Botswana's distinct wet and dry seasons are the primary architects of its travel patterns, profoundly influencing both wildlife viewing conditions and safari pricing. Understanding these cycles is key to planning a trip that aligns with your priorities, whether that's peak game viewing or optimal value.
The dry winter months, spanning June through October, represent Botswana's high season. During this period, water sources are scarce, drawing animals to permanent rivers and waterholes, which makes for exceptional game viewing opportunities. However, this high demand translates to significantly higher safari costs and more crowded camps.
Conversely, the hot, wet summer from December to March is the low season. While challenging for traditional game viewing due to dense vegetation and scattered wildlife, this period offers lush, vibrant landscapes, incredible birding, and a dramatic reduction in prices. The shoulder periods, typically April-May and November, provide a compelling balance, offering good wildlife sightings, fewer crowds, and better value than peak season.