Botswana
BOTSWANA
THE HEART OF THE OKAVANGO, SOUL OF THE KALAHARI
Situated in southern Africa, Botswana boasts pristine wilderness areas with deep lagoons, wetlands, rugged hills, and the vast Kalahari Desert. The Okavango Delta, the world's largest inland delta, and the striking Makgadikgadi Salt Pans are among its primary attractions, offering tranquil habitats for diverse wildlife. Visitors can witness massive zebra migrations in the salt pans, encounter lions on the Savuti plains, and explore ancient rock paintings at the Tsodilo Hills, making Botswana a paradise for nature enthusiasts and adventurers alike.
BOTSWANA
ACCOMMODATION
TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS
The official currency in Botswana is the Pula (BWP), but US Dollars are widely accepted at tourist lodges and hotels. For other purchases, it's best to exchange your cash for Pula at a bank or bureau de change.
Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted throughout the country, especially in hotels, lodges, restaurants, and larger stores. American Express and Diners Club cards are not as commonly accepted, so it's best to rely on cash or confirm beforehand if you plan to use them. Some lodges, camps, and smaller shops, particularly in remote areas, may be cash-only. Be prepared with Pula (Botswana's currency) in these situations. ATMs are generally accessible in Botswana, especially in major towns and cities like Gaborone, Maun, and Kasane. You'll find ATMs at bank branches, shopping malls, and other commercial areas. However, their presence can be limited in more remote areas, like safari camps or villages.
Domestic flights efficiently connect major cities and national parks like the Okavango Delta. Scheduled air service operates within Botswana, with hubs in Maun, Kasane, and Gaborone.
4WD safaris are the primary mode of transportation for exploring Botswana's national parks and wildlife reserves. Most lodges and camps include guided 4WD safaris in their packages.
Renting a car provides flexibility for self-directed exploration, ideal for safaris and wildlife viewing. However, some areas are best accessed by 4WD vehicles due to rough terrain or limited road infrastructure. Be sure to research road conditions beforehand.
Public buses connect major towns and cities, offering a budget-friendly option. However, schedules can be limited, and they might not be suitable for reaching remote areas.
Safari lodges and camps serve international-style cuisine, generally of an extremely high standard, along with local beer and imported wine and spirits. Good restaurants and bars can be found in main towns, often within hotels. Beef and goat are very popular meats.
Tap water is considered safe to drink, although outside main cities and towns, visitors are advised to check first and sterilise water if in any doubt. Bottled water is available in most tourist centres. Filtered water is available at most camps and shops offer bottled water - it is advised to be well stocked of bottled water if you are travelling off the beaten track.
Botswana's cuisine reflects its diverse landscape and history, offering a delightful mix of African staples and influences from neighboring countries. Buckle up for a delicious adventure:
Seswaa: The national dish, seswaa is a simple yet flavorful stew of shredded meat (often goat or beef) simmered with onions, peppers, and spices. It's typically served with pap (maize porridge) or samp (coarsely ground corn).
Mopane Worms: A protein-rich delicacy enjoyed by locals, these smoked or dried caterpillars are a unique culinary experience. Be adventurous and give them a try!
Melons: The Kalahari Desert is known for its melons, especially the prized tsama melon with its sweet and refreshing flavor. Don't miss the opportunity to try them in season.
Bogobe Jwang: This traditional soup is made with pounded vegetables and meat, offering a hearty and comforting option.
Side Dishes: Complement your meals with "morogo" (cooked leafy greens) or "lere la lerotse" (sesame-flavored mashed potatoes) for a well-rounded dining experience.
Traditional Brews: Sample "khadi" (a fermented milk drink) or "bojalwa" (traditional sorghum beer) for an authentic taste of Botswana.
Restaurant Etiquette:
Dress code is generally casual, but nicer restaurants might suggest a smart casual approach. Tipping 10% is appreciated for good service.
Botswana's climate is semi-arid, meaning it's hot and dry for most of the year with a distinct rainy season. Here's a quick rundown for tourists:
Seasons:
Dry Season (Winter): May to October. This is the peak tourist season with sunny days, cool nights, and very little rain. Ideal for wildlife viewing as animals concentrate around permanent water sources.
Wet Season (Summer): November to April. Expect hot and humid weather with frequent thunderstorms. Lush vegetation makes wildlife viewing more challenging, but some animals migrate to the newly green areas. The northern parts of the country receive the most rain.
Temperatures:
Generally hot year-round, with average highs ranging from the mid-20s to mid-30s degrees Celsius (70s to low 90s Fahrenheit).
The hottest months are typically September and October, just before the rains arrive.
Nights can be surprisingly cool, especially during the dry season, with temperatures dropping below 10°C (50°F) in some areas.
Things to Consider:
Pack for both hot days and cool evenings, especially during the dry season.
Rainfall can be unpredictable, so pack a light raincoat even during the dry season.
Mosquitoes can be present during the wet season, so bring insect repellent.
Sun protection is essential year-round due to Botswana's strong sunshine.
Staying connected in Botswana as a tourist involves a mix of options. Free Wi-Fi is slowly being introduced, but it's not yet widespread. You'll likely find it in hotels, lodges, cafes, and some public areas like airports and bus stations. However, connection speeds and reliability can be unpredictable.
For a more dependable internet connection, purchasing a local SIM card with a data plan is the way to go. Major mobile network providers like Mascom and Orange offer SIM cards at airports, phone shops, and some supermarkets. Ensure your phone is unlocked to use a Botswanan SIM. Choose a data package that suits your needs and budget, with options to purchase bundles at designated shops or online.
For international travelers visiting Botswana, it's important to note that the country uses the standard voltage of 230V and frequency of 50Hz. The power sockets commonly found are type D, with three round pins in a triangular pattern, and type G, with three rectangular pins in a triangular pattern. As these sockets may differ from those in many other countries, it's recommended to carry a universal adapter to ensure compatibility with Botswana's electrical outlets, allowing you to charge your devices conveniently during your stay.
