Aside from the majestic lions, Botswana also offers a diverse range of landscapes and experiences. From the salt pans of Makgadikgadi to the more lush Okavango Delta, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful country. Here are seven places you should visit if you want to experience the best of Botswana’s lion population.
- Moremi Game Reserve
Moremi is the oldest and first protected reserve of the Okavango Delta. It was named after Batawana tribe members, Chief Moremi 3rd and his wife. Home to some of Botswana’s most impressive predator populations, including lions, cheetahs and wild dogs, Moremi is one of the best spots to see African cats in their natural environment.
If you wish to visit Moremi Game Reserve, it is best to start off in the small town of Maun, where numerous domestic flights are available, with plenty of accommodation options if required.
- Savute Safari Lodge
Located near the western part of Chobe National Park, Savute Safari Lodge is one of the best places to see lions in Botswana. It accommodates only 24 quests, but this majestic lodge will help build memories for a lifetime. Savute also offers excellent safari experiences such as guided game drives and bush walks where you can get up close and personal with some African wildlife species like elephants, buffalos and giraffes.
You can also enjoy a visit to the ancient San rock paintings at Gubatsa hills. They were discovered in 1968, with the latest of paintings thought to be of created 180. A definite recommendation if you are looking for a break for discovering wildlife.
- Khwai River Lodge
Situated on the banks of the beautiful Khwai River, this lodge is home to abundant wildlife including the African lion. Aside from game drives to observe cats in their natural habitat, Khwai River Lodge also provides visitors with a chance to explore the nearby village, where they can interact with locals and learn more about their culture. It is one of three lodges, the other two being Belmond Eagle Island Lodge, and Belmond Savute Elephant Lodge. These are just as beautiful so be sure to check them out.
Bird watchers will also be able to enjoy watching the incredible species of over 500 birds that frequent the area.
- Nxai Pan National Park
Nxai Pan is one of Botswana’s most picturesque national parks and home to herds of wildebeest, zebra, gemsbok, springbok and many other antelopes, along with the usual predators, including the lion. It is a perfect location to view lions in their natural habitat.
The park is best accessed from Maun via 4WD vehicle along the dry riverbeds and sand dunes, a thrilling journey that is as exhilarating as the wildlife you’ll get to witness. You can also enjoy camping and night drives at Nxai Pan National Park.
- Chobe National Park
Chobe is Botswana’s second largest park and home to one of Africa’s biggest elephant populations. However, it also has an impressive pride of lions that can be seen relaxing in their natural environment along the Chobe Riverbanks or prowling for prey in the bushveld. The park also contains some spectacular scenery including breath-taking views of the Savute Channel and Linyanti Swamps where visitors will find many animal species such as hippos, crocodiles and elephants.
- Kwando Concession
The private Kwando Concession is a perfect safari destination for those looking to explore the wonders of Botswana’s northern game reserves without the crowds. As well as offering opportunities to view lions, many other species inhabit this region including large herds of elephants and buffalos, wild dogs and hyenas, giraffes and antelopes. The area is also home to some of the continent’s rarest birds like carmine bee-eater and slaty egrets.
- Linyanti Reserve
Lying on the border between Namibia and Botswana, Linyanti Reserve offers fantastic wildlife viewing opportunities across its vast 1,250 kilometres squared wilderness. In the dry season, it’s possible to spot some of Africa’s largest predators like lions and leopards as they roam around in search of prey. Visitors can also enjoy game drives, bush walks and boat cruises while soaking up the incredible beauty of their surroundings.
With so many stunning areas to experience lion sightings in Botswana, you are sure to find one that suits your needs perfectly! From luxury lodges with first-class hospitality, to rustic campsites for wild camping adventures – whatever your preference is, Botswana has it all! So why not make the most out of your next African adventure by visiting some of these amazing places for a unique wildlife experience?