Est. 1970
Botswana
Most of Botswana is a roadless wilderness, with vast tracts of space given over to wildlife and dramatic scenery, making it ideal for people on safaris and wildlife holidays or looking to experience something particularly memorable.
The Okavanago Delta, described as 'the river that never finds the sea' is the world's largest inland delta; rising in central Africa, the Okavango river simply dissipates into the Kalahari sands. Paddle a mokoro, traditional canoe, through the maze of waterways and islands to get close to the wildlife that makes its home here.
Other wildlife holidays in Botswana centre on Chobe National Park, which is home to huge numbers of elephant. A sunset cruise along the Chobe River will also bring you into close contact with crocodile, hippo, gazelle, giraffe and other plains game as well. The Moremi Game Reserve is also considered one of Africa's great, pristine wild spaces.
The Makgadikgadi Pans are the dried bed of a ginormous super-lake that covered much of the country at one point. These days the water has evaporated leaving spectacular, surreal saltpans that stretch as far as the eye can see. During the rainy season the pans are transformed into a wonderful watery landscape full of birds and wildlife.
Elsewhere, the Kalahari comprises the vast majority of the country. The last remaining San Bushmen live here; head to the Tsodilo Hills, which are considered sacred, to see 4,000 rock paintings daubed on cliffs by the ancestors of the current population.
Botswana Travel
The Practical information displayed here is taken from The Traveller's Handbook, published by WEXAS (2009). While all possible care was taken to ensure accuracy at the time of publication, we are aware that situations change, so for the latest information and up-to-date visa requirements, talk to one of our destination specialists on 020 7590 0611.
Weather
Rainy season October to April, and this is the hottest time of year. Drier and cooler weather from May to September, with an average temperature of 25 . This is the best time to visit, as the days are generally pleasant and the wildlife never wanders far from water sources.
Festivals
Batswana enjoy public holidays on New Year’s Day and the day after, at Easter, Ascension Day (in April or May), and Labour Day (1 May), as well as a two-day sleep-in around President's Day in July. Independence Day is celebrated on 30 September and the day following, and there are three public holidays over Christmas: on 25, 26 and 27 December. Other events include the Maitisong Festival, in April, a performing arts festival in Gaborone with theatre, music and dance.
Food & drink
Basic outside major hotels. Local dishes include Morama, an underground tuber, Mopane worm, boiled, cooked or fried, and the Kalahari truffle.
Etiquette
As most people in Botswana follow their traditional pattern of life, visitors should be sensitive to local customs. This is particularly true in rural areas, where people may be unaccustomed to visitors.
Safety
Safe.International airport
Gaborone Sir Seretse Khama International (GBE), 15 km from the city, Maun International Airport (MUB).
Internal travel
Air Botswana runs flights between major cities. Good train links between Francistown, Gaborone and Lobatse. Six major bus routes. Car hire can be arranged in Gaborone, Francistown or Maun. Taxis available in major towns. Hitchhiking is so institutionalised it carries a set charge.
Visa
(UK/US) None.Vaccination
BCG, Cholera, Hep. A, Hep. B, Malaria, Polio, Rabies, Typhoid, Y. Fever2Driving
An International Driving Permit not legally required but recommended for longer stays, otherwise a UK licence must be carried. After 6 months a Botswana licence must be carried.Capital
Gaborone.Language
English and Setswana.People
Tswana (98%).Religion
Size
581,730.Population
1,680,863.Population density
2.9Life expectancy
M 33.89, F 33.84.Currency
Pula (P) = 100 thebe.Finance
Limited acceptance of credit cards. Hotels accept traveller’s cheques but the surcharge can be high.Business hours
0800-1700 April-October, 0730-1630 October-April.Time difference
+2.Voltage
220-240 AC, 50 Hz.International dial code
267.The itinerary ideas listed below are designed to give you a flavour of the things to do in Botswana. We can adjust any element and tailor-make your trip though, to suit your individual needs and available time. To start planning your trip, talk to one of our destination specialists on 020 7590 0611.
Luxury Botswana safari
Botswana Uncovered with Victoria Falls
Botswana Wilderness Safari
Big cats, wild dogs & elephants
Botswana Explorer Camping Safari
Botswana with Wilderness Safaris
Wildlife & Wilderness of Botswana
The places to stay listed below only represent a handful of the accommodation options available in Botswana. We can also recommend and arrange accommodation to suit your personal tastes and budget. To start planning where to stay in Botswana, talk to one of our destination specialists on 020 7590 0611.
Xudum Delta Lodge, Botswana
Sandibe Safari Lodge, Botswana
Savute Under Canvas, Botswana
DumaTau Camp, Botswana
Xigera Camp, Botswana
Kalahari Plains Camp, Botswana
Chitabe Camp, Botswana
Jacana Camp, Botswana
Savuti Camp, Botswana
Belinda Gillings - Africa Specialist
To make an enquiry or to start planning your trip talk to our team of specialists on 020 7590 0611
WHEN TO GO
- BEST
TIME - GOOD
TIME - SOME LIMITATIONS
Recommended Itineraries (5)
Africa
