Introduction
Botswana is a dream destination for off-grid adventurers who crave wildlife encounters and untouched landscapes. With over 70% of the country covered by the Kalahari Desert and some of Africa’s most pristine ecosystems, Botswana offers a sense of wilderness that’s hard to find elsewhere. From the elephant-rich savannas of Chobe National Park to the watery wonderland of the Okavango Delta, this country is a haven for campers seeking an authentic, unplugged experience. At Off-Grid Adventures, we’re thrilled to share two hidden gems—Savuti Campsite and Semowi Campsites—that let you immerse yourself in Botswana’s wild heart.
Savuti Campsite – Elephant Encounters
Savuti, located in the southwestern corner of Chobe National Park, is a legendary spot for wildlife enthusiasts. Known as the “Savuti Marsh,” this area was once a vast inland lake that dried up thousands of years ago, leaving behind a flat, grassy expanse that attracts massive herds of elephants, especially during the dry season (May to October). The campsites at Savuti are operated by the park and are as raw as it gets—there’s no electricity, no running water, and no fences, meaning you’re truly in the wild. Each site has a firepit and a basic pit latrine, but you’ll need to be completely self-sufficient.
Camping at Savuti puts you right in the middle of Botswana’s predator-prey drama. The Savuti Channel, a seasonal waterway, draws elephants, buffalo, and antelope, which in turn attract lions, hyenas, and leopards. It’s not uncommon to hear lions roaring at night or to see elephant herds passing within a few hundred meters of your tent. During the day, you can take a game drive along the park’s sandy tracks to spot the famous Savuti lion pride, known for their elephant-hunting skills—a rare behavior documented in wildlife films like National Geographic’s Savage Kingdom. Birdwatchers will also love the area, with species like the kori bustard and carmine bee-eater often spotted near the marsh.
The lack of fences means you’ll need to stay vigilant—keep your campsite tidy, store food securely, and never leave your tent at night without checking for wildlife. But that’s part of the thrill of Savuti: it’s a place where you feel the pulse of the wild. For more on exploring Chobe and other Botswana hotspots, check out our Ultimate Guide to Overlanding and Off-Grid Adventures in Botswana, which dives deeper into Savuti and the park’s other regions.
Semowi Campsites – Okavango Delta Magic
The Okavango Delta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the world’s largest inland deltas, where the Okavango River spreads into a labyrinth of channels, lagoons, and islands before disappearing into the Kalahari Desert. Semowi, located in the North-West District (Ngamiland), offers three off-grid campsites that let you experience the delta’s magic up close. These sites are completely unpowered, with no electricity or facilities—just you, your tent, and the sounds of the delta. Each campsite is strategically placed to offer privacy and stunning views, often with hippos and crocodiles visible in the nearby waterways.
A stay at Semowi is all about immersion. You can book a mokoro (traditional dugout canoe) excursion through the delta’s channels, gliding past water lilies and papyrus reeds while spotting elephants, giraffes, and countless bird species—over 400 species have been recorded here, including the rare Pel’s fishing owl. Fishing is another popular activity, with the delta’s waters teeming with tigerfish and bream (just watch out for crocs!). At night, the campsite comes alive with the sounds of the wild—frogs croaking, hippos grunting, and the occasional roar of a lion in the distance.
Semowi also offers four luxury tents for those who want a bit more comfort, but the campsites are the true off-grid experience, perfect for overlanders who want to feel the delta’s raw energy. The owners are passionate about sustainable tourism, ensuring minimal impact on the delicate ecosystem, so you can camp with a clear conscience. If you’re planning a broader Botswana adventure, Semowi is a great base for exploring the delta’s western edge, as detailed in our Ultimate Guide to Overlanding and Off-Grid Adventures in Botswana.
Why Botswana for Off-Grid Camping?
Botswana’s commitment to low-impact, high-value tourism makes it a standout for off-grid camping. The government limits the number of visitors to protected areas like Chobe and the Okavango Delta, ensuring a sense of exclusivity and preserving the wilderness for future generations. This means fewer crowds and more opportunities to experience nature in its purest form. Search Console data shows interest in spots like Savuti (18 impressions for “savuti campsite map”) and general queries like “botswana camping sites map” (384 impressions), reflecting a growing demand for off-grid experiences in the region.
Tips for Botswana Off-Grid Trips
- Wildlife Safety: There are no fences at these campsites, so always be aware of your surroundings. The Botswana Tourism Organisation has excellent safety guidelines for camping in wildlife areas.
- Strong Tent: Use a sturdy tent with a good rainfly—the wet season (November to April) can bring sudden storms.
- Fuel Planning: Distances between fuel stations can be vast, especially in the delta. Fill up in Maun or Kasane before heading out.
- Food Storage: Baboons and hyenas are notorious camp raiders—store food in locked containers and never leave scraps out.
- Mosquito Protection: The delta is a malaria area, so bring insect repellent, long sleeves, and a mosquito net for sleeping.
- Botswana Map: Where to find it. Botswana Map
More Botswana Adventures Await
Love these campsites? Find more off-grid spots in Botswana on our listings page. If you own a campsite in Botswana, why not share it with adventurers seeking these experiences? List it with us for free! Where’s your favorite Botswana spot? Share below!
