Botswana is a landlocked country in southern Africa, known for its incredible wildlife and diverse ecosystems.

The country is home to a variety of species, including the Big 5 – lions, elephants, buffalos, rhinos, and leopards. Here’s a closer look at each of the Big 5 and where to find them in Botswana.

Lions

Botswana is home to a large population of lions, with the majority living in the Okavango Delta and the Chobe National Park. Lions are the largest of the African big cats, and can often be seen lounging in the sun or hunting for prey. In Botswana, you may also see lions swimming in the rivers, as they are known to be excellent swimmers.

Elephant

Botswana is home to one of the largest elephant populations in Africa, with more than 130,000 individuals. The best place to see elephants in Botswana is in the Chobe National Park, where they gather in large herds to drink from the river and feed on the surrounding vegetation. You may also see elephants in the Okavango Delta, as well as in the Savuti region.

Buffalo

The African buffalo is a large, powerful animal that can be found throughout Botswana. These animals live in large herds and are often seen grazing in the grasslands. The best places to see buffalos in Botswana are in the Chobe National Park, Moremi Game Reserve, and the Okavango Delta.

Rhino

The black rhino is one of the most endangered species in Africa, and Botswana is one of the few countries where they can still be found in the wild. The white rhino is also present in Botswana, but is less common. The best place to see rhinos in Botswana is in the Moremi Game Reserve, where they can be seen grazing in the grasslands.

Leopard

The elusive leopard is the most difficult of the Big 5 to spot in Botswana, but can still be seen in certain areas. These animals are nocturnal and prefer to hunt at night, but can sometimes be seen lounging in trees during the day. The best places to see leopards in Botswana are in the Okavango Delta and the Moremi Game Reserve.

In addition to the Big 5, Botswana is also home to a variety of other wildlife, including giraffes, zebras, hyenas, wild dogs, and a variety of bird species. The country’s diverse ecosystems, including the Okavango Delta, the Kalahari Desert, and the Chobe River, offer a range of opportunities to see these incredible animals up close in their natural habitat.

Overall, Botswana is a wildlife lover’s paradise, offering an unforgettable safari experience that is sure to leave you in awe of the incredible animals that call this country home.