Botswana Travel Guide

Overview

Botswana is a wildlife lover’s dream, offering some of Africa’s most breathtaking safari experiences. The country is famous for the Okavango Delta, where you can glide through waterways in a traditional mokoro (dugout canoe), and Chobe National Park, home to one of the largest elephant populations in the world. If you’re looking for vast, untouched landscapes and incredible wildlife sightings, Botswana should be at the top of your list.

Quick Facts About Botswana

Flight Information for Botswana

As a tourist, your main airport in Botswana will be Sir Seretse Khama International Most travelers fly into Maun International Airport (MUB) for the Okavango Delta or Kasane Airport (BBK) for Chobe National Park. No direct flights from the US/Europe connect via Johannesburg or Nairobi. You can shop for flights to Botswana on Skyscanner or Google Flights.

Safety Information You Should Know Before Visiting Botswana

Botswana is one of Africa’s safest countries, with low crime rates and a stable government. However, you should still take basic precautions:

• Avoid walking alone at night in cities, even though risks are low.
• Medical precautions: Some areas (like the Okavango) are malaria zones, so take antimalarials if visiting.
• Wildlife safety: Always follow guides on safaris and animals are unpredictable.
• Malaria risk in the Okavango Delta; take precautions.
• Petty theft is rare but possible in cities.

The country is very tourist-friendly, but petty theft can happen in busy areas, so keep valuables secure.

Climate

• Dry season (May-August): Best for wildlife (mild temps, 20-25°C).
• Wet season (Nov-Mar): Lush but hot (up to 40°C) and harder to navigate.

Botswana has a semi-arid climate, meaning it’s hot and dry for most of the year. The best time to visit is during the cooler, dry winter months (May – August), when temperatures are mild (around 20-25°C / 68-77°F) and wildlife gathers around water sources.
The summer months (November – March) bring heavy rains and high heat (up to 40°C / 104°F), making some areas harder to access. I visited in July, and the weather was perfect: warm days and cool nights.

Budget & Costs

Botswana is not a budget destination like Egypt or Southeast Asia, it’s one of Africa’s more expensive safari spots. Here’s a rough breakdown:

• Is Botswana expensive? Yes—luxury safaris cost Approx $500+/night, but camping Approx ($20) is budget-friendly.
• Self-driving? A 4×4 is essential for parks like Chobe.
• Budget lodging: Camping or hostels Approx (~$20-50 USD per night)
• Mid-range lodges: Approx $150-300 USD per night
• Luxury safari camps: Approx $500-1,500+ USD per night
• Food: Meals at local restaurants Approx (~$10-20 USD), lodge dining Approx ($30-60+ USD)
• Transport: Self-driving is possible but 4×4 is essential for parks. Guided tours are pricey but worth it.

Other Essential Travel Tips

• Safari bookings should be made in advance—top lodges fill up fast.
• Credit cards are widely accepted, but carry cash (Pula) for remote areas.
• Tipping is customary (10-15% in restaurants, $10-20/day for safari guides).
• Pack for all weather—cold mornings on safari, hot afternoons.

Final Thoughts

Botswana is unmatched for wildlife and wilderness if you’re dreaming of an authentic African safari, this is the place. Just be prepared for higher costs and plan ahead!

🙋 Frequently Asked Questions