Overview
Botswana is a landlocked country in southern Africa covering roughly 581,000 square kilometres, the majority of which is the Kalahari Desert. Despite its arid reputation, the country hosts one of Africa's most remarkable freshwater ecosystems — the Okavango Delta — as well as vast floodplains, salt pans, and riverine forests along the Chobe and Linyanti waterways.
The country has built its tourism model deliberately around low volume and high value. Large areas of land are protected as national parks, wildlife management areas, and private concessions, which together cover well over a third of the country's total area. This approach has helped maintain wildlife populations — including large elephant herds, lions, leopards, wild dogs, and exceptional concentrations of bird species — in relatively undisturbed habitats.
Botswana is one of Africa's most politically stable democracies and has a strong rule of law by regional standards. Gaborone is the capital and largest city, though most international visitors spend the bulk of their time in the north and northwest, where the primary wildlife areas are concentrated. The country's economy has historically been anchored by diamond mining and beef exports, and that relative prosperity is reflected in reasonably maintained infrastructure compared to many neighbours.
Before You Go
Visas and Entry
Visa requirements vary by nationality. We recommend checking TravelerPulse's Visas section for a current overview and verifying all entry requirements directly with the Botswana Department of Immigration or your nearest Botswana embassy before travel.
Vaccinations and Health
Yellow fever vaccination proof may be required if you are arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission — verify the current requirements before departure. Malaria is present in the north of the country, particularly around the Okavango Delta and Chobe areas; consult a travel medicine clinic about prophylaxis well in advance. Routine vaccinations including hepatitis A and typhoid are generally advisable. Medical facilities outside Gaborone and Maun are limited, so travel health insurance with medical evacuation coverage is strongly recommended.
What to Pack
- Neutral-coloured, lightweight clothing for game drives (avoid bright colours and white)
- Warm layers for early morning and evening game drives, even in warmer months
- High-SPF sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat
- Insect repellent with DEET for malaria-risk areas
- Personal medications and a basic first-aid kit, as remote areas have very limited pharmacies
- Binoculars — widely considered essential for wildlife viewing
Money
ATMs are available in Gaborone, Maun, Kasane, and other larger towns but are rare or unreliable in remote areas. Many lodges and camps operate on an all-inclusive basis. Carrying some US dollars or South African rand as backup is sensible in remote regions. Verify locally whether cards are accepted at specific camps or lodges before you go.
Getting There
By Air
Sir Seretse Khama International Airport (GBE) in Gaborone is the main international gateway, with connections to several African hubs and some intercontinental routes. Maun Airport (MUB), the gateway to the Okavango Delta, handles domestic and regional flights and receives connections from Johannesburg among other cities. Kasane Airport (BBK) near Chobe National Park also receives regional flights. Many travellers connect through Johannesburg's OR Tambo International Airport, which offers the widest range of onward options into Botswana.
By Road
Botswana shares borders with South Africa, Namibia, Zimbabwe, and Zambia, and road crossings are available at several points. The road from Johannesburg to Gaborone via Tlokweng border post is a common overland route. Cross-border travel to the Kazungula area allows access to both Zambia and Zimbabwe. Road conditions on major routes are generally reasonable, but many tracks into wildlife areas require a 4x4 vehicle and considerable off-road experience.
Internal Flights
Small charter aircraft are the primary means of reaching remote camps in the Okavango Delta and other wilderness concessions. Most premium safari itineraries include light aircraft transfers between camps; costs vary considerably and should be confirmed with your tour operator or lodge.
Getting Around
Self-Drive
Self-drive safaris are possible in Botswana but require thorough preparation. A 4x4 vehicle with high ground clearance is essential for most wildlife areas, and drivers should carry spare tyres, water, fuel, and recovery equipment. Roads in the Central Kalahari Game Reserve and more remote areas can be extremely challenging. Distances between fuel stops can be large; plan carefully before setting out.
Guided Safaris and Camp Transfers
The majority of visitors travel with a tour operator or as part of a fly-in safari package. This typically means light aircraft transfers between airstrips, with ground transfers and game drives handled by camp guides. This is the most practical approach for the Okavango Delta and Linyanti areas, where independent access is difficult.
Mokoro (Dugout Canoe)
In the Okavango Delta, the traditional mokoro is used for quiet excursions through the papyrus channels and lily-covered waterways. It remains one of the most distinctive ways to experience the Delta and is offered by most camps in the area. Conditions and seasonality affect water levels; verify with your operator what is realistic during your travel dates.
Buses and Shared Transport
Intercity buses and minibuses connect major towns including Gaborone, Francistown, and Maun. These services are generally affordable but schedules should be verified locally. They are not practical for accessing national parks and wildlife areas.
Things to See & Do
Okavango Delta
The Okavango is the world's largest inland delta and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Fed by rains from Angola's highlands, its waters spread annually across the Kalahari, creating a mosaic of channels, islands, and floodplains that supports exceptional biodiversity. Activities typically include mokoro excursions, motorboat trips, guided walking safaris, and game drives from island-based camps. The experience is highly season-dependent; water levels typically peak between July and September.
Chobe National Park
Chobe, in the far north, is renowned for having one of the largest concentrations of elephants on the continent. The Chobe Riverfront area offers game drives and boat safaris along the river, which forms the border with Namibia. The Savuti channel and Linyanti areas within the broader ecosystem offer more remote, varied wildlife experiences including predator activity.
Central Kalahari Game Reserve
One of the largest game reserves in the world, the CKGR is a destination for travellers seeking vast, austere landscapes and a more solitary safari experience. Black-maned Kalahari lions, meerkats, gemsbok, and cheetah are among the wildlife found here. Access is difficult and requires self-sufficiency or an organised operator.
Makgadikgadi and Nxai Pan National Parks
These vast salt pans — remnants of an ancient super-lake — offer a surreal landscape, particularly when flooded in the wet season, when flamingos and other waterbirds arrive. The dry season brings zebra and wildebeest migrations. Nxai Pan is known for its baobab trees and summer lion and cheetah sightings.
Cultural Encounters
- Visits to San (Basarwa) communities, where arranged responsibly through established operators, offer insight into one of the world's oldest hunter-gatherer cultures
- The Gcwihaba Caves (Drotsky's Cavern) in the northwest are a significant site with stalactites and cave paintings
- Local village visits in areas near major parks can be arranged through tour operators; seek out those that work directly with communities
Food & Drink
Local Food
Botswanan cuisine is influenced by cattle-raising traditions. Seswaa — slowly boiled and pounded beef or goat — is widely considered the national dish and is served at celebrations and local restaurants. Morogo (wild leafy vegetables) cooked with oil or tomatoes, samp (coarsely ground maize), and bogobe (sorghum or maize porridge) are everyday staples. Mopane worms — dried or fried caterpillars of the mopane tree — are a traditional protein source with a distinctive flavour and are available in markets.
Dining in Practice
Upscale safari lodges typically serve international-style menus with some local touches, often at a high standard given the remoteness of the camps. In towns like Maun, Kasane, and Gaborone, restaurants range from basic local eateries to more varied options catering to travellers. Gaborone has a growing dining scene including restaurants serving local, African, and international food.
Drinks
Botswana produces Chibuku, a traditional sorghum beer sold widely and consumed communally. Imported South African wines and beers are readily available in lodges and supermarkets. Tap water quality varies; in remote areas and camps, stick to bottled or filtered water and verify locally.
Practical Information
Electricity
Botswana uses Type D and Type G sockets (British three-pin type is common). Voltage is 230V. Remote camps often use solar or generator power, which may limit charging opportunities; bring a power bank.
Connectivity
Mobile networks cover major towns and roads but become unreliable or absent in remote parks and concessions. Most safari camps have some communication systems for emergencies, but guests should not expect consistent internet access in wilderness areas. SIM cards are available in towns for those who prefer local data plans — verify coverage with the provider for your specific route.
Emergency Services
For emergency services, ask your lodge or camp operator for the appropriate local contacts upon arrival. Medical evacuation services are available through specialist providers; ensure your travel insurance covers this before departure.
Photography
Botswana offers world-class wildlife photography opportunities. Always ask before photographing people, particularly in communities. Some national park areas have specific rules about vehicle movement during photography sessions — follow your guide's instructions.
Tipping
Tipping is customary in the safari industry. Guides and camp staff rely significantly on gratuities. There are no fixed rules, but your operator or camp may offer suggested amounts. Verify locally what is appropriate for your specific camp and operator.
Safety
Botswana is considered one of the safer countries in sub-Saharan Africa for travellers. Violent crime against tourists is relatively uncommon, though standard urban precautions apply in Gaborone and other towns — avoid displaying valuables, be alert in busy areas, and use reputable transport.
In wildlife areas, always follow your guide's instructions. Animals encountered on foot or at close vehicle range can be dangerous. Do not attempt to approach wildlife independently. Camps in wildlife areas typically have protocols for moving around at night; take these seriously.
Roads can be hazardous, particularly at night when livestock wander onto highways. If self-driving, avoid night driving where possible. Some remote tracks flood seasonally and can become impassable; check conditions with operators or park authorities before entering.
Sun and heat exposure are genuine risks, especially in the Kalahari during warmer months. Stay hydrated and take shade seriously during the hottest parts of the day.
Local Culture & Etiquette
Botswana's population is predominantly Tswana, though the country also includes Kalanga, San, Herero, and other communities. The concept of 'kagiso' (peace) and communal decision-making through the 'kgotla' (traditional meeting place) remain important cultural and civic traditions.
Respect for elders and formal greetings are valued social conventions. A proper greeting — often more than a brief nod — is considered important before entering into conversation or transactions. Learning even a few words of Setswana, such as 'Dumela' (hello), is generally appreciated.
Dress modestly when visiting communities and rural areas; what is appropriate at a remote safari camp may not be suitable in a town or village setting. Ask before taking photographs of individuals, ceremonies, or community spaces.
Botswana has historically been at the forefront of HIV/AIDS awareness programmes in Africa; awareness campaigns are visible throughout the country. LGBTQ+ travellers should be aware that same-sex relations were decriminalised by the courts in 2019, though social attitudes vary, and discretion is advisable outside of Gaborone.
