Joanna James
Botswana's vast wilderness is filled to the brim with countless and rewarding opportunities to spot and appreciate some of Africa's most sought-after species. Given are 5 safaris worth investing in.
Wildlife enthusiasts will soon discover that Botswana is home to the largest population of African elephants and none quite matches the adventure and magic that envelops the entirety of Chobe National Park. Once inside and having settled down to the journey ahead which is bound to be thrilling and fulfilling at the same time, travellers arriving during the dry season will be in prime position to catch a glimpse of these majestic creatures as the elephants are known to reside near the banks of the Chobe River. Almost 50,000 elephants call Chobe home and if one is lucky, you may encounter these animals delighting in mud baths while some of them ward off the threat of encroaching lions and hippos. All in all, an outstanding time awaits those keen on spotting the African elephant in its natural habitat in beautiful Botswana.
Not far off from where the elephants reside will be the area referred to as the Savute Region of the Chobe National Park where the 'King of the Jungle' reigns supreme and can be seen on the prowl or lazing around for a majority of the day. Given the landscape that consists of grassy plains and dry savannah, it isn't rocket science to understand how the Savute lions could have brought down an elephant; a feat which is etched in local history as a 'first.' The said conditions are ideal for ambushes but let not this thought deter you from venturing further inland where the finer details of the country's largest lion concentration will be on show.
Give yourself the best chance of spotting the elusive leopard species when at the Mashatu Game Reserve which is arguably, the 'go-to' destination in all of Botswana for such experiences. The Reserve is made up of granite rocky outcrops that blend in perfectly with the surrounding vegetation and further, set the stage for leopard sightings that are known to occur in and around these outcrops. In terms of advice, consider embarking on a guided walking tour that will soon have you passing by the river beds of Limpopo River and of course, many Mashatu trees en route to encountering the leopard which is by far, the main reason for spending time within the Reserve.
The endangered rhino including the remarkable black rhino species is known to roam throughout the Moremi Game Reserve which features southern Africa's sole inland delta referred to as the Okavango Delta. For the keen wildlife lover and outdoor fan, the Reserve presents countless avenues to meander along taking in the ambience where papyrus-lined lagoons, mopane woodlands, and acacia forests exist in perfect harmony. Other than encounters with rhinos whose territories must be respected at all times, travellers can also look to exploring more sections of the Delta with morning boat rides a popular means of getting up close and personal with the numerous water birds that live here.
If one was to remain in the area of the Okavango Delta, then an added thrill awaits you. In fact, the portion of the Northern Okavango Delta is where thousands of cape buffalo dwell and might be seen feeding off the Duba Plains. A walking safari will afford ease of access to these species which are commonly spotted drinking from water holes whilst keeping their eyes open for lions which are an ever-present threat to the large herds of Northern Okavango. Further, should you be looking out for accommodation to spend your holiday in Botswana from where similar safari trips can be reached, consider Avani Gaborone Resort & Casino which is also home to many things to do in Gaborone.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
