Is Botswana or South Africa better for a safari?

Botswana often suits travellers seeking remote camps and opportunities to combine land and water activities, while South Africa offers broad accommodation choices and convenient travel combinations. Your best option depends on budget, wildlife interests and family needs, including whether you prefer a malaria-free reserve or an Okavango Delta experience.

Answered by the Fair Trade Safaris team · Last reviewed

family around the fire

Botswana may suit you if you want:

  • Remote camps and extensive wilderness.
  • An Okavango Delta experience.
  • Different perspectives through suitable land and water activities.
  • A trip focused mainly on wildlife areas.

South Africa may suit you if you want:

  • A wider range of accommodation budgets.
  • Malaria-free reserve options.
  • Convenient combinations with Cape Town and the Winelands.
  • Family-focused lodges and varied activities.

Compare specific properties rather than countries alone. Botswana has different safari styles, and South Africa also offers highly exclusive wilderness experiences.

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