Botswana in May

May

May, in shoulder season, is a terrific time to visit Botswana, with comfortable temperatures for the most part and a wealth of wildlife to observe.

What's the weather going to be like in Botswana in May?

Temperatures are beginning to drop, particularly in the Central Kalahari
Cloudless skies and lush landscapes make for a very scenic time of the year
Mornings are typically about 10 degrees, rising to afternoon temperatures of 28 or so
Nights can be pretty chilly, as can mornings, so it’s worth packing snug clothing

What are the highlights of visiting Botswana in May?

Availability of camps and lodges is good
We’re not yet into peak season, so the cost of going on safari is not as high as it could be
Skies are usually clear and bright
There may be fewer mosquitoes about
The Okavango Delta (typically in spectacular full flood), the Linyanti, and the Chobe river region all boast a great range of wildlife, while the Kwara Concession is worth visiting for sightings of wild dog on the hunt
As we emerge from the wet season, the vegetation thins and a lot of species are more easily observed – particularly when they cluster around water sources
Waterbirds are attracted by higher water levels, and the crimson-breasted shrike may be seen in the Central Kalahari and Makgadikgadi Pan
The sheer beauty of the Delta provides fantastic photo opportunities

Any lowlights?

Due to increased water levels, it might not be possible to enjoy vehicle safaris on island locations

Recommended Safaris to Botswana in May

Botswana Solo Safari (10N) - Luxury

This trip starts at the spectacular Victoria Falls, and continues with some exceptionally good game viewing in the Linyanti Reserve and the Okavango Delta! You’ll stay in small and solo-friendly luxury safari camps, within fantastic locations.

Botswana Solo Safari Shoulder Season (6N) – Classic

Superb for solo travellers, this trip uses camps that charge a low single supplement and have a very friendly atmosphere! Starting in the Linyanti and ending in the Okavango Delta, you can also enjoy first-rate safari activities.

lion walking africa yellow zebra safaris

Vic Falls & Botswana Highlights (8n) – Value

This trip focuses on the Zimbabwean side of ‘The Falls’ as well as Chobe National Park and the Okavango Delta. The safari is designed for the first-time traveller to the region and offers excellent value for money.

hunting local tribes people yellow zebra safaris

Botswana: Desert and Delta (8N) – Classic

This trip includes not only the Okavango Delta and the predator-rich Linyanti region to the west of Chobe National Park, but also the Kalahari Desert! We use superb camps located in wildlife-rich private reserves.

Botswana Couple Safari Shoulder Season (6N) - Classic

This trip whisks you away to the beautiful Okavango Delta! We use two sister camps, offering a combination discount. Enjoy game drives, night drives, walks, boat rides… and sleepouts!

botswana aerial view yellow zebra safaris

Vic Falls & Botswana Highlights (10n) – Value

This introductory trip combines Victoria Falls, Chobe National Park, and two camps in the Okavango Delta. The safari is perfect for the first-time traveller to the region and offers incredible value throughout the year.

Makgadikgadi National Park Botswana (10)

Botswana: Desert and Delta (8N) – Value

Our introductory trip combines the Okavango Delta and the predator-rich Savute region of Chobe National Park with the north-west corner of the Makgadikgadi Pans, offering excellent value for money.

Selinda Exploreres Camp Botswana yellow zebra safaris

Vic Falls & Botswana Highlights (10n) – Classic

This trip includes Victoria Falls, a split location in the Okavango Delta to give you access to both wet and dry game-viewing areas, and also the predator-rich Linyanti region to the west of Chobe National Park.

bench botswana okavango delta view yellow zebra safaris

Vic Falls & Botswana Highlights (8n) – Classic

This trip includes not only Victoria Falls and the Okavango Delta, but also the predator-rich Linyanti region to the west of the wildlife-filled Chobe National Park! The safari camps we use are fabulously located in private reserves.

Buffalo migration Selinda Camp Botswana yellow zebra safaris

Vic Falls & Botswana Highlights (10n) – Luxury

This trip begins at the spectacular Victoria Falls, before continuing to two wildlife-rich safari areas – the Linyanti and the Okavango Delta! We use a thrilling mix of luxury camps offering both land- and water-based activities.

victoria falls rainbow zambia yellow zebra safaris

Vic Falls & Botswana Highlights (8n) – Luxury

This trip combines the majesty of Victoria Falls and incredible game viewing in the Linyanti and the Okavango Delta! You’ll stay in three luxurious properties, including the Linyanti’s recently rebuilt King’s Pool Camp.