New Botswana safari tour: A unique wildlife photography experience in Africa's ‘Wild Heart’

Two sparring hippos captured by David Lloyd wildlife photographer

I’m excited to announce a new Botswana safari tour for 2026, expanding the popular African wildlife safaris I host annually in Kenya's Maasai Mara.

This 12–14-day Botswana safari trip, offered in September, will take you to pristine locations away from the crowds.

It will be a refreshingly different wildlife safari experience from anything I’ve done before and has been designed to appeal to both wildlife photographers and non-photographers alike.

Join the inaugural Botswana safari tour

At the time of writing (November 2024), a competitive rate is available for this first trip to Botswana, and I’m looking for 6–9 people to join us, with five of those places having already been taken.

Keep reading to find out more about this all-new Botswana safari tour and get in touch ASAP to express your interest if a Botswana safari holiday is in your sights for 2026.  

Why Choose a Botswana Safari Tour?

Botswana is a prime destination for both photographers and nature lovers.

Here’s what makes a Botswana safari holiday so memorable:

1.      Untouched wilderness

Botswana is a country known as one of Africa’s most desired safari destinations because of its unspoiled wilderness. Nature is still beautifully untouched.

Its landscapes and dedication to conservation make it one of the few places where you can truly experience Africa’s natural beauty while knowing that the environment and wildlife are protected.

2.      Abundance of incredible wildlife

The variety of habitats in Botswana also supports some of Africa's most iconic wildlife species.

Join me on a Botswana safari tour and you’ll likely witness large elephant herds, elusive big cats, and rare African wild dogs—ideal subjects for any professional, aspiring or amateur wildlife photographer.

Top Botswana photo safari locations

The photography safari tour to Botswana will encompass:

·         The Kalahari Desert

This will be a captivating start to our Botswana safari journey. This unique ecosystem, with its vast stretches of golden dunes and ancient riverbeds, offers a rare opportunity to experience Botswana’s wild heart.

Here, we’ll look for wildlife like meerkats, gemsbok, and elusive brown hyenas and get to experience the beauty of desert life which is unlike anywhere else in Botswana.

·         Okavango Delta

This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to countless species, including hippos, buffalo, and a vibrant array of birds, offering endless wildlife photography opportunities.

·         Chobe National Park

Famous for having Africa’s highest density of elephants, Chobe National Park offers opportunities to photograph large herds, alongside other unique animals. Its landscapes attract a wide range of Botswana wildlife; everything from antelopes to predators.

What you’ll experience on this Botswana safari tour

1. Hands-on photography tuition

My safaris are not just tours—they’re learning experiences. I’ll work closely with each participant, personalised photography guidance for all skill levels on composition, lighting, timing, and capturing animal behaviour. Whether you're just starting or refining your craft, my goal is to ensure you gain new skills while enjoying the adventure.

2. Game drives and boat safaris

Each day offers an opportunity to fully experience Botswana’s wildlife and landscapes.

From dawn to dusk, you’ll have opportunities to photograph animals in various natural settings, from serene riverbanks to dense woodlands.

3. Small group experience

To ensure everyone has an exceptional experience, I limit the number of participants. This setup not only enhances wildlife sightings but also allows for personal coaching and guidance throughout the Botswana safari tour.

4. Eco-conscious safari practices

A crucial aspect of any Botswana safari holiday is responsible tourism. I am committed to protecting Botswana's wildlife and minimising human impact to ensure we preserve the natural environment.

Respect for wildlife is at the core of my approach. We’ll maintain safe distances, avoid crowding animals, and adhere to eco-conscious practices. Botswana’s commitment to sustainable tourism aligns with this, so we’re able to admire the wildlife without causing disruption.

Botswana safari tour itinerary 2026

We will travel to Botswana in late September for 10 days.

As you can see from the itinerary below, this safari trip involves spending three nights in each of the three destinations, offering a variety of experiences;

  • 3 days on a houseboat exclusively,

  • 3 days in the Okavango Delta,

  • and 3 days in the Kalahari where you will have access to hide photography.

Accommodation: Three unique destinations in one trip

1) Pangolin Voyager Houseboat, Chobe River, Namibia (exclusive)

3 Nights:

Accommodation: Pangolin Voyager Houseboat

Charter flight to the Okavango Delta

2) Kanana Camp, Okavango Delta

3 Nights:

Accommodation: En-suite canvas tent, Kanana Camp

Charter flight to Central Kalahari

3) Dinaka Camp, The Central Kalahari

3 Nights:

Accommodation: En-suite canvas tent, Dinaka Camp

Charter flight to Maun Airport


Other excursions include star photography at night, mokoro (canoe) in the Okavango, and a helicopter ride (optional, at extra cost). A highlight will be small boat photo excursions off the houseboat twice a day.

The group size will be no more than eight.

Join the 2026 Botswana safari tour

This all-new Botswana safari tour will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience! Please do let me know if you would like to put a deposit down to reserve your space as interest is good in this tour, and space is limited. With only a few slots remaining, don’t miss the opportunity to join me.

With 15 years of guiding experience, I’ve designed this tour to uncover Botswana’s most stunning landscapes and iconic wildlife. I look forward to sharing the country’s stunning landscapes and incredible wildlife with you.

For more details on the Botswana safari tour dates and availability, and to secure your place, please contact me at your earliest convenience.

David

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