It might sound like a cliché, but it’s true — every season in Botswana offers something unique. There’s no single “best time” to visit, only a best time depending on what your clients are looking for.

Whether it’s optimal wildlife viewing, birding, exclusive experiences, or weather comfort — understanding seasonal differences is key to matching clients with the right travel window.

As travel designers, the most valuable question you can ask is:
What’s their priority? Once you know what they want to get out of the trip, you can shape their expectations — and avoid surprises.

December to March – Green Season (Rainy Season)

🌿 What to Expect:

• Lush, green landscapes with dramatic skies

• Warm, humid conditions with occasional thunderstorms

• Lower visitor numbers = a more exclusive experience

🌿 Wildlife & Birding:

• Spectacular birding, with many migratory species present

• Game is more dispersed due to water availability — sightings require patience

• However, it’s calving season, so expect incredible predator-prey interactions

🌿 Pricing:

• Heavily discounted rates and strong value

• A great choice for those who can handle occasional rain and want a quieter experience

April to May – Shoulder Season (Post-Rains)

🌿 What to Expect:

• Mild, pleasant weather; cooler mornings and evenings

• Some late rains possible in early April

• Vegetation starts to thin, improving visibility for game viewing

🌿 Safari Conditions:

• The Okavango Delta begins to swell from floodwaters arriving from Angola

• Water-based activities like mokoro and boating become more viable in the north

🌿 Why Travel Now:

• A sweet spot for value, comfort, and early access to the Delta in transition

June to August – Dry Season & Delta in Full Flood

🌿 What to Expect:

• Crisp, clear skies and dry weather

• Cold mornings and nights — pack accordingly

• Peak safari season

🌿 Game Viewing:

• Excellent visibility as bush thins out

• Animals congregate around permanent water sources

• Prime time for Delta-based safaris with full water activities operational

🌿 Travel Demand:

• High season for international visitors

• Early booking is essential

September to November – Hot Season & Pre-Rains

🌿 What to Expect:

• Hot, dry conditions — temperatures climb significantly

• Rains typically begin late October into November

🌿 Wildlife Highlights:

• Game viewing is exceptional — animals gather around the last waterholes

• Predators are active and visible

• Birding picks up again with the return of early migrants

🌿 Delta Note:

• Water levels drop in many areas; water-based activities may be reduced or unavailable depending on camp location

🌿 Pro Tip:

• Not for the faint-hearted in terms of heat, but some of the most intense sightings happen now

Need Help Matching the Right Season to the Right Client?

Botswana isn’t a one-size-fits-all destination. We’ll help you match your clients' expectations with the right travel window, the right region, and the right product — so they don’t just have a good safari, they have the right safari.

👉 Contact us to discuss seasonality, availability, and product guidance tailored to your client profile.