About Botswana
Botswana is Africa's premier safari destination, home to the stunning Okavango Delta and massive elephant herds in Chobe National Park. This landlocked Southern African nation offers pristine wilderness, diverse wildlife, and a commitment to conservation tourism.
Quick Overview
Capital: Gaborone
Largest City: Gaborone
Population: 2,630,000
Languages: English (official), Setswana (national)
Currency: Botswana Pula (BWP)
Time Zone: UTC+2 (Central Africa Time)
Explore Botswana by Topic
Best Places to Visit in Botswana
Discover the top 25 must-see destinations in Botswana, from iconic landmarks to off-the-beaten-path treasures.
Okavango Delta
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Okavango Delta is one of the world's largest inland deltas. This pristine wetland wilderness offers exceptional wildlife viewing, mokoro...
Chobe National Park
Home to Africa's largest elephant population (over 50,000), Chobe offers exceptional game viewing. The Chobe Riverfront is famous for massive elephant herds coming to drink,...
Moremi Game Reserve
Situated within the Okavango Delta, Moremi combines permanent water channels with dry land areas, creating diverse habitats. It's one of Africa's best reserves for leopard...
Makgadikgadi Pans National Park
The vast Makgadikgadi Pans are among the largest salt flats in the world. During the dry season, the stark white landscape stretches to the horizon....
Central Kalahari Game Reserve
One of the world's largest game reserves, the Central Kalahari offers a true wilderness experience. Home to the San Bushmen and adapted desert wildlife including...
Tsodilo Hills
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Tsodilo Hills contains over 4,500 rock paintings spanning 100,000 years. These sacred hills are revered by the San people and...
Nxai Pan National Park
Famous for Baines' Baobabs (painted by explorer Thomas Baines in 1862), Nxai Pan offers excellent game viewing during the wet season when zebra and wildebeest...
Khama Rhino Sanctuary
Established in 1992 to protect endangered rhinoceros, this community-based sanctuary successfully breeds both black and white rhinos. Visitors can track rhinos on foot or by...
Recommended Itineraries for Botswana
Plan your perfect Botswana trip with our expertly crafted itineraries for every travel style and duration.
5-Day Botswana Explorer
- Day 1: Arrive in Botswana, explore city center
- Day 2: Visit top attractions and museums
- Day 3: Day trip to nearby highlights
- Day 4: Local markets and hidden gems
- Day 5: Final sightseeing, departure
7-Day Classic Botswana
- Days 1-2: Botswana city highlights
- Days 3-4: Regional exploration
- Days 5-6: Cultural immersion and local experiences
- Day 7: Return and departure
14-Day Ultimate Botswana
- Days 1-3: Botswana comprehensive city tour
- Days 4-6: Northern region exploration
- Days 7-9: Eastern highlights
- Days 10-12: Southern attractions
- Days 13-14: Return to Botswana, departure
Where to Stay in Botswana
From luxury resorts to budget-friendly options, Botswana offers accommodations for every traveler.
Budget Options ($40-60)
Hostels, budget hotels, and guesthouses offer affordable stays without sacrificing experience.
Mid-Range ($150-250)
Boutique hotels and well-located accommodations provide comfort and convenience at reasonable prices.
Luxury ($800-2500)
World-class resorts and premium hotels deliver unforgettable experiences.
Belmond Eagle Island Lodge
Exclusive luxury lodge in the heart of the Okavango Delta with just 12 tented rooms. Features include a fish eagle-shaped...
Chobe Safari Lodge
Well-established riverside lodge in Kasane with excellent views of the Chobe River. Offers comfortable rooms, multiple pools, and easy access...
Sedia Riverside Hotel
Affordable hotel in Maun offering clean, comfortable rooms with river views. Popular with budget travelers and self-drive safari enthusiasts. Good...
Sanctuary Chief's Camp
An award-winning luxury camp on Chief's Island in the Moremi Game Reserve. With just 10 pavilions, this intimate lodge offers...
Where to Eat in Botswana
Discover the culinary delights of Botswana, from local street food to fine dining experiences.
The Beef Baron Grill and Rib Room
Gaborone's premier fine dining establishment located in the Grand Palm Hotel. Serves exceptional steaks, ribs, and traditional Botswana cuisine in...
Il Pomodoro
Authentic Italian restaurant in Maun owned and operated by Italians. Serves the best pizza in town alongside classic pasta dishes...
French Connection
Small intimate cafe and restaurant in central Maun close to tourist information center. Serves excellent coffee, pastries, sandwiches, and light...
Broadhurst Mall Food Vendors
Collection of informal food vendors outside Broadhurst Mall in Gaborone. Serving authentic local dishes like fat cakes, vetkoek, and traditional...
Cappuccino's
Popular South African cafe chain with multiple Botswana locations. Known for excellent coffee, breakfast, and light meals in comfortable air-conditioned...
Basilico Restaurant
Contemporary fine dining restaurant in Gaborone offering authentic Italian cuisine with Mediterranean influences. Opened in 2016, it has quickly become...
Getting Around Botswana
Budget Breakdown for Botswana
Plan your spending with our comprehensive cost guide. Currency: USD.
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $15-25 (camping or hostel dorm) | $60-100 (mid-range hotel or lodge) | $500-1800 (luxury safari lodge, all-inclusive) |
| Food (per day) | $12-18 (self-catering, cheap eats, street food) | $35-50 (mix of restaurants) | $100-200 (included at lodges, fine dining) |
| Transportation | $8-12 (combis, hitchhiking) | $30-50 (rental car fuel, occasional taxis) | $150-400 (charter flights, private transfers) |
| Activities | $5-5 (free attractions, minimal park fees) | $25-50 (park fees, some guided activities) | $50-100 (premium experiences, typically included) |
| Daily Total | $40-60 | $150-250 | $800-2500 |
Best Time to Visit Botswana
Best Season: May to October (Dry season)
Peak Season: May to October (Dry season)
Avoid: December to March (Green season)
Essential Travel Tips for Botswana
- Research visa requirements before your trip
- Learn a few basic phrases in the local language
- Carry cash as cards may not be accepted everywhere
- Respect local customs and dress codes
- Purchase travel insurance before departure
Safety Information
Travel Advisory
Exercise normal precautions. No high-threat areas for tourists. Malaria precautions required for northern Botswana (Okavango, Chobe, and Kasane areas). Standard road safety and wildlife precautions apply.
Avoid walking alone at night in Gaborone, Maun, and Francistown
Keep valuables out of sight in vehicles
Use reputable safari operators with experienced guides
Stay alert around wildlife - maintain safe distances
Avoid displaying expensive jewelry or electronics
Register with your country's embassy upon arrival; the US embassy is in Gaborone at +267-395-3982
Wildlife safety is critical: never exit your vehicle in unfenced game reserves and maintain at least 25m from elephants in Chobe
Malaria is present in northern Botswana (Okavango, Chobe, Kasane); take prophylaxis and use DEET repellent at dawn and dusk
Carry comprehensive travel insurance — medical evacuation from the Okavango Delta can cost $15,000+
Road conditions outside cities are often unpaved; a 4WD is essential for most national parks and game reserves
Petty theft exists in Gaborone's African Mall and bus ranks; keep bags zipped and phones out of sight in crowds
Water and food safety: avoid street food in rural areas; stick to lodges and established restaurants
Heat and sun are intense, especially in the Kalahari; carry at least 2L of water per person and wear SPF 50+
Photography of government buildings, military installations, and airport facilities is illegal and can result in arrest
Do not feed or approach vervet monkeys near lodges — they can be aggressive and carry diseases
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to visit Botswana?
The best time to visit Botswana is May to October (Dry season). December to March (Green season) may have less favorable conditions.
Do I need a visa for Botswana?
Visa requirements vary by nationality. Check with your nearest embassy or consulate for Botswana for current requirements before travel.
How many days do I need in Botswana?
For a comprehensive Botswana experience, we recommend 7-10 days. However, you can have a great trip in 5 days focusing on highlights.
Is Botswana expensive to visit?
Budget travelers can expect $40-60 per day, mid-range $150-250, and luxury $800-2500.