Botswana safari in September

Monthly Safari Guide

Botswana Safari in
September

Late Dry Season 12-33°C 2mm rain 1779 tours
September is Botswana at its most intense. The dry season reaches its peak with temperatures rising sharply and remaining water sources becoming critical wildlife magnets. Game viewing is exceptional as desperate animals gather at waterholes, creating concentrated and dramatic encounters. The Okavango Delta is receding but still beautiful, with its channels acting as lifelines. Hot days can exceed 33 degrees Celsius but are bone-dry and comfortable. Prices remain high as this is still firmly within prime season.

Season overview

Late Dry Season in Botswana

September falls within Botswana's late dry season, characterised by daytime highs of 33°C and overnight lows of 12°C. Average rainfall is 2mm, making this a virtually rain-free period.

The dry conditions mean vegetation is thinner, making wildlife easier to spot. Animals concentrate around permanent water sources, creating dense and dramatic viewing opportunities. Clear skies provide excellent visibility and photography conditions.

Wildlife & nature

Wildlife Highlights in September

  • Desperate wildlife concentrations at remaining water sources
  • Delta receding creates dramatic predator-prey dynamics
  • Elephant herds massive along remaining watercourses
  • Excellent night-sky viewing with zero humidity

Where to go

Best Parks in Botswana for September

Okavango Delta

Top pick this month

Chobe

Recommended for September

Moremi

Recommended for September

Linyanti

Recommended for September

Savuti

Recommended for September

Planning

Crowds & Pricing in September

Crowd Level

High

Price Level

High Season

Average price per person

Budget

$2949

from $80 · 167 tours

Mid-range

$3454

from $100 · 335 tours

Luxury

$6381

from $530 · 101 tours

Ultra-Luxury

$13031

from $3923 · 12 tours

September commands high-season pricing in Botswana due to excellent conditions and strong demand. Booking 3-6 months ahead is recommended for the best selection of camps and lodges.

Preparation

What to Pack for September

Light clothing for hot days
Warm layers for cool mornings
High-SPF sunscreen
Extra water
Wide-brimmed hat

With temperatures between 12 and 33 degrees Celsius, layering is essential. Early morning game drives can be cold, while midday is warm. Neutral colours (khaki, olive, brown) are best for safari. Avoid bright whites and dark blues which attract tsetse flies in some areas.

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Frequently asked questions

Botswana Safari in September FAQ

Is September a good time for a safari in Botswana?

September falls in Botswana's late dry season, with temperatures of 12-33 degrees Celsius and 2mm average rainfall. Crowd levels are high, and pricing is at high season rates. Desperate wildlife concentrations at remaining water sources. Overall, September is a solid choice for a Botswana safari.

How much does a Botswana safari cost in September?

Botswana safari costs in September vary by comfort level. Budget safaris average $2949/person from $80. Mid-range options average $3454/person. Luxury safaris average $6381/person. Ultra-luxury experiences average $13031/person. Prices are moderate in September. Compare 1779 tours on SafariPicked.

What wildlife can I see in Botswana in September?

September wildlife highlights in Botswana include: Desperate wildlife concentrations at remaining water sources. Delta receding creates dramatic predator-prey dynamics. Elephant herds massive along remaining watercourses. Excellent night-sky viewing with zero humidity. The best parks to visit this month are Okavango Delta, Chobe, Moremi, Linyanti, Savuti.

What should I pack for a Botswana safari in September?

Essential packing for a September Botswana safari: Light clothing for hot days, Warm layers for cool mornings, High-SPF sunscreen, Extra water, Wide-brimmed hat. Temperatures range from 12 to 33 degrees Celsius with 2mm rainfall, so layering is key for variable temperatures.

Which parks are best to visit in Botswana in September?

The top parks in Botswana for September are Okavango Delta, Chobe, Moremi, Linyanti, Savuti. During the late dry season, these parks offer the best game viewing conditions. Okavango Delta is particularly recommended this month. Browse all Botswana park guides and tour options on SafariPicked.