Location: Southern Africa – and borders 4 different countries (Namibia, Zimbabwe, Zambia & South Africa)
Language: English is the national language (a remnant of colonial rule); Setswana is spoken by the majority of the population along with around 20 other smaller languages.
Get Here: via Plane with Momondo or on an Overland Tour booked through Tour Radar
Currency: Botswana Pula (BWP) – check the latest exchange rate here
Electrical Plug Fixture: Type D, G & M (Grab yourself a universal adapter and you’ll never have to worry about having the right plug again!)
Capital City: Gabarone – Time Zone: UTC+2
Other Major Cities: Francistown & Maun
Famous For: Kalahari Desert, Chobe National Park, Okavango Delta, Makgadikgadi Pans

When To Visit: The best time to visit Bostwana (and the main attractions of Chobe and the Okavango Delta) are during the Dry season between May and September. The dry weather means that the animals are more likely to congregate around water holes which makes for easier game viewing. Whilst day-time temperatures are moderate to warm (max 24-30 oC), the overnight temperature can drop to as low as 6oC. (If camping, make sure you get the right weight to cover lower temperatures, especially if heading south on your Safari).  If visiting the Makgadikgadi Pans and the Central Kalahari, the best time to visit is between November and May in the wet season as the lush grasses attract the wildlife.

Visa Requirements: Visa are available free of charge on arrival for the majority of visitors and are issued in practically no time. However – please note – that if crossing a land border, your vehicle may be thoroughly searched for meat and fruit products as movement of the same across borders (and various checkpoints within Botswana) are not permitted.

Travel Within Botswana: There are (limited) trains, and buses geared to the local population which travel within and between major towns, however they are of minimal use to the independent traveler as Botswana’s attractions are more than a little ‘off the beaten path.’ We recommend either hiring your own car, or joining an organized overland tour.

Travel Vaccinations: As always, check your own government recommendations prior to traveling, however you should generally ensure your basic immunizations (such as Tetnus and Diptheria) are up to date and discuss with your travel doctor Hep A and Typhoid, Hep B and Yellow Fever Inoculations alongside anything else they recommend at consultation. There is a high risk of Malaria in the North of the country, and prophylactic medication is highly recommended, however it is always best to discuss your own particular needs with a dedicated travel doctor.

chobe national park NAMIBIA

• Chobe National Park: A Photo Tour (Coming Soon)

okavango delta NAMIBIA

• What to Expect on Mokoro Safari & Bush Camp (coming soon!)
• Read out my Okavango Outtakes in My Africa Outtakes

read more about AFRICA