Table of Contents
Introduction to a trip to Botswana
Safari ASAP invites you to visit the former British protectorate of Bechuanaland. We are talking about a distant nation located in southern Africa. One more clue, its capital is Gabarone. Alright, you guessed it, this is Botswana!
Botswana is a paradise because of its unrivaled natural beauty. Landscapes such as the Okavango Delta or the lands of the Kalahari Desert will take your breath away. You can find national parks and nature reserves that are home to African wildlife that you won’t find anywhere else in the world. Immerse yourself with us on this exciting journey to Botswana!
Botswana’s geographical location
Botswana is landlocked, but it is bordered by Zambia (to the north), Zimbabwe (to the east), South Africa (to the south) and Namibia (to the west). To speak of Botswana is to speak of the Kalahari Desert, since it represents 70% of the total area of the country. There are seven ecoregions that divide the territory:
- In the north: Zambezi Teak wooded savannah.
- In the north and east end: Zambezi Mopane wooded savannah.
- In the Okavango Delta: Flooded grassland of the Zambezi.
- Northeast: Zambezi Salt Flat, in the Makgadikgadi Depression.
- In the east: Forested savannah of southern Africa.
- In the southwest: Xerophytic savanna of the Kalahari.
- In the center: Wooded savannah of the Kalahari.
Travel Safety to Botswana
When it comes to theft and crime, Botswana is a very safe country, however it never hurts to be careful with your personal belongings. The greatest danger is represented by the wildlife that inhabits the nature reserves. It is important to keep in mind that if you are not accompanied by a guide, you must remain in the car, as a lion or any other animal may appear at any time. The Okavango Delta is one of the most exquisite places to swim, but don’t forget to learn about crocodiles before taking a swim.
Climate. When is the best time for a trip to Botswana?
Botswana’s climate is virtually semi-arid. Winters are usually mild, with warm days and cold nights; while summers are hot. There are the so-called intermediate seasons in the months of April/May and September/October and a rainy season that runs from November to March.
Why is it interesting to visit Botswana?
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Main historical facts
Botswana has been home to the Tswana tribes for many years, who are characterized by following tribal religions and living on the basis of pastoralism and farming. Did you know that they used to be warriors? Yes, they participated in the Zulu Wars!
At first when the Europeans came to colonize the area, the Tswana were reluctant towards them, but the United Kingdom in 1885 took the area as its protectorate and baptized it under the name “Bechuanaland”.
In 1964, the United Kingdom gave Botswana some autonomy, but it was not until 1966 that the first general elections were held, resulting in the country’s independence. Who held the position of president back then? The leader of the independence movement named Seretse Khama, who remained in power until 1979 when he died. Ketumile Masire then held office through elections and was successively re-elected until he retired in 1998. Festus Mogae was elected in 1998 and stay in power until 2008 when Ian Khama took the office untill 2018 then Mokgweetsi Masisi became the president from 1 April 2018 and he is still in power until today.
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Main destinations and monuments
Botswana offers a number of natural attractions that we can’t miss. For example, one of the main attractions is the Okavango Delta, with a length of 1,300 km. The grandeur of the delta is even greater when one is upstream, on the edge of a mokoro
Another interesting place is the Kalahari Desert, which is located in the southwest of the country. If you want to get away from civilization and get in touch with nature, all you have to do is head to Deception Valley, the heart of Kalahari.
Finally, we recommend that you visit the Makgadikgadi Pans, as you will be able to see the best heat mirages, located in the northeast of Botswana.
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Culture, Religion and Society
In Botswana, the official religion is Christianity. As for the customs of the inhabitants, something very common is the handshake as a sign of courtesy. If you shake hands with any of the locals, try to place your left hand under your right elbow as a sign of respect. Normally, villagers use gestures more than words, so you should be attentive to people’s gestures. Each time you arrive in a new village, try to visit the chief first to ask for permission to spend the night in their community or for any activity you wish to do.
Useful data: Currency, budget, language, and more
In Botswana, English is the official language and there is a national language called Setswana. Tipping is not mandatory in this country, however it is recommended to do so only on those occasions when you have received good service. The curious thing about the place is that agriculture employs 80% of the population, yet it only provides 50% of food and represents 4% of GDP. Part of the country’s economy is represented by tourism and the diamond mines in the area.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Botswana a great travel destination?
Botswana is known for its untouched wilderness, rich wildlife, and high, quality safari experiences. It offers a more exclusive and less crowded alternative compared to other African safari destinations. The country has made strong efforts to protect its natural environment, which means you’ll experience nature at its best. From vast wetlands to dry savannahs, the landscapes are incredibly diverse. It’s a perfect destination for travelers looking for authenticity and adventure.
What are the top places to visit in Botswana?
Botswana is home to some of Africa’s most iconic natural attractions. The Okavango Delta is a must, visit, offering unique water, based safaris in traditional mokoro canoes. Chobe National Park is famous for having one of the largest elephant populations in the world. You can also explore the vast salt pans of Makgadikgadi Pan. Each destination offers a different kind of adventure and scenery. Together, they showcase the beauty and diversity of Botswana.
When is the best time to travel to Botswana?
The best time to visit Botswana is during the dry season, from May to October. During these months, wildlife gathers around water sources, making it easier to spot animals. The weather is also cooler and more comfortable for outdoor activities. In areas like the Okavango Delta, the floodwaters are at their peak, creating beautiful landscapes. This is considered the prime safari season.
What activities can you do while visiting Botswana?
Botswana offers a range of exciting activities for nature lovers and adventure seekers. You can go on game drives, walking safaris, and boat safaris to explore the wildlife. In the Okavango Delta, mokoro rides provide a peaceful way to glide through the waterways. Bird watching is also excellent, with hundreds of species to spot. Every activity allows you to experience the wild in a unique and memorable way.
What should travelers know before visiting Botswana?
Travelers should know that Botswana focuses on low, impact, high, quality tourism, which can make it more expensive than some other destinations. However, the experience is often worth the cost due to the exclusivity and pristine environments. It’s important to plan ahead and book accommodations and safaris early. In remote areas like Chobe National Park, facilities can be limited but are usually very comfortable. Being prepared ensures a smooth and enjoyable trip.
Still have questions?
Our local safari experts are happy to help you plan the perfect African safari.
