Botswana
Welcome to Botswana
Welcome to Botswana, a land of breathtaking wilderness, rich culture, and unforgettable safari adventures. Nestled in Southern Africa, Botswana offers travelers an extraordinary escape into some of the continent’s most pristine natural landscapes, where wildlife roams freely and ancient traditions thrive.
Botswana is a sparsely populated country renowned for its commitment to conservation and eco-tourism. Approximately 40% of its land is protected as wildlife reserves and national parks, making it a sanctuary for diverse species such as elephants, lions, leopards, and hippos. The country is home to the vast Kalahari Desert and the unique Okavango Delta, one of the world’s largest inland deltas, where waterways weave through lush grasslands and provide a haven for wildlife.
Visitors can explore iconic destinations like Chobe National Park, famous for its large elephant populations, and the Northern Tuli Game Reserve, known for its rugged beauty and abundant wildlife. Botswana also offers cultural experiences, including visits to the Bahurutshe Cultural Lodge and the ancient Tsodilo Hills, a UNESCO World Heritage site with rock paintings that tell stories of the San people, Botswana’s indigenous bushmen.
The capital, Gaborone, is a developing city with limited tourist attractions, so many travelers prefer to focus on the country’s natural and cultural highlights. Botswana’s tourism is characterized by low-density, high-quality safari experiences, ensuring a more intimate and less crowded encounter with nature.
Why Visit the Botswana?
1.
World-Class Wildlife and Safaris
Botswana is celebrated for its exceptional safari opportunities. The Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park offer some of Africa’s best wildlife viewing, with chances to see elephants, lions, leopards, and a myriad of bird species in their natural habitat. The country’s approach to tourism limits the number of visitors in parks, providing a more personalized and peaceful wildlife experience.
2.
Diverse and Stunning Landscapes
From the water-filled channels of the Okavango Delta to the arid expanses of the Kalahari Desert, Botswana’s landscapes are remarkably varied and visually stunning. The country’s dedication to preserving these environments means travelers can enjoy raw, unspoiled wilderness, whether drifting in a traditional mokoro canoe through the delta’s waterways or exploring the vast desert plains.
Planning Your Trip
Visa Information
Visa requirements for Botswana vary depending on your nationality. Many travelers from countries such as the European Union, the United States, the United Kingdom, South Africa, and others do not need to obtain a visa before arrival and can receive one on entry. However, nationals from other countries may need to apply for a tourism or visitor’s visa in advance, which typically takes about two weeks to process. Tourism visas allow for recreational visits of up to three months and can sometimes be extended. It is advisable to check the latest visa regulations with a Botswanan embassy or consulate before traveling, as policies can change.
Best Time to Visit
The optimal time to visit Botswana is during the dry season, from May to October. During these months, the weather is warm and sunny with daytime temperatures ranging from 22°C to 35°C and cooler nights. This period coincides with the highest water levels in the Okavango Delta, enhancing the safari experience with accessible waterways for mokoro trips and abundant wildlife gathering around shrinking water sources, making animal sightings easier.
The green season, from November to April, brings occasional rains and lush scenery. This time is less crowded and more affordable, with the added bonus of witnessing newborn animals and migratory birds. However, travelers should be prepared for some showers and hotter temperatures.
Getting To and Around
Botswana is landlocked, bordered by Namibia, South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Zambia. The main international gateway is Sir Seretse Khama International Airport near Gaborone. From there, travelers can connect to domestic flights to key safari hubs such as Maun and Kasane, which serve as gateways to the Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park respectively.
Within Botswana, travel options include small aircraft, 4×4 vehicles, and guided tours. Many safari lodges offer transfers and excursions, and exploring by mokoro canoe or on foot is popular in the delta region. Roads outside urban areas can be rough, so a reliable vehicle or organized tour is recommended for overland travel.
Accommodation
Botswana offers a wide range of accommodation options that cater to various tastes and budgets, from luxurious safari lodges to comfortable guesthouses and camping sites. The country’s tourism philosophy emphasizes eco-friendly and low-impact tourism, so many accommodations focus on blending into the natural environment while providing excellent comfort and service.
Luxury Safari Lodges and Camps
For those seeking indulgence, the Bahamas is home to world-renowned luxury resorts such as Atlantis Paradise Island and Rosewood Baha Mar. Atlantis Paradise Island is famous for its sprawling water parks, marine habitats, and multiple dining options, making it ideal for families and couples alike. Rosewood Baha Mar offers elegantly designed rooms, suites, and villas with private plunge pools and a serene coastal ambiance, blending modern luxury with Bahamian charm. These resorts often feature spas, golf courses, tennis courts, and exclusive beach access, providing a full-service experience for guests.
Another top choice is the Riu Palace Paradise Island, an adult-only, all-inclusive hotel with amenities including swim-up bars, live entertainment, and reserved beach areas, perfect for travelers seeking a lively yet relaxing getaway.
Mid-Range Lodges and Guesthouses
For those on a moderate budget, Botswana has a variety of mid-range lodges, guesthouses, and boutique hotels primarily in towns like Maun, Kasane, and Gaborone. These accommodations provide comfortable rooms with modern amenities, often with a local touch in décor and cuisine. They serve as convenient bases for day trips into nearby parks and reserves.
Budget Options and Camping
Budget travelers can find affordable guesthouses, backpacker hostels, and campsites. Camping is popular in designated areas within national parks and reserves, offering a more rustic and close-to-nature experience. Campsites usually have basic facilities such as ablution blocks, braai (barbecue) areas, and sometimes small shops. Self-drive safaris combined with camping allow adventurous visitors to explore Botswana at their own pace.
Budget-Friendly Stays
Budget travelers can find guesthouses, inns, and smaller hotels that provide clean and comfortable accommodations without breaking the bank. While these may not offer the extensive amenities of larger resorts, they provide authentic local experiences and easy access to beaches and attractions.
Unique Stays
Botswana also offers unique accommodation experiences such as traditional rondavel huts, eco-lodges with solar power, and floating camps in the Okavango Delta. These options provide a deeper connection to local culture and environment.
When planning accommodation, it is advisable to book well in advance, especially during the high season (May to October), as Botswana’s tourism infrastructure is deliberately limited to protect the environment and maintain exclusivity.
Food and Drink
Botswana’s cuisine is hearty, simple, and deeply rooted in traditional cooking methods and local ingredients. Meals typically revolve around staple starches like maize and sorghum, accompanied by stewed meats, vegetables, and flavorful relishes. While the culinary scene outside major towns is focused on authentic local flavors, urban areas and safari lodges offer a mix of traditional and international dishes.
Traditional Dishes
- Seswaa: Botswana’s national dish, seswaa is slow-cooked, shredded beef, goat, or lamb, often served over pap (maize porridge) or sorghum porridge. It is a staple at celebrations and social gatherings.
- Bogobe: A thick porridge made from sorghum or millet flour, served as a side or breakfast dish, sometimes flavored with milk or butter.
- Morogo: Wild leafy greens cooked with onions and tomatoes, providing a nutritious and flavorful vegetable side.
- Phane (Mopane Worms): A protein-rich delicacy, mopane worms are dried or cooked in tomato sauce. They are a traditional snack and an adventurous choice for visitors.
- Dikgobe: A comforting dish of beans or cowpeas cooked with maize, onions, and tomatoes, often served with pap or rice.
- Vetkoek: Deep-fried dough balls enjoyed as snacks or breakfast, sometimes filled with savory mince or jam.
- Nama ya podi: Grilled goat meat, commonly found at roadside stalls and social events.
Beverages
Botswana has a variety of traditional and modern beverages to enjoy:
- St Louis Lager: A popular local beer, light and refreshing, perfect for hot days.
- Chibuku: A traditional opaque sorghum beer with a slightly sour taste, commonly served in rural areas and enjoyed socially.
- Bojalwa ja Setswana: Homemade sorghum beer with cultural significance, often consumed during ceremonies and gatherings.
- Maheu: A fermented maize drink, tangy and refreshing, sold in markets and street stalls.
- Gemere: A non-alcoholic homemade ginger beer, fizzy and slightly spicy, popular at social events.
Dining Experiences
In safari lodges and camps, meals often combine local ingredients with international culinary styles, offering a gourmet twist on traditional dishes. Many lodges cater to dietary restrictions if informed in advance, though vegetarian options may be limited in remote areas. In towns like Gaborone and Francistown, restaurants serve a wider variety of cuisines including South African grills, Indian, and Chinese dishes.
Tips for Food and Drink
- Alcohol is available in bars, restaurants, and lodges, but is subject to higher taxes and public drinking laws.
- Visitors with dietary restrictions should notify hosts ahead of time, especially when traveling to remote areas.
- Trying traditional foods like seswaa, morogo, and mopane worms offers a deeper cultural experience.
- Bottled water is recommended for drinking to avoid waterborne illnesses.
Botswana’s food and drink scene is a flavorful journey into the country’s cultural heritage, combining the simplicity of traditional meals with the evolving tastes of a modernizing society. Whether enjoying a hearty meat stew by a campfire or sipping a cold St Louis Lager after a day on safari, the culinary offerings complement the country’s rich natural and cultural tapestry.
Must-See Attractions
Botswana is a treasure trove of natural wonders and wildlife sanctuaries, offering some of the most pristine and breathtaking landscapes in Africa. Here are the top must-see attractions that define the essence of Botswana’s unique appeal.
Okavango Delta
The Okavango Delta is Botswana’s crown jewel and one of the world’s largest inland deltas. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a lush labyrinth of waterways, islands, and floodplains that transform the arid landscape into a vibrant wetland teeming with life. The delta supports an extraordinary diversity of wildlife including elephants, hippos, lions, leopards, and hundreds of bird species. Visitors can explore the delta by traditional mokoro canoes, game drives, and walking safaris, experiencing the wilderness intimately and quietly. The seasonal flooding creates a dynamic environment where game viewing varies throughout the year, making every visit unique.
Chobe National Park
Known for having the largest concentration of elephants in Africa, Chobe National Park is a spectacular wildlife haven in northeastern Botswana. The park’s diverse habitats range from riverfront to woodlands and marshes, supporting large herds of elephants, buffalo, lions, hippos, and crocodiles. The Chobe Riverfront is especially popular for boat safaris, where visitors can enjoy close-up views of animals drinking and bathing along the water’s edge. The Savuti region within the park is famed for its predator sightings, including lions and hyenas, and offers thrilling game drives across open plains.
Moremi Game Reserve
Situated on the eastern side of the Okavango Delta, Moremi Game Reserve is renowned for its rich biodiversity and scenic beauty. It is one of the few reserves in Africa established and managed by local communities, reflecting a strong conservation ethic. Moremi offers a mix of habitats including mopane woodlands, floodplains, and lagoons, attracting a wide array of wildlife such as the Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino—as well as African wild dogs, hippos, and numerous bird species. Visitors can enjoy game drives, mokoro excursions, and night safaris, making it a top destination for wildlife enthusiasts.
Makgadikgadi Pans National Park
The Makgadikgadi Salt Pans are among the largest salt flats in the world, creating a stark and surreal landscape that contrasts sharply with Botswana’s lush wetlands. During the dry season, the pans appear as vast white deserts under an endless sky, perfect for stargazing and solitude. When the rains come, the pans transform into a vibrant oasis attracting migrating zebras, wildebeest, flamingos, and other wildlife. Visitors can explore the pans on horseback or quad bikes, visit the famous Baines’ Baobabs, and experience the unique desert ecosystem. The nearby Kubu Island, with its ancient baobab trees and granite kopjes, is a magical spot for photography and reflection.
Central Kalahari Game Reserve
One of the largest game reserves in the world, the Central Kalahari Game Reserve offers a true wilderness experience in the heart of the Kalahari Desert. It is home to diverse wildlife including lions, cheetahs, giraffes, hyenas, and the elusive brown hyena. The reserve’s vast, open landscapes and sparse vegetation provide excellent opportunities for spotting predators and plains game. Visitors can enjoy self-drive safaris or guided tours, and experience the unique culture of the San bushmen, who have lived in harmony with this environment for thousands of years.
Tsodilo Hills
Tsodilo Hills is a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its ancient rock art, with over 4,500 paintings dating back thousands of years. Known as the “Louvre of the Desert,” this sacred site holds immense cultural significance for the San people and offers fascinating insights into Botswana’s prehistoric past. The hills rise dramatically from the surrounding plains, providing panoramic views and a spiritual atmosphere. Guided tours reveal the stories behind the paintings and the history of the region.
Khama Rhino Sanctuary
Located near Serowe, the Khama Rhino Sanctuary is a community-based conservation project dedicated to protecting Botswana’s endangered rhino populations. Visitors can see both black and white rhinos, as well as other wildlife such as zebras, giraffes, and various antelope species. The sanctuary offers guided game drives, walking safaris, and educational programs, making it a rewarding stop for conservation-minded travelers.
Must-Do Activities
Botswana’s attractions come alive through a variety of thrilling and immersive activities that allow visitors to connect deeply with its landscapes and wildlife.
Safari Game Drives
Classic game drives in 4×4 vehicles are the quintessential Botswana experience. Whether in Chobe, Moremi, or the Central Kalahari, guided drives take you close to lions, elephants, leopards, and other iconic African animals. Early morning and late afternoon drives are best for wildlife viewing and photography, with expert guides sharing their knowledge of animal behavior and ecology.
Mokoro Canoe Excursions
Exploring the Okavango Delta by mokoro—a traditional dugout canoe—is a peaceful and unique way to navigate the waterways. Gliding silently through narrow channels, visitors can observe aquatic birds, hippos, and sometimes elephants wading through the water. Mokoro trips offer an intimate connection with the delta’s fragile ecosystem and a chance to appreciate its beauty from a low vantage point.
Walking Safaris
Walking safaris provide an exhilarating way to experience Botswana’s wilderness on foot. Accompanied by skilled guides and trackers, you can learn about animal tracks, plants, and the smaller creatures that often go unnoticed. Walking safaris are available in Moremi, the Okavango Delta, and community-managed areas like the Khwai region, offering a more personal and immersive wildlife encounter.
Boat Cruises
In Chobe National Park and parts of the Okavango Delta, boat cruises on the Chobe River or delta channels offer spectacular wildlife viewing from the water. These cruises provide excellent opportunities to see elephants bathing, hippos surfacing, crocodiles sunning on riverbanks, and a variety of birdlife. Sunset cruises are especially popular for their stunning light and tranquil atmosphere.
Hot Air Balloon Safaris
For a truly unforgettable perspective, hot air balloon safaris over the Okavango Delta offer breathtaking aerial views of the delta’s mosaic of islands, lagoons, and wildlife. Floating silently above the landscape at dawn, you can spot herds of elephants, giraffes, and other animals moving below, followed by a traditional champagne breakfast upon landing.
Cultural Visits
Botswana’s rich cultural heritage is best experienced through visits to local communities and cultural centers. The San bushmen communities near the Central Kalahari and Moremi offer insights into traditional hunting and gathering lifestyles, storytelling, and rock art interpretation. The Bahurutshe Cultural Lodge and other community projects provide opportunities to learn about Botswana’s diverse ethnic groups, crafts, and music.
Stargazing and Desert Experiences
The clear skies of the Kalahari Desert and Makgadikgadi Pans create some of the best stargazing conditions in the world. Many lodges and camps offer guided night sky tours where you can identify constellations, planets, and the Milky Way. Camping under the stars on the salt pans or in the desert is a magical experience, connecting you to the vastness and silence of Botswana’s wilderness.
Bird Watching
With over 500 bird species recorded, Botswana is a birdwatcher’s paradise. The Okavango Delta and Moremi Game Reserve are hotspots for colorful and rare birds such as the African fish eagle, Pel’s fishing owl, and the Carmine bee-eater. Guided birding tours provide expert identification and access to prime habitats.
Travel Tips
Traveling to Botswana offers an incredible opportunity to experience some of Africa’s most spectacular wildlife and pristine landscapes. To make the most of your trip and ensure a safe, respectful, and enjoyable visit, it’s essential to be well-prepared. Here’s a comprehensive guide covering key travel tips, safety advice, local customs, and language basics to help you navigate Botswana confidently in 2025.
Safety Advice
Botswana is widely regarded as one of the safest countries in Africa for travelers, with relatively low crime rates and a reputation for political stability and welcoming locals. However, like any travel destination, it requires vigilance and common sense to stay safe.
General Safety Tips
- Stay alert, especially after dark. While violent crime is uncommon, incidents such as residential break-ins, carjackings (particularly targeting 4WD vehicles), and petty theft can occur, especially in urban areas like Gaborone, Francistown, and Maun. Avoid walking alone at night and stick to well-lit, populated areas.
- Secure your belongings. Petty crimes like pickpocketing and bag snatching are more frequent in crowded places. Keep valuables out of sight, avoid displaying expensive items such as jewelry or cameras openly, and use hotel safes when available. Never leave valuables inside unattended vehicles.
- Use reputable transport. Only take taxis from licensed companies, preferably arranged through your hotel. Avoid hailing taxis on the street. Minibuses (“kombis”) are often overcrowded and poorly maintained, so it’s best to avoid them.
- Vehicle safety. If driving, always lock your car doors and keep windows up, especially at traffic lights. Be cautious of aggressive or reckless drivers and watch for pedestrians, livestock, and wildlife on roads. Avoid driving after dark due to poor lighting and road conditions. Carry extra fuel, water, and a spare tire when traveling to remote areas.
- Emergency contacts. Save local emergency numbers: police (999), medical emergencies (997), and your country’s embassy or consulate. Also keep your travel insurance details handy.
Safari and Wildlife Safety
- Respect wildlife. Botswana’s safaris are among the best in the world, but animals are wild and unpredictable. Always stay inside your vehicle unless your guide explicitly says it’s safe to exit. Do not attempt to feed or approach animals.
- Keep a safe distance. Especially with elephant herds, which can become aggressive if they feel threatened or if their young are separated.
- Follow your guide’s instructions. Safari guides are trained professionals who prioritize your safety and that of the animals.
- Camping precautions. If camping, never leave food inside your tent as it may attract wildlife. Maintain cleanliness and store food securely.
- Walking safaris. When on foot, keep noise to a minimum, avoid bright clothing and perfumes that might disturb animals, and stay close to your guide and group.
Health and Hygiene
- Vaccinations. Ensure routine vaccinations are up-to-date. Consider additional vaccines for hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and rabies depending on your itinerary.
- Malaria risk. Malaria is present in some parts of Botswana, particularly around the Okavango Delta and northern regions. Use insect repellent, sleep under mosquito nets, and take antimalarial medication if advised by your doctor.
- Water safety. Avoid drinking untreated tap water. Stick to bottled or purified water to prevent waterborne illnesses.
Local Customs
Botswana is a culturally rich country with strong traditions and a warm, welcoming population. Respecting local customs enhances your experience and fosters positive interactions.
Dress Code
- Modesty is appreciated, particularly in rural areas and villages. Lightweight, neutral-colored clothing is practical for safaris and respectful in local communities. Avoid overly bright or revealing outfits.
- Comfortable walking shoes and hats are essential for outdoor activities.
Greetings and Social Etiquette
- Greetings are important in Botswana’s culture. A polite “Dumela” (hello in Setswana) accompanied by a handshake is customary when meeting people.
- When entering homes or villages, wait to be invited and follow the host’s lead.
- Always ask permission before photographing people, especially in rural areas or traditional settings, as some may consider it intrusive.
Respect for Traditions
- Botswana values community and respect for elders. Listen attentively and show politeness in conversations.
- Avoid discussing sensitive topics such as politics or tribal issues unless invited.
- Gift-giving is not expected but small tokens of appreciation for hosts or guides are welcomed.
Tipping
- Tipping is customary in lodges, restaurants, and for guides and drivers. Around 10-15% is standard, but it’s discretionary based on service quality.
Language Basics
Botswana’s official languages are English and Setswana (also called Tswana), with English widely used in business, government, and tourism. Learning a few basic phrases in Setswana can enrich your interactions and show respect for local culture.
Common Setswana Phrases
- Dumela – Hello
- O kae? – How are you?
- Ke teng, wena? – I am fine, and you?
- Ke a leboga – Thank you
- Tsamaya sentle – Goodbye (to someone leaving)
- Sala sentle – Goodbye (to someone staying)
- Aowa – No
- Ee – Yes
- Ke kopa thuso – I need help
- Ke batla metsi – I want water
Using these simple phrases can break the ice and often brings smiles and goodwill from locals.
Final Tips for a Smooth Journey
Additional Practical Tips
- Currency and Payments: The Botswana Pula (BWP) is the local currency. ATMs are available in major towns, but cash is preferred in rural areas and smaller establishments. Credit cards are accepted in lodges and larger hotels.
- Electricity: Botswana uses 230V, 50Hz electricity with British-style three-pin plugs. Carry an adapter if needed.
- Communication: Mobile coverage is good in urban areas but patchy in remote parks and reserves. Satellite phones or radios may be used by safari operators.
- Respect the Environment: Botswana is a leader in conservation. Minimize your environmental impact by following park rules, avoiding littering, and supporting eco-friendly tourism operators.
- Cultural Events: If possible, attend local festivals or cultural performances to experience Botswana’s vibrant music, dance, and crafts.
Summary
Botswana offers an extraordinary travel experience marked by stunning landscapes, rich wildlife, and warm hospitality. Staying safe involves being vigilant in urban areas, respecting wildlife and nature, and following local customs. Learning a few words of Setswana and understanding cultural etiquette will deepen your connection to this remarkable country. With thoughtful preparation and respect, your Botswana adventure in 2025 will be unforgettable and rewarding.