Botswana-7-day-itinerary

Botswana Travel Itinerary (7 Days)

Day 1: Arrival in Maun

Places to Go:

  • Maun: A small town known for its beautiful scenery and access points to the Okavango Delta.

Activities:

  • Arrive at Maun’s local airport.
  • Check into your hotel or lodge, which can be booked in advance.
  • Spend the day exploring the nearby Khwai River and its surroundings for a brief introduction to Botswana’s natural beauty.

Things to Know:

  • Currency: The Pula (BWP) is the official currency of Botswana. It’s best to have some local currency with you or exchange your money at the airport.
  • Language: English, but many locals speak Setswana and sometimes other languages like Afrikaans or French.

Visa Requirements:

For most international visitors, a visa on arrival is available for tourism purposes. However, it’s recommended to check with your travel agent or consult Botswana’s embassy in your home country for the latest information.

Day 2-3: Okavango Delta

Places to Go:

  • Okavango Delta: One of the world’s largest inland deltas and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is famous for its unique waterways, wildlife, and scenic beauty.

Activities:

  • Take a boat tour through the delta’s channels.
  • Engage in game viewing, either from your lodge or on walking safaris in designated areas.

Things to Know:

  • Safety: The delta can be dangerous during floods due to strong currents. Guides are usually aware of these conditions and will advise you accordingly.
  • Best Time: June and September are the best times for water-based activities like boat tours, as there is less risk of flooding.

Day 4: Nxai Pan National Park

Places to Go:

  • Nxai Pan National Park: Known for its salt pans and unique geological formations. It’s a great place for viewing wildlife such as elephants, lions, and many bird species.

Activities:

  • Game drive within the park.
  • Spend time observing the natural wonders of the salt pan itself.

Things to Know:

  • Game Viewing: Nxai Pan is particularly good for seeing larger game, especially elephants.
  • Conservation Status: Some areas might be closed due to conservation efforts or maintenance. Guides will inform you about any restrictions.

Day 5: Makgadikgadi Pans

Places to Go:

  • Makgadikgadi Pans: Another large salt pan area that is home to the famous “zebra migration.” It’s also a site for witnessing the dance of termites on certain days, depending on weather conditions.

Activities:

  • Take a 4x4 drive across the pans.
  • Experience the vastness and unique natural phenomenon of these areas.

Things to Know:

  • Migration: The zebra migration is seasonal. Guides can tell you about the best times to visit for this spectacle.
  • Weather: Weather conditions affect the termite dance, so it’s wise to have a guide who knows when and where to go.

Day 6-7: Return to Maun

Places to Go:

  • Return to Maun: Spend your last days in Botswana exploring more of its natural beauty or doing some last-minute shopping for souvenirs.

Activities:

  • Engage in fishing on the Khwai River.
  • Visit the local market for a taste of Botswana’s culture and cuisine.

Transportation:

For land travel, consider renting 4x4 vehicles which are often necessary for off-road driving. For water activities like boat tours, most lodges will provide or arrange these for you as part of their packages.

Health Considerations:

  • Vaccinations: Consult your doctor about required vaccinations before traveling.
  • Safety Gear: When on land excursions or water activities, always wear the necessary safety gear such as life jackets and hats.

This itinerary provides a mix of natural wonders, game viewing, and cultural experiences that are unique to Botswana.