Best Time to Visit Botswana (Weather, Events, & More)

Planning your next African adventure and wondering about the best time to visit Botswana? This gem of Southern Africa, known for its stunning wildlife and pristine landscapes, offers unique experiences throughout the year. Whether you're looking to explore the lush Okavango Delta or witness the epic zebra migration in the Makgadikgadi Pans, timing your visit right can enhance your experience. Let's dive into the details to help you decide when to book your trip to Botswana.

Best Overall Time to Visit Botswana

If you're pondering the best time to visit Botswana, aim for the dry months between May and October. During this period, the weather is pleasantly mild, and the wildlife viewing is at its peak, especially near waterholes and rivers. This is when animals gather in large numbers, making it an ideal time for safari enthusiasts to witness Botswana's diverse wildlife in action.

Visiting Botswana during the low season, which spans from November to April, has its pros and cons. On the upside, you'll benefit from fewer crowds and lower prices, which can make your trip more peaceful and budget-friendly. However, the cons include the chance of heavy rainfall, which can restrict mobility and access to certain parks, and some lodges may even close during this period. Moreover, the lush vegetation can make wildlife harder to spot.

Monthly Overview of Botswana

Detailed Monthly Analysis

Here’s what to expect in Botswana in each month of the year:

Botswana in January

Visiting Botswana in January means you're arriving during the heart of the wet season. The landscape transforms into a vibrant, lush green, teeming with life. While it's true that you might encounter frequent showers, these typically occur as short, heavy bursts, often in the afternoon. This pattern can provide clear mornings and evenings, perfect for wildlife viewing and other activities.

• Average Temperature: 25°C / 77°F
• Days of Rainfall: 17 days
• Season: Wet season
• Cost: Moderate
• Activities: Bird watching, game drives in the early morning or late evening, visiting the Okavango Delta

Botswana in February

Visiting Botswana in February means you're right in the heart of the green season. The landscapes are vibrant and wildlife is thriving, making it a spectacular time for photography and nature lovers. Keep in mind, though, that it's also one of the wettest months, so prepare for frequent showers and potentially challenging travel conditions in more remote areas.

• Average Temperature: 25°C / 77°F
• Days of Rainfall: 15 days
• Season: Wet season
• Cost: Moderate
• Activities: Bird watching, game drives in the Central Kalahari Game Reserve, visiting the Okavango Delta

Botswana in March

Visiting Botswana in March is a unique experience as it's the tail end of the wet season. The landscape is vibrant and teeming with life, making it a great time for photography and nature enthusiasts. While you might encounter some rain showers, they are generally short and refreshing, perfect for cooling down the warm days.

• Average Temperature: 30°C / 86°F
• Days of Rainfall: 8 days
• Season: Wet season
• Cost: Moderate
• Activities: Bird watching, delta safaris, photography tours

Botswana in April

Visiting Botswana in April is a delightful experience as it marks the transition from the wet to the dry season. The landscape is vibrant and teeming with life, making it a fantastic time for photography and nature walks. While there might be some rainfall, it typically decreases as the month progresses, allowing more consistent opportunities for wildlife viewing.

• Average Temperature: 25°C / 77°F
• Days of Rainfall: 4-6 days
• Season: Transition from wet to dry season
• Cost: Moderate
• Activities: Game drives, bird watching, photography tours, visiting the Okavango Delta

Botswana in May

Visiting Botswana in May is a delightful experience as you catch the tail end of the wet season transitioning into the dry. The landscape is still lush and vibrant, wildlife viewing begins to peak, and the weather is comfortably mild, making it perfect for various outdoor activities.

• Average Temperature: 23°C / 73°F
• Days of Rainfall: 4 days
• Season: Transition from wet to dry season
• Cost: Moderate
• Activities: Game drives in national parks, boat trips in the Okavango Delta, bird watching

Botswana in June

Visiting Botswana in June is a delight as you're right in the middle of the dry season. The weather is cooler, making it perfect for wildlife viewing, as animals congregate around waterholes. The skies are clear, and the landscape, though becoming drier, still retains much of its beauty.

• Average Temperature: 20°C / 68°F
• Days of Rainfall: 1 day
• Season: Dry season
• Cost: High
• Activities: Safari game drives, boat trips in the Okavango Delta, visiting the Chobe National Park

Botswana in July

Visiting Botswana in July is a delight for those who enjoy cooler temperatures and less crowded tourist spots. It's the heart of the dry season, offering clear, sunny days that are perfect for wildlife viewing, as animals congregate around the dwindling water sources.

• Average Temperature: 22°C / 72°F
• Days of Rainfall: 0 days
• Season: Dry season
• Cost: High
• Activities: Safari game drives, Okavango Delta mokoro trips, wildlife photography, visiting the Chobe National Park

Botswana in August

Visiting Botswana in August is a real treat, especially if you're a fan of wildlife and cooler temperatures. August falls in the dry season, making it one of the best times to visit for safari adventures. The weather is mild and dry, and the sparse vegetation and limited water sources bring animals to predictable spots, enhancing your chances of spotting the Big Five.

• Average Temperature: 25°C / 77°F
• Days of Rainfall: 0 days
• Season: Dry season
• Cost: High
• Activities: Game drives in Chobe National Park, boat cruises on the Okavango Delta, visiting the San Bushmen in the Kalahari Desert

Botswana in September

Visiting Botswana in September is a truly magical experience as you're catching the tail end of the dry season. The weather is warm and wildlife viewing is at its peak, making it one of the best times to explore the national parks and witness the natural beauty of the region.

• Average Temperature: 33°C / 91°F
• Days of Rainfall: 2 days
• Season: Dry season
• Cost: High
• Activities: Game drives in Chobe National Park, boat trips on the Okavango Delta, visiting the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans

Botswana in October

Visiting Botswana in October is a unique experience as it marks the transition from the dry to the wet season. The landscape begins to transform with the early rains, making it a great time to witness the rejuvenation of flora and fauna. The weather is hot, but the increasing cloud cover can provide a respite from the intense sun.

• Average Temperature: 33°C / 91°F
• Days of Rainfall: 4 days
• Season: Transition from dry to wet season
• Cost: Moderate
• Activities: Game viewing in national parks, bird watching, photography tours

Botswana in November

Visiting Botswana in November is a unique experience as it marks the beginning of the wet season. The landscape starts to transform with the early rains, making it a great time to see the country bloom. Wildlife viewing is still excellent, especially as animals congregate around the remaining water sources, and the birdwatching becomes particularly rewarding with migratory birds arriving.

• Average Temperature: 33°C / 91°F
• Days of Rainfall: 9 days
• Season: Wet season
• Cost: Moderate
• Activities: Birdwatching, game drives, visiting the Okavango Delta

Botswana in December

Visiting Botswana in December is quite the adventure! It's the beginning of the wet season, so the landscape transforms into a vibrant, lush environment. While you might encounter some rain, it's a great time to see the country in its most natural state, with wildlife congregating around the water sources and newborn animals making their first appearances.

• Average Temperature: 30°C / 86°F
• Days of Rainfall: 10 days
• Season: Wet season
• Cost: Moderate
• Activities: Game drives to see newborn wildlife, bird watching, photography tours

Special Events in Botswana to Look Out For

Maitisong Festival

• Date: Late March to Early April
• Description: Botswana’s largest arts festival, held in Gaborone, featuring a mix of music, dance, theatre, and poetry, attracting both local and international artists.

Toyota Kalahari Botswana 1000 Desert Race

• Date: June
• Description: A thrilling off-road race through the Kalahari Desert, part of the South African Cross Country Series, drawing competitors and spectators from across the continent.

Kuru Dance Festival

• Date: August
• Description: Held in D'Kar, this festival celebrates the rich culture of the San people with traditional music, dance, and storytelling.

Botswana Day Celebrations

• Date: September 30th
• Description: National holiday commemorating Botswana's independence from Britain in 1966, marked by parades, music, and dancing across the country.

Maun Festival

• Date: October
• Description: A cultural event in the town of Maun, showcasing local music, dance, and crafts, celebrating the heritage of the Ngamiland region.

Dithubaruba Cultural Festival

• Date: August
• Description: Held in Molepolole, this festival features traditional Setswana music, dance, poetry, and history, promoting cultural heritage and unity.

Son of the Soil

• Date: February
• Description: A cultural revival event that encourages Batswana to celebrate and embrace their culture through traditional attire, music, and dance.

Pro Tips for Traveling to Botswana

• Cash Over Cards: While major hotels and shops accept credit cards, carrying cash is essential in remote areas and for small purchases.

• Tipping Customs: Tipping is not obligatory but appreciated. Consider tipping around 10% at restaurants and for services if you're pleased with the experience.

• Drink Bottled Water: Always opt for bottled water as tap water is not safe to drink throughout Botswana.

• Public Transport Tips: Public transport is limited; renting a car or using safari tour operators is recommended for traveling between cities and exploring national parks.

• Cultural Sensitivity: Be respectful of local customs and traditions. Dress modestly in rural and traditional areas, and always ask permission before photographing people.

• Try Local Cuisine: Don’t miss trying traditional dishes like Seswaa (pounded meat), Morogo (wild spinach), and Pap (maize porridge).

• Greeting Etiquette: When meeting locals, a friendly greeting in Setswana, such as "Dumela mma/rra" (Hello madam/sir), shows respect and is appreciated.

• Wildlife Safety: Always maintain a safe distance from wildlife, especially during safaris; follow the guidance of your tour operator.

• Shopping and Bargaining: Bargaining is common in markets; start your offer at about half the price and negotiate from there, but do so respectfully.

• Health Precautions: Consult with a travel clinic for necessary vaccinations and anti-malarial medication well in advance of your trip.

Botswana Travel FAQ

Do I need a visa to visit Botswana?
Most travelers need a visa to enter Botswana, and it's advisable to obtain it before your trip. Citizens from certain countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and most Commonwealth countries, can get a 90-day tourist visa on arrival. Always check the latest visa requirements specific to your country before traveling.

What currency is used in Botswana?
The Botswana Pula (BWP) is the official currency. While major credit cards are accepted in urban areas and at large hotels, it's wise to carry some cash, especially when traveling to remote areas.

What should I pack for a trip to Botswana?
Lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended due to the warm climate. Include a mix of long sleeves and pants to protect against mosquitoes. Don't forget a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. For safari trips, pack neutral-colored clothing to blend in with the environment. Also, bring a good pair of binoculars and a camera with a zoom lens to capture wildlife from a safe distance.

Do I need to speak the local language to visit Botswana?
English is the official language and is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas and cities. However, learning a few phrases in Setswana, the national language, can enhance your interaction with locals.

Is Botswana safe for tourists?
Botswana is considered one of the safest countries in Africa. However, it's always important to exercise common sense and take standard safety precautions. Keep valuables secure and be cautious in less populated or unfamiliar areas.

Is Botswana accessible for travelers with disabilities?
Accessibility can be challenging in Botswana, especially in remote areas and some wildlife reserves. Urban areas and modern hotels usually offer better facilities for those with disabilities, but it's a good idea to check with service providers and accommodations in advance regarding specific needs.

What type of outlet is used in Botswana?
Botswana uses Type G electrical outlets, the same three-pronged design used in the United Kingdom. The standard voltage is 230V. Travelers should bring adapters if their devices don't fit Type G sockets.

What is the best time to visit Botswana?
The best time to visit Botswana is during the dry season, from April to October, when wildlife congregates around water sources, making it easier to spot them. This period also has less mosquito activity, which reduces the risk of malaria.

Can I drink the tap water in Botswana?
It's generally advised to drink bottled water rather than tap water, especially for travelers unaccustomed to the local water supply. Bottled water is widely available and relatively inexpensive.

What are the must-see attractions in Botswana?
Don't miss the Okavango Delta for a unique water-based safari and the chance to see a diverse range of wildlife. Chobe National Park is famous for its large elephant population. For a taste of the Kalahari Desert, visit the Central Kalahari Game Reserve, which offers stunning landscapes and wildlife viewing opportunities.