You've booked the flights and the lodge. Now it's time to think about the details that make a safari run smoothly: what to actually pack, wear, and expect once you get there. Botswana's remote safari camps are extraordinary, but their wild locations come with a few practical considerations. From luggage restrictions on light aircraft to what colours work best on safari, here are our top Botswana safari travel tips to know before you go.
1. What Month is Best for a Safari in Botswana?
Looking for a wild adventure that'll make your heart sing? Then head over to Botswana during the dry months from May to October. Trust us, it's a time like no other, especially when the animals come out to play and put on a show that'll leave you wanting more. This is also the perfect time to see the Okavango Delta in full flood.
But don't count out the rainy season from November to March. While some wildlife may scatter, certain areas like Chobe's Savuti region and the Kalahari are perfect for summer game viewing. It's also when Botswana's annual zebra migration gets underway, with thousands of zebras moving between the Okavango Delta and the Makgadikgadi Pans.
2. What is the Cost of a Safari in Botswana?
Many variables can influence the cost of travelling to Botswana. Do you want to travel during peak season or enjoy a quieter, off-peak adventure? How much luxury do you desire, and where do you want to explore? The more you invest, the more exclusive your safari experience will be.
But don't let the price discourage you – exclusivity is key to a safari of a lifetime. Private reserves and lodges offer a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the wilderness without fending off crowds of tourists.
If Botswana's calling your name, expect to pay anywhere from $400 to $5,000 per person per night. Whether you opt for a 4-star or lavish 5-star stay, the memories will be priceless.
3. Are There Any Luggage Restrictions in Botswana?
When travelling to Botswana, many remote camps and lodges are only accessible by charter flight. While this is an adventure in itself, it comes with some specific baggage requirements.
These flights have limited luggage capacity and small luggage compartments. You’ll need to pack all your checked luggage in one soft-sided bag per person and keep your hand luggage in a small daypack or handbag.
The total weight of your luggage (checked and carry-on) should not exceed 20kg (44 lbs). But don't worry about having enough clean clothes for every day. Many lodges and properties offer laundry services at no extra cost. Keep it casual too – Africa's dress code is pretty relaxed!
Commercial flights are a little more laid back, but their allowance is still one checked suitcase of 20kg (44 lbs) per person, so we suggest sticking to that weight.
4. What Are the Connection Times for Charter Flights in Botswana?
Most of Botswana's remote camps have their own airstrips to accommodate charter flights. These light aircraft transfers don’t work on a set schedule.
The operations team on the ground confirms the flight times a day or two in advance based on the number of passengers flying and the route they'll take. So, the camp will notify you of your flight details 24 to 48 hours before your takeoff.
5. What are the Child-Entry Requirements?
If you're embarking on a journey through the stunning borders of Botswana with a mini-adventurer (a child under 18), bring a certified or notarised copy of their unabridged birth certificate, along with their trusty passport.
If one of the parents sadly can't join in on the fun, make sure to have an affidavit from the other parent granting permission for the trip.
Another thing that surprises many families: every lodge in Botswana sets its own child policy, and many don't allow children under 8 or 12 years old. This comes down to safety in remote, unfenced wilderness rather than preference.
More adventurous activities, like walking safaris and canoeing, typically require children to be at least 16. So if you're travelling with kids, it's worth checking with one of our Travel Experts before you book.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are You Ready for Your Safari in Botswana?
The best safaris aren't about packing the perfect wardrobe or memorising every travel tip. They're about arriving prepared enough that you can be fully present when the moment comes, whether that's spotting your first leopard, drifting through the Okavango Delta on a mokoro, or simply enjoying a quiet sunrise with a cup of coffee in hand.
Whether you're putting the finishing touches on your trip or just starting to explore the idea of a Botswana safari, our Travel Experts are here to help. Get in touch, and we'll make sure every detail is taken care of.
