Things to Do in Botswana in January

January Weather in Botswana

25°C (77°F) High Temp

20°C (68°F) Low Temp

51mm (2.0 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is January Right for You?

Advantages

Peak green season transforms landscapes - Okavango Delta is at full flood with maximum wildlife viewing opportunities, channels are 2-3m (6-10 ft) deeper than dry season
Migratory bird bonanza with over 400 species present - perfect timing for birders as European migrants join resident species, creating spectacular viewing at Chobe and Moremi
Baby animal season across all parks - newborn elephants, antelopes, and predators are active, with survival rates highest due to abundant water and food sources
Fewer tourists mean 40-60% lower accommodation rates compared to peak dry season, plus easier game drive bookings and more personalized service at lodges

Considerations

Afternoon thunderstorms occur 60% of days, typically 2-4pm, lasting 30-90 minutes with roads becoming muddy and some remote areas temporarily inaccessible
Dense vegetation makes predator spotting more challenging - lions and leopards blend into thick bush, reducing big cat sighting success rates by approximately 30%
High humidity and temperatures create uncomfortable midday conditions for walking safaris, limiting optimal game viewing to early morning (5:30-9am) and late afternoon (4-6:30pm) only

Best Activities in January

Okavango Delta Mokoro Excursions

January's high flood levels create perfect conditions for traditional dugout canoe trips through narrow channels impossible to navigate in dry season. Water levels are 1-2m (3-6 ft) higher, opening up seasonal floodplains where you'll spot red lechwe, sitatunga, and countless waterbirds. Morning trips (6-10am) avoid afternoon storms and offer the best light for photography.

Booking Tip: Book mokoro trips 7-10 days ahead through registered operators in Maun. Full-day excursions typically cost 800-1,200 BWP ($60-90) including guide and lunch. Choose operators with community partnerships for authentic experiences. Check current availability in the booking section below.

Chobe National Park Boat Safaris

Chobe River is at optimal levels in January, attracting massive elephant herds (150+ individuals) to the riverfront daily between 3-6pm. The green season brings baby elephants learning to swim, creating unforgettable viewing opportunities. River levels allow access to smaller channels where you'll encounter hippos, crocodiles, and hundreds of waterbird species in concentrated areas.

Booking Tip: Half-day boat safaris range from 600-900 BWP ($45-65) per person. Afternoon departures (3:30pm) are ideal for elephant viewing and avoiding morning mist. Book through licensed Kasane operators 5-7 days ahead. Multi-day packages offer better value. See current tour options in the booking section.

Central Kalahari Wildlife Viewing

January transforms the Kalahari into a green paradise with temporary pans filled with rainwater, attracting massive springbok migrations and their predators. This is the only time of year to witness the Kalahari's desert bloom and see rare desert-adapted species like brown hyenas in optimal conditions. The landscape photography opportunities are unmatched during green season.

Booking Tip: Multi-day camping safaris typically cost 1,500-2,500 BWP ($110-185) per person per day including meals and guides. Book 2-3 weeks ahead as January is popular with local operators. 4WD vehicles essential due to sandy conditions after rains. Current tour availability shown in booking widget below.

Makgadikgadi Pans Flamingo Expeditions

Seasonal rains create temporary lakes across the vast salt pans, attracting tens of thousands of lesser and greater flamingos in one of Africa's most spectacular wildlife phenomena. January offers the best chance to witness this natural miracle, with peak flamingo numbers typically occurring mid-to-late January when water levels are optimal at 30-50cm (12-20 inches) deep.

Booking Tip: Day trips from Maun cost 800-1,200 BWP ($60-90) including transport and guide. Overnight camping experiences range 1,200-1,800 BWP ($90-135) per person. Book through Maun-based operators familiar with current water conditions. Weather-dependent activity - confirm conditions before departure.

Tsodilo Hills Cultural Walking Tours

January's cooler temperatures and occasional cloud cover create ideal conditions for exploring Botswana's UNESCO World Heritage rock art sites. With over 4,500 paintings, the moderate weather allows comfortable 3-4 hour walking tours without extreme heat. Local Ju/'hoansi guides share traditional knowledge while afternoon storms create dramatic photography backdrops against ancient art.

Booking Tip: Guided tours cost 400-600 BWP ($30-45) per person including cultural presentations. Book through Shakawe or Gumare operators 3-5 days ahead. Early morning starts (7am) recommended to complete hiking before potential afternoon storms. Camping accommodation available on-site.

Moremi Game Reserve Self-Drive Circuits

January's lush vegetation creates a photographer's paradise in Moremi with dramatic storm clouds, verdant landscapes, and active wildlife. The Third Bridge and Xakanaxa areas offer excellent predator viewing as prey concentrates around permanent water sources. Self-drive allows flexibility to wait out afternoon storms and maximize prime morning and evening game viewing hours.

Booking Tip: Park fees are 120 BWP ($9) per person per day plus 50 BWP ($4) vehicle fee. Book campsites 30 days ahead through DWNP. 4WD essential due to muddy conditions. Fuel and supplies should be purchased in Maun before entering. Current accommodation availability varies - check booking options below.

January Events & Festivals

Late January

Maun Festival

Annual celebration of Botswana's cultural heritage featuring traditional dancing, music, and local crafts. Local communities showcase Tswana culture with cattle competitions, traditional food stalls, and evening performances. Perfect opportunity to experience authentic Botswana culture beyond wildlife viewing.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight waterproof jacket with ventilation - afternoon storms produce heavy rainfall but temperatures remain warm at 22-25°C (72-77°F)

Quick-dry safari pants in neutral colors - morning dew and muddy conditions from overnight rains require fast-drying materials

Waterproof daypack cover - essential for protecting camera equipment during sudden downpours that can start within minutes

Insect repellent with 30%+ DEET - increased mosquito activity during rainy season, especially around water sources at dawn and dusk

Binoculars with lens covers - humidity can fog lenses, waterproof models or protective covers essential for optimal wildlife viewing

Headlamp with red filter - early morning game drives start at 5:30am in darkness, red light preserves night vision for animal spotting

Breathable cotton long-sleeves - protection from insects and sun while allowing air circulation in 70% humidity conditions

Waterproof hiking boots - muddy conditions around camps and walking trails require ankle support and grip on wet surfaces

High SPF sunscreen (50+) - UV index reaches 8 even on cloudy days, reflection off water increases exposure during boat trips

Portable phone charger/power bank - remote locations have limited electricity, essential for GPS navigation and emergency communication

Insider Knowledge

Book internal flights between camps for January departures by November - Air Botswana and charter operators have limited capacity during green season with weather-related cancellations common

Carry cash in BWP - remote lodges and cultural sites don't accept cards, ATMs in Maun and Kasane often run empty during holiday season, budget 200-300 BWP ($15-22) daily for park fees and tips

Download offline maps before traveling - cellular coverage is spotty in parks and GPS essential for self-drive visitors, Google Maps offline doesn't work well in remote areas so use dedicated GPS units

Pack malaria prophylaxis and start 1-2 weeks before arrival - January's rains increase mosquito populations significantly, especially in Okavango and Chobe regions where transmission risk is highest year-round

Avoid These Mistakes

Assuming all roads are accessible - many remote areas become impassable after heavy rains, always confirm current conditions with operators and have backup plans for alternative routes

Packing only summer clothes - early morning game drives can be surprisingly cool at 15-18°C (59-64°F) with high humidity making it feel colder, layers essential for comfort

Expecting dry season wildlife concentrations - animals are dispersed due to abundant water sources everywhere, requiring patience and different viewing strategies focused on quality over quantity