Famous for its spectacular inland delta, and game viewing, Botswana lies landlocked in the heart of Southern Africa amid South Africa, Namibia and Zimbabwe. The sparse population of this flat, peaceful land is doubly blessed with an exquisite subtropical wilderness surrounded by one of the most beautiful deserts on earth. Backed by a stable, democratic government, it is a true Eden in Africa.
Basic facts
Full name Republic of Botswana (formerly Bechuanaland)
Capital Gabarone
Independence 30 September 1966
Time GMT + 2 hours
Population 1,639,833 (July 2006 est.)
Currency PULA (P)
Area 600, 370 km2
Language English (official) and Setswana
Geography & Landscape
Botswana is flat, landlocked country, almost entirely covered by the Kalahari Desert. The Okavango River flows into the Okavango Delta. This northern basin is a rich, fertile region. The central and southern regions are arid sandveld and scrub savannah, with several salt pans. IN the north-east lies Makgadikgadi, the largest salt pan in the world. The vegetation is generally dry, though seasonal rain greens it up, particularly around Makgadikgadi and Okavango Delta.
Climate
Summer: November to April
Winter: May to October
In summer, days are hot and generally sunny in the morning with possible afternoon thunderstorms. Daytime temperatures can rise to 38 degrees and night temperatures drop to around 20 – 25 degrees. The afternoons can be very humid. The rainy season begins late in October/November and ends in March. The northern areas receive up to 700mm while the Kalahari Desert area averages as low as 225 mm.
During winter, days are dry, sunny and cool to warm while evening temperatures drop sharply. Daytime temperatures generally reach 20 degrees and can drop to as low as 5 degrees at night. Please note that exceptionally cold spells can occur (although this is the exception rather than the rule), so it is recommended to bring appropriate clothing, just in case!
When to go & what to bring
Botswana is an all year round wildlife destination. However, there are certain seasons for special interest groups to take note of:
Best birding months are November to March, when the Okavango Delta is brimming with migratory birds.
Best botanical months are December to May, when the vegetation is lush and green, and also when most plants are in flower.
Botswana’s popularity as a destination is gaining in leaps and bounds to the extent that seasonal differences are not as marked as in previous years. Traditionally, however, peak season is from July to October and middle season from May to June. Booking well in advance is advised.
Generally casual comfortable clothing is suitable throughout the year. Important items to remember: fleece or sweater and a windbreaker for game drives (necessary even in summer), comfortable walking shoes, sun block, sunglasses, hat, insect repellent. Swimsuit as most of the lodges have swimming pools, dull/neutral colors are most suitable for safari, white is not practical. It is best to pack hardy, durable clothing.
Very important : packing space is limited on all modes of safari transport, so you will need to restrict your baggage to 15 – 22 kg (preferably packed in a soft bag) plus reasonable amount of camera equipment.
Attractions and National Parks
In the past, hunting and gathering methods were practiced by tribesmen, but were controlled by strict traditional conservation plans, which enabled Botswana to preserve its vast and diverse species of wildlife and natural resources. Now 17 % of Botswana is protected and has been given over to National Parks and Game Reserves:
Central Kalahari Game Reserve
The largest reserve in Botswana, measuring 51 800 km2. The Central Kalahari Game Reserve was created in 1961 and was set aside as a region where the San (Bushman) could live their traditional way of life.
This reserve is only slightly smaller than Belgium and the Netherlands combined and it is not likely that you will come across the San whilst staying there. Lodges offering quad biking, game drives and walks with Bushman as well as stargazing being a popular activity and well worth the visit.
Chobe National Park
Home to the largest elephant herds in the world, the world renowned Chobe National Park measures 11 00 km2 and incorporates two principal wildlife areas: the riverfront and the Savute. The riverfront stretches along the banks of the Chobe River from Kasane through to Serondela to Ngoma Bridge. The river roads offer excellent game
viewing and spectacular scenery and sunsets. The savute is the vast central body of the reserve, incorporating the Mababe Depression. The immensity of the depression is stunning, whether seen in the dry season, when it can appear almost desert-like and barren beyond belief, or after the rain on a crystal clear day across the vivid green of new grass.
Moremi Game Reserve & Okavango Region
This pristine wilderness area of Botswana is reputed to be Africa’s most beautiful reserve. There are a wide range of habitats in Moremi – from the riparian woodlands, floodplains, reed beds and the permanent wetland of the Okavango Delta, through towering stands of Mopane forests to the dry savannah woodlands. Such a wide variety of habitats implies a wide variety of wildlife and at any time of the year, game is prolific (although what is seen obviously varied with the seasons).
The mosaic of land and water comprising the Okavango Delta is a birder’s haven, especially from November to March when the area is brimming with migratory birds. Other activities possible in this area are fishing, photography and guided nature walks on the islands of the Delta, which lie outside the boundaries of the reserve.
Makgadikgadi Pans Game Reserve
The great grass plains of Makgadikgadi and the associated pan complexes of Sowa, Ntwetwe and Nxai are scenically stunning – the first time visitor is invariably struck by the wide vistas and the immensity of sky and horizon.
Originally part of an ancient lake bed, the terrain is characteristically dotted with shallow depressions enclosing islands of stunted acacia trees. Here, you watch the shadows lengthen as the sun sinks; listen to the cry of the jackal as the shroud of darkness settles, to know that you have touched the soul of Africa.
Health requirements
Before entering Botswana, you are advised to get malaria prophylactics. Take precautionary measures to prevent contact with mosquitoes, like : sleeping under a bed net or in a room/tent with mosquito proofing, spraying your accommodation with insecticide; making use of the mosquito-repelling lotion or stick and wearing long-sleeved clothing, long trousers and socks when outside at night.
It is advisable to obtain medical insurance prior to arrival. Health care standards in Botswana are high, with excellent hospitals in Gabarone and Francistown. All main towns have well-stocked pharmacies, but it is recommended that you bring any medicines you may require with you.
Insurance
We strongly recommend that you take out travel insurance, which includes curtailment and cancellation cover, as well as medical cover, upon confirming your booking.
Visa requirements
All visitors are required to carry a passport that is valid for six months beyond the intended length of stay. There should be sufficient blank pages for entry stamps upon arrival.
Please heck with your nearest Botswana Consulate for up-to-date information depending on your passport nationality. The onus is on the traveler to ensure all visa requirements are met.
Tipping
Service is not usually included in the bill. It is usual to tip porters, waiters, room attendants, golf caddies, game rangers, guides and trackers.
Souvenirs
Botswana is well-known for beautifully decorative baskets, which are both functional and ornamental. These can be purchased directly from the villages or from curio shops. Weavings and textiles are usually quite expensive, but one is guaranteed quality and a unique item. Original San (Bushman) jewellery and leatherwork, including miniature items (like bows and arrows) can be purchased.
