A little bigger than France, Botswana is probably the most untouched country with least human development. Abundant fauna with 40% reserved for wildlife. Most of the country is semi-desert with 2/3 of the territory covered by the Kalahari plains, contrasting with the Okavango delta which is one of the world’s last remaining wilderness areas – a green and blue jewel covering 15000 km2. This sanctuary shelters an incredible diversity of fauna and flora.
To fly over its crystal-clear waters is a unique experience and the ‘mokoro’ (dugout canoe) is the best means of transportation to explore and enjoy its quiet beauty. Bordered by Namibia, South Africa and Zimbabwe it is an ideal complementary destination to discover. This gem of a destination will leave you with many happy memories.
We pride ourselves on creating personalised tours that cater for particular interests, tastes, needs and budgets. We do, however, recommend certain itineraries above others as some routes, hotels and destinations are simply better than the alternatives.
The Great Parks (SA/Botswana) (8 Days) | Namibia, Botswana & Victoria Falls Self Drive (18 Days)
CAPITAL
Gaborone
WHEN TO GO
Depending on what you are after, Botswana can be an all year-round destination. However, game viewing is at its peak during the dry winter months of May to October. Although the cooler months of June to August are a great time for a safari too. The game viewing is consistently excellent, there’s virtually no rain and the risk of malaria is at its lowest.
GETTING AROUND
International flights to Gaborone, Maun or Kasane.
Best connections from Johannesburg to reach those destinations.
VIBEY CITIES
It is all about wildlife but Botswana is also home to unique and beautiful landscapes with great diversity. From the red sand dunes to the largest salt pans, one of the most beautiful places to visit in Africa is the Okavango Delta. Chobe National Park, Linyanti and the Moremi Wildlife Reserve.
STAY HEALTHY
Yellow fever vaccine is not compulsory unless you come from an infected area. In this case, at the customs checkpoint, your vaccine booklet will be required. Botswana, like most African countries, is situated in a malaria area. Malaria is transmitted by a mosquito breeding in humid areas. It bites day and night, indoors or outdoors, in cities or in the countryside. There is no vaccine. Caution: Additional to medicine (consult your doctor), it is advised to wear long sleeved clothes at night (trousers, long sleeve shirts, closed shoes) and use mosquito repellent.
LANGUAGE
The official language of Botswana is English. Setswana is spoken by most of the population, but there are over 20 much smaller languages.
CURRENCY
The currency of Botswana is the Pula (P) divided in 100 Thebe. The word Pula means rain and Thebe means shield, present on the emblem of the country.
VISA
All travelers will need a passport valid for at least 90 days following your departure date from Botswana.
Depending on your nationality you might require a visa to enter Botswana.
Applicants are advised to give twenty-one (21) working days to process the application. Any visa granted on this application will be subjected to compliance with the immigration regulations of the Republic of Botswana.
www.botswanaembassy.org/page/guidelines-for-completing-a-visa-application
TIPS & TIPPING
The accepted rate in Lodges is: For Guide/Rangers – USD10-USD20 per person per day and for the Service personnel – USD10 per person per day
