Botswana Quick Guide

Botswana Travel Guide is it the best African destination? Botswana is a country in Southern Africa, lying in the Okavango Delta and the Kalahari Desert, that forms a prominent tourist destination throughout the world. Botswana has an impressive landscape defined by the majestic Kalahari Desert and the beautiful Okavango Delta, that forms a lush vegetated landscape during the dry summer months. The largest Central Kalahari Game Reserve, home to a multitude of large herbivores, is also home to a number of threatened animals such as hyenas, cheetahs, lions and wild cats. The Okavango Delta is an inland body of water that drains into Lake Tanganyika and is also home to a variety of aquatic mammals and birds.

Botswana is a popular tourist destination, due to its natural beauty and wildlife parks. There are various parks in Botswana; some are nature reserves meaning they are not commercially exploited, while others are tourism parks or areas that provide opportunities for tourists to observe, photograph and try out various activities. It is an ideal destination for animal lovers and aficionados, bird lovers and more. You can go on a guided tour, where you will be assisted by an experienced guide who will share information about Botswana's wildlife, geology, culture and history. There are also numerous game lodges where you can stay and observe the wildlife while you take in the sights and sounds.

Botany is a very popular destination and is a great place to visit during the summer months. It has many popular hotspots, including Springbok Camp, tire Game reserve, Chobe National Park, Mount Elgon National Park and more. There are various cultural events and festivals throughout the year. It also has many sporting facilities like golf courses, tennis courts and others.

Etiopeira is also known as The City of Lakes and is located in the northern region of Botswana. It is renowned for its beaches and marine parks. The city was named after a lake that flowed into it. Its marine parks and wildlife sanctuaries house several endangered species of flora and fauna. Tourists can go on safari in these parks and experience the serenity of the wilderness.

Tuli is another major urban centre in Botswana. It is known for its casinos and other entertainment facilities. The city is a leading agricultural and commercial center in the region. The Tuli airport also services several domestic flights and international flights. It has been a popular destination with tourists and holiday makers because of its temperate climate and clean, green surroundings.

Living conditions in Gaborone are favorable and there is enough room for cultivation of crops. The climate is moderate with hot summers and cool winters. There is also plenty of fresh water in the city and it is safe to drink. There are no major animal and bird populations in the city but tourists are advised to keep their hands clean when bathing due to the presence of small crocodiles.

Okavango Delta is situated in the northern part of Botswana and is famous for its large bird population, including the black-necked storks and siskins. There are some reserves here and it is a good place to visit while in Botswana. It also has a number of game reserves where hunters can come and shoot lions, elephants, buffalo and leopards. The park also offers camping opportunities and luxury lodges. Some lodges provide accommodation to foreigners.

There are many other important wildlife destinations in Botswana. It is therefore necessary to make a Botswana travel guide before traveling to the country. These guides offer tips about various attractions and points of interest. They also tell about what one should pack and what one should not. These travel guides also advise about which hotels to stay in and what food to take along.

What vaccinations do I need?

Up to date information for vaccinations before you travel to Botswana are available from the NHS Fit for Travel website.

Is it safe to travel?

Best time to visit?

The best time to visit Botswana is during the dry season between May and October, when you can expect warm, sunny days (22°C-35°C) and chilly nights. This is also when the water levels in the Okavango Delta are at their highest, creating the waterways and channels Botswana is famed for.

Do I need a Visa?

British nationals do not normally need a visa to enter Botswana for stays of up to 90 days. Overstaying can cause delays on departure.

See which forms you may need for entry into Botswana.

What currency do i need?

The official currency of Botswana is the Botswana Pula (BWP). If you're looking to transfer or spend money in Botswana you can grab amazing Botswana Pula deals via Wise.com (GBP to BWP).

What about the wildlife?

Botswana is a natural game reserve for most animals found in southern Africa, including lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, giraffes, zebras, hippopotamuses, rhinoceroses, African buffalo, hyenas, and 22 species of antelope.

What is the traditional food?

Tswana food? The national dish of Botswana is called Seswaa. This consists of a meat stew served over thick polenta or pap. The stew is made by boiling meat with onion and pepper.

What Languages are spoken?

The official languages of Botswana are English and Tswana. English, which was inherited from colonial rule, is the language of official business and most written communication. Most of the population speak Tswana, but over 20 smaller languages are also spoken. You can learn some basic Tswana before you travel to Botswana and really impress the locals!

How much do you tip?

The currency in Botswana is the Botswana Pula (£15 per guest per day for a private guide. £3 per guest per day for mokoro polers, trackers or a butler. £3 per guest per day for the general staff.).

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Useful Numbers

  • Police: 999
  • Ambulance: 997
  • Fire: 998
  • UK Embassy: +267 3952841

Time Difference

The GMT time difference is 1 hours

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Learn Tswana

Learn some Tswana before your trip to Botswana


Botswana Guidebook

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