Why Visit Botswana?

Botswana is a landlocked country located in Southern Africa known for its diverse wildlife, stunning natural landscapes, and commitment to sustainable development. It is known for its stable political environment and peaceful society, which creates a sense of security for travellers, allowing them to focus on enjoying their holiday without worries.

Botswana is characterised by a mix of desert, savannah, wetlands, and salt pans. Incredibly diverse and visually striking landscapes where the contrasting environments offer great opportunities for photography and appreciation of natural beauty. Botswana's remote locations and limited light pollution make it an ideal destination for stargazing. The clear night skies reveal a breathtaking display of stars, planets, and constellations.

The Okavango Delta, in northwest Botswana, is the country’s most famous natural feature with its lush wetlands. As one of the world's largest inland deltas and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it offers a mesmerising landscape of winding water channels, lily-filled lagoons, and islands teeming with wildlife.

The vast expanse of the Kalahari Desert covers a significant portion of the country's land area. The arid desert is home to wildlife species that have adapted to the harsh environment, where temperatures can vary from 45°C in the day to -15°C at night.

The capital city of Botswana is Gaborone, located in the south-eastern part of the country and other major cities include Francistown, Maun (a gateway to the Okavango Delta), and Kasane (a gateway to Chobe National Park where you can spot elephants along the Chobe River!).

The official language of Botswana is English, which is widely spoken. Setswana (Tswana) is the national language and is commonly spoken by much of the population.

As one of the world's largest producers of diamonds. The diamond industry plays a significant role in the country's economy and revenue generation.

Wildlife and Conservation

Botswana is renowned for its commitment to wildlife conservation. A significant portion of the country's land is dedicated to national parks, game reserves, and wildlife management areas. The government has implemented strict anti-poaching measures and sustainable tourism practices to protect its diverse wildlife.

What animals might you see in Botswana?

Botswana is particularly well known for its large elephant population of around 130,000 so you are likely to see these! You’re also likely to see lions, leopards, cheetahs, giraffes, hippos, and various antelope species, a wide range of birdlife and, occasionally, wild dogs.

In the Kalahari, you might encounter black-maned lions, brown hyenas, and bat-eared foxes, too. Wherever you go, there are expert guides available to help you identify species you may not have heard of or might otherwise overlook.?

Tourism and Safaris

Due to the variety of large and small wild animals, Botswana is a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts and safari-goers. Holidaying in Botswana offers a unique and immersive experience for travellers seeking adventure, wildlife encounters, and stunning natural beauty.

Botswana's approach to tourism emphasises low-impact, high-value experiences. The country limits the number of visitors and lodges in certain areas, ensuring that travellers can enjoy a more private and exclusive safari experience while minimising the impact on the environment.

By choosing Botswana as a holiday destination, you support the country's efforts in wildlife conservation and sustainable tourism. Many lodges and tour operators have strong conservation partnerships, contributing to the protection of endangered species and ecosystems.

What else can you do in Botswana?

As well as game drives, you might take boat and mokoro (canoe) trips along reed-lined channels or join walking safaris led by accomplished and passionate guides and night drives to witness nocturnal wildlife behaviours. At some camps you could also go fishing, take a scenic helicopter flight, and enjoy breakfast or dinner in a remote location in the bush.

Where to stay in Botswana

The country offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury lodges to tented camps. Many of these lodges and camps are situated in prime wildlife areas, providing a high level of comfort while immersing guests in nature.

Here is an Itinerary put together:

Take a trip through Botswana’s remote wilderness to track Africa’s greatest animals. Stay on a houseboat, the Okavango Spirit for 3 nights.

Okavango Spirit offers eight comfy ensuite cabins, with sliding glass doors and private decks for total peace and tranquillity in one of the most remote settings in the Okavango Delta. Here you’ll be thrown into a world of beauty, comfort, and total serenity. Think spectacular sunsets and extraordinary adventures. Game viewing on tender boats, an abundance of bird and wildlife, land activities exploring the unique surrounds, elephants drinking right in front of your window. As you can imagine, this truly is a houseboat safari experience that simply can’t be missed!

Sleep under canvas for 5 nights in the bush and visit the Smoke that Thunders, Victoria Falls.

The trip includes:

• Game Viewing- Explore Botswana’s finest game reserves of Chobe and Moremi during six days of safari.
• Okavango Delta Panhandle- Search for water-dwelling wildlife and exotic birds in the remote area of the delta staying in the houseboat.
• Chobe National Park- A remarkable wildlife sanctuary, world famous for its huge elephant population.

This new 14-day programme starts and ends in Victoria Falls and includes the Makgadikgadi salt pans. Contact me to find out more about this, or other holidays to Botswana [email protected]?