive in the Okavango Delta
Dedicated exploration characterizes the third day of Botswana safaris from Johannesburg. Early morning game drives during these safaris from Johannesburg to the Okavango Delta offer the best opportunity to spot predators returning from night hunts. The extraordinary biodiversity encountered during safaris from Johannesburg to this region includes elephants, hippos, and the elusive sitatunga antelope. The afternoon might include a guided walking safari with experienced trackers who reveal the smaller yet fascinating aspects of the ecosystem. These walks during Botswana safaris from Johannesburg provide insight into tracking techniques, medicinal plants, and the intricate relationships between species. As evening approaches, another water-based activity offers different perspectives of wildlife coming to drink at the water's edge, creating perfect photographic opportunities in the golden afternoon light.
Day 4: Transfer to Chobe National Park
The fourth day of Botswana safaris from Johannesburg involves transitioning to another remarkable ecosystem. Most safaris from Johannesburg to Botswana include this change of scenery, flying from the Okavango Delta to Kasane, the entry point to Chobe National Park. The transfer during these safaris from Johannesburg to Chobe efficiently connects these two distinct ecosystems. Upon arrival, you'll check into your lodge before embarking on your first Chobe River cruise in the late afternoon. This river experience represents a highlight of safaris from Johannesburg to Botswana, as the concentration of elephants along the riverbanks is unrivaled anywhere in Africa. Watching these magnificent creatures drink, bathe, and interact while the sun sets create an almost surreal safari experience that will remain etched in your memory long after your return.
Day 5: Full Day Game Drive in Chobe National Park
The fifth day of Botswana safaris from Johannesburg is devoted to exploring Chobe National Park's diverse landscapes. Morning game drives during these safaris from Johannesburg to Chobe offer opportunities to spot large predators including lions and leopards. The park's varied terrain encountered during safaris from Johannesburg ranges from riverine forest to savannah, supporting diverse wildlife populations. After a midday rest at your lodge, afternoon activities typically include another boat cruise, approaching wildlife from a different perspective than the morning's land-based safari. This day exemplifies why Botswana safaris from Johannesburg are so highly regarded – within a single day, you can experience extraordinary wildlife encounters in different environments and from various perspectives. The evening concludes with dinner overlooking the river, often accompanied by elephants and hippos visible in the distance.
When is the Best Time for Botswana Safaris from Johannesburg?
Timing considerations significantly impact Botswana safaris from Johannesburg. The dry season (May to October) offers the most rewarding safaris from Johannesburg to Botswana, with temperatures ranging from comfortable 25°C days to cool 5°C nights. During this period, safaris from Johannesburg benefit from concentrated wildlife around water sources, making game viewing exceptional. The wet season (November to April) brings lush landscapes and newborn animals, though some areas become inaccessible. However, this season during Botswana safaris from Johannesburg offers advantages including fewer tourists, lower accommodation rates, and spectacular bird watching as migratory species arrive. Weather patterns affect different regions variously, so research specific destinations within Botswana when planning safaris from Johannesburg to ensure your experience aligns with your wildlife viewing priorities and comfort preferences.
How to Get There for Botswana Safaris from Johannesburg
Transportation logistics form a crucial component of Botswana safaris from Johannesburg. Direct flights connect O.R. Tambo International Airport to Maun or Kasane, making safaris from Johannesburg remarkably accessible. Airlines servicing these routes for safaris from Johannesburg include Air Botswana, South African Airways, and Airlink, with flights typically departing in early morning hours. Early departures for Botswana safaris from Johannesburg maximize your first day in Botswana, often allowing afternoon activities upon arrival. Alternatively, some travelers embarking on safaris from Johannesburg opt for the road journey to Botswana's border, though this requires additional time. If choosing this option for your Botswana safaris from Johannesburg, consider breaking the journey with an overnight stay in the Limpopo region of South Africa. For seamless connections between safari destinations within Botswana, light aircraft transfers prove most efficient, offering the added bonus of spectacular aerial views.
What to Carry for Botswana Safaris from Johannesburg?
Packing appropriately enhances Botswana safaris from Johannesburg significantly. Neutral-colored, lightweight clothing works best for safaris from Johannesburg, as bright colors can disturb wildlife. Essential items for safaris from Johannesburg include a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen for daytime protection. Botswana safaris from Johannesburg require versatile clothing options, as temperatures fluctuate dramatically between day and night, particularly during winter months. Don't forget to pack binoculars, camera equipment with extra batteries and memory cards, insect repellent, and any personal medications. Most lodges visited during safaris from Johannesburg provide toiletries, but bringing your preferred brands ensures comfort. Weight restrictions on light aircraft transfers during Botswana safaris from Johannesburg necessitate efficient packing in soft-sided bags rather than hard suitcases. Remember that many lodges offer same-day laundry services, allowing you to pack lighter for your safari adventure.
Where to Sleep, Eat and Drink During Botswana Safaris from Johannesburg
Accommodation choices during Botswana safaris from Johannesburg range from budget to ultra-luxury. Budget-conscious travelers on safaris from Johannesburg might consider mobile camping safaris or public campgrounds in Botswana's national parks. Mid-range options for safaris from Johannesburg include comfortable lodges like Chobe Safari Lodge or camps such as Moremi Crossing in the Delta. Botswana safaris from Johannesburg reach their pinnacle with luxury properties including Mombo Camp or Zarafa Camp, offering unparalleled wildlife experiences alongside exceptional comfort. Regardless of budget, most accommodations during safaris from Johannesburg include full-board arrangements with locally-sourced ingredients prepared by talented chefs. Many Botswana establishments visited during safaris from Johannesburg pride themselves on their wine selections, featuring premium South African vintages. Most importantly, all types of accommodations provide authentic wilderness experiences with knowledgeable guides who enhance your understanding of Botswana's remarkable ecosystems.
Read More bout the best places to sleep in the Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park
Booking Botswana Safaris from Johannesburg with Dav Safaris
Expert assistance proves invaluable when arranging Botswana safaris from Johannesburg. Dav Safaris specializes in creating tailored safaris from Johannesburg to Botswana's wilderness areas, leveraging extensive regional expertise. Our knowledge ensures safaris from Johannesburg incorporate the best locations, accommodations, and experiences aligned with your preferences. Booking Botswana safaris from Johannesburg through experienced operators provides peace of mind through their established relationships with local providers and comprehensive support throughout your journey. Our team can customize every aspect of your experience, from incorporating specific wildlife interests to arranging special celebrations during your adventure.
Contact Dav Safaris today to begin planning your Botswana safari from Johannesburg and discover why this combination represents the ultimate African wildlife adventure.