Botswana safari in August

Monthly Safari Guide

Botswana Safari in
August

Peak Dry Season 7-28°C 0mm rain 1779 tours
August continues Botswana's peak season with warming temperatures making early morning drives more comfortable than July. The Okavango Delta flood begins its slow recession, concentrating aquatic and terrestrial wildlife. Game viewing throughout the country is exceptional, with every major ecosystem at its best. The Savuti area of Chobe is particularly dramatic with its famous marsh lions. Makgadikgadi salt pans are bone-dry, offering stark, otherworldly landscapes. Prices remain at peak levels with high demand across all camps.

Season overview

Peak Dry Season in Botswana

August falls within Botswana's peak dry season, characterised by daytime highs of 28°C and overnight lows of 7°C. Average rainfall is 0mm, 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 August

  • Delta flood waters begin slow recession
  • Wildlife concentrations at their absolute peak
  • Lions and leopards highly active around waterholes
  • Spectacular elephant bathing and swimming in the delta

Where to go

Best Parks in Botswana for August

Okavango Delta

Top pick this month

Chobe

Recommended for August

Moremi

Recommended for August

Savuti

Recommended for August

Makgadikgadi

Recommended for August

Planning

Crowds & Pricing in August

Crowd Level

Peak

Price Level

Peak 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

August is Botswana's most expensive safari month. Top camps sell out months in advance and premium rates apply across all comfort levels. Book early and consider shoulder months for better value with similar conditions.

Preparation

What to Pack for August

Warm morning layers (less extreme than July)
Sunscreen and hat
Camera with fast lens
Polarising lens filter
Comfortable safari clothing

With temperatures between 7 and 28 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.

Book your adventure

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Frequently asked questions

Botswana Safari in August FAQ

Is August a good time for a safari in Botswana?

August falls in Botswana's peak dry season, with temperatures of 7-28 degrees Celsius and 0mm average rainfall. Crowd levels are peak, and pricing is at peak season rates. Delta flood waters begin slow recession. Overall, August is the most popular (and expensive) month for a Botswana safari.

How much does a Botswana safari cost in August?

Botswana safari costs in August 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 at their highest in August. Compare 1779 tours on SafariPicked.

What wildlife can I see in Botswana in August?

August wildlife highlights in Botswana include: Delta flood waters begin slow recession. Wildlife concentrations at their absolute peak. Lions and leopards highly active around waterholes. Spectacular elephant bathing and swimming in the delta. The best parks to visit this month are Okavango Delta, Chobe, Moremi, Savuti, Makgadikgadi.

What should I pack for a Botswana safari in August?

Essential packing for a August Botswana safari: Warm morning layers (less extreme than July), Sunscreen and hat, Camera with fast lens, Polarising lens filter, Comfortable safari clothing. Temperatures range from 7 to 28 degrees Celsius with 0mm rainfall, so layering is key for variable temperatures.

Which parks are best to visit in Botswana in August?

The top parks in Botswana for August are Okavango Delta, Chobe, Moremi, Savuti, Makgadikgadi. During the peak 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.