Botswana Tours in September 2026

I can’t put into words how incredible the Southern Africa safari was. From start to finish, it was better than I could have expected. Seeing the big 5 in their natural habitat was a highlight. Every game drive brought something new and unforgettable, the beauty of the landscapes and all of the wildlife sightings made every moment feel surreal. Jesse the trip manager made the trip what it was, so knowledgeable, organised, and genuinely passionate about wildlife and culture. He took care of every detail, so we could completely enjoy the journey. From sharing interesting facts and stories during long drives to accomodating everyone’s needs made the whole adventure seamless and special. Cant thank the time and effort he put into this trip enough. The most unexpected gift of this safari was the incredible group of fellow travelers I met along the way. Sharing these weeks with such amazing people, now lifelong friends, was something I never saw coming, but will forever treasure. While i truly enjoyed the overall safari experience and appreciated the efforts of the team, i felt that a few of the game drives, given their significance to the experience, would have been better included as part of the main package rather than offered as optional add-ons. Including them upfront would have provided a more seamless and complete safari experience.

Joe was a great leader. Keeping us in check, and providing us with a wealth of knowledge in both animal and bird life. His tracking skills were second to none. Camping was basic, but it allowed closer encounters with wildlife. Being sent to sleep with the sounds of lions and hippos was special. The itinerary was really well thought through, providing days of luxury between days of camping. Great food cooked on open fires, with all camp teams helpful and friendly. All in all a great experience. Botswana, you were special. Would recommend.

If you like African wildlife and don't mind the camping, a bit of dust and a bumpy road, this could be the trip for you. Bibi (our tour leader / driver / guide / game tracker / spotter / fountain of wildlife information) was amazingly good. His tracking skills are legendary - on one occasion he even tracked a rental vehicle down that had a puncture in the midst of a game reserve! The driver was clearly unaware and had wrecked the tyre by driving with it. We saw most of the "Big 5" multiple times including 4 different leopards and a pack of wild dogs with playful pups. Lots of other wildlife & birds too. We also saw 5 fresh kills with the predators still close by. Close viewing contact with the wildlife is likely. Be prepared for 2,500km of mainly ungraded dirt and gravel tracks! The accommodation alternates between 'glamping' and camping. This allows you to periodically get properly refreshed. The camp team conjured up fantastic meals in the middle of nowhere. The house boat experience was a bit of let down. The house boat cruise was about 2km along a 50-100m wide river. However we did do a boat trip in narrower channels from it. For me, Moremi was more delta-ish than the house boat area. The (optional) boat trip in Chobe was fantastic. Victoria Falls was a great start & end to the trip. Have lunch at the Victoria Safari Lodge for the feeding of vultures (1pm) rather than the Lookout Restaurant Cafe. Tips - A ski / face mask is advisable for the long transfer days to keep dust & wind out of the eyes. Wrap around sunglasses as a minimum. The vehicle is open sided and is capable of 80+kmph on tarred roads! - A sports bra would make travelling more comfortable for those well endowed. The dirt roads can be rather bouncy. - Apart from the tip kitty, guide tip and Chobe boat trip (do it!), we scarcely spent any cash. Rest was on 'plastic'. - Take a "Pocket Naturalist Guide - South Africa Wildlife" to help ID wildlife and birds.

The Explore Botswana Wildlife trip was totally amazing. So well planned with a gradual 'break in' to wild camping and a lovely lodge experience afterwards before the houseboat trip and ending back at the luxurious Batonka Lodge for two nights. Our Tour Guide, Joe was simply fantastic. Due to his extensive knowledge of the tracks/terrain and his understanding of animal behaviours we were able to see so many wild animals close up. Furthermore, Joe always had a flask of hot water and biscuits for a break during our game drives. In addition, at each location where we stayed the local 'crews' were brilliant. So helpful and happy. The food was delicious. For me, 'wild camping' was tough - I missed running water and a flashing toilet. This said, the wild camping ensured we saw a variety of animals in their natural surroundings at close range. I also found the 5.30am starts a challenge but again, the early mornings ensured we saw as many animals as possible. Plus we witnessed some fantastic sunrises and sunsets. We also had 'free time' most afternoons. The three young men who looked after the camp and made all our meals were great, as was the food, all made on an open fire. I highly recommend this trip. What a wonderful holiday where many happy memories were made and new friendships formed.

Once in a life time experience. The African safari has been on my bucket list for many years and the trip did not disappoint. To photograph the wildlife so close was an amazing opportunity. The beauty of the landscape and people was outstanding. Cherished memories made.

An amazing experience. Beautiful sunrises and sunsets, traveling through various landscapes and getting to watch the animals and their behaviors up close. At the end of the day, retiring to deluxe accommodation to review treasured photographs, reliving the day?s experiences. Many wonderful memories were created during the Southern Africa Safari Experience,