Vegans LOVE animals. On a simple walk around town, no dogs go unpetted, no cats goes un-photographed. For many vegans, the best trip is a visit to a farm sanctuary.
Arguably, the ultimate animal-focused trip you can take though, is a safari. And in this regards, Botswana stands on top of the list of must-visit safari destinations. Moreover, it's also a safe destination for tourists, often considered the most stable country on the continent, with less corruption than its neighbors. This is definitely the place to forget all your everyday stress and strains and truly marvel in the wonders of nature.
From canoe rides on The Okavango Delta to seeing elephants at Chobe National Park, Botswana has it all. Here are why this country should be high-up on your bucket list.
1. Low impact, high cost
source: Desert & Delta, Savute Safari Lodge
Compared to its safari-destination neighbors, Botswana has long promoted a different approach to tourism. They've focused on being at one with nature, which means having a minimal impact on the environment. This has led to much fewer lodges, which in turn has translated into less tourists and mostly more intimate experiences. And, yes, expensive.
While it's entirely possible to travel on a budget or independently, luxury travel is where Botswana shines. It's full of jaw-dropping lodges in incredible locations, attracting travelers who are willing to pay more for the privilege of visiting the remote areas and seeing animals with fewer tourists. You'll definitely pay for that privilege, anywhere from USD 500$ to a few thousands, per day, per person. These costs are usually all-inclusive (food, drinks, transportation, guides, activities, etc) and it's worth noting that a safari definitely is a trip-of-a-lifetime experience, and definitely something worth saving -- and spending -- for. As a huge bonus, some of the very best guides are hired by the luxury lodges , which only adds to the overall value.
Botswana on a budget is also possible, although you will be staying in town and driving out to the animals each day, as opposed to sleeping out in the bush somewhere. As a rough estimate, here are some costs (in USD):
- accommodation: you'll need to stay in town (ie Maun) and head out on safari from there, so do take notes that the following costs do not account for a remote experience: $10-$20 for basic campsites or wooden huts, $20 - $30 per night in hostels and guesthouses. For mid-range travelers, the average for a stay in Airbnb or comfortable hotels is around $60 - $80.
- food: there are local restaurants and street stalls in most urban and transit areas with plenty of vegan options for about $3 - $5. In good quality restaurants and bars, it costs around $5 - $15.
- transportation: renting a car is the most practical way to do Botswana on a budget. However, it usually requires hiring a 4 wheel drive and driving yourself around the amazing national parks. You'll need to factor in permits, which are all priced separately depending on where you go. Inquire online with local companies directly.
If this seems like a bit too much work, then you can join a safari tour. Our travel company, World Vegan Travel, organizes trips to Botswana so do check our website (and join our newsletter) for any update.
2. A great wildlife experience
source: Desert & Delta
Once out of town, you can really appreciate the peace and tranquility that this country offers. No noise, no mobile phones, no engines or vehicles interrupting your thoughts. Just awesome wildlife!
You will have the chance to witness the zebra migration between the Okavango Delta and Makgadikgadi Pans - the world’s second-largest zebra and wildebeest migration after the Serengeti. This migration is incredible and the scenery will make wildlife photographers very happy.
If you want to see elephants then Chobe National Park is the place to be. This park is known for being home to the world’s largest concentration of elephants in Africa (estimated at 120 000) and the largest continuous surviving elephant population on Earth.
For seeing wild dogs, then Lagoon Camp in Northern Botswana is an excellent choice. Or, if you would like to see the black-maned Kalahari lion, then Kalahari Plains is where you need to go.
In addition, over 500 bird species have been recorded in Botswana, making Botswana a paradise for any avid birdwatcher.
3. Diversity of safari
source: Desert & Delta
The ubiquitous safari-style is a game drive: several people in the back of a specifically-altered jeep, with the guide doing double-duties as driver and knowledge dispenser. There's little in life that's as pleasant as waking up in the morning with the only plans that day being driven from one amazing animal sighting to the next. Bliss!
Botswana, though, offers a few more safari styles. While they aren't necessarily unique to the country, they are done exceptionally well here.
Boat safari is a must, especially in the Okavango Delta where water is key. Sailing down the river and getting close to crocodiles and hippos never gets old. It's also a great vantage point to spot animals coming in for a drink.
You can also navigate the waterways by Mokoro, a type of local wooden canoe. The emphasis is more on birds, but you'll still see plenty of wildlife from a much lower perspective.
Mobile safaris are increasingly popular and a fantastic adventure. This can be budget-style, where everyone helps out at camp, or, of course, luxurious, where everything is taken care of for you, from fine bush dining to tents being fitted out with comfy cots and bedding! Tented safaris are similar but the camp tends to be set each season and not move.
Another option is trying a quad biking safari and sleeping out under the stars using your sleep bag and camping pillow!
Finally, an amazing experience can be had on walking safaris, where you head out with a knowledgeable guides (and sometimes armed guards) to visit the animals on foot! The walks draw attention to the landscape and provides a brilliant overall perspective of a traditional lifestyle in Botswana. Plus it's good exercise!
4. Amazing food and culture
source: Desert & Delta, Savute Safari Lodge
When it comes to food, Botswana’s local dishes are must-eat. Their dishes use corn and sorghum as the main ingredients. You'll need to communicate with your lodges and/or guides before your trip to make sure they know you are vegan, but we've found that everyone was very eager and capable in catering for us.
Of course, if you come to Botswana with World Vegan Travel, you'll be treated to creative, gourmet vegan cuisine every meal. Perfect for filling your belly after a long day on safari!
A good way to dive into the culture is take a walk with the local Bushmen and learn about their ancient traditions, water sourcing and fire making. There are also many cave paintings that are several thousand years old. Meanwhile, the lodge staff is always on-hand and eager to chat and maybe teach you one dance move or two. So even on safari, it's entirely possible to meet amazing people and create those lifelong memories!
There you have it. We hope you're convinced that Botswana needs to absolutely be on your bucket list. For an unforgivable 100% vegan once-in-a-lifetime deluxe safari trip, we invite you to check our tour company, World Vegan Travel. We don't organize trips to Botswana every year, so join the newsletter to be amongst the first to know of any new trips!
Let's Discuss!
Now, we'd love to hear from you! Do you have any questions? Ideas? Have you been to Botswana before? Or on a safari trip? Let's have a discussion in the comments below. We'd love to hear from you!