Botswana

 
 

OVERVIEW

Botswana is a landlocked country in Central Southern Africa, surrounded by Namibia in the West, Zimbabwe to the East and South Africa to the South. The Northern part of the country is primarily bordered by Namibia’s Zambezi Region, commonly known as the Caprivi Strip. It also shares a very tiny Northern border with Zambia and is home to one of the few inland deltas that do not flow into the ocean. It is a true wildlife haven and the best time to visit is during the dry season which usually lasts from May to October, the southern hemisphere winter season. Days are hot and nights are cool however early mornings and late nights can be very cold in winter. Game viewing is plentiful during this season as water is scarce and the bush is thin, so the wildlife is easier to find and see. The rainy season lasts from December to March and although this is the hottest time of year, it is also a great time to see the Kalahari Desert in a much greener state and birdlife is plentiful.

  • A few facts

    The Capital of Botswana is Gaborone, and the official currency is the Botswana Pula. The official language is English however only about 2% of the 2.2 million population speak it. The majority of the population speak the prominent local language, Setswana.

  • Botswana is proud of ...

    … its history of peaceful transitions of power and good governance since gaining independence from British colonial rule in 1966, and its effective management in its diamond resources, resulting in sustained economic prosperity. The country is committed to wildlife conservation and is home to some of Africa's most renowned national parks and game reserves, such as the Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park. The country's conservation policies and efforts to protect endangered species are well-regarded internationally.

  • Vaccinations

    There are no vaccination requirements for Botswana however as malaria is prevalent in many areas, it is highly recommended that you visit your Travel Doctor prior to travelling to ensure all your recommended shots and prophylactics are up to date.

  • Visa

    No visa is required for a stay of up to 90 days, however the traveller must hold a passport valid at least six months beyond the period of intended stay with one blank visa page.

    Families travelling with minors under 18 years of age will need to carry a certified, unabridged birth certificate, and if travelling with only one parent or legal guardian, an affidavit consenting to travel by both parents must be carried. This letter must give consent for one parent or guardian to travel with the minor.

BOTSWANA ACCOMMODATION

Chobe Game Lodge

Chobe Game Lodge is a beautifully appointed safari retreat set right on the banks of the iconic Chobe River, nestled within the heart of Chobe National Park — the only permanent lodge in this legendary wildlife haven. From your room’s private terrace you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the river and floodplains, perfect for catching elephants, buffalo and abundant birdlife as they come to drink. Days here are filled with unforgettable experiences, from guided 4WD game drives through the park to peaceful river safaris aboard solar-powered boats, all framed by spectacular African sunsets. Between adventures, unwind by the pool, savour delicious meals in varied dining settings, or simply relax on the 250-metre boardwalk with nature as your backdrop. Warm hospitality, stylish comfort and unrivalled access to one of Africa’s most wildlife-rich landscapes make Chobe Game Lodge a truly special place to stay.

 

ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS - BOTSWANA

SEMI-LUXURY MOBILE CAMPING SAFARI

Camping may be daunting for some, especially in the wilds, but our relationships with some of the best providers on the ground, allow us to put together unforgettable, fully backed up, authentic camping safaris without breaking the budget.  Traditional, participatory camping safaris may sound like a good way to save money, but they don’t save time.  At the end of a long day, we’d rather be relaxing with a Gin & Tonic in hand and enjoying the scenery than putting up tents and prepping meals.  Our semi-luxury safaris give us the “feels” of camping but without the hard work that comes with it.  Bonus!   

Our backed up camping accommodation consists of 3x3m walk-in dome tents with mosquito proofing and sewn in groundsheets to keep the nasties out.  They are equipped with very comfortable stretcher beds, foam mattress, pillows, sheets and blankets and each tent has its own ensuite ash toilet and bucket shower which are private but open to the stars.  On cold, winter nights hot water bottles are provided for extra warmth!   

Travelling in open safari vehicles throughout, your professional guide/driver will do all the driving and share their incredible knowledge of the bush.  You will be accompanied by up to eight staff members who will travel ahead in their own vehicle with all the equipment.  They will be responsible for the cooking and cleaning, set up and set down of camp, lighting fires and preparing your drinks so that you don’t have to do it. 

It is a truly, authentic way to experience Botswana in a semi-luxurious way without the luxurious cost.  Itineraries can be planned to suit your needs and luxury lodge options are available should you wish to end your bush safari in style. There is a min 2 guest requirement but this is a great option for family and friendship groups of up to 8 guests. Dome tents can be upgraded to larger spacious out- of-Africa style tents with full size beds for a more luxurious feel, however the overall safari experience remains the same.

 

DINING ON A MOBILE CAMPING SAFARI

The camping safari cost is fully inclusive of three substantial meals per day, morning and afternoon teas, and often house wines with dinner and local beer and soft drinks.  All other drinks will be for guests own account however you are welcome to bring your own spirits and accompanying mixers will be provided.  Vegetarian and special meals can be catered for if planned ahead however please note that depending on the requirements, there may be a surcharge for this.

 

HIGHLIGHTS OF BOTSWANA

CHOBE NATIONAL PARK AND SAVUTI

Chobe National Park is situated in the far North East corner of Botswana, close to the border with Zimbabwe, Zambia and Namibia, the only place in the world where four countries meet.  At the heart of the park is the Chobe River which serves as a permanent water supply for the area and a magnet for the incredible numbers of wildlife that reside there.  The river supports one of the largest concentration of elephant found anywhere in Africa and it is not uncommon to encounter herds in excess of one hundred.  Chobe is a bird watchers paradise as well as being famous for its equally large herds of buffalo, the Chobe bushbuck, and for being the southernmost point where Puku can be seen.  The park lies in close proximity to other natural attractions such as Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe and the Okavango Delta, and with the nearby international airport at both Kasane and Victoria Falls, it is a very easily accessible destination and the perfect place to start a wildlife safari. 

The Savuti area is a prime game viewing destination and covers almost 5,000 square km within the south west region of the Chobe National Park.  The area offers excellent game viewing, including fascinating birds, lion, hyena, buffalo, elephant and zebra.   The Savuti Channel has an interesting history of flooding and drying up independently of good rainy seasons and flood levels elsewhere, and after being dry for almost thirty years, has come to life again offering the perfect place for wildlife tours and safaris.  With its lush vegetation and marshlands, the area is particularly famous for its large bull-elephants and lions.

 

KHWAI RIVER AND THE OKAVANGO DELTA

The Khwai River is situated on the north edge of the Moremi Game Reserve, accessible from Moremi via the North Gate bridge, commonly known as the Bridge of the River Khwai.  Ironically the Okavango Delta comes down in flood during the dry months and its estuaries stretch far enough to meet up with the Khwai River, turning the area into a wildlife enthusiast’s haven, as thirsty animals from the dry northern areas migrate to this lifesaving water source.    The forests along the river provide good resting places for leopard and sightings of lions are frequent in this area.  Wild dog are often spotted in the Mopane woodland and there have been occasional sightings of the shy and elusive roan.  Like in the rest of Botswana, the Khwai River is also a bird-watchers paradise with various species of storks, cranes, bee-eaters, kingfishers and raptors to be found.