Welcome To Botswana
Your Essential Travel Guide
Botswana, a land of untamed wilderness and astonishing wildlife, beckons travelers with its pristine landscapes, abundant game, and the unique experience of the Okavango Delta. With its diverse ecosystems, sustainable tourism, and exceptional safaris, Botswana offers a journey into the heart of the African bush.
Begin your expedition with a visit to the Okavango Delta, the world’s largest inland delta and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here, you can glide through the waterways in a mokoro (dugout canoe), observing elephants, hippos, and myriad bird species. Continue your adventure in Chobe National Park, famous for its vast elephant herds and riverfront safaris. Explore Moremi Game Reserve, a haven for big cats and wild dogs.
Botswana’s commitment to eco-tourism ensures a responsible and immersive experience. Traverse landscapes that transition from the arid Kalahari Desert to lush wetlands, offering diverse wildlife encounters. Engage with local communities to gain insights into their way of life and enjoy traditional meals. As the day turns into night, the starlit skies above Botswana reveal the Milky Way in all its brilliance. Botswana is a destination where pristine nature and sustainable tourism unite, where the call of the wild and the harmony of ecosystems are cherished. In Botswana, you don’t just observe; you embark on an intimate journey through untouched landscapes, where wildlife roams freely, and the pulse of Africa’s wilderness surrounds you.
- The official languages are English and Setswana. English is commonly spoken, especially in urban areas.
- Botswanans generally appreciate visitors who make an effort to speak their language:
- Hello: “Dumela” (doo-meh-lah) – A common greeting.
- Thank you: “Ke a leboga” (keh ah lay-boh-gah) – To express gratitude.
- Yes: “Ee” (eh) – The affirmative response.
- No: “Nnyaa” (knee-yah) – The negative response.
- Please: “Tswee” (tsway) – To politely request something.
- Excuse me / Sorry: “Robala sentle” (ro-bah-lah sen-tleh) – Used to apologize or get someone’s attention.
- Good morning: “Dumela rra/Mma” (doo-meh-lah rrah/mmah) – A polite morning greeting for men/women.
- Good afternoon: “Dumela rra/Mma” (doo-meh-lah rrah/mmah) – A polite afternoon greeting for men/women.
- Good evening: “Dumela rra/Mma” (doo-meh-lah rrah/mmah) – A polite evening greeting for men/women.
- How are you?: “Le kae?” (leh kah-ee) – A common way to inquire about someone’s well-being.
- What is your name?: “O mang?” (oh mang) – Used to ask someone’s name.
- My name is [Your Name]: “Ke [Your Name]” (keh [Your Name]) – To introduce yourself.
- I don’t understand: “Ga ke itse” (gah keh it-seh) – When you need to express that you don’t comprehend something.
- Where is…?: “Kae…?” (kah-ee) – Use this phrase when looking for directions.
- How much is this?: “E e buang?” (eh eh bwah-ng) – Useful for asking about prices.
- Water: “Tau” (tow) – A handy word to know when requesting water.
Savor these traditional Botswana dishes:
- Seswaa: Shredded beef or goat meat served with maize porridge.
- Morogo: Cooked wild greens, often served as a side dish.
- Pap: A stiff porridge made from maize meal.
- Braai: Botswana’s version of a barbecue, featuring grilled meats.
- Respect Wildlife: Botswana is famous for its wildlife. Follow ethical guidelines and maintain a safe distance when observing animals.
- Greetings: A handshake is a common form of greeting. It’s polite to use the word “Rra” (pronounced “rah”) for men and “Mma” (pronounced “mah”) for women before their names.
- Botswana is generally safe for tourists, but exercise caution in cities and rural areas after dark.
- Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun, especially in desert regions.
- Drink bottled water to avoid waterborne diseases.
- Malaria is prevalent in some regions, so consult a healthcare professional for appropriate precautions.
Most visitors can enter Botswana visa-free for stays of up to 90 days. Check the specific visa requirements for your nationality.
Popular Sites To Visit In Botswana
Explore the world's largest inland delta, known for its diverse wildlife and water-based activities.
Okavango Delta
Experience exceptional game drives and boat safaris in one of Africa's top wildlife destinations.
Chobe National Park
Visit the vast salt pans and enjoy unique experiences like quad biking and star-gazing.
Makgadikgadi Pans
Famous for the fact that Liz Taylor and Richard Burton got married there. A 4 x 4 vehicle is needed to visit the Park.
Moremi National Park
A town on the banks of the Chobe river. Here you can do river cruises, tiger fishing as well as ‘n flight over the Okavango Delta in an air ambulance. (Low flying plane)
Kasane
Mahe
Black River Gorges National Park
Mauritius Botanical Garden
Alexandra Falls
Botswana has a semi-arid climate. The best time to visit is during the dry season from May to October.
Climate
Local Currency
The official currency is the Botswana Pula (BWP). Credit cards are widely accepted in major cities and lodges, but it’s advisable to carry cash for more remote areas.
Police: 999
Emergency services: 999
Emergency Numbers
Local Festivals
If your visit coincides with events like the Maun Festival or the President’s Day celebrations, take part in the local festivities.
Accolades
