Botswana is a fantastic travel destination, known for its wildlife and landscapes. Whether you’re heading out on a safari or exploring cities like Gaborone or Maun, where you stay can shape your experience. Accommodation options in Botswana range from budget-friendly hostels to high-end resorts. In this guide, I’ll walk you through different choices so you can find the best fit for your trip without stress.
Where to Stay in Gaborone
Gaborone is the capital city and also one of Botswana’s busiest hubs. While it’s not as touristy as other areas, it’s still an essential stop for many travelers. You’ll find decent options here for all budgets.
Budget: Backpacker Hostels
For those on a tight budget, you’ll find a few hostels in Gaborone. It’s not hostel-heavy like other cities, but places like Masa Square Backpackers offer shared dorm rooms, free Wi-Fi, and a social atmosphere. Expect to pay around $10-15 USD for a dorm bed. These spots are perfect if you want to meet other travelers.
Mid-Range: Guesthouses and Boutique Hotels
Guesthouses are popular in Gaborone. Many of them are run by locals and give you a glimpse into Botswana’s hospitality. A popular option is The Capital Guest House. It’s cozy, has modern rooms, and includes breakfast. Prices range from $70-100 USD per night.
Luxury: Upscale Hotels
If you’re looking for a more luxurious experience, Gaborone has high-end hotels like the Avani Gaborone Resort. It has a pool, gym, and even a casino. Rooms are spacious, and the hotel is centrally located, with prices starting from $150 USD per night.
Where to Stay in Maun
Maun is the gateway to the Okavango Delta. Most people pass through here on their way to safaris, but the town itself has a variety of accommodation options.
Budget: Campsites and Hostels
If you are tight on cash, camping is widely available in Maun. Old Bridge Backpackers is one of the most well-known spots for budget travelers. They offer dorms, private tents, and campsites. A dorm bed will set you back around $10-15 USD, and you can camp for even less.
Mid-Range: Safari Lodges
Maun has several mid-range safari lodges that balance comfort and cost. Crocodile Camp Safari & Spa offers great access to the Delta, with lovely rooms and optional safari excursions. Expect to pay around $100-150 USD per night here.
Luxury: High-End Safari Camps
If you’re looking to splurge, stay at a luxury safari camp like Sanctuary Chief’s Camp. This is where you’ll experience Botswana’s wildlife in style, from private plunge pools to gourmet meals. Nights here start at around $500 USD, but the wildlife experience is unforgettable.
Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park
The Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park are Botswana’s most popular areas for wildlife enthusiasts. If you’re visiting this region, here’s what to look for in accommodation.
Budget: Basic Campsites
In Chobe, self-camping is the best way to keep costs down. Public campsites like Ihaha Camp offer beautiful locations, but you’ll need to be self-sufficient. Prices start from $10-20 USD per person, but you’ll need to bring your own camping gear.
Mid-Range: River Lodges
Riverfront lodges by the Chobe River provide great views and impressive wildlife watching. Chobe River Lodge offers nice rooms, a restaurant, and arranged game drives. Prices range from $150-200 USD per night.
Luxury: Exclusive Safari Lodges
For those wanting a premium wildlife experience, Chobe Game Lodge is one of the top choices. This all-inclusive lodge is right in the park, which means you’ll have front-row access to the animals. Prices start around $800 USD per night.
Kasane
Kasane is where most people stay when visiting Chobe National Park. It’s a small town but has some of the nicest accommodation in the region.
Budget: Simple Guesthouses
Kasane has a few cheap guesthouses for under $50 USD per night. Chobe River Cottages offers clean, simple rooms with basic amenities. It’s nothing fancy but gets the job done for budget-conscious travelers.
Mid-Range: Hotels with Views
If you’re after comfort without breaking the bank, check out Thebe River Lodge. Rooms are cozy, and it’s in a good location next to the Chobe River. You’ll pay around $80-120 USD per night.
Luxury: Exclusive Lodges
For more luxury, Ngoma Safari Lodge offers premium service and panoramic views of the Chobe River. This is an all-inclusive experience with game drives, meals, and drinks covered in the price. Rates start at $600 USD per night.
The Kalahari
If you want to see Botswana’s desert landscapes, the Kalahari is the place to go. It’s vast and remote, but there are some excellent accommodation options.
Budget: Community Campsites
For something affordable and culturally immersive, try a Khama Rhino Sanctuary campsite. Run by the community, it’s budget-friendly at around $10-20 USD per night. Just bring your own tent.
Mid-Range: Lodges and Guesthouses
In the Kalahari, you’ll find some beautiful lodges like Haina Kalahari Lodge. The lodges offer a pleasant middle ground with comfortable rooms and meal plans for around $150-200 USD per night.
Luxury: Private Game Lodges
For a truly exclusive desert experience, book a stay at Kalahari Plains Camp. This eco-friendly lodge blends luxury with being environmentally conscious. Rates here start at $600 USD, but the secluded atmosphere and wildlife opportunities are amazing.
Safari Tips
No matter where you stay, it’s important to book your safaris in advance. Popular lodges and camps often get booked out during high season (June to September). Also, many lodges include safaris in the package, so always ask what’s included before you book to avoid surprise costs.
Unique Stays in Botswana
Botswana also offers some unique accommodation experiences. For example, in the Okavango Delta, you can instead choose to stay on a houseboat. The Papyrus Houseboat floats along the Delta, giving you a different perspective of the wildlife. Another unique option is staying in a San Bushman Village to get a glimpse of traditional life.
Best Time to Book
It’s smart to plan your stay in Botswana at least three to six months in advance, especially if you want to stay in the more luxurious safari lodges. If visiting during peak season (June to September), booking much earlier is even better. Camping and budget accommodation tend to fill up fast, and you don’t want to be left struggling to find something last-minute.
Final Thoughts
Botswana has an impressive range of accommodation that caters to every kind of traveler. Whether you want to stay in a fun hostel, a cozy guesthouse, or a luxury safari lodge, you’ll find the perfect spot. Don’t stress too much about finding the right place. Botswana’s hospitality will ensure you have an amazing stay, wherever you end up!
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