Botswana
Botswana is a landlocked country in Southern Africa known for its diverse landscapes, ranging from the Kalahari Desert to the Okavango Delta, which becomes a lush animal habitat during the seasonal floods. It has a stable democratic government and is one of the continent's most prosperous nations, largely due to diamond mining and tourism.
The country is renowned for its wildlife conservation efforts and vast protected areas, which make it a popular destination for safari adventures.
- "Dumelang" - Hello
- "O kae?" - How are you?
- "Ke a leboga" - Thank you
- "Tsamaya sentle" - Goodbye
- "O eng?" - What is it?
Prices in Botswana
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $50
Highlights
Good
- Stable political environment and strong democratic institutions
- Rich wildlife and national parks, great for tourism
- Low levels of corruption compared to many other African nations
- Good economic growth and a relatively high GDP per capita
- Investment in education and healthcare, resulting in improved literacy rates
- Diverse culture and friendly people
Bad
- High unemployment rate, particularly among youth
- Challenges with HIV/AIDS prevalence
- Limited infrastructure development in some rural areas
- Dependence on diamond mining for the economy
- Vulnerability to climate change impacting agriculture and water resources
- Social disparities and poverty in certain regions
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Safari Adventure
morning
:Start your day early with a guided safari in Chobe National Park. You'll have the chance to see elephants and various wildlife as the sun rises.
afternoon
:Enjoy a packed lunch by the riverside while watching the wildlife. In the afternoon, take a boat cruise to get closer to animals like hippos and crocodiles.
evening
:Wind down with a sunset drink on the river. Later, return to your lodge for a traditional dinner under the stars.
Okavango Delta Discovery
morning
:Begin with a mokoro (dugout canoe) ride through the serene waters of the Okavango Delta. Keep an eye out for colorful birds and lush vegetation.
afternoon
:Take a nature walk with a guide to discover the flora and fauna of the delta region. Learn about the ecosystem and spot unique wildlife tracks.
evening
:Experience a traditional dance performance by local tribes. Enjoy a bush dinner surrounded by the sounds of the African night.
Attractions in Botswana
Visit one of these nice places.
Okavango Delta
Known for its stunning waterways and diverse wildlife, providing fantastic photo opportunities for nature and wildlife enthusiasts.
Chobe National Park
Famous for its large elephant population and breathtaking views along the Chobe River, offering great photo opportunities for capturing wildlife and landscapes.
Makgadikgadi Pans
Unique landscape with vast salt pans and incredible starry nights, providing opportunities for capturing the stark beauty of the area and astrophotography.
Is it safe in Botswana
Best Activities in Botswana
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Botswana.
Botswana's Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Seswaa
A traditional meat dish made from slow-cooked shredded beef, often served with pap (maize porridge) and a side of vegetables. Best enjoyed at local eateries and community gatherings.
Must-Try!
Mopane Worms
Considered a delicacy, mopane worms are large edible caterpillars that are often dried, spiced, and fried. They can be found at local markets and street food vendors.
Diphaphata
A type of fried bread, resembling a flatbread or pancake, commonly served with various stews and relishes. Available at street food stalls and bakeries.
Unique Experiences in Botswana
Get to know Botswana better with these unique experiences.
Things To Do in Botswana
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Guided safari
Explore the vast wildlife and natural beauty of Botswana through a guided safari in national parks such as Chobe and Okavango Delta.
Mokoro excursions
Embark on a traditional dugout canoe (mokoro) excursion along the waterways of the Okavango Delta to observe the diverse birdlife and aquatic animals.
Birdwatching
Botswana offers excellent birdwatching opportunities, especially in areas like Moremi Game Reserve and Chobe National Park, where a wide variety of bird species can be observed.
Walking safaris
Participate in a walking safari with experienced guides to witness the landscapes and wildlife up close in regions like the Okavango Delta and Linyanti Wildlife Reserve.
Weather in Botswana
Adventures in Botswana
Uncover the best of Botswana with these unforgettable adventures.
How To Behave in Botswana
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greeting
In Botswana, it is important to greet people with respect. Handshakes are the common form of greeting, and it is customary to greet elders first.
Respect for Elders
Respect for elders is deeply ingrained in Botswana's culture. It is customary to use respectful language and gestures when interacting with older people.
Customs and Traditions
Understanding and respecting the customs and traditions of different ethnic groups in Botswana is important. It is advisable to learn about specific cultural practices and show respect for them.
Hidden Gems of Botswana
Discover the hidden gems of Botswana with these exclusive activities.
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
Tipping is not mandatory in Botswana, but it is appreciated for good service. In restaurants, a 10% tip may be given if not already included in the bill. Tipping may also be given to hotel staff, safari guides, and other service providers as a token of appreciation.
Payment
Payment in Botswana is mostly done in cash, and credit cards are widely accepted in urban areas and tourist facilities. ATMs are also readily available in major towns. Mobile payment solutions such as Orange Money and MyZaka are becoming increasingly popular for transactions.
Nightlife in Botswana
Best Time to Visit Botswana
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry Season (April - October)
Best time to visit for wildlife viewing as animals gather around water sources. Cool and dry weather with little to no rain.
Green Season (November - March)
Lush green landscapes with newborn wildlife. Birdwatching is excellent. Some areas may be inaccessible due to flooding.
More Adventures in Botswana
Experience Botswana up close with these must-do activities
Accomodations in Botswana
Find the best place to stay when visiting Botswana.