Botswana’s Lesser Known Destinations and Why You Should Be Visiting Them!

Botswana is a treasure trove of hidden gems waiting to be explored by adventurous travelers seeking authentic and unforgettable safari experiences.

While Botswana is celebrated worldwide for iconic spots like the Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park, this vast and diverse country holds so much more beyond the usual paths. From ancient rock art nestled in the sacred Tsodilo Hills to the dramatic landscapes of the Northern Tuli Game Reserve, Botswana’s secret areas offer a captivating blend of rich history, breathtaking wilderness, and intimate encounters with wildlife.

Let’s uncover these extraordinary places that promise to deepen your connection to Africa’s wild heart and leave you with memories that last a lifetime.

Introduction to Botswana

Nestled in the heart of Southern Africa, Botswana is a country renowned for its vast wilderness, breathtaking beauty, and extraordinary wildlife.

From the shimmering waterways of the Okavango Delta a UNESCO World Heritage Site—to the legendary elephant herds of Chobe National Park, Botswana offers a safari experience unlike any other. Here, you can explore the endless horizons of the Kalahari Desert, encounter the rich culture of the San Bushmen, and witness some of the largest gatherings of wildlife on the continent.

Whether the thrill of adventure draws you, the allure of unspoiled nature, or the warmth of local hospitality, Botswana is a destination that promises unforgettable moments and a deep connection to the wild heart of Africa.

National Parks and Reserves

Botswana’s national parks and reserves are the crown jewels of African safari, each offering its own unique adventure.

The Central Kalahari Game Reserve, one of the largest protected areas in Africa, is a vast wilderness where you can experience the raw beauty of the bush and spot elusive wildlife on guided bush walks or game drives.

Nxai Pan National Park is famed for its open grasslands, ancient baobabs, and dramatic seasonal migrations of large herds of zebra and elephants, as well as the presence of powerful lions.

In the east, the Northern Tuli Game Reserve is a secret area for those seeking a more exclusive safari experience, with opportunities for game viewing, cycling safaris, and exploring the wild on foot with experienced guides.

The Mashatu Game Reserve, also in the Tuli Block, is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, offering exceptional sightings of elephants, lions, and even the rare wild dog.

Each reserve is a world of its own, inviting you to discover the untamed spirit of Botswana.

Cultural Experiences

Beyond its natural wonders, Botswana offers rich cultural encounters that bring the country’s history and traditions to life. The Tsodilo Hills, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are a spiritual and historical treasure, adorned with over 4,500 ancient rock paintings that tell stories dating back thousands of years.

Here, you can spend time with the San Bushmen, learning about their deep connection to the land, traditional hunting skills, and unique way of life. For a more immersive experience, the Nxamaseri Island Lodge in the Okavango Delta provides cultural tours and opportunities to interact with local communities, offering a window into the vibrant heritage that shapes Botswana.

These experiences allow you to connect with the people and stories that make this country truly special.

Unique Landscapes

Botswana’s landscapes are as diverse as they are spectacular, offering a visual feast for every explorer. The Okavango Delta, with its lush vegetation and intricate network of waterways, is a haven for hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and a dazzling array of birdlife.

In stark contrast, the Kalahari Desert stretches across much of the country, its golden sands home to resilient wildlife such as lions, cheetahs, and hyenas. To the north, the Makgadikgadi Pans present a surreal expanse of salt flats, where you can witness the playful antics of meerkats and marvel at the endless sky.

Each region offers a different side of Botswana’s wild beauty, inviting you to explore, discover, and be inspired by the ever-changing face of Africa.

Botswana’s lesser known destinations

Okavango Panhandle & Tsodilo Hills

The Okavango Panhandle, located in the northwestern part of Botswana, is the stretch of river that enters Botswana from Namibia until it splays out into the floodplains of the major part of the Delta.

This beautiful and mesmerizing area is surrounded by lush vegetation and waterways, creating a unique ecosystem in the middle of the Kalahari Desert.

It is home to some of the country’s best fishing and birdlife, as well as a remarkable diversity of animals including hippos, crocodiles, and countless bird species, making it one of the best places in Botswana for authentic and memorable safari experiences. The gathering of birds along the waterways is truly a sight to behold.

A visit to the Okavango Panhandle is also not complete without visiting the Tsodilo Hills, a World Heritage Site and home to over 4500 ancient San rock paintings, some thought to be tens of thousands of years old. Many of these paintings are found in caves, which served as shelters and spiritual sites for the San people. The paintings date back thousands of years, with some estimated to be as old as 800 AD.

Tsodilo Hills is a sacred place for the local people that inhabited the area (in addition to the Hambukushu, the San people, also known as the Basarwa or Bushmen, have a long and rich history in the Tsodilo Hills). They believe the hills are a resting place for the spirits of the deceased.

The Panhandle captures the history and natural beauty of Botswana and is one of our best kept secrets.

What to do? scenic helicopter flips, visiting Tsodilo Hills and the Rock paintings, Sleep Out, mokoro excursions, boating excursions, canoeing, cultural tours and guided nature walks and bush walks

Where to stay? Nxamaseri, Setari, Kala, Mopiri – all offering luxury and mobile camps that provide comfort and an immersive experience in the wilderness.

Best time to go? it is a year-round destination, that combines well with any camp offering 4×4 game drives in the Delta.

Tuli Block

The Tuli Block, located on the eastern border of Botswana and bordering Zimbabwe, is one of Botswana’s secret areas, offering exclusive wildlife encounters away from the crowds. The landscape is unique and differs from the usual savannas and floodplains found in the Delta or the Chobe areas, characterised by spectacular rocky outcrops, red sand, baobabs and riverine forests. T

ourists are drawn to the area for its unique landscapes and wildlife experiences, including the fun behavior of elephants playing in the river and other animals such as leopards, lions, and a variety of birds.

72’000 hectares form the Northern Tuli Game Reserve, a privately run game reserve featuring different styles of accommodation, whilst preserving the natural environment and complying with sustainable tourism procedures. A handful of selected lodges and luxury or mobile camps are scattered across the Game Reserve offering privacy, uncrowded experiences and a wide range of safari and outdoors activities. Guided bush walks are a fantastic way to explore the wilderness and connect with nature. The dramatic scenery and wildlife gatherings are a sight to behold.

Access is by self-drive or by a road transfer from Johannesburg. The Limpopo Valley Airfield or Polokwane airport enable convenient access from Johannesburg for fly in safaris, making the journey more comfortable.

For safari lovers who wish to continue their journey into other areas of Botswana, the fastest (although more expensive) option is to charter a plane from the Tuli Game Reserve to either Kasane or to the Delta.

After Nxai Pan, don’t miss the chance to learn about explorer Thomas Baines, whose iconic paintings of the baobabs in Nxai Pan captured the landscape and wildlife of the region.

What to do? 4×4 game drives, guided bush walks, photography, horse riding safaris and cycling safaris for the more adventurous travellers

Where to stay? Mashatu Lodge, Euphorbia Villas, Tuli Safari Lodge and Tuli Bush Camp – all offering a range of luxury and mobile camps for an immersive safari experience.

Best time to go? it is a year-round destination, although the wildlife is at its best between May and October. It combines beautifully with a getaway in Cape Town, and other areas in Botswana such as Chobe or Linyanti.

For more information or to book your Botswana adventure, contact our team today!

Conclusion

Botswana’s lesser known destinations offer a remarkable opportunity to explore the country’s rich diversity beyond the well-trodden safari routes.

From the ancient rock art of Tsodilo Hills and the lush waterways of the Okavango Panhandle to the rugged beauty of the Tuli Block, these secret areas provide intimate wildlife encounters, unique cultural experiences, and breathtaking landscapes.

Whether you seek thrilling game drives, peaceful nature walks, or immersive cultural tours, Botswana’s hidden gems promise an unforgettable adventure that deepens your connection to Africa’s wild heart.

Embrace the chance to discover these extraordinary places and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are some of Botswana’s lesser known destinations worth visiting?

Some notable lesser known destinations in Botswana include the Okavango Panhandle, Tsodilo Hills, and the Tuli Block. These areas offer unique wildlife experiences, ancient rock art, and stunning landscapes away from the more crowded safari spots.

When is the best time to visit these hidden gems in Botswana?

Most of these destinations are accessible year-round. However, wildlife is typically at its best between May and October, which is the dry season. The Okavango Panhandle is also popular year-round and offers a variety of activities depending on the season.

What types of activities can I do in Botswana’s lesser known areas?

Visitors can enjoy 4×4 game drives, guided bush walks, cultural tours with the San Bushmen, mokoro canoe excursions, horseback riding, cycling safaris, and photography safaris.

Are there accommodations available near these secret areas?

Yes, there are luxury lodges, mobile camps, and safari camps near these destinations. Examples include Nxamaseri Island Lodge near the Okavango Panhandle, Mashatu Lodge in the Tuli Block, and various camps offering immersive wilderness experiences.

Q: How can I access these remote destinations?

Access is possible by self-drive, road transfers from major cities like Johannesburg, or by chartered flights to nearby airfields such as Limpopo Valley Airfield for Tuli Block or Kasane for the Okavango Delta region.

What cultural experiences are available in these areas?

Visitors can explore ancient San rock paintings at Tsodilo Hills, spend time learning about the San Bushmen’s traditional lifestyle, and participate in cultural tours that offer insight into Botswana’s rich heritage.

Are these destinations suitable for first-time safari travelers?

Absolutely. These lesser known destinations provide authentic safari experiences with knowledgeable guides and comfortable accommodations, making them ideal for both first-time and seasoned travelers seeking something unique.