best time of year to visit botswana
Best Time to Visit botswana
Botswana is a country located in Southern Africa that is known for its diverse wildlife and iconic natural landscapes. The best time to visit Botswana largely depends on your travel preferences and the experience you hope to have.
Botswana experiences a semi-arid climate with distinct wet and dry seasons throughout the year. The dry season months of May to October are widely regarded as the best time to visit Botswana. During these months, the weather is dry, mild, and comfortable, with clear skies and cool evenings. This makes it a perfect time to explore Botswana’s wildlife in the country’s famous national parks and game reserves.
During the dry season, the bush is less dense, making it easier to spot wildlife as they gather around water sources. Additionally, the dry season is the peak time for the Okavango Delta, one of Botswana’s most popular tourist destinations. The Delta’s shallow waters attract a surplus of wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, giraffes, and many others, making it an excellent destination for game viewing, especially in the months of July to November.
Alternatively, if you want to visit Botswana when the landscape is greener and the wildlife is abundant, you may prefer to visit during the wet season (November to April). Although the wet season is classified as the “off-peak” season, it provides unique experiences that might be of interest to you. For example, during the wet season, birdlife in Botswana booms, making it an excellent time for birdwatchers. Additionally, the wet season attracts migratory animals such as zebras, wildebeest, and antelopes, which makes it an ideal time for watching multiple species at once.
However, keep in mind that the wet season is known for its heavy rainfalls and intense heat, making it a bit uncomfortable to travel, especially if you plan to camp. Additionally, during the wet season, some of the country’s dirt roads become virtually impassable, thus restricting your movements.
In conclusion, the best time to visit Botswana depends on you and your preferences. If you plan to experience the country’s wildlife during the dry season and take advantage of the cooler, dryer weather, visit between May to October. However, if you’re interested in watching migratory animals and birdlife in their natural habitats, and don’t mind a bit of heat and rain, visit between November to April.