BOTSWANA
the original eden
SUMMARY
Famous for huge pristine wildlife reserves Botswana offers a "Big Five" safari at its most exclusive.
From the crystal-clear waters of the Okavango Delta, to the large elephant herds in the Chobe National Park, the predator rich plains of Mashatu, the stark and dramatic desert expanses of the Makgadikgadi and the central Kalahari game reserve. Botswana is blessed with some of Africa’s most beautiful reserves and an array of exceptional wildlife.
The Okavango Delta is a destination in itself – water in the desert is a truly spectacular sight and best explored either from the air or from a traditional ‘mokoro’ or dugout canoe. The wide, grassy floodplains are host to a magnificent range of wild animals, including the specially adapted sitatunga and red lechwe antelopes.
Chobe National Park in Botswana is famed for having Africa’s largest single concentration of elephant, while Moremi Game Reserve is renowned for its predators.
The vast and pristine desert reserves of the Makgadikgadi and the Kalahari are home to the second largest migration of wildebeest and zebra in Africa and are home to tribes of Zu/'hoasi Bushmen.
Desert, delta and some of the best wildlife viewing on the planet, Botswana is one of Africa's ultimate safari destinations.
HIGHLIGHTS
Explore Botswana’s incredible Okavango Delta by helicopter or hot air balloon, in a traditional dugout canoe or on horse back.
Paddle right up to a lodge’s riverside bar or boma for a sundowner or evening of celebrations under the clear African night sky.
Indulge in some of Africa’s most exclusive and private safari lodges and camps.
Cruise on the Chobe River in Chobe National Park on a luxurious houseboat for a unique river safari travel experience and get up close and personal with Africa's largest elephant population.
Experience big cats like never before in Botswana's exclusive southern reserve, Mashatu.
Be surrounded by thousands of Wildebeest and Zebra on the second largest migration in Africa, as they travel over the vast Makgadikgadi Pans and Central Kalahari game reserves.
Spend time walking and interacting with a group of Zu/’hoasi Bushmen gaining insight into their ancient culture
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When is best to travel to Botswana?Botswana's dry season is from May to October, offers clear skies, little rain, fewer mosquitos and excellent game viewing. February to April are also excellent times to travel.
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How do I get to and around Botswana?Arrive in Johannesburg, South Africa via any of the main airlines and you will find connecting flights or charter flights from Johannesburg to the Okavango Delta (Maun International) or Chobe National Park (Kasane International) Many of the remote Delta camps can only be reached by light aircraft, which is an incredible way to get around and experience this natural wonderland from a different vantage point.
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How long should I spend in Botswana?When travelling to Botswana allow for at least one week to experience the Okavango Delta and perhaps a visit to the Makgadikgadi salt pans. One could add on a few extra days to experience the Chobe River or cruise on a luxury houseboat on the Zambezi River. Booking is required in advance as most camps are small, intimate and remote. Botswana is considered as an expensive destination, which is worth taking into consideration when thinking about your budget.
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What attractions and experiences will I find in Botswana?If you are after a safari experience like no other, Botswana is a phenominal destination offering superb wildlife viewing opportunities, incredibly diverse landscapes and conservation initiatives. Botswana offers a plethora of unique destinations and landscapes including Chobe National Park, the Okavango Delta, Tsodilo, the Kalahari Desert and the vast Makgadikgadi Pans. Highlights would be - experience the Delta and the Makgadikgadi Pans from the air - take a horse riding safari - for the twitchers; discover some of the world's most unique bird species - spot rare and endangered wildlife such as rhino and wild dog - explore the winding waterways of the Okavango from a traditional Mokoro canoe - experience the intrigue and mystery of the Tsodilo hills and San bushman culture
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What is the political and economic climate of Botswana?Solid infrastructure, financial and political stability means that travelling in Botswana is both safe and easy. The standards of accomodation, service delivery and catering are extremely high. In fact you will find some of Africa's most luxurious experiences in Botswana, perfect for anyone who loves the finer things in life.
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What essential information should I know before visiting Botswana?Health: anti-malarials are required. We recommend you visit your travel doctor for the latest information on travel vaccinations. Language: English is the official language in Botswana along with Setswana. Currency: Pula is the local currency which is a Setswana word for "rain", Botswana's most precious resource and therefore a blessing. We recommend travellers travelling with US dollars especially for tipping but VISA credit cards are accepted in most locations. Accomodation: Most lodges are small and intimate so it would be wise to book as far in advance as possible to avoid missing out.