Fly-in safaris in Botswana

Wilderness luxury fly-in safari lodges in Botswana are accessed primarily via Maun International Airport (MUB) and Kasane International Airport (BBK), both of which connect seamlessly with Wilderness Air’s scheduled flight circuit. Since 1991, Wilderness Air has maintained a reputation for steadfast operations and excellent guest service. Headquartered in Botswana, the company offers meet-and-greet services at all flight bases, and VIP airport lounges in Maun, Kasane, Windhoek and Victoria Falls, which include a private lounge, light refreshments and luggage assistance services.

All Wilderness fly-in safaris operate with a light eco-footprint by managing all of the logistics on the ground with an environmentally-conscious approach. Most of our flights in Botswana are operated in Cessna 208B Grand Caravans which carry 12 passengers, ideal for bush airstrips, and offering spacious, air-conditioned cabins and a high-wing aircraft for uninterrupted vistas. More than just a connection, a fly-in safari in Botswana provides a breathtaking start to your journey.

How does a fly-in safari in Botswana work?

Botswana is predominantly a fly-in safari destination, with most camps located in remote wilderness areas. Wilderness Air services Wilderness camps as well as approved third-party camps in these safari areas, and as a result there can be various stops en-route to your final safari lodge. All guests arriving off of international flights into Maun will depart Maun at 14:45 for their respective camps, while fly-in safaris from Kasane depart at 14:00/14:30, to coincide with that airport’s international flights. Guests wishing to make use of this flight connection, and arriving from Victoria Falls or Livingstone by road (and ferry), must be at Kasane Airport by 13:00. Flights between safari lodges in Botswana typically take place between 11am and 4pm to allow you enough time to enjoy a morning or afternoon game drive before departing camp. All guests are advised of flight times in camp the night before, once routings are finalised. Sole-use (private charter) aircraft are available on request.

What are the luggage restrictions on a fly-in safari?

For your fly-in safari in Botswana, luggage should not exceed 20 kg (44 lb) per person including hand luggage and camera equipment. Bags must be soft-sided and standard soft duffel bags are ideal, but luggage with a rigid structure at the base including wheels and/or a collapsible handle is also accepted. Excess luggage not required on safari can be stored at Maun and Kasane, and if required, can be transferred between Maun and Kasane on a complimentary basis.

How much does a fly-in safari in Botswana cost?

Botswana's fly-in safaris carry a higher price tag, and for good reason. The country follows a strict low impact, high-value conservation model, deliberately limiting guest numbers to protect its fragile ecosystems, while ensuring travellers enjoy rare exclusivity and uninterrupted wilderness. The remoteness of Botswana’s camps also contributes to the cost, but many travellers are happy to invest in privacy and experiences that help fund conservation and support local communities. Rates for Wilderness lodges in Botswana vary significantly based on exclusivity, level of luxury and the season, ranging between USD1,000 and 5,000 pppn for your lodge stay with flights and transfers added in to your final itinerary cost.

Are the light aircraft safe?

Yes, Wilderness Air has been operating fly-in safaris in Botswana since 1991 with unparalleled expertise in bush flying. The fleet is designed for safe and smooth landings on remote airstrips and the bush pilots have decades of experience between them.

Wilderness invests in cutting-edge technology and a safety-first approach, with an ICAO-compliant Safety Management System and dedicated officers. We also conduct expert training with rigorous pilot training, including bi-annual proficiency checks and real-time monitoring with satellite tracking and engine condition monitoring. Our airstrips are also inspected regularly and all aircraft are maintained to strict Civil Aviation and manufacturer standards, undergoing annual regulatory audits plus internal and external checks.

When is the best time for a fly-in safari in Botswana?

The best time for a fly-in safari in Botswana is generally during the dry season, from May to October, when the skies are generally clear. With hardly any rainfall, there are fewer weather-related disruptions, while good visibility can make flying between remote camps more comfortable and reliable. The shoulder months of May and October can also be good choices and although conditions can be more variable flights can be more affordable with the chance of free-flying offers to specific lodges in Botswana or free inter-camp transfers. During the wetter months, particularly from December to March, thunderstorms and heavy rain can occasionally affect light-aircraft operations, potentially causing delays, changes to flight schedules or resulting in rather turbulent flights.