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BOTSWANA

Landlocked in Southern Africa, Botswana is a country of striking contrasts—where vast arid deserts meet lush, wildlife-rich wetlands. Roughly the size of France, but with a population under 3 million, Botswana offers a rare sense of space and silence. The Kalahari Desert blankets much of the terrain, yet it’s the Okavango Delta—a UNESCO World Heritage site—that steals the spotlight. This inland river delta, one of the largest of its kind in the world, transforms into a watery paradise each year, attracting hippos, elephants, and birdlife in dazzling numbers. Botswana shares borders with South Africa, Namibia, Zimbabwe, and Zambia, making it a key gateway for regional travel.

Independence came in 1966, and Botswana quickly emerged as one of Africa’s most politically stable and economically successful nations—thanks largely to prudent diamond mining policies. Tourism, especially eco-tourism, plays a central role in the country’s development. From traditional mokoro (canoe) trips to luxury safaris, Botswana has positioned itself as a high-value, low-impact destination. The climate is semi-arid, with summer highs exceeding 100ºF (38ºC) and winter evenings cooling to 40ºF (4ºC).

Why Visit Botswana?

World-Class Wildlife Safaris: Spot the Big Five and more in Chobe National Park, Moremi Game Reserve, and Central Kalahari.

Okavango Delta Magic: Glide through reed-filled channels by mokoro canoe, surrounded by elephants and birds.

Responsible Tourism: Low-impact, high-value safaris support conservation and local communities.

Desert Mystique: Explore the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans and encounter meerkats, baobabs, and ancient San culture.

No Crowds, Just Nature: Botswana limits tourist numbers—expect solitude and serenity, not safari traffic.

Stargazing and Sunsets: Crystal-clear skies and fiery horizons turn every evening into a celestial event.

Smart Travel: Off-Season Deals & Delights

Key Advantages:

  • Lowest Prices: Flights and accommodation rates are at their absolute lowest. Safari lodges, in particular, offer significant discounts during this period.
  • Fewer Crowds: Major attractions, national parks, and safari camps are significantly less crowded, offering a more intimate and exclusive experience. You’ll often feel like you have the wilderness to yourself.
  • Exceptional Wildlife Viewing (for some species): This is the calving season for many antelope species, which, in turn, attracts predators. Birdwatching is superb, with many migratory species present. The landscapes are lush and green.
  • Authentic Local Vibe: Experience Botswana like a local, with more opportunities to interact with residents and enjoy a serene atmosphere.
  • Dramatic Skies: The green season often brings spectacular thunderstorms and dramatic skies, creating incredible photographic opportunities.

Main Drawbacks:

  • Hot & Humid Temperatures: The green season is also the wet season, bringing high temperatures and humidity, especially in the northern parts of the country.
  • Rainfall: While rarely continuous, afternoon thunderstorms are common. This can impact game drive accessibility in some areas, as roads can become muddy and challenging.
  • Thicker Vegetation: The lush vegetation can make spotting some animals more challenging, though experienced guides are adept at finding them.
  • Mosquitoes: With the increased rainfall, mosquito numbers can be higher. It’s crucial to take robust malaria precautions.
  • Limited Water Activities (Okavango Delta): While the Okavango Delta experiences its floodwaters from Angola later in the dry season, some areas may have less water for mokoro (traditional dugout canoe) excursions early in the green season.

Key Regions:

  • Okavango Delta (Southern and Central areas): While some areas can be challenging due to rain, many lodges remain open and offer excellent value. The influx of water from local rains can create temporary channels, and the birdlife is exceptional.
  • Moremi Game Reserve: A fantastic option during the green season, particularly for predator sightings as prey animals are calving. The green landscapes are stunning.
  • Chobe National Park (Savuti and Linyanti): These areas can be excellent for predator viewing as animals congregate around available water sources. Keep in mind that some roads might be more difficult to navigate.
  • Central Kalahari Game Reserve (CKGR): This is arguably the best time to visit the CKGR. The pans fill with water, attracting huge herds of springbok and wildebeest, followed by their predators. This offers a truly unique desert safari experience.
  • Makgadikgadi Pans National Park: During the green season, the pans transform into a temporary wetland, attracting thousands of zebras and wildebeest for their annual migration, followed by predators. This is a truly spectacular phenomenon.

Key Advantages:

  • Ideal Weather: Pleasant temperatures for safari activities, without the extreme heat of the deep green season or the intense dryness of the peak dry season.
  • Manageable Crowds: Tourist numbers are lower than in peak dry season, but attractions and lodges are fully open and vibrant. You’ll still enjoy a sense of exclusivity without feeling completely isolated.
  • Reasonable Prices: Flights and accommodation are more affordable than in the peak dry season, though slightly higher than the deep green season.
  • Excellent Wildlife Viewing Transition: As the landscape begins to dry out (April-May) or the first rains arrive (October-November), animals start to concentrate around permanent water sources, making them easier to spot.
  • Blooming Landscapes (April-May) & Migratory Birds (Oct-Nov): Enjoy the natural beauty of Botswana’s post-rainy season landscapes or the arrival of migratory birds as the first rains appear.

Main Drawbacks:

  • Transition Weather: Weather can be somewhat unpredictable as it transitions between seasons. You might experience some lingering rains in April or early heat in October.
  • Still Mosquitoes (October-November): While not as prolific as the peak wet season, mosquitoes are still present, especially in October and November when the first rains arrive.
  • Dust (October-November): Before the main rains, October and early November can be quite dusty in some areas.

Key Regions:

  • Okavango Delta (All areas): Excellent for water-based activities as floodwaters from Angola start to arrive (April-May) or are at their peak (October-November, for water levels from the Angolan rains). Wildlife viewing is consistently good.
  • Moremi Game Reserve: Fantastic for game viewing as animals are less dispersed than in the green season. The vegetation is still relatively lush but beginning to thin out.
  • Chobe National Park (Riverfront): April-May sees excellent game viewing along the riverfront as animals congregate for water. October-November can also be very productive as animals seek out the river before the main rains.
  • Linyanti & Savuti: These concession areas offer exceptional safari experiences during the shoulder seasons, with strong predator and elephant populations.
  • Nxai Pan National Park: Offers good wildlife viewing in April-May as the landscape is still green and animals are present. October-November can be hit-or-miss depending on the onset of the rains.

Dry Season (June – September): This is Botswana’s peak tourist season. Prices for flights and accommodation are at their highest, and popular safari lodges and national parks will be crowded. While the weather is generally dry and sunny, and wildlife viewing is often at its easiest (animals congregate around diminishing water sources, and vegetation is sparse), the value for money is significantly lower. Bookings need to be made far in advance.

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Essential Trip Information

  • Most visitors do not require a visa for stays under 90 days, including citizens of the EU, UK, US, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

  • Passports must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your stay.

  • Onward travel documents and proof of accommodation or sufficient funds may be requested.

  • Children under 18 entering or transiting through Botswana must present a certified birth certificate and, if traveling without both parents, a notarized letter of consent.

  • Check your country-specific visa requirements here.

  • Botswana’s currency is the Botswana Pula (BWP), but US$ is widely accepted in tourism sectors.

Best Ways to Handle Currency

  • Before Your Trip: Bring US$ (clean, newer notes preferred) for smooth exchange.

  • During Your Trip: ATMs are available in major towns. Use credit cards (Visa/Mastercard) in lodges and high-end establishments.

  • What to Avoid: Currency exchange at remote safari camps; bring cash in advance if heading to wilderness areas.

  • English is the official language and widely spoken.

  • Setswana is the national language; learning greetings like “Dumela” (Hello) is appreciated.

  • Botswana is one of Africa’s safest countries for travelers.

  • Exercise caution in urban areas at night (e.g., Gaborone), but wildlife areas are secure.

  • Take malaria precautions in northern regions (Okavango, Chobe).

  • Emergency number: 999 (police), 997 (ambulance)

  • Yellow fever certificate required if arriving from a risk country.

  • Recommended vaccines: Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Tetanus.

  • Malaria prophylaxis is advised in northern regions.

  • Tap water is generally safe in cities but bottled water is recommended in rural areas.

  • Medical care is adequate in cities; travel insurance is strongly advised.

  • Flights: Maun and Kasane are safari gateways; Gaborone is the capital hub.

  • 4×4 rentals available for self-drive safaris but require experience.

  • Scenic charter flights offer access to remote lodges in the Delta.

  • Local taxis are affordable in towns; agree on fare before riding.

  • Buses connect major cities but are slow and basic.

Botswana is a high-value, low-impact destination—expect premium prices, especially for safari lodges.

Accommodation

  • Budget: Guesthouses/campsites (US$40–80/night)

  • Mid-range: Lodges & hotels (US$100–250/night)

  • Luxury: All-inclusive safari camps (US$500–1,500+/night)

Food

  • Local eateries: US$5–10

  • Mid-range restaurants: US$20–40/person

  • Luxury lodge dining: Included in rates or US$60+/meal

Drinks

  • Beer: US$2–4 (local brands)

  • Cocktails: US$8–15

  • Bottled water: US$1–2 (often complimentary in lodges)

Transportation

  • Shared taxis (combis): US$0.50–2

  • Private transfers: US$30–100 (depending on distance)

  • Domestic flights (to lodges): US$200–600 one-way

Money-Saving Tips

  • Visit during the shoulder season (April–May, Nov) for better prices.

  • Choose community-run campsites for affordable safari access.

  • Opt for Maun-based day trips if full luxury lodges exceed your budget.

Explore Botswana

OKAVANGO DELTA
CHOBE NATIONAL PARK
MOREMI GAME RESERVE
MAKGADIKGADI SALT PANS
CENTRAL KALAHARI GAME RESERVE
MAUN
KASANE
TULI BLOCK
NXAI PAN NATIONAL PARK
GABORONE

Planning Your Trip

Botswana has a semi-arid climate, with clear dry seasons and distinct wet seasons. Wildlife viewing is best during the dry months when animals congregate around waterholes.

  • Dry Season (May–October):

    • Best for safaris – Especially in the Okavango Delta, Chobe, and Moremi. Animals are easier to spot as vegetation thins out and water sources become scarce.

    • Temps: 53–84°F / 12–29°C. Cooler in early mornings and evenings.

    • Peak Safari Time: June–August. Book early!

  • Green/Wet Season (November–April):

    • The bush is lush and green; great for birdwatching and photography.

    • Calving season in December–January attracts predators—dramatic sightings possible.

    • Temps: 64–95°F / 18–35°C. Afternoon thunderstorms common.

  • Okavango Delta Floods (June–August):

    • Water from Angola floods the Delta, making it ideal for mokoro (dugout canoe) safaris.

Bold Recommendation: Visit between June–October for the best wildlife encounters and optimal safari conditions.

  • Tipping: 10–15% in restaurants; US$5–10/day for guides and safari staff is customary.

  • Dress Code: Lightweight, neutral-colored clothing for safaris; avoid dark colors in the bush.

  • Photography: Always ask before taking photos of locals, especially in rural villages.

  • Safety: Botswana is generally very safe, but exercise standard caution in urban areas.

  • Language: English is official; Setswana is widely spoken—learning “Dumela” (hello) is appreciated!

  • Accommodation:

    • Budget camping: US$20–60/night

    • Mid-range guesthouses/lodges: US$100–300

    • Luxury camps: US$600–1,500+

  • Food:

    • Local meals (e.g., pap, grilled meat): US$5–15

    • Restaurant dining: US$20–50

    • Safari camps include meals

  • Transport:

    • Charter flights: US$150–400/leg

    • Car rentals (4WD): US$80–150/day

  • Activities:

    • Park fees: US$10–30/day

    • Game drives (included in most lodges)

    • Scenic flights: ~US$120–200 for 45 mins

Daily Budget:

  • Budget: US$100–150 (camping, local food, minimal transport)

  • Mid-range: US$300–500 (tented lodges, game drives, domestic flights)

  • Luxury: US$800+ (exclusive safari camps, private charters, fine dining)

  • Free Wi-Fi: Available in hotels/lodges in towns; rare in the bush.

  • SIM Cards: Mascom and Orange offer tourist SIMs (~US$5–10); data packages start at ~US$10 for 2–5GB.

  • eSIMs: Airalo supports Botswana in urban areas, but not in remote parks.

  • Highly recommended – especially for evacuation and medical emergencies in remote areas.

  • Check that your policy covers:

    • Helicopter evacuations (often needed in the Delta).

    • Wildlife safaris and adventure travel (4WD, bushwalking).

    • Trip delays due to weather or charter issues.

Bold Recommendation: Choose a plan that includes evacuation coverage—many safari areas are far from hospitals.

Botswana leans toward low-impact, high-quality tourism, meaning fewer budget options but incredible wilderness lodges.

  • Luxury:

    • Okavango Delta camps: Mombo Camp, Vumbura Plains – ultra-luxury, all-inclusive (~US$1,000+/night).

    • Chobe lodges: Chobe Game Lodge – riverside opulence with elephants at your doorstep.

  • Mid-range:

    • Tented camps: Sango Safari Camp (Moremi), Oddballs’ Camp (Okavango Delta) – ~US$300–600/night.

    • Guesthouses: In Maun or Kasane, ~US$100–200/night.

  • Budget:

    • Basic hostels and camping in Maun, Kasane – ~US$20–60/night.

    • Community campsites (Khama Rhino Sanctuary, Nxai Pan) – affordable, but remote.

  • Unique Stays:

    • Floating lodges (Okavango) or mobile camping safaris for adventurous travelers.

Tip: Lodges often include full board, activities, and transfers—check what’s covered before booking.

Infrastructure is solid in safari zones, but distances can be vast and public transport is limited.

  • Domestic Flights (Charter Planes):

    • Best for reaching remote camps in the Okavango, Linyanti, and Kalahari.

    • Prices: From US$150–400 per leg.

    • Small planes, stunning views—book with your lodge or operator.

  • Guided Safaris (Lodge-based or Overland):

    • Common and convenient—most packages include transport, meals, and game drives.

    • Self-driving is possible, but 4×4 and navigation experience required.

  • Self-Drive Safaris:

    • Possible in Chobe, Makgadikgadi, Central Kalahari.

    • Rentals: US$80–150/day for 4WDs with camping gear.

    • Fuel stations are sparse—plan carefully.

  • Buses and Minibuses:

    • Cheap (US$3–10) but not ideal for tourists—mostly used between cities (Gaborone–Maun, etc.).

    • Infrequent and limited to main towns.

  • Taxis and Transfers:

    • In Gaborone or Maun, use hotel-arranged taxis. Short rides: US$3–8.

Bold Recommendation: Book charter flights or guided tours to access safari regions; self-drive only if you’re experienced with remote travel.

Handy Tips

Botswana uses the Botswana Pula (BWP). Bills come in denominations of P10, P20, P50, P100, and P200; coins include thetibe (thebe), where 100 thebe = 1 Pula.

  • Exchange Rates: Approx. US$1 ≈ BWP 13–14 (check daily rates).

  • Exchanging Currency: Avoid airport counters. Use ATMs or exchange at local banks (Barclays Botswana, Standard Chartered).

  • Using Cards: Visa and Mastercard widely accepted in cities, but carry cash for fuel stations, rural lodges, or local vendors.

  • Tipping Etiquette: Not obligatory but appreciated.

    • Restaurants/Bars: ~10% for good service.

    • Safari Guides/Trackers: US$10–20 per day per person.

    • Camp Staff: US$5–10 per day, often pooled.

    • Hotel Porters: ~US$1–2 per bag.

English is the official language and widely spoken in cities and safari lodges. Setswana (Tswana) is the national language. Locals are friendly and helpful.

  • Useful Phrases:

    • “Dumela” = Hello (formal)

    • “Ke a leboga” = Thank you

    • “A ko o nthuse” = Please help me

Pro Tip: Greet before asking—a cultural norm that goes a long way in Botswana.

Botswana is one of the safest countries in Africa for travelers, especially in lodges and national parks.

  • General Safety:

    • Avoid walking alone at night in urban areas (especially in Gaborone and Francistown).

    • Keep valuables secure when in town.

  • Wildlife Caution: Respect park rules—don’t exit your vehicle or feed animals.

  • Emergency Numbers:

    • Police: 999 or 997

    • Ambulance: 998

    • Fire: 998

    • Your Embassy: Many are based in Gaborone—save details offline.

Botswana uses 230V/50Hz electricity with Type D, G, and M plugs (UK-style three pins are common).

  • Bring a universal adapter; converters may be needed for U.S. electronics.

Tap water is safe in major cities and lodges, but bottled water is recommended for visitors, especially in rural areas or bush camps.

  • Lodges typically provide filtered or bottled water free of charge.

  • Pro Tip: Refill bottles where possible to reduce plastic waste.

During holidays, government offices and some businesses may close, but safari lodges operate year-round.

  • 1 Jan – New Year’s Day

  • March/April – Good Friday & Easter Monday

  • 1 May – Labour Day

  • 25 May – Africa Day

  • 1 Jul – Sir Seretse Khama Day

  • 30 Sep – Botswana Day (Independence)

  • 25 Dec – Christmas

  • 26 Dec – Boxing Day

Note: Peak travel season coincides with some holidays—book lodges early.

  • Shops: Mon–Fri 08:00–18:00; Sat 08:00–16:00; some close Sundays.

  • Supermarkets: Choppies, Spar, Woolworths—usually open 7 days/week.

  • Markets: Village or craft markets are best for souvenirs like baskets and textiles.

  • Seswaa: Botswana’s national dish—slow-cooked shredded beef, usually served with pap (maize porridge).

  • Pap: A starchy maize porridge similar to polenta; eaten with meat or vegetable stews.

  • Vetkoek: Deep-fried dough stuffed with minced meat or vegetables.

  • Bogobe: Fermented sorghum porridge—often served at traditional ceremonies.

  • Morogo: Wild spinach sautéed with onions and tomatoes.

  • Dikgobe: A protein-rich mix of samp (crushed corn) and beans.

  • Chicken Liver Stew: A spicy and rich local favorite, often eaten with rice.

  • Dried Mopane Worms: A delicacy high in protein—try them fried with chili.

  • Magwinya: Sweet or savory dough balls—sold on street corners, perfect with tea.

  • Lerotse Melon Dessert: A local melon turned into a sweet treat or pudding.

Pro Tip: Ask for home-cooked dishes when staying in villages or eco-lodges.

Alcoholic:

  • St. Louis Lager: Botswana’s national beer—light, crisp, and easy to drink.

  • Botswana Craft Beers: Local breweries like Okavango Craft Brewery serve IPAs and pale ales.

  • Marula Wine: Made from the fruit of the Marula tree—fruity and slightly tangy.

  • Traditional Sorghum Beer (Bojalwa): Homemade and slightly sour, often shared during festivals.

  • Grapetiser Spritz: Sparkling grape drink mixed with vodka or gin—refreshing and popular at bars.

  • Imported South African Wines: Widely available—try Pinotage or Chenin Blanc.

  • Kalahari Gin Cocktails: Infused with indigenous botanicals like devil’s claw or wild sage.

Non-Alcoholic:

  • Mageu: A thick, fermented maize drink—cool, tangy, and probiotic-rich.

  • Iced Rooibos Tea: Caffeine-free and antioxidant-rich—served sweetened or plain.

  • Fresh Watermelon Juice: Common at lodges—hydrating and sweet.

  • Baobab Smoothies: Made from the fruit of the iconic Baobab tree—rich in Vitamin C.

  • Tropical Juices: Try blends with mango, papaya, and guava—especially in summer.

  • San Villages: Visit Ghanzi or D’kar to learn about hunter-gatherer heritage.

  • Three Chiefs Monument (Gaborone): Key figures in Botswana’s independence.

  • Okavango Delta: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, revered both ecologically and culturally.

  • D’Kar Cultural Centre: San artwork, history, and craft demonstrations.

  • Tsodilo Hills: Ancient rock paintings—called “The Louvre of the Desert.”

  • Kgosi Sechele I Museum (Molepolole): Local history and culture.

  • Traditional Music & Dance: Polka-style dances and clapping rhythms at village gatherings.

  • Lentswe-la-Oodi Weavers: Hand-loomed textiles made by local artisans.

  • Kgotla Visits: Traditional village meetings (ask for permission beforehand).

  • Botswana National Museum (Gaborone): Excellent intro to heritage and wildlife.

  • Game Drives: Explore Chobe, Moremi, and Central Kalahari for Big 5 sightings.

  • Mokoro Canoe Trips: Glide silently through the Okavango Delta.

  • Bush Walks: With San trackers—learn ancient survival skills.

  • Horseback Safaris: Tuli Block offers a unique safari experience.

  • Scenic Flights: Over the Okavango Delta—unforgettable aerial views.

  • Photography Safaris: Specialized lodges cater to wildlife photographers.

  • Craft Shopping: Handwoven baskets in Etsha or Gaborone Craft Market.

  • Live Music: Afro-jazz and traditional dance at events in Maun or Gaborone.

  • Dumela Lodge: Cultural evenings with Setswana dance and storytelling.

  • Kasane Sunset Cruise: Spot hippos and elephants from the Chobe River.

  • Bull & Bush Pub (Gaborone): A lively expat and local hangout with beer gardens and DJs.

  • Thapong Visual Arts Centre (Gaborone): Art by day, cultural events and wine by night.

  • Barclay’s Square (Francistown): Lively bars and karaoke joints.

  • Old Bridge Backpackers (Maun): Riverfront bar with bonfires, live music, and cold beers.

  • Choppies Liquorama Lounge: Botswana’s answer to a casual pub night.

  • Sanitas Tea Garden (Gaborone): More chill than party—perfect for sunset drinks in a garden.

  • The No. 1 Ladies’ Bar (Maun): A cheeky nod to the book series—locals love it.

  • Chobe Safari Lodge Bar (Kasane): Sip cocktails with hippos nearby.

  • Sky Lounge (Gaborone): Rooftop vibes with DJs and panoramic city views.

  • Clubs in Main Mall (Gaborone): Dance to kwaito, Afro-pop, and house until sunrise.

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