Botswana and Namibia Safari

What our customers ask about Botswana and Namibia Safari

• How many countries and national parks are typically covered in a Botswana and Namibia safari?

  A standard safari tour across this region includes 3-4 countries with Botswana and Namibia as the main destinations often extending to Zimbabwe or Zambia. Travelers typically visit 5-6 major national parks. The route usually covers Etosha National Park in Namibia known for its wildlife congregating around waterholes and vast salt pans Chobe National Park in Botswana with its large elephant population and the Okavango Delta's waterways. Many itineraries add stops at Makgadikgadi Pans and Moremi Game Reserve. As one TourRadar traveler notes: "The variety of parks was amazing - from Etosha's waterholes to Chobe's riverside game viewing each destination offered something unique and unforgettable."

• What's the difference between visiting Botswana versus Namibia?

  Botswana specializes in water-based safaris through the Okavango Delta and Chobe River with a focus on exclusive high-end lodges and controlled visitor numbers. Namibia presents contrasting landscapes from the Namib Desert to Etosha's salt pan combining wildlife encounters with dramatic terrain. The distinction is clear in accommodations such as the desert-themed Agama River Camp in Namibia compared to the water-facing Nunda River Lodge in Botswana. A TourRadar traveler shares: "Botswana felt more exclusive with its water wonderland while Namibia amazed us with its variety of landscapes and accessible wildlife."

• What cultural experiences are available on safari in Botswana and Namibia?

  Both countries offer authentic cultural encounters throughout safari regions. Visitors can experience traditional fishing and crafts at the Mbunza living museum near Rundu meet San Bushmen in the Kalahari and connect with local communities near Maun. Traditional craft demonstrations like the Shorobe basket weaving cooperative provide hands-on experiences while properties such as Planet Baobab showcase local building techniques and traditions. According to a TourRadar reviewer: "The cultural visits were highlights - learning basket weaving from local women and hearing stories from San guides gave us wonderful insights into local life."

• What types of accommodation can I expect on a Botswana and Namibia safari tour?

  Safari lodging options span from established lodges to mobile tented camps. Properties like Otjiwa Lodge near Otjiwarongo provide viewing opportunities for sable antelope and white rhino while Nunda River Lodge positions guests along the Okavango River for hippo watching. Most permanent lodges feature private bathrooms while tented camps in regions like the Okavango Delta create closer wilderness connections with basic amenities including bucket showers and eco-friendly facilities. A TourRadar traveler notes: "The mix of accommodations was perfect - from the luxury of Okonjima Plains Camp to the authentic experience of camping in the Okavango Delta."

• What wildlife species can I expect to see on a Botswana and Namibia safari?

  The region's varied ecosystems support extensive wildlife populations. Etosha National Park's waterholes attract elephants black rhinos lions and numerous antelope species. The Okavango Delta houses hippos crocodiles and a rich bird population exceeding 400 species. Chobe National Park maintains the world's highest elephant numbers while Namibia's Damaraland features rare desert-adapted elephants. One TourRadar traveler reports: "From desert elephants in Damaraland to massive herds in Chobe and the incredible birdlife in the Okavango Delta each day brought new and exciting wildlife encounters."

• How do game drives work in Botswana and Namibia's national parks?

  Game viewing activities run during prime wildlife hours early morning and late afternoon. Etosha's drives concentrate around waterholes while Chobe combines vehicle and boat safaris. Tours use open-sided 4WD vehicles led by professional guides. Properties like Elephant's Eye in Hwange and Gomoti River Lodge include guided drives in their packages with guaranteed window seats for all guests. A TourRadar reviewer notes: "Our guide's expertise made all the difference - they knew exactly where to find animals and provided fascinating insights about their behavior."