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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.

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  • "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

  • 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
  • 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

day 1

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.

day 2

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.

Explore Day Plans

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.

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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.

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Makgadikgadi Pans

Unique landscape with vast salt pans and incredible starry nights, providing opportunities for capturing the stark beauty of the area and astrophotography.

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Is it safe in Botswana

Safety in Botswana is generally regarded as quite good compared to many other countries in the region. The country is known for its political stability and low crime rates, making it a safe destination for both residents and tourists. However, like any place, there are certain considerations to keep in mind. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and theft, can occur in urban areas like Gaborone, particularly in crowded markets or during events. Tourists are advised to stay vigilant and keep their belongings secure. It's also wise to avoid walking alone after dark and to use reputable transportation options. Wildlife-related incidents can be a concern when traversing national parks and rural areas. It's essential to follow guidelines set by park authorities to ensure safety when encountering wildlife. Additionally, road safety can be a concern, as some rural roads may be poorly maintained. Overall, with common-sense precautions and awareness of the surroundings, visitors and locals can enjoy a safe experience in Botswana.

Best Activities in Botswana

Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Botswana.

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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.

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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

The climate in Botswana is characterized as semi-arid, with distinct seasons that include a hot, rainy summer and a cooler, dry winter. During the summer months, from November to March, temperatures can soar, often exceeding 40°C (104°F) during the day. This period also marks the rainy season, with most of the country's annual rainfall occurring during these months. The rains are usually brief but heavy, contributing to the lushness of the landscape. Winter months, from May to August, bring much cooler temperatures, especially at night when they can drop to around 0°C (32°F) in some areas. Daytime temperatures are more moderate, typically ranging from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). This dry season is generally clear, with very little precipitation. Overall, the climate is influenced by the Kalahari Desert, leading to significant variations in temperature and limited rainfall. Despite these challenges, Botswana is known for its diverse ecosystems and wildlife, adapted to thrive in its climate.

Adventures in Botswana

Uncover the best of Botswana with these unforgettable adventures.

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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.

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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

Nightlife in Botswana offers a unique blend of traditional and contemporary experiences. In cities like Gaborone and Francistown, you'll find a variety of clubs, bars, and lounges where both locals and tourists gather to enjoy music, dancing, and socializing. Many of these venues play a mix of local music genres like Afrobeat and Kwaito, as well as international hits. For a more authentic cultural experience, some establishments feature live performances of traditional Tswana music and dance. Additionally, night markets and street food vendors are popular, providing an opportunity to taste local cuisine such as seswaa (pounded meat) and magwinya (fried dough balls). Safety is generally good, but it's always wise to stay aware of your surroundings and take common-sense precautions. The atmosphere is lively and welcoming, making Botswana's nightlife an enjoyable part of its rich cultural tapestry.

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

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Accomodations in Botswana

Find the best place to stay when visiting Botswana.

Hotels Apartments

Continue exploring Botswana

Discover local cities, attractions and more!

GaboroneFrancistownMolepololeMogoditshaneMaunSelibe PhikweKanyeSeroweMochudiMahalapyePalapyeTlokwengRamotswaLobatseGhanziBobonongLetlhakaneMosopaThamagaJwanengGabaneMmoponeMmadinareKopongKasaneTshabongShoshongMetsemotlhabaNataMasungaMopipiSowa TownLehututuNokanengLokwabeTsauMuhembo