The Great Zebra Migration in Botswana: A Spectacular Wildlife Journey
Botswana’s zebra migration is one of Africa’s most extraordinary yet lesser-known wildlife spectacles. While the Serengeti’s wildebeest migration dominates headlines, Botswana hosts the largest migration in southern Africa, with up to 30,000 zebras traveling over 1,000 km annually.
This twice-yearly journey follows seasonal rainfall, as zebras move between the Chobe River floodplains and the nutrient-rich grasslands of Nxai Pan National Park. From June to November, herds remain in the Chobe region before heading south in December, drawn by fresh rains. They spend three months in Nxai Pan before returning north between March and May, following a more meandering route.
For traveller’s, witnessing this migration offers an unforgettable safari experience. Visiting Botswana at the right time unveils a stunning natural phenomenon—one of Africa’s longest terrestrial migrations, weaving through the vast Makgadikgadi Pans and the Okavango Delta in a timeless cycle of survival.
What is the Zebra Migration in Botswana?
Botswana’s zebra migration is the longest recorded terrestrial migration in Africa, with over 25,000 zebras traveling between the Chobe River, Okavango Delta, and Makgadikgadi Pans. This epic journey, spanning over 500 km, follows seasonal rainfall as zebras seek nutrient-rich grasses essential for their survival. Historically, Botswana hosted vast migrations, rivalling the Serengeti. However, veterinary fences erected in the 1950s to support cattle farming disrupted these ancient routes, causing a dramatic decline in migratory wildlife. With the removal and disrepair of fences, zebras have instinctively resumed their migration, making this one of Africa’s most remarkable conservation success stories.
From November to April, the Makgadikgadi Pans transform into a lush grazing paradise, drawing thousands of zebras and other herbivores like wildebeest and giraffes. Their presence supports a thriving ecosystem, benefiting predators such as lions and hyenas, as well as species like dung beetles and meerkats.
For an unparalleled safari experience, visit key locations such as Jack’s Camp, San Camp, Camp Kalahari, or Meno a Kwena. Unlike the crowded Serengeti migration, Botswana’s zebra migration offers an exclusive, intimate wildlife spectacle in an untouched wilderness—making it a must-see for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.
When is the Best Time to Witness the Zebra Migration in Botswana?
Botswana’s zebra migration, spanning November to March, is the longest recorded land mammal migration in Africa. Stretching 500 km (311 miles) from the Chobe River floodplains to the lush grasslands of Nxai Pan and back, this incredible journey was only confirmed by scientists in 2014.
Robin Naidoo, senior conservation scientist at the World Wildlife Fund, described the discovery as a shock: “Nobody knew that something of this scale, with this much ground covered, was occurring.” Today, this annual spectacle attracts wildlife enthusiasts worldwide, eager to witness the zebras’ three-stage migration south and their return north.
November–December: Zebras leave the Chobe floodplains, crossing the Linyanti Reserve and Savuti Marsh towards the dry Kalahari woodlands, guided by seasonal rains.
January–February: They reach the nutrient-rich grasses of the Makgadikgadi Pans and Nxai Pan, where many give birth.
March–May: As the dry season sets in, they trek back north, retracing their steps.
June–October: The herds remain near the Okavango Delta and Chobe River until the next migration begins.
For the best viewing, visit Botswana between January and March when thousands of zebras gather in the Makgadikgadi Pans, creating an unforgettable wildlife experience in Africa’s vast wilderness.
Where to See the Zebra Migration in Botswana?
For travellers eager to witness Botswana’s remarkable zebra migration, selecting the right location is essential. The migration spans diverse landscapes, from the Chobe floodplains to the vast Makgadikgadi Pans, offering unparalleled wildlife encounters. To make the most of your zebra migration safari, consider staying at one of these top-rated accommodations:
Jack’s Camp (Makgadikgadi Pans)
A luxurious yet rustic retreat offering stunning views of the migration. Enjoy guided game drives, bush walks, and cultural experiences with the local San people.
Meno a Kwena (Boteti River)
This intimate camp sits on the banks of the Boteti River, a prime location for seeing zebras as they cross the water during their migration.
Leroo La Tau (Makgadikgadi Pans National Park)
An exclusive safari lodge offering an exceptional vantage point to witness the zebra migration.
Savute Safari Lodge (Chobe National Park)
Situated in the Savute region of Chobe, this lodge provides spectacular game viewing as zebras gather before their journey south.
Other Prime Locations to Witness the Zebra Migration:
Makgadikgadi Pans National Park: The migration’s heart, transforming into a wildlife haven after the rains.
Nxai Pan National Park: Offers dramatic views of zebra herds against iconic baobabs.
Chobe National Park: The migration’s start and end point, also home to Botswana’s largest elephant herds.
Okavango Delta: A year-round haven for zebras, perfect for game drives and water safaris.
For an unforgettable safari, time your visit between December and March, when the zebra herds are at their peak, delivering an extraordinary African wildlife experience.
Why the Botswana Zebra Migration is a Must-See Safari Experience
The revival of Botswana’s zebra migration offers a glimmer of hope for conservationists, proving that wildlife corridors can be restored when migration routes are reopened. The removal of fences that once blocked ancestral pathways has allowed zebras to reclaim their natural movements. However, not all fences are harmful—one responsible fence, installed on the western edge of Makgadikgadi Pans National Park in 2004, has helped protect zebras from cattle competition, allowing their numbers to thrive.
Biologist James Bradley notes, “Shortly after the fence went up, the zebras’ behaviour changed rapidly—they became more relaxed.” This highlights the need for balanced conservation strategies that consider both wildlife and human populations.
Beyond its significance for tourists, the migration benefits local ecosystems. More zebras mean more dung beetles, which in turn sustain meerkat populations, demonstrating the intricate connections within Botswana’s biodiversity.
Why Experience Botswana’s Zebra Migration?
Exclusive & Uncrowded: Between November and March, Botswana’s only zebra and wildebeest migration unfolds across the Makgadikgadi Pans, on the edge of the Kalahari Desert. Unlike the famed East African migrations, this spectacular movement remains an untouched safari secret.
Diverse Wildlife Encounters: Spot lions, cheetahs, and wild dogs hunting among the herds. As dramatic thunderclouds roll in, the arid desert transforms into lush, green grazing grounds, drawing thousands of animals from the parched south. Some days, zebras gather right outside your tent veranda, while on others, spotting them requires venturing deep into Makgadikgadi National Park.
Spectacular Landscapes: Recent research has revealed that zebras migrate not only from the Boteti River but also from as far as the southern Okavango Delta—a journey showcasing the critical role of the Makgadikgadi ecosystem in sustaining these herds. Witness the Makgadikgadi Pans transform from arid salt flats to lush grasslands.
Luxury Safari Options: Stay at world-class lodges for unparalleled views of this breathtaking migration to witness this phenomenon.
For an authentic and immersive safari, Botswana’s zebra migration is an unmissable adventure. The zebra migration in Botswana is an extraordinary phenomenon that deserves more recognition. Whether you are an avid wildlife photographer, a safari enthusiast, or simply a nature lover, witnessing this migration is an unforgettable experience. Plan your trip during the peak migration months, choose the right locations, and enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime journey through one of Africa’s most pristine landscapes.
