5 day Botswana Safaris

Botswana is found in southern Africa, with Zimbabwe its border to the north-east, South Africa to the south and southeast, to the west and north by Namibia. It is connected to Zambia by the Kazungula Bridge, the shortest border between two countries in the globe.

Botswana’s landscape is characterised by the Kalahari Desert and the Okavango Delta, which transforms into a verdant animal habitat during seasonal flooding. The Kalahari Desert comprises approximately 70 percent of Botswana’s territory, which has a flat topography.

Botswana is regarded as not only one of the most exclusive safari destinations in Africa, but also one of the most extraordinary wilderness regions on the planet. As a safari destination, Botswana is difficult to surpass due to its vast protected wilderness areas, pristine landscapes, and abundance of wildlife.

You cannot see all of Botswana’s stunning wildlife, diverse landscapes, and rich culture in just two days. Due to Botswana’s size, it would take considerably longer to see everything it has to offer. A -5-day safari would allow you to see some of the wonderful landscapes and animal life found in Botswana.

Plan your itinerary meticulously and hire a knowledgeable guide from a reputable tour operator to maximise your trip.

What to Expect from a 5-day Safari in Botswana

If you five days available for a safari in Botswana, you can expect to visit one or maybe two of the following attractions:

Chobe National Park is Botswana’s third largest national park. It is located in the northern portion of Botswana, approximately one hour from Zimbabwe’s Victoria Falls. The park is famous for its enormous elephant populations. The best location to view wildlife is along the Chobe River, where you’ll find the greatest concentration of animals.

The Okavango Delta is also found in Northern Botswana. It is renowned for its vast expanses of grass that periodically flood, creating a thriving wildlife habitat.

Dugout canoes are utilised in this area to get through hippos, elephants, and crocodiles. This safari will have you isolated in a mokoro (canoe) in which you will explore the Okavango Delta’s waterways. This will also include a safari walk that will give you the ultimate African adventure.

The Makgadikgadi Pans, the world’s largest salt pans, are located in north-eastern Botswana in the heart of a dry savanna. It occupies an area of about 12 000 square km. The park’s grasslands draw thousands of creatures. It is one of the distinctive African views that is now a well-known tourist destination in Botswana.

The Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park is a large wildlife conservation area and straddles the border between South Africa and Botswana. The total area of the park is 38,000 square kilometres an approximately three-quarters of the park lies in Botswana and one-quarter in South Africa. Kgalagadi means, place of thirst and the terrain consists of red sand dunes, sparse vegetation, occasional trees, and the dry riverbeds of the Nossob and Auob Rivers.

Best Time to Go on a 5-day Safari in Botswana

The dry, primarily winter season, which runs from May to October, is the best time to visit Botswana since the weather is nice during the day, between 22°C to 35°C, and chilly at night.

It is also during this season that the Okavango Delta’s water levels are at their highest, resulting in the construction of rivers and channels.

Because the vegetation is dying back, the animals is congregating around the few surviving waterholes, making them easy to locate. Most animals, particularly carnivores, are also more active during the day.

Two Typical Itineraries of the Best 5-day / 4-Night Botswana Safari Packages

Itinerary 1 – Chobe National Park combined with the Okavango Delta

This suggested safari will have you spent 2 nights in Chobe and 2 nights in the Okavango Delta

Day 1 and 2 – You will be collected from the airport at Kasane, the closest entre point to Chobe National Park.
- Your guide will transfer you on 4×4 to Savuti on the border of Chobe for a 2-night stay at Savuti.
- You will rise early every morning and after some tea or coffee and snacks you will set out on a game drive into parts of Chobe National Park.
- Lunch will be served back at the camp and you can relax until your sunset drive.
- On return you can freshen up before supper is served.
Day 3 and 4 – You will rise early and pack to be transferred to the Moremi Game Reserve in the Okavango Delta.
- The drive will take you to the Okavango Delta to set up camp in Khwai.
- You will enjoy game drives in the area that encompasses of wetlands where water based activities are the best way to experience the flood plains.
- Breakfast, lunch and supper will be included as well as snacks on your trip.
Day 5 – You will rise early and pack to be transferred to Maun.
- After breakfast you will return to Maun and dropped off at the airport or your preferred accommodation.

Itinerary 2 – Central Kalahari Game Reserve

On this safari you will spend most of your time in the Kalahari Game Reserve.

Day 1 – Travelling to the Kalahari Games Reserve is about a five-hour drive from Maun, your point of entry.
- Your guide will pick you up at the airport and transfer you to your accommodation for the one night. You will have the opportunity to explore Maun.

Day 2 – You will rise early and enjoy breakfast.
- It is a long drive to the Central Kalahari Game Reserve and no specific activities will be planned.
- You will arrive at your destination, have time to unpack and relax.
- You might go on a sunset game drive before enjoying supper under the starlit skies.
Day 3 and 4 – You will rise early and enjoy breakfast.
- You will enjoy game drives in the morning and late afternoon.
- Lunch and dinner will be served at the lodge or camp and you will have ample time to relax and enjoy your surrounding bush.
Day 5 – You will rise early and enjoy breakfast.
- It is time to pack up and embark on the long travel back to Maun.
- On your way you might have the opportunity to visit other places of interest.

You will be dropped off at the airport or hotel of choice.

Budget vs Luxury 5-day Safaris in Botswana

On a budget safari in Botswana lasting five days, you will most likely stay in a lodge or camp that is rustic but secure for your lodging. You will still be accommodated in rooms that include private toilets, but you should be prepared to forego the use of other conveniences. Buses or open-air safari vehicles would most likely serve as your form of transportation during this trip.

During your five-day luxury safari in Botswana, you will most likely stay in a luxurious lodge each night. The majority of the time, the lodging will be of the highest possible quality, complete with private bathrooms and every imaginable convenience. You will indulge in high-end cuisine and be pampered in a variety of other ways as well.

What Should I Pack for a 5-day Safari in Botswana

For a 5-day safari you will basically only need to pack the following:

Clothing that will be sufficient for the reigning weather conditions.
Walking shoes.
Lightweight jacket.
Sunscreen and bug repellent.
A hat and sunglasses.
Binoculars and camera.
Any medication required.

Tips for Going on a 5-day Safari in Botswana

When you plan your trip, think about what exactly it is you want to see on your 5-day trip. Botswana has many different attractions, so make sure you pick one that fits your needs.

Botswana can be hot and sticky, so pack carefully and bring only what you need since you will travel long distances.

Bring a camera with you to capture your memories.

Selecting a Tour Operator for a 5-Day Safari in Botswana

If you want to go on a safari in Botswana, the first thing you should do is find a good tour operator.

You need to discuss your needs and wishes in depth and know exactly what you’re paying for. A short safari will still be expensive, so you should be able to get all of your questions answered.

Make sure you know what you want to get out of your trip. Is it the animals or the scenery that you want to see the most?

FAQ’s

What must-see wildlife viewing locations in Botswana will I be able to visit on a 5-day safari?

On a 5-day safari in Botswana you may only be able to visit the country’s famous Chobe National Park, the Okavango Delta or the Kalahari Game Reserve.

What will I be able to visit during a 5-day safari in Botswana?

During a 5-day safari in Botswana you will most probably visit a game park where you can enjoy one or two game drives and perhaps safari walks.

Is a 5-day safari feasible in Botswana?

Yes, a 5-day safari in Botswana is feasible as it should allow you to visit at least one or two of the country’s iconic attractions. Due to vast distances, you should ideally spend at least 7 days to explore most of the tourist attractions.

What kind of accommodations can I expect while on a 5-day safari in Botswana?

You can expect accommodation options that range from basic camping to luxurious safari lodges, depending on what you can afford.

How long does it take to travel between destinations in Botswana?

It can take from a few hours to a whole day to travel between the popular tourism destinations in Botswana.