Hotels in Botswana – where to stay?

Botswana Botswana is one of the world's top safari destinations, and hotels in Botswana are crucial to the quality of your entire trip. It's a country where the standard of accommodation directly impacts your experience – both in terms of comfort and access to wildlife. Individual lodges vary in location, safari range, service level, and isolation from civilization. Choosing the right place isn't just a matter of aesthetics, but also safety, logistics, and the opportunity to see animals in their natural habitat. In this article, we'll guide you through the most important questions to ask yourself before choosing accommodation: how to assess the standard of hotels in Botswana, what to expect, and what to watch out for; which regions are best for lodging to fully experience the country's atmosphere; and which elements of the safari program, program, and location can determine the quality of your entire trip. We'll also suggest what to look for to ensure your day in the bush begins and ends in a place that harmoniously combines comfort and nature. Finally, we'll present hotels that, in our opinion, are truly worth considering when planning a trip to Botswana.

How to choose a hotel in Botswana?

When planning a trip to Botswana, you'll quickly notice that the accommodation options here are quite different than in most destinations. there are no classic hotels here, especially in national parks. Instead, there are lodges and camps of varying standards – from simple to some of the most luxurious in Africa. It's between these two that you'll have to decide.

First, it's worth determining what type of travel you're interested in. Botswana is famous for very high standard of accommodation, which is why elegant, intimate lodges dominate in many locations, offering privacy, excellent service, and access to the best safari areas. Many properties have only a few or a dozen tents or cottages, providing an experience more exclusive than mass-produced.

The most important thing is to understand that in national parks – such as Chobe, Moremi or Makgadikgadi – you won't find "hotels" in the standard senseThe camps are exclusively tented, semi-permanent, and fully luxurious. They vary in comfort levels, but all operate according to low-impact principles. The camp is not a tourist facility isolated from its surroundings, but a base camp in the heart of the wilderness.

When choosing a lodge or camp, you should pay attention primarily to:

• location – whether you want to focus on the Okavango Delta, Chobe savannas, Makgadikgadi salt flats or the Kalahari;
• type of activity – car safari, boat safari, mokoro, guided walks;
• number of guests per vehicle during the safari – this has a major impact on the quality of observation;
• standard and amenities – in Botswana you will find both very simple camps and facilities offering a full level of luxury;
• difficulty of access – many lodges are only accessible by small planes.

Ultimately, choosing accommodation in Botswana comes down to matching the standard, location, and type of experience to your expectations. This country offers some of the best safari conditions in Africa, and choosing the right lodge or camp allows you to fully utilize the potential of your trip.

Hotel standards in Botswana – what to expect and what to watch out for?

The standard of accommodation in Botswana can be surprising for travelers, as it's unlike what you're used to in more popular destinations. For years, the country has prioritized low-intensity, high-quality tourism. As a result, in many areas you won't find traditional hotels, but lodges and camps, which can be significantly higher than their names suggest. However, there are aspects worth paying close attention to to avoid disappointment.

First of all, it is worth knowing that Botswana is famous for very high level of serviceIn many places, you'll find properties that could easily be called luxurious: spacious rooms, private terraces, excellent cuisine, and service comparable to five-star hotels. In these lodges, the staff is well-trained, and the entire stay operates according to a precisely planned schedule—from dawn game drives, through meals, to evening activities.

At the same time, it must be remembered that in national parks there are mainly tent camps, which—though often extremely comfortable—have their limitations. Air conditioning may only work during certain hours or not at all, and electricity may only be available from a generator. Wi-Fi, when available, is slow and covers a small area of ​​the property. These aren't drawbacks, but rather the specific nature of a place that exists deep in the wilderness and must adhere to ecological rigors.

It's also worth bearing in mind that "luxury" in Botswana doesn't always mean complete isolation from nature. Animals can approach lodges, and nighttime noises can be intense. Some properties lack fences, which impacts safety regulations – especially after dark, you're only allowed to move around in the company of a staff member. For many, this is a huge advantage, but you need to be prepared for it.

When choosing a place to stay, consider a few things: whether the rooms are permanent structures or tents; whether the shower is indoors or outdoors; how the air conditioning or ventilation works; what the maximum number of guests is per safari vehicle; and whether the lodge is eco-certified. It's also worth checking the availability of medical care, especially if the lodge is located very far from larger cities.

In which area is it best to choose a hotel in Botswana?

Choosing a place to stay in Botswana largely depends on the type of safari experience you're looking for. The country has several distinct regions, each offering distinct landscapes, different animal species, and a distinct atmosphere. The key destinations—the Okavango Delta, Chobe National Park, the Makgadikgadi Salt Flats, and the Kalahari—create four distinct worlds, so it's worth choosing your destination wisely.

Okavango Delta This is the most popular and recognizable region of Botswana. It's a vast system of rivers, canals, and islands that fills with water every year, attracting countless animals. Choosing a hotel—or rather, a lodge or camp—in the delta offers a mix of water and land safaris. Mokoro rides, boat safaris, and game viewing in the drier reaches of the region are all available here. The delta also boasts some of the most luxurious facilities in Africa, many of which operate in complete isolation and are only accessible by small aircraft.

Chobe Region This is the best choice if you're looking for a large concentration of animals, especially elephants. The Chobe River attracts huge herds of them, and a boat safari allows you to observe them up close. Lodges here are usually easier to access than those in the Delta, and infrastructure is somewhat more developed – especially around the town of Kasane. This is a good option for those looking for an intensive safari with more convenient logistics.

Makgadikgadi Salt Flats It's a completely different landscape – vast, white expanses that, in the dry season, resemble a lunar desert. It's the perfect place for those seeking something more unusual. Accommodations are located on the edge of the salt flats or close to them, and stays often include encounters with meerkats, quad biking through the wilderness, and observing the incredibly starry sky. The standard of accommodations is high, but the atmosphere is completely different from other regions.

Kalahari However, it's a great option for those who want to experience a more rugged part of Botswana. The Central Kalahari Game Reserve is dominated by open spaces, predators—especially lions with blond manes—and a vast silence. This region is especially attractive during the green season, when animal migrations occur. Lodges are few and far between, very intimate, and often remote from civilization.

The region you choose depends on whether you're looking for water, an intense safari, wilderness, or rugged nature. Each of these parts of Botswana offers a completely different travel experience, and it's worth tailoring it to your own preferences.

What should you pay attention to when choosing accommodation in Botswana?

When choosing accommodation in Botswana, you'll quickly notice that the standard criteria used in other countries don't always apply. This country operates under a unique tourism model that prioritizes limited guest numbers, environmental protection, and the quality of the safari experience. Therefore, choosing a lodge or camp requires considering several factors that aren't as important in other parts of the world.

The first thing you should pay attention to is availability and logisticsMany lodges are located in areas accessible only by small plane. This is convenient, but also limits luggage (sometimes down to 15 kg in soft bags). If you're planning a longer trip or traveling between different regions of Botswana, it's worth checking the flight network and whether transfers are included in the price. It's also a good idea to check whether the camp has its own runway or uses a shared one.

The second important aspect is daily schedule and number of attractions included in the stayIn Botswana, many lodges operate as all-inclusive packages: accommodation, meals, game drives, and activities are all included in the price. However, the scope of services can vary significantly between lodges. Consider whether the lodge offers two game drives per day or one; whether walking, boat, or mokoro safaris are available; and whether water activities are available year-round. Some areas dry out during the dry season, which changes the itinerary.

The next issue is number of people in the safari vehicleThis detail significantly impacts the comfort of observing animals. Some lodges accommodate four people per vehicle, others six or eight. The fewer tourists in the vehicle, the better the visibility and the greater the guides' flexibility. It's also worth checking whether the guides operate on a single guide and single tracker system – this enhances the quality of the safari.

The next element is the size and character of the lodgeSome properties have just three or four tents, others a dozen. Fewer tents mean a more intimate experience, but also a higher price. Larger lodges have a more "hotel-like" atmosphere, and not everyone likes that. It's also worth checking whether the structures are durable or canvas tents—this affects the level of acoustic and thermal insulation.

In Botswana it is also particularly important location of the camp within the concession areaSome lodges are located on private land, where vehicle restrictions apply and traffic is regulated. This ensures a higher-quality safari and fewer crowds. Lodges located near the borders of national parks, on the other hand, are more exposed to heavy tourist traffic.

You also cannot ignore the issue safety and medical infrastructureBotswana is a vast country, so it's worth making sure the facility has basic medical facilities, satellite communications, and medical evacuation procedures. This is standard in most cases, but it's worth checking, especially if you're traveling with children.

Finally, take a look at ecological issuesMost camps adhere to the principles of sustainable tourism, but not all are equally consistent. It's worth considering whether the facility uses solar energy, how it manages its water, and what its environmental policies are.

In Botswana, choosing accommodation isn't just a matter of comfort—it's a decision that defines the entire experience. The better you match your lodge to your expectations, the more complete and satisfying your safari experience will be.

Hotels worth staying in Botswana

Xigera Safari Lodge

Xigera Safari Lodge This is a place where the wild nature of the Okavango Delta meets refined luxury. Located on a private, remote concession in the Moremi Game Reserve, the lodge is designed to immerse you in nature while providing exceptional comfort. The common spaces resemble an art gallery, filled with handmade furniture, sculptures, and details created by African artists. At your disposal are an elegant lounge, library, bar, restaurant, terraces overlooking the flooded wetlands, a swimming pool, and an intimate spa offering massages and treatments inspired by the Delta's natural environment. The entire lodge is eco-friendly, powered by solar energy and designed to minimize environmental impact.

Staying in Xigera is completely all inclusiveThe price includes full board, snacks, a selection of wines and spirits, laundry, and all safari activities. Guides adjust the schedule to your pace—there are no set hours. Enjoy 4x4 game drives through the reserve, mokoro rides through the Okavango canals, boat cruises (when water levels allow), walking safaris, and seasonal fishing. The cuisine is a story in itself: fresh produce, delicate flavors inspired by Africa, and relaxing sunset dinners, often served in different, picturesque corners of the lodge.

The accommodation consists of 11 luxury apartments raised on wooden platforms above the vegetation, plus one spacious Family SuiteThese aren't tents, but fully equipped, designer, private cottages with panoramic views of the Delta, albeit in a safari style—finished with wood, canvas, and natural fabrics. Each villa has a bedroom, living room, walk-in closet, large bathroom with a bathtub and outdoor shower, a private terrace with a relaxation area, air conditioning, and cooling systems for hot weather. The interiors are spacious, bright, and designed to constantly evoke the presence of nature—through large windows, open verandas, and subtle, organic furniture. The Family Suite offers two full apartments connected by a shared living room and terrace—ideal for families or two couples traveling together. In each accommodation, you'll enjoy complete privacy, top-notch service, and the feeling that the vibrant, pulsating wilderness of Botswana is just outside your door.

The most unusual place in the lodge is Baobab Treehouse – a solitary, three-story structure resembling a monumental baobab tree, rising above the floodplains of the Delta. It's a fusion of art, architecture, and wildlife: from the outside, it looks like a sculpture, and inside, it houses an intimate, luxurious suite designed to immerse you in the African night. The Treehouse consists of three levels connected by an internal, spiral staircase. The first level houses an elegant, fully equipped bathroom with a large bathtub and shower. Above is the bedroom, a space furnished with meticulous attention to detail. The third level houses the most impressive open viewing platform. This is where you can sit with a glass of wine at sunset or, if you're so inclined, sleep under the stars, gazing at the black sky. The platform offers panoramic views, making you feel as if you're floating above the Delta. At night, the sounds of nature fill the space: the distant roar of lions, the chorus of frogs, the rustle of grass as nocturnal animals stir. This is not an ordinary overnight stay – it is a spectacle whose audience is only you.

&Beyond Nxabega Okavango Safari Camp

&Beyond Nxabega Okavango Safari Camp This intimate, elegant camp is nestled in the heart of the wild Okavango Delta, where dry savannahs meet aquatic labyrinths of lagoons and floodplain grasslands. The camp has been designed to immerse you in nature without sacrificing comfort: communal spaces create a cozy, African oasis with wooden decks, plush sofas, and natural, handcrafted details. There's a swimming pool overlooking the flooded plains, a library, a lounge, a bar, a boutique selling local crafts, and an open-air boma where a fire is lit in the evenings. The atmosphere is relaxed and peaceful, and the staff ensure you feel like you're in a private home nestled in the wilderness.

The stay includes full board, drinks, snacks and a wide range of safari activitiesDays begin with sunrise coffee, followed by open-top 4x4 vehicle excursions, where you can spot elephants, lions, cheetahs, antelopes, buffalo, and an exceptionally rich birdlife. Depending on water levels, mokoro tours, motorboat cruises, birdwatching, walking safaris with an experienced ranger, helicopter flights, and seasonal fishing are also available. Lunches, dinners, and picnics in the field are part of the safari ritual – aromatic, fresh dishes are prepared to delight both the taste and the view. Evenings are often spent dining under the stars, surrounded by the glow of a fire and the sounds of the night.

The camp consists of nine luxury tents and one large family tent. All stand on wooden platforms, positioned with privacy and unobstructed views in mind. These aren't ordinary tents – each is a spacious, beautifully designed suite, where canvas walls meet wood, light fabrics, and subtle elegance. Interiors include a large bedroom with a comfortable bed positioned to awaken you to views of the Delta, a living area with armchairs and a dressing table, and a walk-in closet. Each tent has a bathroom with sinks, an indoor shower, and an outdoor shower, allowing you to feel close to nature. Outside, there's a private terrace with a lounge area and a swing – perfect for morning coffee, afternoon animal watching, and moments of absolute silence. A safe, fan, and minibar are also available. The Family Tent also offers two bedrooms and two bathrooms, making it perfect for families or two couples traveling together.

Jack's Camp

Jack's Camp is an absolutely unique safari – a magical combination of the raw nature of the African savannah and salt desert with a truly colonial, vintage luxuryThe camp is nestled in the vast, open spaces of the Makgadikgadi Pans—expansive salt flats and plains—giving you a true wilderness experience, while also offering the comfort and style of an ancient safari. The camp's communal spaces—an elegant dining room under a tent, a lounge with antiques, a library, a bar, and a space for relaxation and socializing—create an atmosphere brimming with adventure yet offering a peaceful retreat. A swimming pool in the pavilion is also available, perfect for hot afternoons, where you can cool off and admire the endless views. The staff will take excellent care of you: meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) and access to most of the proposed activities are usually included in the price.

You can expect safaris, such as 4x4 rides, walks, horseback riding, or quad biking (depending on the season), as well as special moments like encounters with meerkats accustomed to humans, observations of local fauna (hyenas, lions, antelopes, and other less common species), and, with a bit of luck, zebra and wildebeest migrations or flocks of flamingos during the rainy season. Evening meals and gatherings around the fire are often organized – perfect for listening to the silence of the savanna and gazing at the endless desert sky. There is also an oriental-style tea room with cushions and Persian rugs, where you can relax with tea or a drink, and a section resembling a mini-museum – tables with interesting objects, old maps, and memorabilia from the past expeditions of the camp's founder, Jack Bousfield, who stumbled upon this place in the 60s, which so captured his imagination that he set up camp under an acacia tree with the unwavering hope that others would share his feelings.

When it comes to accommodation, Jack's Camp is nine spacious tents, which makes this camp intimate – for a small number of guests, so you'll enjoy a sense of privacy and intimacy. The tents are nestled among palm trees and acacia trees, but positioned so you have views of the plain or salt flats. The interior of each tent is a true journey back in time – inspired by 40s safari style, with mahogany furniture, natural fabrics, old rugs, and kerosene lamps – a vintage feel. Inside, you'll find spacious beds (king-size beds in double tents, two queen-size beds in twins) and a living area with a sofa or daybed, from which you can admire the landscape. Inside and outside, you'll find modern bathrooms – with indoor and outdoor showers, allowing you to feel the desert breeze. On the veranda in front of the tent, there's a private terrace with sun loungers and… own small pool A plunge pool—perfect for soaking up the sun after a safari, gazing out over the vast expanse of the Makgadikgadi. The tents are equipped with cooling systems to keep nights pleasant in the hot climate, as well as lighting and power—the entire experience is largely solar-powered, with access to electricity and power outlets.

Belmond Savute Elephant Lodge

Belmond Savute Elephant Lodge This is a place where the rugged beauty of Botswana's savannah meets the elegance of an African safari. The camp is located in the heart of Chobe National Park, right on the volatile Savute Channel, famous for its vast herds of elephants, predators, and intense competition for water. As the sun rises over the grasslands and the first herds of animals approach the waterhole, you'll feel as if you're witnessing a natural spectacle that has been unfolding here for thousands of years. The lodge's communal spaces—an elegant dining room under a reed roof, a spacious lounge, a bar, a library, and terraces overlooking the savannah—create a harmonious, peaceful oasis. There's also a swimming pool, perfect for hot afternoons, a spa, and an observation deck located by the waterhole, where elephants often appear. The price includes full board, drinks, laundry, and a daily game drive guided by experienced rangers. Days are filled with 4x4 expeditions at sunrise and sunset, predator spotting, animal tracking, bird photography, and relaxing on the terrace with a drink as the daylight gently illuminates the savannah.

The Lodge consists of twelve luxury tentsthat combine a classic safari atmosphere with modern comfort. Each tent stands on a raised platform, allowing the view from the terrace to reach the horizon—and sometimes even to the elephants strolling nearby. The interiors evoke the aesthetics of past expeditions: natural wood, light fabrics, and delicate details inspired by local culture, while also providing the space and comfort expected of a top-class lodge. Each tent features a large, incredibly comfortable bedroom with a mosquito net and soft bedding, a living area with armchairs and a desk, and a private bathroom with two sinks, an indoor and outdoor shower—allowing you to feel the savannah breeze on your skin. Daybeds and comfortable seating await on the terrace, perfect for morning coffee, an afternoon siesta, or watching the wildlife slowly fade into night. Each tent also features air conditioning or an efficient cooling system, a minibar, a safe, bathrobes, and daily staff who pay attention to the smallest details.

Belmond Savute Elephant Lodge is the perfect destination for those who dream of a thrilling safari without sacrificing elegance and comfort. It offers a unique blend of untamed wilderness, African light, and the pleasures of a truly relaxing getaway.

Chobe Game Lodge

Located on the banks of the famous river, within Chobe National Park, Chobe Game Lodge is the only permanent lodge in the park – a unique place where you can immerse yourself in the wilderness from the moment you arrive. This five-star camp, with a long history (opened in 1973), has attracted travelers for decades and has become a symbol of safaris combining comfort and closeness to nature. Thanks to its location, the lodge in the park, you're in a privileged position – you can head out on game drives or boat trips before other (outside) visitors get through the park gates, and be among the last to return in the evening. This is a huge advantage for those seeking peace, privacy, and the best chance of seeing wildlife.

The lodge offers much more than just accommodation: spacious and stylishly furnished common areas are at your disposal – elegant lounges, several dining rooms, bars, palm trees, and lush greenery, which, along with the Mauritian-inspired architecture, add an exotic touch. There's also a large swimming pool with loungers and shaded areas for relaxation – perfect after a day on safari. For relaxation, there are spa and massage rooms, as well as a small gym for those who want to stay active. A stroll along the wooden jetty over the river is another highlight – it offers the opportunity to observe animals coming to the waterholes, as well as a leisurely stroll and admiring the scenery. All meals, drinks, river boat cruises, and safaris in open-top all-terrain vehicles are included in the price. Days flow in harmony with nature: morning game drives, during which the sun is just rising over the savannah, afternoon trips in search of lions and leopards, and boat trips during which you can observe hippos, crocodiles, and countless birds. Quiet, electric boats allow you to get very close without disturbing the animals. Evenings, meanwhile, bring peace and quiet – meals are served both in elegant interiors and on outdoor terraces, where you can hear the murmur of the savannah.

Chobe Game Lodge is also a socially responsible lodge: it employs mainly local people and was the first in Botswana to create an all-female fleet of safari guides – a team of professional "Lady Guides" who lead both land safaris and river cruises. This is one of the most important platforms for promoting equality in the region, and their training program has opened the door to the profession for many women from the surrounding communities.

Lodge offers 44 air-conditioned rooms and apartments, all with river views. Bright interiors, subtle colors, natural fabrics, and wooden details create the atmosphere of an elegant African home. Each room has a private terrace or balcony, perfect for watching the sunset. Inside, you'll find comfortable beds, a minibar, a safe, a wide desk, a relaxation area, and a spacious bathroom with a shower or bathtub. Suites offer additional amenities, including more space, a separate living area, and some even include a private plunge pool overlooking the river.

Chobe Game Lodge is the choice for those who want a top-notch safari experience while also appreciating places that operate responsibly: with respect for local communities, nature and the future of the region.

When planning a trip to Botswana, it's worth remembering that choosing the right hotel is the foundation of a successful safari. The location, standard, and quality of the guides determine your experience—whether you'll see animals up close, what your day in the bush will be like, and how comfortable the lodge will be after intense activities. Botswana offers a wide range of destinations, but the differences between them are significant, so making an informed choice is crucial.

When planning your trip, remember about the formalities – visa to Botswana is usually issued at the border, but it is worth checking the current regulations. It is also important vaccinations before traveling to Botswana.