Botswana

Africa

Destinations

Naturally landscaped by the sweeping Kalahari Desert and Okavango Delta, it’s not surprising that Botswana is a travel destination worth visiting

Naturally landscaped by the sweeping Kalahari Desert and Okavango Delta, it’s not surprising that Botswana is a travel destination for more than 2 million tourists each year. With 38 percent of its land dedicated to parks and wildlife management areas, Botswana is home to a host of animals, including giraffes, elephants, zebras, baboons, velvet monkeys, cheetahs, leopards, and lions. For visitors, its multitude of savannahs and grasslands, green floodplains, and waterways give Botswana a stunning visual appeal. As another plus, Botswana is exceptionally tourist-friendly, with well-organized wildlife tours and attractions. The local population welcomes tourism as a major economic resource, so you’ll find friendly smiles and helpful people throughout your Botswana experience.
<h2>1. Diamonds and tourists fuel the economy</h2>
Botswana’s two major sources of revenue are diamond mining and tourism — but in recent years, the country has focused more on becoming an ultimate tourist destination. For tourists, this means a welcoming future where amenities and excursions will continue to increase and improve.

[caption id="attachment_45024" align="alignnone" width="5472"]<img class="size-full wp-image-45024" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2021/05/justice-hubane-hO9Z6Ey9jhI-unsplash.jpg" alt="Overview of the Central Business District in Gaborone, the capital city of Botswana." width="5472" height="3648" /> Photo by Justice Hubane on Unsplash[/caption]


<h2>2. Don’t drink the water</h2>
Tap water isn't considered safe for drinking purposes in Botswana. When in restaurants and bars, always request bottled water, and avoid ice unless you’re absolutely certain it’s made from bottled water as well.

[caption id="attachment_45025" align="alignnone" width="6000"]<img class="size-full wp-image-45025" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2021/05/chris-koelewijn-k9rEheKfjk-unsplash.jpg" alt="Nxai Pan, Botswana" width="6000" height="4000" /> Photo by Chris Koelewijn on Unsplash[/caption]

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<h2>3. Driving is an adventure</h2>
While most city roads are well-paved, secondary roads often are not. And once you’re away from town, you might find your car surrounded by elephants, even along the highway. Also, roads can get overgrown with vegetation during the rainy season, so plan your road trips wisely.

[caption id="attachment_45026" align="alignnone" width="2103"]<img class="size-full wp-image-45026" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2021/05/GettyImages-AR3797-001.jpg" alt="Chobe National Park. Central South Africa. Ostriches are the largest living birds, standing 2.4m tall and weighing around 136kg. Females are a dull grey-brown colour, whilst males are black with white wings and tail. They are only found in Africa. [1997]." width="2103" height="1425" /> Art Wolfe / Getty Images[/caption]
<h2>4. Don’t pet, feed, or interact with animals</h2>
You’d be surprised at the number of tourists who end up in emergency rooms each year because they chose to interact with wild animals. Botswana is not one huge petting zoo, and the animals aren’t there to entertain tourists. Keep a safe distance and let them alone, and they’ll let you alone, too.

[caption id="attachment_45027" align="alignnone" width="3872"]<img class="size-full wp-image-45027" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2021/05/colin-watts-9f0AchL0eqQ-unsplash.jpg" alt="A herd of elephants drinking in the Chobe river in Botswana." width="3872" height="2592" /> Photo by Colin Watts on Unsplash[/caption]


<h2>5. Don’t go it alone</h2>
Botswana is one of the most sparsely populated countries on the planet. If you choose to stray off the beaten path, you may end up completely alone (except for our wild animal friends). Botswana is home to some pretty sinister flora and fauna, so it’s best to travel in groups and stick to designated safe areas.

[caption id="attachment_45028" align="alignnone" width="6000"]<img class="size-full wp-image-45028" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2021/05/hans-jurgen-mager-8cH339sYtMA-unsplash.jpg" alt="Thunderstorm building up in late afternoon, Botswana" width="6000" height="4000" /> Photo by Hans-Jurgen Mager on Unsplash[/caption]


<h2>6. Botswana is one of Africa’s safest countries</h2>
Botswana has lower crime levels compared to the rest of Africa, particularly in the primary tourist centers of Maum, Gaborone, and Francistown. This higher level of safety is one reason for Botswana’s popularity as a tourist destination.

[caption id="attachment_45029" align="alignnone" width="2145"]<img class="size-full wp-image-45029" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2021/05/GettyImages-6040-002523.jpg" alt="Men Punting Boats along River" width="2145" height="1398" /> Jake Wyman / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>7. Use common sense precautions</h2>
Petty thievery does exist in Botswana, so lock up all valuables, and lock your car and hotel doors. Also, the local airports sometimes experience baggage thefts, so don’t put valuables in your checked luggage. As in any country, the most stolen hotel items include wallets, passports, IDs, credit cards, laptops, and cellphones, so keep these either with you or securely locked up.

[caption id="attachment_45030" align="alignnone" width="6000"]<img class="size-full wp-image-45030" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2021/05/jager-7akqIxMiNyU-unsplash.jpg" alt="Tutume, Botswana" width="6000" height="4000" /> Photo by Jäger on Unsplash[/caption]


<h2>8. Practice good judgment when taking photos</h2>
With its abundance of wildlife and grassy velds, Botswana is a photographer’s dream destination. However, it’s forbidden to take photos of military installations or government buildings, so be smart when choosing where to focus your lens.

[caption id="attachment_43517" align="alignnone" width="2121"]<img class="size-full wp-image-43517" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2021/03/GettyImages-128115088.jpg" alt="Dried mud on the surface of the Makgadikgadi Pans with long shadows from the safari vehicle. Botswana" width="2121" height="1414" /> Martin Harvey / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>9. Take an organized safari tour</h2>
If you’re longing to go on safari but are apprehensive about safety, take advantage of Botswana's vast selection of well-organized safari tours. You’ll find a wide range of luxury safari lodges to stay in, as well as comfortable camping tents in case you prefer roughing it.

[caption id="attachment_45031" align="alignnone" width="5184"]<img class="size-full wp-image-45031" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2021/05/jamal-selolwane-IYvAnStid9g-unsplash.jpg" alt="Makgadikgadi Pans, Botswana" width="5184" height="2916" /> Photo by Jamal Selolwane on Unsplash[/caption]


<h2>10. You can eat affordably in Botswana</h2>
While your trip might be expensive, groceries in Botswana can be surprisingly inexpensive. By opting for market stalls instead of restaurants, you can save quite a bit of Pula — the Botswana word for money.

[caption id="attachment_45032" align="alignnone" width="2121"]<img class="size-full wp-image-45032" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2021/05/GettyImages-1283509530.jpg" alt="african street vendor, selling onions, cabbage, tomatoes." width="2121" height="1414" /> poco_bw / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>11. Chobe National Park is a must-see destination</h2>
As Botswana’s best site for seeing wildlife, Chobe National Park is a glorious safari in itself. You can take river cruises and go on photo safaris, where you’ll see an amazingly diverse variety of wildlife, including Africa’s largest elephant population.

[caption id="attachment_45033" align="alignnone" width="6000"]<img class="size-full wp-image-45033" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2021/05/david-mclenachan-nOHCxoecsMQ-unsplash.jpg" alt="Monkeys playing at sunset" width="6000" height="4000" /> Photo by David McLenachan on Unsplash[/caption]


<h2>12. Plan your wardrobe ahead of time</h2>
If you plan to go on safari, you’ll need to invest in specially designed safari clothing to ensure your comfort and safety. There's a wealth of websites providing safari clothing options at a wide range of styles and prices.

[caption id="attachment_45034" align="alignnone" width="4836"]<img class="size-full wp-image-45034" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2021/05/jessica-bateman-nZ14KVfjzGU-unsplash.jpg" alt="3 rhinoceros roaming the grasses of Botswana " width="4836" height="2616" /> Photo by Jessica Bateman on Unsplash[/caption]


<h2>13. Visit an animal sanctuary</h2>
Don’t miss the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to visit one of Botswana’s many animal preserves — like the Kahama Rhino Sanctuary or the magnificent Moremi Game Reserve, home to one of Botswana’s densest and most diverse wildlife populations.

[caption id="attachment_45035" align="alignnone" width="2121"]<img class="size-full wp-image-45035" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2021/05/GettyImages-534897973.jpg" alt="Africa, Botswana, Moremi Game Reserve, Tourists in Land Rover approach resting Lion (Panthera leo) at dusk" width="2121" height="1414" /> Paul Souders / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>14. Tour the Okavango Delta</h2>
One of Africa’s greatest safari destinations, the Okavango Delta is home to dense populations of elephants, big cats, zebras, rhinos, baboons, hyenas, and endangered African Wild Dogs. You can choose from walking, riding, or boating safaris, or even opt for balloon or helicopter adventures.

[caption id="attachment_45036" align="alignnone" width="2121"]<img class="size-full wp-image-45036" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2021/05/GettyImages-467813523.jpg" alt="Luxury Lodge on the Okavango River." width="2121" height="1414" /> Buena Vista Images / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>15. Patronize local artists</h2>
Botswana is famous for its local handicrafts, which form the major source of income for many of its locals. You’ll find high-quality jewelry, clothing, tapestries, glassware, baskets, and pottery, all at affordable prices. When you make a purchase, you’ll not only get a memorable souvenir; you’ll also help the local economy.

[caption id="attachment_45037" align="alignnone" width="2123"]<img class="size-full wp-image-45037" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2021/05/GettyImages-553922393.jpg" alt="Maun, Botswana (Africa) - close up of a woman hands weaving a basket in the Sexaxa Village." width="2123" height="1413" /> Edwin Remsberg / Getty Images[/caption]

Essential Botswana Travel Tips

Botswana is among Africa's safest countries, and the countless, breathtaking sites it offers represent a rich and vast African culture, making it a tourist haven for photographers, vacationers, and explorers. This country enjoys plenty of sunshine throughout the year, making it a suitable choice for any season.

Botswana is among Africa's safest countries, and the countless, breathtaking sites it offers represent a rich and vast African culture, making it a tourist haven for photographers, vacationers, and explorers. This country enjoys plenty of sunshine throughout the year, making it a suitable choice for any season. For a truly fantastic experience, get off-the-beaten-path and reach beyond the safari game tours.
<h2>1. The Kalahari Desert</h2>
The experience of traveling through infinite space is unfathomable. The Kalahari is a representation of immense beauty, from the high golden grasses, scrubs, bushes to its blending dunes, and serene oases. This desert emits a sense of real space and solitude that's perfect for a getaway. If you love the thrill of watching animals in their natural habitat, then the Kalahari Desert is your ultimate place to be. The full and vast landscape provides a spectacular view of lions and cheetahs in motion as they hunt for their prey.

[caption id="attachment_29120" align="alignnone" width="2122"]<img class="size-full wp-image-29120" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/12/GettyImages-160903816.jpg" alt="A grown female African leopard on the hunt in the Kalahari desert" width="2122" height="1412" /> Sproetniek / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>2. Khama Rhino Sanctuary</h2>
Going on a game drive is one of the most popular and enjoyable ways of seeing wildlife. A visit to the Khama Rhino Sanctuary offers the opportunity of seeing species believed to be soon extinct, such as the white rhino. The sanctuary represents the commitment of the people of Botswana to conserve this rare species of rhinos. Apart from safaris, the refuge also incorporates guided nature walks for the more adventurous tourists. If you're interested in outdoor camping activities and bonfire experiences, the Khama Rhino Sanctuary provides a large camping ground for hiking and camping tourists.

[caption id="attachment_29089" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="size-full wp-image-29089" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/12/882353482.jpg" alt="Mother white Rhino with its calf, Khama Rhino Sanctuary, Serowe, Botswana" width="1200" height="769" /> Leamus / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>3. Kubu Island</h2>
Kubu Island is an outcrop of ancient granite rocks that emanates tranquility, making it an excellent choice for a vacation if you're looking to get in touch with your inner self. For the lovers of sunsets and sunrises, the view these granite creations offer is worth making a stop at the island. From hiking the rocky slopes to setting camp and gazing at the stars, tourists have the freedom to enjoy Kubu Island however they choose.

[caption id="attachment_29090" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="size-full wp-image-29090" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/12/484474289.jpg" alt="Baobabs on Kubu island in winter" width="1200" height="772" /> estivillml / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>4. The Makgadikgadi Pans National Park</h2>
The Makgadikgadi Pans National Park is the world's largest salt pan area. The land was once a vast salty lake that dried up many years ago but has now become home to a variety of wildlife. For the adventurous travelers, rides are available to spot zebras and wildebeests in their habitat. If you're up for a one-of-a-kind experience, visit the pans during the dry season. When it's all dry, these pans host Africa's longest zebra migration, offering a truly unforgettable memory.

[caption id="attachment_29091" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="size-full wp-image-29091" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/12/610420954.jpg" alt="SUV driving in the salt pans of Botswana." width="1200" height="800" /> topofmind / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>5. Linyanti Wildlife Reserve</h2>
The reserve grounds of Linyanti Wildlife Reserve get their water from the Kwando River, so plenty of wildlife gather here to quench their thirst, making it possible for tourists to enjoy spectacular views of hundreds of animals in their natural habitat. The reserve hosts an enormous pride of lions, giraffes, buffaloes, and the largest population of elephants. Its remote location makes the trip here a charming and intimate getaway where you can get up-close and personal with Africa's wildlife as they traverse the extensive Savannah lands in search of greener pastures.

[caption id="attachment_29092" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="size-full wp-image-29092" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/12/87677335.jpg" alt="Lioness on a savanna" width="1200" height="800" /> Jupiterimages / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>6. Chobe River</h2>
Rise early and head to the Chobe River to admire the impressive sight of large herds of elephants having their first drink, a moment only a few get to witness. Later in the day, take a boat cruise and experience the thrill of seeing hippo and crocodile families swimming along the river with you. If you love adventure, you'll find it at Chobe River.

[caption id="attachment_29093" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="size-full wp-image-29093" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/12/841614444.jpg" alt="amily of African elephants at waters edge" width="1200" height="800" /> Bim / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>7. Okavango Delta</h2>
Most river deltas empty into the ocean, but the largest inland delta of the world pours into open Savannah land. The Okavango Delta is one of thedle most captivating locations in Africa. Take a ride through the dry grasslands and swampy bushlands and have your camera at the ready for shots of buffaloes, lions, leopards, elephants, and rhinos. Apart from animals occupying the Delta, the BaSarwa community have their home here. They fish, farm, and hunt in the area.

[caption id="attachment_29122" align="alignnone" width="2301"]<img class="size-full wp-image-29122" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/12/GettyImages-139735741.jpg" alt="Taken in the Okavango, Botswana" width="2301" height="1303" /> pjmalsbury / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>8. The Elephant Family in Kasane</h2>
Botswana is home to a third of Africa's elephants, and the town of Kasane has kept them safe for over five generations. The elephant herd has, over the years, attracted a massive number of tourists, making it one of the most reliable sources of revenue in Botswana. A day with the land's largest mammal will surely be one of the best ways to spend time during your African vacation.

[caption id="attachment_30140" align="alignnone" width="2121"]<img class="size-full wp-image-30140" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/12/GettyImages-1181846188.jpg" alt="North Botswana family of elephants" width="2121" height="1414" /> poco_bw / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>9. Tsodilo Hills</h2>
Tsodilo Hills has the biggest rock concentrations in the world, making it a tourist haven for painters and nature photographers. Take your camera and explore Botswana's art and archaeological finds dating over many millennia at this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

[caption id="attachment_29096" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="size-full wp-image-29096" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/12/182843419.jpg" alt="Tsodilo Hills, Botswana" width="1200" height="800" /> fotogaby / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>10. Nxai Pan National Park</h2>
Characterized by colossal dunes and vast salt pans, Nxai Pan National Park is a friendly site for bird and animal watching. Rich with cultural heritage and natural scenery, the park offers a holistic view of the Botswana people. Visitors enjoy a safari through the park on the management-provided trucks and vans. Of all things to do in Botswana, a safari tour in any of the nation's serene game parks is a must.

[caption id="attachment_29097" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="size-full wp-image-29097" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/12/533627919.jpg" alt="Wildebeest and ostriches" width="1200" height="800" /> Shumba138 / Getty Images[/caption]

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