Take a walk on the wild side in one of the best safari locations in the world: Botswana. From the unforgiving Kalahari Desert and the extensive Makgadikgadi salt pans to the riverbanks of Chobe National Park, Botswana’s vast and varied landscape is sure to leave you awestruck.
The country’s distinct wet and dry seasons produce vastly different landscapes throughout the year. While the dry season – June to September – is considered the high season, a visit to Botswana during the rainy season will allow you to discover the magic of this underappreciated time of the year.
The green season refers to the time between October and April when the country receives plenty of rainfall, turning the dry plains into lush green landscapes teeming with wildlife. The watering holes fill, the Okavango Delta flows and the landscape comes alive with vivid greenery.
While it’s also low season for tourism, those in the know call it the ‘secret season’. Our Southern Africa expert Anja Fussel, travelled to Botswana in March and shares her personal experience, tips and pointers on why it’s a great time to visit this stunning country.
1. Enjoy unparalleled wildlife viewing
The green season offers great opportunities to see wild animals in their element. This is also birthing season in Botswana, and thanks to the rains, the young calves and cubs have enough grazing opportunities.
You may get to witness gangly zebra or antelope foals taking their first unsteady steps or lion cubs playing under the watchful eye of their mothers. It’s an experience you’ll treasure forever. During this season, you might also witness heightened predator action with lions, cheetahs, wild dogs and more targeting the helpless young ones.
Many animals migrate during the green season to take advantage of the lush foliage and grasslands. If you are lucky, you may witness one of Southern Africa’s greatest migrations as thousands of zebra migrate to the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans crossing the vast plains of the Kalahari Desert.
2. Soak in its magical landscape
While it may be the rainy season, don’t let that put you off. The landscape of Botswana transforms dramatically during this season, with lush green vistas and dark clouds hovering in the sky above. Besides, all the safari vehicles are equipped for your comfort and can be completely enclosed in case of rain, with plenty of windows so you won’t miss a thing. In fact, the softer lighting makes for great photography and the rain clouds overhead create a dramatic backdrop. What’s not to love!
What our expert says
“It only rained twice when we were there; once at night and the other time we were in a mokoro, when we saw the clouds move across the Delta. It was a beautiful sight. Then our driver took us back to our camp. We changed and went straight out on a game drive, which proved to be fantastic.”
– Anja Fussel
3. Revel in exclusive experiences
Imagine being the only jeep parked up as you watch a herd of elephants meander by. The green season provides intimate wildlife viewing opportunities without the noise or crowds. It’s also a special time for the guides, who have more time to get to know you one-on-one and use their tracking skills to ensure you have the best wildlife viewing opportunity.
This personal service is what makes the trip extra special, says Anja.
“All our guides were super knowledgeable and motivated. They always make sure you see what you are interested in and that you are safe and comfortable. They ensure you have blankets and raincoats in the vehicle, your favourite drink in the coolbox, and that you have the best light for your photos.”
– Anja Fussel, Africa expert
4. Make the most of value lodging
Do you want to enjoy unparalleled wildlife viewing at some of Botswana’s top rated camps and lodges? The green season offers great value for money on accommodation, and with less crowds, you are guaranteed absolute privacy.
Where to stay
Anja recommends staying at one of the smaller camps for a truly intimate and exclusive experience. She adds that Shinde Camp, a treehouse-style camp set on the banks of the lagoon, and Dinaka Safari Lodge an exclusive private camp of only seven lodges in the Kalahari Game Reserve, are great options if you are seeking luxury and exclusive safari experiences.
We also recommend Duma Tau Camp, Mombo Safari Camp in the heart of the Moremi Game Reserve and the secluded Xaranna Camp in the Okavango Delta for their top-notch facilities and breathtaking river views.
5. It is a birder’s delight
The Okavango Delta hosts several species of birds during the green season as migratory European and North African birds make their way to the flooded waterways. As thousands of winged termites emerge from their colonies to escape the floodwaters, flocks of birds swoop in, creating a feeding frenzy of unrivalled proportions.
Wattled cranes, storks, herons and egrets are just some of the 400 species of birds that congregate in the Delta, during this season, making it a birder’s paradise. Cruise through the Delta in a mokoro (dugout canoe) and you’ll be rewarded with stunning views that make for great photo opportunities.
Plan your Botswana adventure
With lush vegetation as far as the eye can see and exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities, Botswana in the green season is an experience you will cherish forever. And the best part? You can enjoy the best of what the country has to offer without the high season price tag or the crowds. If you’re inspired to visit Botswana, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our Africa travel experts.
Check out these sample itineraries
Cape Town and Botswana by Belmond
Luxury Botswana Safari Tour
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Africa inspiration
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