The landlocked country of Botswana is blessed with resplendent forests, wildlife-rich deserts and idyllic wetlands, complete with lagoons, secluded islands and a delta of water channels that rate as one of the most visually stunning settings in Africa. Combine these habitats, and you have some of the best game viewing and birdwatching in the world.

The highlight is undoubtedly the Okavango Delta, though the Chobe National Park and spectacular Makgadikgadi and Nxai pans are also hugely rewarding. Generally a very temperate climate, Botswana’s water holes and dams are at their busiest during the rainy season, which falls between October and April.