Located in the heart of Southern Africa, Botswana is one of the world’s greatest wildlife safari destinations. The landlocked country is home to numerous attractions – including the world-famous Okavango Delta, Makadikadi Pan, Chobe National Park, Kalahari and Kgalagadi Conservation Area.
Okavango Delta, a large green oasis in the Kalahari Desert, is one of the few inland deltas in the world. It is formed by the waters of the Okavango River that spread out into the arid Kalahari fringe – creating an isolated green garden around.
While on Botswana holidays, many visitors find Makadikadi Pan complex very attractive especially due to the large flocks of flamingos and pelicans that abound in the area. Botswana national parks are the biggest draw of Botswana safari. Lovers of game commonly agree that the parks are among the greatest wildlife sanctuaries in the world.Chobe National Park is, for example, home to the largest population of the wild elephant population in the world – estimated to be approximately 120,000 individuals!
Botswana Weather /When To Go:
Botswana holidays and safaris are best taken between April and November when wild animals tend to move towards the waterways of the Okavango Delta. This is the best period to go on game drives. During the rainy summer season (January to March) animals in many game reserves disperse thus making game drives less rewarding.
The calving period, between November and December, is the best time to experience nature’s own schedule of regeneration. On the other hand, in March and April you can enjoy watching the migration of tens of thousands of zebra and other animals into the Savuti area of Chobe National Park.
Things To Do:
Game viewing safaris in the country’s premier wildlife sanctuaries and sport fishing in the Okavango and Chobe rivers are some of the major activities in Botswana.
Quick Facts About Botswana:
Time: GMT/UTC +2
Population: 1.63 million
Borders: South Africa, Namibia, Zambia, Zimbabwe (all overland crossings).
Seasons: Wet (November to March); dry (May to August)
Telephone: Country code 267; international access 00
Capital: Gaborone
Visa: None required for citizens of Australia, New Zealand, France, Germany, the UK, Ireland, Canada or the USA.
Area: 582, 000 sq km
Language: English, Setswana
Botswana Currency: Pula (P)
Where to Go
Botswana is the most beautiful and wonderful African destinations, particularly famous for its exotic and unmatched blend of tourism, wildlife and culture. The country provides the one-stop destination for wildlife lovers and eco-tourists, offering its diverse combination of beautiful landscapes and some of the biggest populations of different species of wildlife found in Africa. Botswana has many cultural and historical heritages but the national parks are considered the most popular places to visit. Here is list of prominent places to see while having Botswana holiday.
Gaborone – Being the capital city of Botswana, Gaborone offers a judicious mixture of traditional African style and modern western sensibilities. On the streets, you can find quality restaurants and shops to enjoy your time there. You can visit the National Museum and Art Gallery to explore Botswana’s history and culture.
Also, visiting to nearby reserves could be a great fun too. Okavango Delta – It is one of the famous attractions of Botswana, offering a well-developed network of channels, islands and lagoons. Being the largest inland delta in the world, the delta is spread in around 1500 kilometers. You can visit the Moremi Wildlife reserve to see numbers of elephant, zebra, hippo and giraffe. People interesting in bird get to see thousands of species represented in the delta.
Chobe National Park – This Park comprises of the greatest wildlife variety in the country. The park touches the borders with Namibia, Zambia and Zimbabwe. You can enjoy game and boat cruises here.
Francis Town – It is originally a gold mining center and situated on the north eastern direction of Botswana. You can easily spot shops, banks and restaurants equipped with all modern facilities.
Botswana safari are the best way to explore the distinct identity of this African nation opening its arms for tourists interested in wildlife and culture. Come and feel the hospitality of this warm country, I am sure you will be amazed.