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Plan Your Trip to Botswana

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.

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01 The Kalahari Desert

A grown female African leopard on the hunt in the Kalahari desert Sproetniek / Getty Images

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.

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02 Khama Rhino Sanctuary

Mother white Rhino with its calf, Khama Rhino Sanctuary, Serowe, Botswana Leamus / Getty Images

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.

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03 Kubu Island

Baobabs on Kubu island in winter estivillml / Getty Images

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.

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04 The Makgadikgadi Pans National Park

SUV driving in the salt pans of Botswana. topofmind / Getty Images

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.

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05 Linyanti Wildlife Reserve

Lioness on a savanna Jupiterimages / Getty Images

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.

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06 Chobe River

amily of African elephants at waters edge Bim / Getty Images

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.

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07 Okavango Delta

Taken in the Okavango, Botswana pjmalsbury / Getty Images

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.

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08 The Elephant Family in Kasane

North Botswana family of elephants poco_bw / Getty Images

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.

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09 Tsodilo Hills

Tsodilo Hills, Botswana fotogaby / Getty Images

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.

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10 Nxai Pan National Park

Wildebeest and ostriches Shumba138 / Getty Images

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.

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