Big Five – FeedBotswana is one of the most sparsely populated countries in Africa – in terms of people. When it comes to wildlife, though, you will find a variety of awe-inspiring and interesting residents. From antelopes and wildebeest to elephants and African wild dog, Botswana offers visitors incredible vistas and opportunity to see nature at its finest.
When in Botswana, hit the following wildlife hotspots:
Chobe National Park, Chobe District
The most famous wildlife viewing area in Botswana is the Chobe National Park, which covers over 11,000 square kilometers (4,247 square miles). It has a number of designations, including being the first national park in Botswana. While it is the third largest, it boasts the most diversity. Here, you will find the largest number of African elephants in the world. The Kalahari Elephants are the largest elephants in the world, so have your camera at the ready. Keep your eyes open for antelope, giraffe, Cape buffalo, warthogs, kudus, impalas, lions, zebra, hyenas, leopards, hippos, and scores of bird species. Your Chobe safari can include driving and activities, as well as accommodations.
Moremi Game Reserve, Okavango Delta
The big cats and predators hold immense interest for us. We are fascinated by their strength, speed, agility, beauty, and power. Moremi Game Reserve, in Northern Botswana, offers “predator safaris,” your chance to see these incredible creatures without the comfort of zoo walls. You will also see a number of other species, including wildebeests, black and white rhinos, hippos, Nile crocodiles, and some 400 species of birds. Guided tours are available in the park, and intrepid travelers can opt for self-drive tours as well.
Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park
This park is on the border of Botswana and Namibia. The country’s first “transfrontier park,” South Africa and Botswana have come together to protect wildlife. This is a great choice if you’d rather see more animals than people. You can see wildebeest, eland abound, meerkats, leopards, and gorgeous black-maned lions. The elusive cheetah is also a resident, and you might spot some by rivers as they hunt. Birdwatchers will be in heaven, especially if they enjoy seeing birds of prey in action.
The Kalahari Desert sprawls over 70 percent of Botswana; in those areas touched by rivers and lakes, a rich ecosystem exists and is home to a wealth of animals. A premium African safari destination, Botswana is a must for those who want to see animals most others only see in zoos or photos.
