Things to Do in Botswana

About Botswana

Botswana produces more diamonds than almost anywhere on Earth—and the country itself feels just as rare. The Okavango Delta operates like nowhere else. Water floods the desert each year, creating thousands of channels where you'll pole through in a mokoro dugout canoe. Elephants appear at dusk from mopane forests. The night sky here is ridiculous—the same constellations San hunters used for thousands of years, now blazing overhead while you sit by a campfire. Victoria Falls thunders nearby. Worth the detour. In the Delta, life moves at full intensity. Across the Kalahari, you get the opposite—silence that stretches for miles. Safari camps here blend into wilderness rather than fighting it, and they're designed for close encounters: leopards, hippos, the whole cast. Botswana won't just show you animals. You'll spend time in an ecosystem where humans are guests, not owners. That changes how you see things. Every morning brings a chance to witness something you haven't seen before—or to simply feel small under a sky that goes on forever. The peace here is real.

Travel Tips

Transportation: Book charter flights between remote camps—road transfers can take 6-8 hours over rough terrain. Major lodges include airstrips in packages. For self-driving, rent a 4WD with GPS; fuel stops are sparse, especially in the Kalahari. International flights connect through Johannesburg or Windhoek.

Money: Botswana Pula (BWP) is the local currency, though most lodges accept US dollars. Carry cash for park fees and tips—ATMs are limited outside Gaborone and Maun. Safari lodges typically include gratuity guidelines; budget $20-30 USD daily for camp staff pooled tips.

Cultural Respect: Photography of local people requires permission first. San communities may charge fees for cultural visits. Dress conservatively in villages—avoid revealing clothing. Learn basic Setswana greetings like 'Dumela' (hello). Respect cattle's sacred status; they have right-of-way on roads and represent wealth.

Food Safety: Lodge meals are generally safe, but avoid tap water—drink bottled or filtered water. Bush camps may have limited refrigeration; opt for well-cooked meals. Traditional foods like seswaa (pounded meat) are safe at reputable establishments. Bring probiotics if prone to stomach sensitivity.

When to Visit

Botswana's optimal travel window spans May through October during the dry season, with temperatures ranging from 20-28°C (68-82°F) and virtually no rainfall. This peak season sees 40-60% higher prices but offers exceptional game viewing as animals concentrate around water sources. June to August brings cooler nights (dropping to 5°C/41°F) and perfect weather but maximum crowds. The 'secret season' of April-May and September-October provides excellent weather, fewer tourists, and 20-30% lower rates. November to March marks the green season with afternoon thunderstorms (600mm annual rainfall), temperatures reaching 35°C (95°F), and dramatic landscapes. Prices drop 50-70%, but some camps close, and roads become challenging. For bird ensoiasts, visit November-April when 200+ migrant species arrive. The Okavango Delta floods peak June-August, ideal for mokoro trips. Major festivals include Independence Day (September 30) and President's Day (mid-July) when accommodation fills quickly. Photography ensoiasts should target April-May for lush scenery, while classic safari seekers should book August-October for guaranteed wildlife encounters. First-time visitors benefit most from dry season reliability, while repeat travelers can explore green season's unique beauty.