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Botswana
Discover Botswana, home to the famous Okavango Delta, vast savannahs, and incredible wildlife. Enjoy thrilling safaris, explore the Kalahari Desert, and experience unmatched African wilderness adventures.
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Summary
Neighboring Countries
Overview
Months
03. March, 04. April, 05. May, 06. June, 07. July, 08. August, 09. September, 01. January, 11. November, 10. October, 12. December
Vacation type
Safari, Couple, Family, Nature, Sightseeing
Expenses
<100€, <150€, <200€, Over 200€
Temperature
10-20°C, 20-25°C, 25-30°C, Over 30°C
Rainfall
0-50mm, 50-100mm
Safety
Safe
Continent
Africa
Currency
Pula
Languages
English, Setswana
Currency Converter
When to visit
The best time to visit Botswana is during the dry season, from May to October. During these months, the weather is cooler and dry, making it ideal for wildlife viewing as animals gather around water sources, and the vegetation is less dense, providing better visibility.
- May to June: Offers pleasant temperatures and lower humidity, great for early safaris and exploring.
- July to October: Features the peak of the dry season with very low rainfall, making it excellent for game viewing and outdoor activities, but it can be hot, particularly in September and October.
The wet season, from November to April, brings higher humidity and frequent rains, which can lead to lush landscapes and fewer tourists but can also make travel more challenging due to muddy roads and limited access to some areas. This period is also great for bird watching as migratory species arrive.
Weather, Crowds and Costs
Per one person
Tourist Season: May-October (Dry Season)
Budget Vacation ($50-100/day)
Accommodation: $20-40/night (budget lodges, camping).
Food: $10-15/day (local cafes, self-catering).
Activities: $10-20/day (self-guided safaris, park visits).
Transportation: $10-20/day (local taxis, shared transport).
Other Costs: $5-10/day (minimal souvenirs).
Mid-Range Vacation ($200-350/day)
Accommodation: $80-150/night (mid-range safari lodges, comfortable hotels).
Food: $20-40/day (restaurants, local dining).
Activities: $50-100/day (guided safaris, wildlife tours).
Transportation: $30-50/day (car rentals, local flights).
Other Costs: $10-20/day (shopping, tips).
Luxury Vacation ($500+/day)
Accommodation: $250+/night (luxury safari lodges, all-inclusive resorts).
Food: $50+/day (fine dining).
Activities: $100+/day (private safaris, exclusive tours).
Transportation: $50+/day (private transport, charter flights).
Other Costs: $20+/day (luxury shopping, spa treatments).
Off-Peak Season: November-April (Rainy Season)
Budget Vacation ($30-60/day)
Accommodation: $15-30/night (budget lodges, camping).
Food: $10-15/day (self-catering, street food).
Activities: $5-10/day (self-guided tours, nature walks).
Transportation: $5-10/day (local transport).
Other Costs: $5/day (minimal souvenirs).
Mid-Range Vacation ($100-180/day)
Accommodation: $40-80/night (mid-range lodges).
Food: $10-25/day (local restaurants).
Activities: $20-50/day (wildlife viewing, cultural experiences).
Transportation: $10-20/day (local taxis).
Other Costs: $10/day (shopping, tips).
Luxury Vacation ($300+/day)
Accommodation: $150+/night (luxury safari camps, resorts).
Food: $30+/day (gourmet dining).
Activities: $50+/day (exclusive safaris, luxury experiences).
Transportation: $25+/day (private guides, flights).
Other Costs: $10+/day (luxury experiences).
Best Regions to visit
Cities
1. Gaborone
- The capital and largest city of Botswana, Gaborone is known for its economic and political significance. Key attractions include the Gaborone Game Reserve, the National Museum, and the Botswana National Library.
2. Francistown
- The second-largest city in Botswana, Francistown is an important commercial and industrial center. It is known for its historical significance in the mining industry and attractions such as the Tsholofelo Park.
3. Maun
- Often referred to as the gateway to the Okavango Delta, Maun is popular for its tourism opportunities and proximity to wildlife and natural attractions. Key sites include the Maun Wildlife Educational Park and various safari tour operators.
4. Kasane
- Located near the borders of Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Namibia, Kasane is known for its access to Chobe National Park and the Kasane Forest Reserve. It is a popular base for wildlife safaris and river cruises.
5. Selebi-Phikwe
- An important mining town, Selebi-Phikwe is known for its nickel and copper mining industry. It also features attractions like the Selebi-Phikwe Golf Club and various local markets.
Gaborone
Islands
Botswana is a landlocked country and does not have islands in the traditional sense.
Okavango Delta
Things to see
Natural Attractions
1. Okavango Delta
- One of the most famous natural attractions in Botswana, the Okavango Delta is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a unique inland delta. It offers incredible wildlife viewing opportunities, including safaris by mokoro (traditional dugout canoe), and is home to diverse species such as elephants, lions, and hippos.
2. Chobe National Park
- Located in the northern part of Botswana, Chobe National Park is known for its massive elephant herds, the largest concentration in Africa. The park is also rich in other wildlife, including buffalo, giraffes, and various bird species. A boat cruise on the Chobe River is a must-do activity.
3. Makgadikgadi Pans
- These vast salt pans are remnants of an ancient lake that dried up thousands of years ago. The Makgadikgadi Pans provide a surreal landscape, especially during the rainy season when they become a temporary home to flamingos and other migratory birds. The pans are also known for their stunning night skies.
4. Moremi Game Reserve
- Located on the eastern side of the Okavango Delta, Moremi Game Reserve offers a mix of woodlands, floodplains, and lagoons. It's a prime spot for game drives, walking safaris, and birdwatching, with a chance to see leopards, cheetahs, and African wild dogs.
5. Tsodilo Hills
- Known as the "Louvre of the Desert," Tsodilo Hills is a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its rock art. There are over 4,500 individual paintings, some dating back thousands of years, created by the San people. The hills are also considered a sacred site.
Cultural and Historical Sites
1. Gaborone
- The capital city of Botswana, Gaborone offers a mix of modern attractions and cultural experiences. The National Museum and Art Gallery showcases Botswana's history, art, and culture. The city also has interesting sites like the Three Dikgosi Monument, which honors three tribal chiefs who played key roles in Botswana's independence.
2. Maun
- Often referred to as the gateway to the Okavango Delta, Maun is a bustling town where you can experience local culture and prepare for your safari adventures. The Nhabe Museum provides insights into the history and culture of the region.
3. Francistown
- As one of Botswana's oldest towns, Francistown has a rich history related to the gold mining industry. The town offers a glimpse into Botswana's colonial past, with attractions like the Supa Ngwao Museum, which focuses on the cultural heritage of the Kalanga people.
4. Serowe
- A town of great historical significance, Serowe is the birthplace of Botswana's first president, Sir Seretse Khama. The Khama III Memorial Museum tells the story of the Khama family and their role in Botswana's history. The town also has a royal cemetery, where many members of the Khama family are buried.
5. Kasane
- Located at the confluence of the Chobe and Zambezi rivers, Kasane is a small town that serves as a base for exploring Chobe National Park. It's also near the point where Botswana, Zambia, Namibia, and Zimbabwe meet, making it a strategic location for cross-border travel and river cruises.
Chobe National Park
How to get around
1. Domestic Flights
- Given Botswana's large size and sparse population, flying is a popular way to travel between major destinations, especially to remote areas like the Okavango Delta and the Kalahari Desert. Airlines like Air Botswana and Safari Air offer domestic flights.
2. Car Rentals
- Renting a car is a popular choice for exploring Botswana, especially if you plan to visit national parks and game reserves. 4x4 vehicles are often recommended due to the rugged terrain and off-road driving conditions. Driving is on the left side of the road.
3. Self-Drive Safaris
- For those interested in wildlife, self-drive safaris are an option in many parks and reserves. Ensure you’re well-prepared with a good map, vehicle supplies, and knowledge of local driving conditions.
4. Guided Tours
- Many tourists opt for guided tours or safaris, which provide transportation, a guide, and often include meals and accommodation. This is a convenient option for exploring national parks and wildlife areas.
5. Public Buses
- Public buses operate between major towns and cities, though they are less frequent and less comfortable than other options. They are an affordable way to travel but might not be suitable for reaching remote areas.
6. Taxis
- Taxis are available in cities like Gaborone and Francistown but are less common in rural areas. They can be used for short trips within cities or towns.
7. Shuttle Services
- Some lodges and tour operators offer shuttle services to and from airports or between different safari destinations.
For convenience, especially for exploring the country’s natural attractions, renting a 4x4 vehicle or joining a guided tour is often the best option.
What to eat
1. Seswa
- A traditional dish made from slow-cooked, tender beef, often served with pap (a type of porridge) and vegetables.
2. Biltong
- Dried, cured meat (usually beef or game), seasoned with spices, and sliced into strips, popular as a snack.
3. Morogo
- Wild spinach or other leafy greens, often sautéed with onions and tomatoes, served as a side dish.
4. Pap
- A staple made from ground maize, similar to polenta, commonly served with meat and vegetable stews.
5. Magwinya
- Fried dough balls, similar to doughnuts, enjoyed as a snack or breakfast item, often served with chili sauce.
Flights
Flight prices are approximate and vary by departure city, airline, and booking time. Check airlines or travel platforms for the latest details.
Main Airport: Sir Seretse Khama International Airport (GBE)
Flight Prices and Seasons:
From Europe
- Average Round-Trip Cost: €800 to €1,500.
- Cheapest Months: February and October.
- Peak Prices: Summer (June to August) and December.
From North America
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $1,000 to $2,000.
- Cheapest Months: March and November.
- Peak Prices: Summer and December holidays.
From Asia
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $1,200 to $2,500.
- Cheapest Months: Early spring and late autumn.
- Peak Prices: Summer months and December.
From Australia
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $1,200 to $2,500.
- Cheapest Months: February and October.
- Peak Prices: Summer and December holidays.
From Africa
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $300 to $800 (regional flights).
- Cheapest Months: February and November.
- Peak Prices: During peak safari season (June to August).
Visa
1. Visa Requirement
- Most travelers do not need a visa to enter Botswana for short stays, including citizens of the U.S., Canada, the U.K., and many EU countries.
2. Visa-Free Countries
- Citizens from several countries, including Australia, New Zealand, and Japan, can enter visa-free for stays of up to 90 days.
3. Visa Application
- Travelers from countries that require a visa must apply at a Botswana embassy or consulate before traveling.
4. Types of Visa
- Commonly issued as tourist visas or business visas, typically valid for stays of up to 90 days.
5. Processing Time
- Visa processing can take from a few days to a few weeks, so it’s advisable to apply well in advance.
6. Duration of Stay
- Most visa-free visitors can stay for up to 90 days, while visa holders typically have the same duration.
7. Health Requirements
- Vaccination against yellow fever is required if traveling from an endemic area. Travel insurance is also recommended.
8. COVID-19 Regulations
- Check for any current COVID-19 entry requirements before traveling, as regulations may change.
Important things to know
1. Payments
- The local currency is the Botswana Pula (BWP). Credit cards are accepted in cities, but cash is useful in rural areas.
2. Tap Water
- Tap water is generally safe to drink in urban areas.
3. Electricity
- The voltage is 230V, and plug types C and D (two round pins) are used. An adapter may be needed for devices from other regions.
4. Tipping in Restaurants
- Tipping is customary, with 10% being standard for good service in restaurants.
5. SIM Cards
- Local SIM cards are available from providers like Mascom and Orange Botswana. They can be purchased at stores, offering various prepaid data plans.
6. Driving Side
- In Botswana, people drive on the left side of the road.