BOTSWANA’S
A BIRDERS PARADISE
RUSSEL WASSERFALL
While classic African wildlife like elephants, wildebeest and lion are likely the first things that come to mind for an African safari, Botswana is also heaven-on-earth for ‘birders’. Well known for its vast and diverse landscapes, Botswana provides a rich array of habitats where over 590 species have been recorded.
Training local people as guides enhances the game- and bird-viewing experience for visitors as they can benefit from the intimate knowledge of someone who grew up in the area.
While the majestic African Fish Eagle, the elusive Pel's Fishing Owl, and the vibrant Malachite Kingfisher are an obvious target in the Okavango and the Chobe National Park, raptors, songbirds and other unique varieties teem in the savanna and desert regions. Other notable species found in Botswana include the Kori Bustard, the world's heaviest flying bird, and the endangered Wattled Crane.
In recent years, there has been a growing trend towards community-based tourism initiatives in Botswana that focus on birding. These initiatives aim to benefit local communities by providing training and employment opportunities as bird guides and promoting sustainable birding practices. By participating in these tours, visitors get to interact with local guides and benefit from their intimate knowledge of the area but also contribute to the conservation of local bird species.
While there are many self-drive opportunities for touring the wonders of Botswana, a good off-road vehicle and a local guide are highly recommended, especially in the Khwai concession.
Flamingos, the iconic African waterbird, flock on the Makgadikgadi Pans near Jack’s Camp in the wet season.
Local families in the Kwhai Community concession benefit from birding and other tourist experiences, earning a living from the natural resources of their home.
In recent years, there has been a growing trend towards community-based tourism initiatives in Botswana that focus on birding. These initiatives aim to benefit local communities by providing training and employment opportunities as bird guides and promoting sustainable birding practices. By participating in these tours, visitors get to interact with local guides and benefit from their intimate knowledge of the area but also contribute to the conservation of local bird species.
White-fronted bee-eaters on a mudbank along Botswana’s Chobe River
A notable community-based project in Botswana that offers birding experiences for visitors is the Khwai Birding Project. Khwai is a community-run concession located on the eastern border of the Moremi Game Reserve, renowned for its rich birdlife and diverse ecosystems. The Khwai Birding Project focuses on providing visitors with guided birding tours led by local community members who are passionate and knowledgeable about the area's bird species, offering a unique perspective on the local birdlife and its significance to the community.
Bennett’s Woodpecker spotted near Mashatu in the Tuli block
Southern Red-billed Hornbill
Lilac-breasted Roller
Woodland Kingfisher
White-crowned Lapwing
Moremi is best accessed from Maun in the south. The drive from Maun takes less than 2 hours on a mix of paved and gravel roads. However, a 4x4 vehicle is required to navigate the sandy roads within the reserve, especially during the rainy season. It is also accessible from the north via Chobe National Park. Parts of the park can also be navigated with guides in mokoro canoes. It’s a must-visit destination for anyone with a passion for birds and their conservation.
Les de andre artiklene fra Botswana her:https://www.matogdrikke.no/botswanaintro