Things To Do
in Tsau
Tsau is a small, remote village in Botswana perched on the edge of the Kalahari Desert. The community is surrounded by expansive red sands, mopane woodlands, and occasional wildlife sightings that define the arid landscape. Visitors can experience authentic rural Botswana life with guides and artisans sharing traditional skills.
While quiet, Tsau serves as a gateway to vast wilderness areas and star-filled night skies.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Upon arrival in Tsau, settle into your accommodation and freshen up after your journey. Spend some time getting acquainted with the local surroundings and culture by taking a leisurely walk through the village. Enjoy a traditional Botswana breakfast at a local eatery, sampling dishes such as mealie pap and boerewors.
In the afternoon, embark on a guided tour of the community to learn about the lives and traditions of the Tswana people. Engage with local artisans and observe their craftsmanship, perhaps even picking up a unique souvenir. This immersive experience will deepen your appreciation for the rich cultural heritage of Botswana.
As evening falls, enjoy a sunset dinner by the river, where you can taste locally sourced dishes while watching the sun dip below the horizon. Listen to stories shared by the locals about Tsau and the surrounding regions. Wind down the day with some stargazing under the clear Botswana skies.
Start your day with an early morning bush walk led by a knowledgeable guide who will point out the diverse flora and fauna of the region. Feel the excitement of seeing animals in their natural habitats, including various bird species and possibly even some elusive wildlife. Breakfast in the bush will enhance the whole experience, allowing you to enjoy the sounds of nature around you.
In the afternoon, visit the nearby Tsodilo Hills, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its rock art and archaeological significance. Explore the ancient paintings while learning about the stories and history they tell from your guide. Capture stunning photos of this breathtaking landscape and experience the spiritual ambiance that surrounds the hills.
Return to Tsau in the evening and participate in a traditional dance performance by locals. Join in the festivities and immerse yourself in their vibrant music and dance culture, fostering connections through shared experiences. Wind down with a quiet evening by the fire under a canopy of stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| 🛏️One night in a mid-range hotel or lodge | $30-70 |
| 🚗Taxi or short transport (1-5 km) | $2-6 |
| 🧺Groceries basics for a week | $20-60 |
| 🎟️Entrance to a protected area or park | $10-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic rural Botswana experience
- Stellar stargazing and desert landscapes
- Warm, welcoming communities
- Low crowds and off-the-beaten-path charm
- Limited infrastructure and amenities
- Remote location requiring careful planning
- Fewer dining and nightlife options
- "Dumela" - Hello
- "O kae?" - How are you?
- "Ke a leboga" - Thank you
- "Ke kopa..." - Please, I would like...
- "Ee" - Yes
Places to Visit in Tsau
Visit one of these nice places.
Endless red dunes glow as the sun sinks, creating dramatic silhouettes and long shadows.
Soft morning light over homesteads and tracks, ideal for intimate portraits and landscape shots.
Shallow seasonal pans reflect the sky, offering mirror-like horizons and wildlife silhouettes.
Food in Tsau
Tsau Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Slow-cooked shredded beef seasoned lightly, usually served with pap (maize porridge) and morogo.
Must-Try!
Wild spinach (morogo) cooked with beans or groundnuts, a common side dish with maize porridge.
Maize porridge served with meat stews or other hearty toppings; a staple that anchors most meals.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market where locals sell fresh produce, dried meat, and homemade snacks; great for sampling street bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a warm 'Dumela' and a handshake; address elders with politeness.
Ask permission before photographing people or homes; respect refusals.
Dress modestly, especially in villages or religious sites; shoulders and knees should be covered when appropriate.
Safety
Tipping in Tsau
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but modest; 5-10% for services or small tips for guides after a tour.
Cash in Botswana pula is widely accepted; many lodges accept cards; mobile money is increasingly used in towns.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot days with occasional afternoon storms; hydrate, wear sunscreen, and plan outdoor activity for early morning or late afternoon.
Mild days with cooler nights; bring layers and a warm jacket; wildlife viewing can be excellent as temperatures drop.
Tsau at Night
Hiking in Tsau
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A moderate hike across rolling red dunes with vast, open skies.
Easy loop around seasonal pans with opportunities to spot birds and mammals.
Airports
How to reach Tsau by plane.
Gateway to the Okavango region; serves regional flights and charter services with connections to Johannesburg and other hubs.
Botswana’s main international gateway; more flights and connections, but farther from Tsau.
Northern gateway to Chobe and the Caprivi; useful for combining with a northern Botswana itinerary.
Small local airstrip serving the Ghanzi area; used by charter flights and smaller operators.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant language group with strong cultural traditions.
Residents involved in cattle farming, crop cultivation, and craft production.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in towns and villages, with local matches on weekends.
Common among women’s teams and school sports.
Popular for fitness and enjoying the desert scenery.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tsau.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can enjoy morogo (wild spinach), beans, pap, and vegetable stews. When ordering, clearly communicate no meat or animal products.