When to go to Botswana
Botswana is one of Africa’s landlocked countries being surrounded by South Africa, Namibia, and Zimbabwe. It touches Zambia and Angola but this is only for a brief moment. Botswana is a flat country with close to 70% of it being covered by the Kalahari Desert. Unfortunately Botswana is one of the poorest countries in Africa as well as being one of the least populated. There are just over 2 million people throughout the country.
The majority of people traveling to Botswana are expecting an encounter with nature either through the desert or through one of the delta areas. Two of most popular areas are the Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park.
When to go to Botswana
The dry season, which falls between the months of May through October, is the best time to visit Botswana for viewing wildlife. Because engaging nature is the primary reason that most people go to Botswana, this is the best time to go.
When to go to Botswana: Weather
In general, the dry season temperatures are around 68°F (25°C) during the day. The nights can get a little chilly and usually require wearing a jacket. As September closes the temperatures really began to rise. Temperatures during the daytime and October can top over 100°F (40°C).
The majority of rain falls between the months of December through March. However, Botswana does not experience the rainy season that some other countries do. It is possible that the rains may not even come in all. Most of the water that floods the deltas come from upstream.
When to go to Botswana: Wildlife Viewing
The dry season is the best time for wildlife viewing because the animals gather near watering holes and any existing plant life. It is common to find animals in herds and group together. Okavango Delta is considered one of the largest in land deltas around the world. It has the distinction of being recognized as one of the 7 natural wonders of Africa.
The best time for experiencing wildlife in the Okavango Delta is during the months of July and August. The waters have filled the Delta and large numbers of animals gather to enjoy the water and blooming plants. It is easy to see large herds of elephant, buffalo and other antelope as they come to drink. This also means the predators are present.
When to go to Botswana: Rates
The shoulder season which occurs from December to March offers lower rates to attract visitors. Although this is the rainy season, there is less rain than in other areas. The rain brings growth with the vegetation, and it also brings out the newborn zebra, warthogs, and the baby impalas. Even though it’s possibly raining, it is quite possible that the Okavango Delta has dried up. This means there will be no water-based safaris and everything will take place on land.
Another great time to go for wildlife photography is in April following the rains. This brings out new vegetation, the days are comfortable, and allow life is present.