Botswana 2 Day Itinerary

2-Day Botswana Itinerary: A Taste of the Wild

This itinerary provides a glimpse into Botswana’s incredible wildlife and natural beauty. It’s ideal for those with limited time who want to experience a classic safari element.

Day 1:

  • Morning: Arrive at Maun Airport (MUB).

    • Visa: Check visa requirements for your nationality before traveling. Many nationalities can enter Botswana visa-free for tourism purposes for up to 90 days. Others may need a visa, which can often be obtained on arrival or online. (https://www.botswanatourism.co.bw/ - check visa requirements here)

  • Travel: Take a short flight from Maun to the Okavango Delta (flights are a common and scenic way to access lodges in the Delta).

  • Afternoon:

    • Activity: Arrive at your chosen lodge within the Okavanga Delta. Enjoy a boat trip through the waterways, experiencing the unique ecosystem and spotting wildlife like hippos, crocodiles, and various bird species.

Day 2:

  • Morning:

    • Option 1: Mokoro Excursion: Explore the tranquil waterways of the Okavango Delta on a traditional dugout canoe, known as a mokoro. Enjoy a peaceful and scenic ride with local guides who will point out the diverse wildlife along the way.
    • Option 2: Walking Safari: Experience the thrill of walking through the wilderness with an experienced guide, encountering smaller creatures and learning about the bush from the ground up.

  • Travel: Enjoy a final glimpse of the Okavango Delta’s beauty as you take a scenic walking tour through its diverse landscapes.

  • Evening:

    • Activity: Embark on a thrilling game drive, led by knowledgeable guides who can help you spot the Big Five (lion, elephant, leopard, rhino, and buffalo) and other fascinating animals.

Things to know:

  • Seasonality: This itinerary is best suited for the dry season (May-October), when wildlife viewing in the Delta is at its peak.
  • Accommodation: Consider staying at a luxurious lodge within the Okavanga Delta, allowing yourself to be immersed in the natural beauty and tranquility of the destination.

Other Safari Activities:

  • Okavango Delta: This itinerary assumes you are already in the Okavanga Delta area. If you’re interested in customizing it for a specific location, let me know!
  • Game Viewing: The Okavango Delta is renowned for its wildlife. You can expect to see elephants, hippos, lions, giraffes, zebras, crocodiles, and various bird species.

Important Notes:

  • Budget: This itinerary assumes you’re looking for a budget-friendly option. For a more luxurious experience, consider upgrading your accommodation and adding additional activities like helicopter rides or private boat trips.
  • Wildlife: While the Delta is home to abundant wildlife, sightings are not guaranteed. Remember to respect the animals and their environment.

Optional Destinations:

  • Chobe National Park: Known for its large elephant herds, Chobe National Park can be easily accessed from Kasane and offers excellent safari opportunities in a smaller timeframe.
  • Makgadikgadi Pans National Park: This unique landscape is perfect for exploring the history and beauty of Botswana’s vast salt pans.

Tips for Customization:

  • Budget: Consider your budget and adjust the activities accordingly.
  • Interests: Do you have any specific interests? For example, if you are a bird enthusiast, you can request a guided walking tour focused on birding.
  • Travel Style: Do you prefer a more adventurous or relaxed safari experience? You can choose between traditional game drives and more unique activities like boat safaris, mokoro rides (traditional canoe), and bush walks.

Remember:

  • This itinerary focuses on wildlife viewing, but there are many other things to do in Botswana, such as visiting the cultural villages, exploring the salt pans, or learning about the country’s rich history and culture.

  • Pack light, lightweight clothing in neutral colors for a 2-day trip. You can wear layers to adjust to the changing temperatures.

  • Consider the time of year:**

    • Dry season (May-October): Best for wildlife viewing as animals congregate around water sources.

This itinerary provides a framework for exploring the Okavango Delta.

Remember to:

  • Book in advance: The Okavango Delta is a popular destination, so it’s important to book your safari and accommodation well in advance.
  • Check the weather: The Delta can be visited year-round, but it’s best to check the weather forecast before you go, as some activities may be unavailable during periods of heavy rain or high water levels.

Enjoy the experience!

Remember to bring:

  • Binoculars for the best wildlife viewing
  • A camera with a good zoom lens
  • Sunscreen and a hat, as the sun can be strong in the Okavango Delta
  • Insect repellent
  • Comfortable walking shoes (for the walking safari)
  • Long pants and long-sleeved shirts (for protection against mosquitoes)

For a longer trip:

  • You can experience:**

    • Safari Game Drives: Explore the vastness of the Okavango Delta by mokoro (a traditional dugout canoe), enjoying a unique perspective from the water.

  • Consider a private safari: For a more personalized and intimate experience, book a private game drive with a guide who can tailor the itinerary to your interests and desired pace.