The Best Vacation Lodges to Book in Botswana

Xigera Safari Lodge borders Moremi Game Reserve, offering guests a front-row seat to wildlife sightings
Xigera Safari Lodge borders Moremi Game Reserve, offering guests a front-row seat to wildlife sightings | Courtesy of Xigera Safari Lodge / Expedia.com
Gabi Ancarola

No matter where in Botswana you’re heading to – whether it’s the Chobe floodplains, the imposing Savuti marsh or the World Heritage Site of the Okavango Delta – the amazing vistas will surprise you at every step of your adventure. Botswana is also magnificent in its untamed wildlife: antelopes, bucks, zebras, elephants, lions, and some of Africa’s biggest crocodiles are just a quick sample of all the wonderful creatures that you can meet during a road or boat safari. Whether you’re getting ready for an African adventure or simply want to dream about this amazing destination, check out the most stunning lodges you can stay at in Botswana – bookable on Culture Trip.

1. Wildtrack Safaris Eco Lodge, for eco-conscious travellers

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Round lodge with a large double bed and a smaller bed with mosquito nets at Wildtrack Safaris Eco Lodge
Courtesy of Wildtrack Safaris Eco Lodge / Expedia.com

Situated at the centre of the newly formed Kavango-Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area, Wildtrack Safaris Eco Lodge combines rustic luxury with fantastic food, personalised services and a first-hand look at the peaceful local culture. Eco-orientated experiences in a venue that, in addition to adventure safaris, offers the possibility to live, taste and witness the rich and diverse cultural environment of Botswana – through authentic cultural tours within the village of Pandamatenga. A fantastic opportunity to interact with the locals – while helping to promote sustainable development within the community.

2. Belmond Safari (Savute Elephant Lodge), an unforgettable paradise in Savute Channel

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A woman sitting on a wooden deck looking at elephants at Belmond Safari (Savute Elephant Lodge)
Courtesy of Belmond Safari (Savute Elephant Lodge) / Expedia.com

Incredibly close to the spectacular Chobe National Park, Belmond Safari is the perfect lodging choice to kick off an African adventure. Blessed with inspiring surrounding landscapes and a glam atmosphere, each of the 23 exclusive tents are located on an elevated wooden platform for guests to admire the wild landscape and fantastic animals of the African landscape. The upscale tents boast contemporary lavish interiors that easily blend with comfy shaded outdoor lounges, secluded outdoor rain showers and private pools.

3. Ghoha Hills Savuti Lodge, for unparalleled vistas of the Savuti Plains

Lodge

A romantic table set for two on a wooden deck by a pool overlooking the surrounding wilderness
Courtesy of Ghoha Hills Savuti Lodge / Expedia.com

Standing at the edge of the mild hills of Ghoha – overlooking the spectacular Plains of Savuti right in the heart of Chobe National Park – this spectacular lodge is arguably one of the best places to stay in Botswana. Home to unforgettable natural scenes, the accommodation manages to effortlessly blend the natural surrounding environment with the luxurious amenities that distinguish the 11 elegantly appointed tents on the premises. Featuring a magnificent open dining area, a bar and several small lounges, the Ghoha Hills Savuti Lodge is an ideal setting for an unforgettable African experience.

5. Evolve Back Kalahari, a gateway to the desert

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Two luxury tents with wooden decks at Evolve Back Kalahari
Courtesy of Evolve Back Kalahari / Expedia.com

This accommodation is situated on the northern border of the Central Kalahari Reserve in Botswana – boasting an interesting style in a relaxed informal environment. Luxurious, superior and family tented accommodation is strategically secluded to ensure a feeling of intimacy. The main, common lounge features a big dining room and boma that is beautifully housed beneath a pitched thatch and timber structure. Other convenient features include a swimming pool, a sundeck and a well-appointed bar.

6. Tlou Safari Lodge, for relaxing comfort in Kasane

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Four-poster bed with a mosquito net at Tlou Safari Lodge
Courtesy of Tlou Safari Lodge / Expedia.com

This relaxing safari lodge is situated in Kasane – the northeastern region of the country – close to the neighbouring countries of Namibia, Zambia and Zimbabwe. Laid-back and family-friendly, the lodge is a great place to stay when exploring Botswana. A convenient point of departure for visiting the magnificent Victoria Falls, Tlou Safari Lodge offers picturesque chalets with their own private barbecue area and a well-equipped kitchen – while other comfortable details include ceiling fans and nets to protect you from those pesky mosquitoes.

7. Thamalakane River Lodge, for remarkable Delta scenes

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Exterior of luxury stone chalet and four poster bed with mosquito net inside at Thamalakane River Lodge
Courtesy of Thamalakane River Lodge / Expedia.com

Right on the banks of the Thamalakane River, this accommodation is only 19km (12mi) from Maun on the way to the Moremi Game Reserve. The lodge boasts picturesque en-suite stone chalets – some with private splash pools – under the shade of the riverine forest, offering 180-degree views of the riverbanks. Nothing but a delightful place to come home and rest after a day of exhausting adventures, the fantastic on-site restaurant serves a delicious selection of local and international dishes.

8. Mapula Lodge, for peaceful surroundings

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Four poster bed with mosquito net in a lodge with green walls and a bamboo roof at Mapula Lodge
Courtesy of Mapula Lodge / Expedia.com

The Mapula is a relaxing lodge located in the Vumbura Plain, home to the famous Okavango Delta – a Unesco World Heritage Site. After a delicious continental breakfast served by the outdoor pool, it’s time to venture out on an unforgettable boat safari to admire the feared African crocodiles and hippos. Back at the hotel, you’ll be able to take advantage of the lounge bar for a relaxing drink or indulge in local specialities at the on-site restaurant. After dinner, it’s time to relax in one of the nine rooms with furnished patios and sitting areas.

9. Xigera Safari Lodge, for bespoke safari adventures

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Wooden deck with benches and sitting areas overlooking the wilderness at Xigera Safari Lodge
Courtesy of Xigera Safari Lodge / Expedia.com

Home to an authentic pioneering spirit, the Xigera Safari Lodge stands close to the channels of the Moremi Game Reserve. Featuring an imposing collection of pan-African art – unique to the country – the property has 12 distinct spacious suites with individual character. Guests can taste the delicious dishes and wines of the region in the picturesque outdoor dining area – while the nearby Baobab Treehouse offers a completely different way to experience the African landscapes.

10. A New Earth Guest Lodge, for an urban stay in Botswana

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Large double bed in a room with a tiled-floor, orange walls and a bamboo roof at A new Earth Guest Lodge
Courtesy of A New Earth Guest Lodge / Expedia.com

A chalet-like atmosphere is the most distinctive characteristic of this elegant guest lodge located in Francistown – right in the city centre and not very far from the airport. It represents a perfect starting point for visiting local attractions such as the University of Botswana, St Patrick’s Church and the Supa Ngwao Museum. A New Earth Guest Lodge features seven guest rooms with convenient amenities for a reasonable and convenient stay in Botswana. Moreover, you can take advantage of the outdoor pool, relax surrounded by a curated garden, or organize delicious dinners at the barbecue and grill area.

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