Can I Join a Group Safari in Botswana?

Yes, you certainly can. A group safari is ideal for solo travellers or small groups of 2–3 people who want to share both the adventure and the cost. By joining a scheduled small-group mobile camping safari (usually between 8–12 people), you can explore Botswana's national parks affordably, spend more time in the bush, and reach exclusive areas that are otherwise pricey to visit alone. To get the best options for a group safari suitable for you, it is best to contact Lelobu Safaris for a recommendation around your dates and budget.

Why Join a Group Safari?

Affordability: Costs are shared, making it far cheaper than a private safari.
Access to exclusive areas: Reach limited-accommodation regions like Savuti, the Okavango Delta, and Chobe National Park, where staying otherwise tends to be expensive.
More time in nature: Scheduled itineraries cover multiple areas in one trip, maximising your wildlife encounters.
A social experience: Meet like-minded travellers from around the world.

What to Expect on a Group Mobile Camping Safari

Most group safaris are mobile camping safaris lasting 6–10 nights, traversing diverse landscapes—from the open grasslands of Savuti to the floodplains of the Okavango Delta—with expert guides leading the way.

Our local operators use BOGA and HATAB campsites, reserved exclusively for licensed operators. These sites are located well away from public and self-drive camps, ensuring peace, privacy, and a truly serene wilderness experience.

You can choose between two styles:

Semi-participation camping: You'll be asked to help with light tasks—carrying your own bags to and from the vehicle, setting up your own tent, or helping cut vegetables for meals. Your guides are always on hand to help, but because less staff is needed, this keeps the trip more affordable (and creates a fun team spirit).
Fully serviced camping: Your guides and camp chef carry out every camp task for you, for a more relaxed trip.

With either option, most trips offer en-suite Meru or Dome tents, sometimes you'll still have your own personal bush shower and amenities while enjoying communal meals and activities. Othertimes showers are also cummunal.

Who Will I Be Travelling With?

Our small-group safaris attract travellers of all ages—from adventurous solo travellers to couples and friends. Most guests share a passion for wildlife and cultural exploration, and group sizes are kept small (usually 8–12) to ensure personal attention from your guides. Group safaris have a minimum age requirement of 12 years old.

What's Included in a Group Safari?

While inclusions vary by trip, most Botswana group safaris offer:

All park fees and camping permits
Guided game drives and transfers
All meals during the safari
Tents, bedding, and camping equipment
Services of professional safari guides and camp staff

Note: Some safaris require you to bring your own sleeping bag, but we can arrange one for you. Pre/post-safari accommodation, and personal expenses are typically not included.

Best Time of Year to Join a Group Safari

Most scheduled group safaris run from May to September, when wildlife viewing is at its best and the Okavango Delta is in flood.

Departure dates are generally finalised at the beginning of each year, so it's best to contact us a few months in advance with some flexibility in your travel dates, especially if you want a specific trip or have a strict budget. Popular trips fill up quickly during peak season.

Some safaris also depart early on the start date, so you may need a pre-night or post-night to rest up and align with your international flights.

How Much Does a Group Safari Cost?

Prices vary depending on trip length, level of service, and season. As a guide for 2027:

Semi-participation camping safaris: Between USD 1800.00 to USD 2000.00 per person sharing for 7 nights
Fully serviced camping safaris: Between USD 2425.00 per person sharing and upwards for a 6 nights safari (depending on level)

Key Facts and Quick Tips

Group size: Usually 8–12 people and small enough for personal guiding.
Duration: Typically 6–10 nights of mobile camping.
Private campsites: BOGA and HATAB sites, away from public camps.
Two styles: Semi-participation (budget) or fully serviced (more relaxed).
Season: Most departures run May–September (high season).
Book early: Best to contact early or contact Lelobu Safaris for last minute availability.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I join a group safari as a solo traveller?

Yes. Scheduled group safaris are ideal for solo travellers and small groups of 2–3 people, letting you share the adventure and the cost with like-minded travellers in a group of usually 8–12.

What is the difference between semi-participation and fully serviced camping?

On a semi-participation safari, you help with light camp tasks like carrying your bag, setting up your tent, or preparing meals, which keeps costs lower. On a fully serviced safari, the guides and camp chef handle every task for a more relaxed trip.

Do I need to bring my own camping gear?

No—all tents and camp equipment are provided. Just bring personal items like clothing, toiletries, and camera gear. Some safaris require you to bring your own sleeping bag, but we can rent one for you.

When is the best time to join a group safari in Botswana?

Most scheduled group safaris run from May to September, Botswana's high season, when wildlife viewing is at its best and the Okavango Delta is flooded.

How much does a group safari in Botswana cost?

Semi-participation camping safaris start from around USD $1800.00 to $2000.00per person for 7 nights, while fully serviced camping safaris start from around USD $2425 per person upwards for 6 nights, depending on trip length, service level, and season.

How do I book a group safari?

Contact us at Lelobu Safaris with your budget, preferred travel dates, and the parks or regions you'd like to visit, and we'll match you with the perfect small-group Botswana safari.

Ready to book your dream Botswana Safari?

Contact our team at Lelobu Safaris for personalized advice and a custom itinerary.

From family travel to more rustic and affordable camps, there is something for everyone with our Botswana safaris. Some lodge packages focus on specific activities, such as game drives and boat rides, while others offer a more comprehensive safari experience that includes a variety of activities and destinations.

No matter what type of Botswana safari package you choose, you can expect to see an incredible array of wildlife. Overall, booking a Botswana budget safari package is a great way to ensure that you have a memorable and enjoyable trip to this incredible country. So why wait? Lets start planning your Botswana safari today and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime!