Boteti River

West of Makgadikgadi Pans, Botswana

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The Boteti River is a seasonal river in central Botswana that carries water from the Okavango Delta toward the Makgadikgadi Pans. Flowing along the western edge of Makgadikgadi Pans National Park, it serves as a crucial source of water in an otherwise dry landscape. The river is famous for its changing nature, sometimes flowing strongly and at other times drying up for years, depending on water levels in the Okavango system. When water is present, it attracts large numbers of animals, including elephants, zebras, wildebeest, hippos, and many bird species. The Boteti is especially important during the dry season, when thousands of zebras and other wildlife gather along its banks as part of one of Africa’s major animal migrations. Because of its rich wildlife and striking contrast between river, desert, and salt pans, the area is a popular destination for safari visitors.