Botswana

Botswana is the ultimate safari destination in Africa. The unique landscape formed by the Kalahari Desert and the Okavango Delta, a wetland within a desert, offers an untouched paradise for wildlife. To the eastern part of the Okavango region, the Chobe National Park offers refugee to some 100.000 elephants together with a kaleidoscope of wildlife and birdlife.

The very low populated country and the government’s decision to adopt a policy of high income and low impact will give you an unforgettable experience in the wilderness.

General Info

Geography

Botswana is 581,730 square kilometres (about the size of France) and is a landlocked country. It’s located north of South Africa, bordering Namibia to the west, Zimbabwe to the east and Zambia to the north. The capital is Gaborone. Maun is a small town situated south of the Okavango Delta and is where most of the safaris to the Okavango Delta, Chobe National Park or Central Kalahari National Park will start.

Population

The last census shows a population of about 2 million people. The main ethnic groups are Tswana, Kalanga and Bushmen.

Languages

The official language of Botswana is English.
Setswana is spoken by around 90% of the population.
!Xóõ language is spoken mainly by Bushman.

Currency

Botswana currency is the Pula. One Pula is made up of 100 Thebe.

When to go

Botswana has 2 main seasons.

Dry season from July till October: This season is excellent for game viewing in the Okavango Delta and in the Chobe National Park. Temperatures are cooler and they rise from October. Leafless woodland offers good visibility.

Wet and green season from December until April: There is an excellent game concentration in Central Kalahari and Kgalagadi Transfrontier. There is plenty of babies, predators and migrant birds in breeding plumage. Also the Okavango and Chobe areas are recommended for birding. The season is perfect for photography with clear sky and bright colours.

November and May are transitional with a mix of both.

Electricity

You will be able to charge all your electronic equipment in both tented lodges and mobile camps.

Travel by Road and Plane

Botswana has got a limited road infrastructure and most of the wilderness areas are reachable only by plane or by 4×4.

You will need to land at Johannesburg airport and fly then to Maun from where the majority of the safaris start.

Entry Requirements

For visa requirements, please contact your nearest Botswana diplomatic mission.

Malaria

If you are visiting the Okavango Delta, Chobe National Park or you are extending to Victoria Falls, you are exposed to malaria areas and you should take precautions. Please consult your doctor for prophylactic medication.

The Central Kalahari National Park and Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park are malaria free.

Tips and Tipping

The tipping guidance for your safari ranger is provided at the different lodges or mobile camps but it is completely at your discretion.