Botswana

Botswana is one of Africa's most unspoiled safari spots, known for its incredible wildlife, stunning landscapes, and eco-friendly tourism. Tucked between Namibia, South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Zambia, this landlocked country takes conservation seriously, protecting vast areas of wilderness for the future. Taking a trip to Botswana means that you can explore the winding waterways of the Okavango Delta or venture into the arid beauty of the Kalahari Desert.

Four reasons to visit Botswana

Botswana is a great place to visit for quite a few reasons, here are four: 

1. For the abundant wildlife and world-class safaris

In Botswana, you’re in for some of Africa’s most spectacular wildlife viewing, especially in iconic spots like the Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park. You’ll find elephants, lions, and leopards roaming freely in these protected areas, creating incredible safari opportunities. What’s unique about Botswana is its low-density tourism approach, meaning you’ll encounter fewer vehicles in the parks, making your wildlife experience feel more personal.

2. To see Botswana’s landscapes

The diversity of Botswana’s landscapes is truly stunning. In the north, you’ll find the lush, water-filled channels of the Okavango Delta, teeming with hippos, crocodiles, and a rich variety of birdlife. Head south, and the landscape shifts to the vast, sandy stretches of the Kalahari Desert, offering a completely different but equally stunning experience. What sets Botswana apart is its commitment to preserving these unspoiled environments, so you’ll experience raw, untouched wilderness. 

3. To experience the local culture

The people of Botswana, known as Batswana, are famous for their warmth and hospitality. Daily life is guided by "botho," a philosophy of respect and compassion. You might visit local villages, try traditional foods, and enjoy performances of dance and music, all of which give you a glimpse into the rich cultural traditions here. From ancient rock paintings at Tsodilo Hills to the deep connection the San people have with the land, the local culture is woven into every part of the Botswana experience.

4. For adventure activities

 Botswana isn’t just about safaris. Those looking for an adventure can navigate the Okavango’s narrow waterways in a mokoro. If you’re up for something different, you can explore on horseback or even float above the Delta in a hot air balloon. Or, take a boat cruise along the Chobe River or a fishing trip in the Okavango provides for a change of pace. With its wide-open spaces and varied terrain, Botswana is ideal for anyone craving a bit of adventure.

Top 5 places to visit in Botswana

There are plenty of things to do in Botswana, but here are our top five places to visit:

#1: Okavango Delta

The Okavango Delta is truly a gem of Botswana and one of the most extraordinary ecosystems in the world. This massive inland delta floods each year, turning the surrounding desert into a lush, wildlife-filled wetland. You can explore its maze of channels, lagoons, and islands by mokoro canoe or on foot with a guided walking safari. You'll likely spot elephants, leopards, buffalo, and a huge array of birds. 

#2: Chobe National Park

Chobe National Park, in northern Botswana, is famous for having Africa’s largest elephant population. The best way to see these gentle giants is on a boat cruise along the Chobe River, where they gather to drink and bathe. You’ll also have the chance to see lions, buffalo, and more. Game drives here are especially exciting during the dry season (May to October), when animals congregate near the river.

#3: Makgadikgadi Pans

The Makgadikgadi Pans are one of the largest salt flats on Earth, stretching across 6,200 square miles. In the dry season, this area is a vast, almost otherworldly landscape of cracked, white earth. But when the rains come, the pans transform into a breeding ground for flamingos and attract large herds of zebras and wildebeest. It’s an ideal spot for activities like quad biking, bush walks, and stargazing. The nearby town of Gweta makes for a great base to explore the pans.

#4: Moremi Game Reserve

Moremi Game Reserve, on the eastern edge of the Okavango Delta, is one of Africa’s most diverse wildlife areas It combines wetlands, mopane woodlands, and savannas, making it a haven for an impressive range of wildlife. Here you can find predators like lions, leopards, and the elusive African wild dogs. The reserve is also a paradise for birdwatchers, with over 400 species to spot. Many camps in Moremi are so remote that they can only be reached by air, making for quite an exclusive safari experience.

#5: Central Kalahari Game Reserve

The Central Kalahari Game Reserve is great for a completely different kind of safari experience. Its harsh desert environment is home to unique wildlife like the black-maned Kalahari lions, oryx, and springboks. Despite the arid conditions, the Kalahari is teeming with life, especially after the rains. The reserve is also home to the San people, one of Africa’s oldest indigenous cultures. It’s best visited between December and April after the rains when the wildlife is most active.

Practical travel tips

If you’re getting ready to head off to Botswana, here are some tips to consider to make the most of your trip.

Getting there

You can fly into Botswana via Sir Seretse Khama International Airport in Gaborone, with flights connecting from Johannesburg and other regional cities. However, most travelers head straight to Maun, which is the main gateway to the Okavango Delta, or Kasane, which serves the Chobe National Park area. Charter flights are quite popular for traveling within Botswana, especially if you're visiting remote safari lodges. 

When to visit

If you want the best wildlife viewing experience, plan your trip during the dry season, from May to October, when animals gather around water sources. If you're into birdwatching or want to see the Delta in full flood, the green season (November to April) offers a lush landscape and fewer crowds, along with lower prices. Just keep in mind that heavy rains may make some areas harder to access.

Travel requirements

Make sure you have a valid passport with at least six months’ validity and two blank pages for entry stamps. Depending on where you're from, you might not need a visa—visitors from the US, UK, and many EU countries can stay for up to 90 days without one. Always double-check the visa requirements for your nationality before you travel.

Visa information

For countries that don’t require a visa, you’re allowed to stay up to 90 days without needing any paperwork. If you're planning a longer trip or multiple entries, it's a good idea to apply for a visa beforehand. If you do need a visa, you can often get one on arrival, but it’s best to confirm this with your local consulate in case the rules have changed.

Health tips

If you're traveling to northern Botswana, particularly the Okavango and Chobe regions, be aware that malaria is present, so it’s recommended to take anti-malarial medication. Make sure your vaccinations, especially for hepatitis and typhoid, are up-to-date. 

While tap water is safe to drink in most cities, it’s better to stick to bottled water in rural areas. And don’t forget to pack sunscreen and stay hydrated—the heat, especially in desert regions, can be intense.