Botswana Walking Safari

Walking safaris in Botswana can take place in many of the country's national parks and reserves, including the Okavango Delta, the Linyanti Concession, and the Central Kalahari Game Reserve. They are always led by experienced and knowledgeable guides, who will take you on a guided walk through the wilderness, pointing out tracks, scat, and other signs of wildlife along the way.

During a walking safari, the focus is on the smaller creatures and plants that make up the ecosystem. Your guides will point out different bird species, reptiles, insects, and plant life, providing a comprehensive overview of the complex web of life in the African bush. In contrast to game drives where wildlife is habituated to vehicles and does not perceive them as a threat, game is skittish around humans on foot - you are likely to see large wildlife, but they will keep their distance

Walking safaris in Botswana take place for small groups of usually no more than 6 or 8, ensuring a personalized and safe experience. Visitors can choose from a range of walking safari options, from short walks lasting a few hours which are the most common in Botswana to multi-day hikes with overnight camping, often combined with other safari activities, such as game drives, boat cruises, and mokoro rides (traditional dugout canoe rides).

It's worth noting that although walking safaris are rarely strenuous a certain level of fitness and mobility is required. Most walks take place in the early morning to avoid the hotter parts of the day but a hat and water are still essential, by the time you return to camp the sun is high! Children under the age of 12 are rarely permitted on walking safaris, although they can often be taken for a short guided foot safari around the camp’s grounds, there is still plenty to see and it’s very educational.

There are several lodges in Botswana that offer excellent walking safari experiences. Here are a few options:

1. Delta Camp & Oddballs Camp: These intimate and rustic camps are located in the heart of the Okavango Delta and offer an exceptional walking safari experience, led by experienced and knowledgeable guides from the local community.
2. Duke’s Camp: Located in a private concession in the far North of the Okavango Delta, Dukes Camp offers a range of safari activities, including walking safaris, game drives, and mokoro rides. The camp is known for its excellent guiding and wildlife sightings, and offers luxurious and elegant accommodation in spacious tents. You can combine a walking safari with a sleep out on a private island for the ultimate lux adventure.
3. Linyanti Bush Camp: Situated in a private concession in the Linyanti Wildlife Reserve, Linyanti Bush Camp offers a remote and exclusive safari experience, with just six tents and a maximum of 12 guests. Walking safaris are a highlight of the camp, allowing guests to explore the pristine wilderness on foot.
4. Sable Alley: This small and elegant camp is located in Khwai Private Reserve which borders the Moremi Game Reserve, offering a secluded and exclusive safari experience. The camp offers walking safaris alongside game drives, boating and mokoro trips.
5. Camp Okavango: is known for its exceptional wildlife sightings and a range of safari activities, including game drives, boat cruises, and bird watching. Here you will boat to a nearby island before setting off on foot with your guide and a scout for a walk through the bush.