Beyond the Okavango Delta: 10 Hidden Gems in Botswana You Can’t Miss

When you hear "Botswana," what comes to mind first? Likely, the sprawling Okavango Delta with its picturesque wetlands and abundant wildlife. But what if we told you that Botswana offers so much more beyond its iconic delta? Tucked within its vast landscapes are remarkable, lesser-known destinations just waiting to be explored. From golden savannahs and ancient rock art to salt pans that look like otherworldly moonscapes, Botswana’s hidden gems promise adventure, awe, and the type of tranquillity that only nature can deliver.

In this guide, we’ll explore 10 hidden gems in Botswana that broaden your travel horizons, adding depth and unmatched discovery to your African adventure.

1. Kubu Island – A Surreal Island in a Sea of Salt

Imagine a rocky outcrop rising dramatically from endless white salt pans, dotted with ancient baobabs. Kubu Island, or Lekhubu, located within the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans, offers a starkly unique and spiritual experience. Designated as a sacred site by local communities, Kubu Island looks like a scene from another world, especially at sunset when the light dances atop the salt flats.

Things to do:

  • Capture stunning photos during golden hour.

  • Learn about the local Bakalanga people’s spiritual connection to the island.

  • Savour a star-gazing experience under Botswana’s brilliant night sky.

Pro tip: This destination is best explored during the dry season (May to October), as heavy rains can make the pans inaccessible.

2. Tsodilo Hills – The "Louvre" of the Kalahari Desert

Tsodilo Hills is a UNESCO World Heritage Site often referred to as the “Louvre of the Desert.” With over 4,500 rock paintings dating back at least 100,000 years, these ancient artworks offer an incredible look into the lives and beliefs of early hunter-gatherer societies.

The hills themselves are spiritual to the San Bushmen, who believe they are a resting place of ancestors and the heart of creation.

Things to do:

  • Join guided hikes to experience the largest collection of rock art in Southern Africa.

  • Listen to fascinating stories of hunter-gatherer life shared by local guides.

  • Visit the small museum for context before exploring the hills.

3. The Tuli Block – Botswana’s Best Kept Safari Secret

If you’re seeking a safari experience away from traditional tourist routes, look no further than the Tuli Block. Nestled in eastern Botswana along the banks of the Limpopo River, the Tuli Block is home to lush vegetation, dramatic rock formations, and abundant wildlife. Often referred to as "The Land of the Giants" for its massive baobab trees and thriving elephant population, this region offers a safari experience unlike any other.

Things to do:

  • Explore the region’s private game reserves, such as Mashatu Game Reserve.

  • Spot elephants, leopards, and cheetahs on guided game drives.

  • Go mountain biking or horse riding amidst striking landscapes.

Why it’s unique: With fewer crowds, the Tuli Block grants an intimate safari experience and endless opportunities to explore the wilderness your way.

4. The Khama Rhino Sanctuary – A Conservation Success Story

When rhinos face severe threats from poaching, the Khama Rhino Sanctuary emerges as a beacon of hope. Located near Serowe in eastern Botswana, it’s a safe haven for both black and white rhinos. With its rolling savannah and waterholes, this reserve isn’t just about rhinos—it’s home to over 30 other animal species and 230 bird species.

Things to do:

  • Embark on rhino-tracking safaris with knowledgeable guides.

  • Marvel at the incredible sunset views by the Malema Water Hole.

  • Learn about conservation efforts and sustainable tourism projects.

5. Nxai Pan National Park – A Photographer’s Dream Destination

This hidden gem offers a stark contrast from the lush Okavango Delta. Nxai Pan National Park is renowned for its shimmering salt pans, fossilised lake beds, and open grasslands. What sets this park apart are the iconic cluster of baobabs known as Baines Baobabs, famously sketched in the 19th century by explorer Thomas Baines.

Things to do:

  • Photograph the silhouette of Baines Baobabs against a glowing horizon.

  • Witness fascinating wildlife like springboks, lions, and African wild dogs.

  • Visit during the green season (November to April) for an additional treat: zebras migrating in large herds across the pans.

6. Gcwihaba Caves – A Subterranean Wonderland

Seeking a dose of adventure? Delve into Botswana’s underground world at the Gcwihaba Caves. These ancient limestone caves in northwestern Botswana are filled with stunning stalactites, stalagmites, and fossil formations.

Things to do:

  • Explore the intricate cave systems with a guide.

  • Marvel at the shimmering mineral formations and hidden chambers.

  • Learn how the caves were used as shelters by early San Bushmen.

Quick tip: Pack sturdy shoes, a flashlight, and a sense of curiosity.

7. Chobe Riverfront – A Water Safari Like No Other

Located in Chobe National Park, the Chobe Riverfront is a vibrant, lesser-visited stretch teeming with wildlife. Known for its incredible buffalo and elephant herds, the riverfront allows you to embark on boat safaris and witness wildlife congregating at the water’s edge.

Things to do:

  • Try a sunset river cruise where you can spot crocodiles, hippos, and elephants up close.

  • Enjoy a picnic on the riverbanks with unbeatable views.

  • Go bird-watching—the wetland is a haven for kingfishers, African darters, and carmine bee-eaters.

8. Lake Ngami – A Disappearing Oasis

During Botswana’s rainy season, the semi-arid Lake Ngami bursts to life as a temporary oasis. Located at the southern end of the Okavango Delta, it transforms into a haven for migratory birds and aquatic life.

Things to do:

  • Excellent bird-watching, with flamingos and pelicans often stealing the show.

  • Go fishing with locals and learn about their traditions.

  • Explore the surrounding wetlands and small villages.

Why visit? Lake Ngami offers an authentic cultural experience as well as ecological diversity that few other regions can match.

9. Central Kalahari Game Reserve – Untamed Wilderness

The Central Kalahari Game Reserve (CKGR) is the largest protected area in Botswana, offering raw, untamed beauty that feels like stepping back through time. Unlike more touristed parks, CKGR lets you experience true wilderness with its endless landscapes and elusive predators like brown hyenas and cheetahs.

Things to do:

  • Camp under the stars in the heart of the Kalahari Desert.

  • Search for lions and cheetahs on guided game drives.

  • Visit Deception Valley for incredible game-viewing, especially in the green season.

10. Moremi Gorge – Botswana’s Hidden Eden

Tucked away in the Tswapong Hills, Moremi Gorge is a verdant sanctuary defined by plunging cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and sacred pools. It’s ideal for travellers looking for a mix of hiking and relaxation in one of Botswana’s most spiritual natural spaces.

Things to do:

  • Take a refreshing hike to the gorge’s waterfalls.

  • Spot rare bird species like the endangered Cape vulture.

  • Connect with local villages for traditional storytelling and cultural exchanges.

Planning Your Botswana Adventure

Want to experience these hidden gems for yourself? Nihosi Travels & Tours offers tailor-made itineraries and expert-guided tours to help you unlock the lesser-known wonders of Botswana. Whether you’re seeking exclusive safaris, cultural interactions, or a deeper connection to some of Africa’s most captivating landscapes, they’ve got you covered.

FAQs About Botswana’s Hidden Gems

  1. What are the best times to visit Botswana’s hidden gems?
    The dry season (May to October) is ideal for safaris, while the wet season (November to April) offers lush scenery and migratory birds.

  2. Do I need special permits to visit sites like Tsodilo Hills?
    Yes, some sites, particularly heritage areas, may require entry permits, which can be obtained locally.

  3. How can I travel between Botswana’s remote destinations?
    Hiring a 4×4 vehicle or joining a guided tour is recommended, especially for difficult-to-reach locations.

Botswana beyond the Okavango Delta promises more than just landscapes—it offers unforgettable experiences shaped by history, nature, and culture. Which hidden gem will you explore first?