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)