11 Days Safari Tour In Botswana

If you’re dreaming of stepping into a wildlife documentary, this 11-day safari in Botswana might just be the trip for you. While we haven’t personally ridden in the open plains or watched lions at sunset, the reviews paint a picture of an experience that’s both exhilarating and deeply immersive.

From the moment you start in Maun, the gateway to Botswana’s wilderness, to your farewell at Kasane, you’ll find yourself surrounded by some of Africa’s most stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife.

One aspect we love is how this tour offers a mix of luxury camping and intimate wildlife encounters, allowing you to live close to nature without sacrificing comfort. The other highlight? The knowledgeable guides, who’ve been praised for their skill and patience—crucial for those unforgettable sightings.

However, a potential consideration is the price point, which reflects the all-inclusive nature and the high-quality, personalized experience.

This safari suits travelers who crave an authentic, in-depth exploration of Botswana’s top game reserves—especially those who appreciate adventure, wildlife photography, and the charm of outdoor camping among the animals. If you’re after a true bush experience that balances adventure with comfort, this tour could be your perfect match.

Key Points

• Authentic bush camping provides a closer connection to wildlife than typical lodge stays.
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with expert insights and help with wildlife spotting.
• The tour covers top Botswana reserves: Okavango Delta, Moremi, Khwai, Savute, and Chobe, offering diverse landscapes and animals.
• The mix of game drives, mokoro excursions, and river cruises offers varied perspectives of the wilderness.
• The tour’s value lies in its all-inclusive approach—meals, camping, and activities—delivering a comprehensive safari experience.
• Reviews highlight incredible wildlife sightings, delicious food, and a genuine, friendly atmosphere.

Exploring Botswana’s Wilderness: A Detailed Review

Starting Point: Maun and the Okavango Delta

Your adventure kicks off in Maun, a small but vital hub for Botswana safaris. The journey immediately immerses you in the essence of the wilderness as you’re picked up from Maun Airport and transferred to the Okavango Delta. This iconic floodplain is one of the world’s most extraordinary ecosystems, and arriving here feels like stepping into a wildlife lover’s paradise.

The first activity involves a mokoro ride, a traditional dugout canoe guided by expert polers. This mode of transport isn’t just charming; it’s a window into the Delta’s soul. You’ll glide through reed-fringed waters, gaining a perspective that’s both peaceful and full of potential wildlife sightings. The focus on camping on Chiefs Island, nestled further south in the Delta, allows you to wake up surrounded by nature — a recurring praise in reviews is how living so close to animals is an unforgettable thrill.

Your first evening includes a sunset cruise, which offers panoramic views of the Delta’s lush grasses and waterways. The chance to see wildlife against the stunning backdrop of a setting sun—and perhaps a herd of elephants or a crocodile basking—is a highlight. As one reviewer put it, the experience was “breathtakingly beautiful,” a sentiment many share.

Days 2-4: Deep in the Okavango Wilderness

The following days are spent exploring the Delta’s varied habitats through mokoro trips and bush walks. These activities are designed for those who want more than just a quick glance—they’re about truly absorbing the environment. The combination of reed-fringed waters and open grasslands transforms into a living canvas of birdlife, antelope, and perhaps elusive predators.

Expect early mornings with tea or coffee as guides prepare for exciting game drives. The views are often described as feeling like a BBC wildlife documentary, where every turn might reveal a new animal or bird. The birdwatching here is superb, with some reviews mentioning rare sightings of roan and sable antelope—species that are less common and highly prized by enthusiasts.

The food served here is consistently praised—well-cooked, hearty, and satisfying after a long day in the bush. The camp’s setting, under shady trees with the sounds of birds in the background, creates a peaceful atmosphere for resting and sharing stories of the day’s sightings.

Moving North: From Moremi to Khwai Concession

Transitioning from the Delta, the tour heads into Moremi Game Reserve, another Botswana jewel. Here, the scenery shifts to more varied terrains—woodlands, floodplains, and savannahs—each supporting diverse wildlife. The boat to mokoro station and subsequent game drive are highlights, allowing a seamless change from water-based to land-based safaris.

In Moremi, the focus is on daily game drives—morning and afternoon. You’ll have opportunities to spot big cats, elephants, buffalo, and smaller species. The camp is set up conveniently for rest and refreshment, with hot lunches provided, a thoughtful touch appreciated by reviewers who mention how well-organized and comfortable the experience is.

Khwai Concession: A Wildlife Hotspot

Next, the tour ventures into Khwai Concession, a lesser-known gem packed with grasslands, floodplains, and forests. It’s an excellent place to see sable and roan antelopes, along with predators like lions and leopards. The guides here are lauded for their expertise in animal behavior, making sightings more likely and more meaningful.

Days are filled with game drives and a good amount of downtime for relaxation or photography. One reviewer appreciated the “knowledgeable guides” who made the experience even more meaningful. The camp setup, with tents and campfire moments, offers a classic safari atmosphere.

The Great Predator Hub: Savute Reserve

The next leg is Savute, renowned for its large predators and the iconic Savute Marsh. Here, the animal drama is palpable—lions, hyenas, and crocodiles dominate the landscape. The game drives in Savute are longer, aimed at capturing the thrill of seeing predators in action.

The scenery is stark yet beautiful, with open plains giving way to wildlife spectacles. The camp feels remote, emphasizing the sense of adventure. As some reviews mention, the guide’s knowledge enhances the experience, helping guests understand animal behaviors and the ecosystem dynamics.

The Final Leg: Chobe National Park

Your safari concludes in Chobe National Park, famous for its large elephant herds and river scenery. The transfer from Savute to Chobe involves approximately 142 km of game drive, with a picnic lunch along the way—a practical detail that ensures you’re seeing wildlife en route.

In Chobe, the focus shifts to river safaris and more game drives. The landscape here is lush, with the Chobe River acting as a magnet for elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and myriad bird species. The reviews rave about the photographic opportunities, with many guests capturing stunning images of elephants crossing the river or herds grazing under acacia trees.

Final Day and Departure

The tour wraps up with an early morning game drive and breakfast in Kasane, followed by a transfer to Kasane International Airport. The logistics are straightforward, and the entire experience aims to leave you with lasting memories of Botswana’s incredible wildlife.

The Value and Who This Tour Is For

At $3,850 per person, this safari offers a comprehensive, all-inclusive experience—meals, camping gear, game drives, mokoro rides, and expert guides. While it’s not cheap, the value lies in the depth of experience and the proximity to wildlife that camping provides over lodge-style safaris. Many reviews emphasize how living among the animals, waking up to their sounds, and watching predators in action makes it worth every penny.

This tour is best suited for adventure seekers, wildlife photography enthusiasts, and those looking for an authentic bush experience. If you’re comfortable with camping and long days in the vehicle, you’ll find the balance of excitement and comfort compelling. Those expecting luxury lodges might find this too rustic, but for many, it’s precisely what makes the safari memorable.

The Sum Up

This 11-day Botswana safari is a true adventure for those eager to get close to Africa’s wildlife and embrace the outdoors. The combination of expert guides, diverse landscapes, and authentic camping creates an experience that’s both exciting and genuine. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who value wildlife sightings, outdoor living, and photographic opportunities.

The tour’s focus on living in the bush, observing animals in their natural habitat, and engaging with local guides results in memorable moments that last a lifetime. The high praise from past travelers about the food, organization, and wildlife sightings highlights its value for those seeking an immersive safari.

If you’re ready for a journey that’s as much about connection with nature as it is about adventure, this tour could well be your next unforgettable trip.

FAQ

Is this safari suitable for first-time campers?
Yes, if you’re comfortable sleeping in a tent and enjoy outdoor experiences, this safari provides a well-organized, comfortable camping setup that many guests find enjoyable.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers accommodation in Meru-style tents, all meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), and activities such as game drives, mokoro excursions, and river cruises.

Are drinks and personal items included?
No, items of a personal nature and gratuities are not included, so plan to bring extra for souvenirs, drinks, or tips.

How long are the game drives each day?
Game drives typically start early in the morning and continue into the late afternoon or evening, with some days having longer drives—up to 8 hours—including stops for lunch and rest.

Can I expect wildlife sightings every day?
While sightings depend on luck and animal activity, reviews suggest that the guides are skilled at locating wildlife, and most guests report seeing a variety of animals throughout the trip.

What is the maximum group size?
This is a private tour, so only your group will participate, offering a more personalized experience.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
The information provided doesn’t specify age restrictions, but given the camping and outdoor nature, it’s best for older children or families comfortable with bush camping and long days outdoors.

What if the weather turns bad?
The experience is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. Be prepared for the possibility of rain or heat, as with any safari.

In summary, this 11-day Botswana safari offers a chance to truly live in the wild, with the comfort of experienced guides and a carefully curated itinerary that showcases the country’s best wildlife areas. It’s ideal for those seeking an authentic, close-to-nature adventure that promises unforgettable sights and stories—so pack your binoculars and sense of adventure.