Bird watching safaris in Botswana

Whether you're an enthusiastic birder or simply enjoy discovering remarkable birdlife alongside iconic wildlife, Wilderness’ safari camps in Botswana cater to everyone, rather than just dedicated birding specialists. With 13 upscale safari lodges located in private concessions within the Okavango Delta, Linyanti Wildlife Reserve and Mababe Depression, Wilderness offers access to some of Botswana’s best birding areas, while also offering a rich and rewarding safari experience. And with the option of private guides, many of whom have photographic training, you have the flexibility to spend as much time dedicated to birds as you like.

Wilderness’ Botswana birding safari experience is one of Africa’s finest, with over 450 recorded species. The Mababe Depression is a bird watcher's paradise, recognised as an Important Bird & Biodiversity Area, home to great numbers of buzzards, falcons, owls, eagles, and vultures. In places like the Okavango Delta, seasonal waters attract rare wetland specialists like the wattled crane, while riverine forests provide habitat for the elusive Pel’s fishing owl. This mythical owl of the waterways is one of Africa’s most sought-after bird sightings. Other scarce species like slaty egret or the migratory African skimmer may be seen from your Delta boat rides; or simply enjoy listening to the unmistakable call of the African fish eagle, the soundtrack to your Botswana bird watching safari. 

If you’re thinking of a bird watching safari in Botswana, Wilderness can help tailor an itinerary around your interests, whether you want to combine birding with exceptional game viewing or would like to explore as much of Botswana’s varied habitats as possible. With a network of exclusive safari lodges, access to private vehicles and guides, and all the logistics – from road transfers to city stays and light aircraft connections – taken care of, you only need to worry about what to pack.

For bird watching in Botswana, pack lightweight, neutral-coloured clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen and comfortable walking shoes. A good pair of binoculars is also essential while a camera with a telephoto lens is ideal for bird photography. You also want to ensure you pack everything into a soft sided bag, ensuring that you adhere to any luggage weight restrictions for small planes between safari camps.

When to go on a bird watching safari tour in Botswana?

Botswana’s green season (roughly November to March) is particularly appealing for birders, as migratory species from Europe and Asia arrive, breeding plumage brings vibrant colours to the bush and the landscapes are lush after the rains. This is an excellent time to enjoy the rich birdlife around our concessions and as it is not peak safari season (June to October) you can also enjoy a less crowded safari experience with more favourable rates.

What is the best place in Botswana to spot birds?

The areas of the Okavango Delta, Linyanti Wildlife Reserve and Mababe Depression where our Wilderness our camps are set, are some of the best safari destinations in Botswana for bird watching. Many of our camps, such as Wilderness King’s Pool in the Linyanti and Wilderness Mombo and Qorokwe in the Okavango Delta, boast purpose-built hides that allow you to get close to wildlife and birds without disturbing them. Ideal for photography or quiet observation, these structures are thoughtfully placed to give you the best views. Wilderness Chitabe in the Okavango Delta is also a particular favourite of birding photographers, with the camp co-owned by a famed wildlife photographer and many of the guides trained in photography. Furthermore, in certain concessions night drives with red LED spotlights allow you to see owls, nightjars and other nocturnal birds.