When planning a safari in Botswana, timing is crucial for optimal wildlife viewing. Many travelers suggest visiting during the dry season, from May to September, as this period offers the best game viewing opportunities. Key areas to focus on include the Okavango Delta, Chobe National Park, and Linyanti Concessions.

Accommodation options vary widely from luxury lodges to budget-friendly camps. Travelers have highlighted that staying within private concessions can offer a more exclusive and less crowded experience, though these tend to be more expensive. Mobile safaris are also popular, providing a more adventurous experience moving through different parks.

For those considering a self-drive safari, a 4x4 vehicle is essential due to Botswana’s challenging terrains, especially in remote areas and national parks. Self-driving allows more flexibility and potentially lower costs, but travelers should be skilled in 4x4 driving and prepared for the rugged conditions.

While self-driving offers independence and potential cost savings, several travelers have noted that guided safaris can enhance the experience through expert knowledge of wildlife and regions. Guides can navigate difficult terrains and enhance animal spotting opportunities, making them worth the additional expense for many.

Overall, planning for a safari in Botswana requires considering your budget, preferred style of travel, and what wildlife experiences are most important to you. Researching and possibly booking through reputable safari operators can ensure a well-organized and memorable safari experience.

In the Okavango Delta, accommodation options range from luxury lodges to more budget-friendly camps. Some travelers mentioned high-end options costing around USD $1,100 per person per night, while others have found mid-range accommodations like Oddballs, Moremi Crossing, and Pom Pom. These are more affordable yet still provide a decent level of comfort and access to safari experiences.

According to forum posts, local tour operators such as Lelobu Safaris come highly recommended for organizing stays within the Delta. These operators offer packages that can include accommodations, activities, and even transfers, helping to simplify the planning process for visitors.

For those on a tighter budget, mobile safaris and community-run concessions like those in Khwai, which offer accommodations such as Sango Safari Camp or Khwai Guest House, were suggested. These options are noted for their good animal viewing opportunities, providing a balance between cost and experience.

According to forum posts, Maun offers a variety of lodging options ranging from luxury to more budget-friendly choices. Some travelers mentioned staying at lodges and tented camps that are accessible by car, which can be an important consideration for those planning self-drive safaris.

For many users, finding accommodation in Maun seems straightforward with multiple choices available. Specific recommendations or mentions were not detailed in the posts, but the general consensus is that securing a place to stay in Maun is not a challenge, catering to a range of budgets and preferences.

According to forum posts, the primary currency used in Botswana is the Botswana Pula (BWP). While US Dollars are also accepted, especially in tourist areas and for tips at lodges, it is advisable to use the local currency for everyday transactions.

Travelers have called out that obtaining Pula outside of Botswana can be challenging. It is recommended to withdraw Pula from ATMs located in major towns like Maun and Kasane upon arrival in Botswana. Credit cards are also widely accepted in these areas.

For many users, having a mix of Pula and US Dollars is beneficial, particularly for tipping and small purchases at camps. It's suggested to carry some cash as a backup since remote areas might not have ATM or credit card facilities readily available.

According to forum posts, Airlink offers two non-stop flights per day from Johannesburg to Maun in late November. Additionally, Fastjet operates a direct service from Victoria Falls to Maun starting June 2022, with flights scheduled four times a week.

For many users, flight options from Windhoek to Maun are scheduled to commence from April 2024, as mentioned in the posts. However, some travelers have noted that this operation has been delayed to July 2024 and is not yet open for booking.

Some travelers said that Mack Air, a Botswana-based charter company, offers flights from Kasane to Maun. This is a charter option and might be pricier than regular scheduled flights.

According to forum posts, travelers looking to fly from Windhoek to Maun currently have to connect via Johannesburg or Cape Town due to the lack of direct flights. This routing makes the journey longer and potentially more expensive.

For self-driving in Botswana, a well-equipped 4x4 vehicle is essential, especially for navigating through challenging terrains like deep sand in areas such as Savuti or during the rainy season in places like the Central Kalahari Game Reserve. It's advisable to have two spare tires, a pump for adjusting tire pressure, and potentially a satellite phone for emergencies, as cellular service can be unreliable in remote areas.

Travelers have highlighted the importance of planning routes and accommodations well in advance, particularly when traveling during peak seasons or to popular destinations like Moremi Game Reserve and Chobe National Park. Booking accommodations early is crucial as options can be limited inside the national parks, and prices vary significantly.

Sticking to well-defined tracks is crucial for safety, especially during the rainy season when off-track areas can become hazardous. Navigation can be challenging, and carrying physical maps or GPS navigable maps from sources like Tracks4Africa can be extremely helpful. Being prepared for self-sufficiency in remote areas, including carrying sufficient water and fuel, is essential.

Engaging with community resources like the 4x4community.co.za forum can provide additional insights and up-to-date information from experienced self-drivers, which can enhance preparedness and safety for your journey.

According to forum posts, travelers planning a trip to Victoria Falls from Botswana often consider direct flights from places like Maun to Victoria Falls as a convenient option. Additionally, road transfers are commonly used, with services such as buses and taxis available, which can be organized through local accommodations or specialized transfer companies.

For many users, staying in nearby areas like Kasane offers easy access to both Chobe National Park and Victoria Falls. Travelers have called out the benefits of arranging day trips to Victoria Falls from Kasane. Accommodations in these areas range from budget to luxury, catering to different traveler needs.

Some travelers said that combining a visit to Victoria Falls with a safari in Chobe National Park is a popular option. This allows visitors to experience both the natural wonder of the falls and the rich wildlife of Botswana in a single trip.

According to forum posts, Chobe National Park offers game drives and river cruises as popular ways to explore its wildlife. Some travelers recommend staying overnight in Kasane to experience sunset cruises and early morning game drives, which allow for wildlife observations at different times of the day.

For those interested in a more independent experience, self-driving in Chobe is an option. Several users discussed arranging 4x4 rentals for self-drive tours through the park. This offers flexibility in travel and the opportunity to explore at one's own pace.

Many users have highlighted the availability of guided day tours from nearby towns like Kasane and Victoria Falls. These tours often include transportation, a guide, and sometimes meals, providing a hassle-free way to experience Chobe.

Travelers have mentioned various accommodation options outside the park in Kasane, which is conveniently located about 7 minutes from the park gate. This proximity allows easy access for day trips into Chobe without the high cost of staying inside the park.