Botswana Tours & Vacations

Winter (April through August) is a good time to visit Botswana. The days are usually mild and wildlife is generally quite easy to spot. The summer can bring frequent rain, which can make it difficult to travel around some of the national parks. Wildlife also tends to disperse during the summer rains, making animals a little harder to spot.

Read more about the best time to visit Botswana

Botswana has quite a diverse culture, with many different tribal influences coexisting with European influences, which were brought to the country more recently. The tribal (or ethnic) groups within Botswana (Tswana, Kalanga, Basarwa and Kgalagadi) have different languages, traditional dances and clothing, and live a vastly different lifestyle to city-dwellers. Overall though, good manners will go a long way in Botswana, as formal greetings, respect for others and politeness are valued by most in society. Travelers will find most locals to be kind and welcoming, with offers of hospitality commonplace.

Intrepid believes that one of the best ways of experiencing a country is by eating! Whether you're sampling street food, savoring cheap eat or indulging in a banquet, there are endless options to choose from wherever you are in the world. Food in Botswana is quite basic and usually consists of millet, sorghum, goat or beef, but there are a few highlights.

Things to try in Botswana

1. Seswaa

This classic dish of shredded beef served with maize meal and cabbage is considered to be Botswana's national dish and can be found in most restaurants and cafes.

2. Bush tea

Also known as Rooibos, this red-hued tea is drunk widely throughout Southern Africa. Pure, natural, high in antioxidants and void of caffeine, you'll see locals drinking it everywhere from city cafes to village huts.

3. Fresh fruit

Local produce in Botswana is quite good but their melons are generally the stand out. For a cheap and healthy snack, try watermelon, marula or lerotse, which can be found at markets and street stalls.

Landlocked Botswana sits in Southern Africa and is bordered by Namibia, South Africa and Zimbabwe. Most of Botswana is relatively flat, although some mountainous areas can be found. Botswana’s topography is an interesting mix of desert, wetland and tableland, with the Kalahari Desert accounting for up to 80% of the country. Most of Botswana’s population choose to live in the eastern part of the country due to the central and southwest regions being dominated by the Kalahari Desert. Much of Botswana's north and west is taken up by the expansive Okavango Delta, which comprises more than 6,200 sq miles of channels and islands.

Early history

The land of Botswana and surrounding regions have been inhabited by tribal groups for thousands of years, with tribes migrating into the area, from the lands now known as Zambia and Congo, sometime around 200-500 AD. 

In 1885, the region came under British influence and became known as the Bechuanaland Protectorate, mainly as a tactic to avoid being overrun by the Boers who were campaigning in the region. This status continued for decades, until increasing nationalism in the 1950s led to an internal push for independence.

Recent history

Although never officially colonized, Botswana was granted independence from Britain on September 30th, 1966. Diamonds were discovered in the country in 1967, which provided a steady stream of revenue that continues to this day. Unlike many other African nations, Botswana enjoys peace, prosperity and a relatively high standard of living. Equal rights and freedom of speech are granted to all under the constitution, the economy is stable due to the growth of the mining and tourism industries, and literacy rates are improving rapidly.

1. African elephant

Botswana is home to one of the world's largest populations of African elephants. Nothing beats encountering a herd of these majestic beasts while out on safari. It's an iconic African travel moment to treasure!

2. Cape Vulture

This endangered species is fully protected in Botswana, although the global population has sadly been in decline for years. Playing an important part in the food chain, this imposing bird can be found all throughout Botswana. See them while you can.

3. Chacma Baboon

Botswana's largest primate belongs to the old-world monkey family and can be found in the Okavango Delta region of Botswana. With a distinctive dog-like face and very sharp teeth, they aren't beauty pageant contenders but have a lovable charm of their own.

4. Flamingo

One of the most curiously beautiful birds in Africa, pink flamingos can be found in the salt pans and wetlands of the north. If you're heading to Botswana, try to catch them in all their blush-pink avian glory.

5. Lesser Bushbaby

The nocturnal bushbaby is a distant relative of the lemur and can be found in the northern parts of Botswana. While they are hard to spot, you can usually hear them crying out from the trees in the night.

6. Lion

Time seems to stand still when a pride of regal lions present themselves. Watch safari-goers and other animals stop in their tracks and collectively hold their breath in respect (and fear) for these beautiful beasts.

7. Kori Bustard

Large populations of the world's heaviest flying bird live in Botswana and are easily spotted due to their large, crested head. Although capable of flight, the kori bustard is usually found on the ground foraging for lizards and insects.

8. Zebra

There's no doubt - the national animal of Botswana is one of the most striking in the world. Zebras can be found in the reserves, parks and bush of Botswana and due to their zany black and white coat, they're not hard to spot.

9. Black Mamba snake

While we hope there are no close encounters with this highly venomous snake, they're worth a mention as the black mamba is abundant in Botswana and known for being one of the most dangerous snakes in the world. Respect!

10. Rhino

Botswana has many sanctuaries dedicated to the preservation of endangered animals, and the community-based Khama Rhino Sanctuary is an excellent example of how the decline of a species can be put into reverse. See rare black and white rhinos here and marvel at their strength and enormity.

Read more about Botswana safaris

Read more about Okavango Delta Safaris

Botswana has everything from western-style malls to village markets and craft cooperatives. While Botswana’s wildlife and landscapes are undoubtedly the main attractions, there are enough shopping highlights here to fill a backpack.

It's a good idea to check with your local customs officials to ensure that you are able to bring certain items back into your home country. United States and Canada generally have strict customs laws.

Things to buy in Botswana

1. Elephant dung paper

Yes, you read it correctly, you’ll be able to find recycled paper products made from elephant dung in Botswana. Handmade cards, envelopes and journals make interesting, environmentally aware gifts for friends back home – and don’t worry, they don’t smell.

2. Handmade baskets

The basket weavers of Botswana are considered among Africa’s best, so pick up a colorful, handwoven basket made using techniques that have been passed down through generations.

3. Art

Modern and traditional art by talented local artists can be found in sophisticated city galleries and sleepy country markets. Supporting local artisans is a good way to assist the community, empower people and ensure your souvenirs are authentic.

Maitisong Festival

This annual performing arts festival gifts the city of Gaborone with a carnival of color. Over nine days, the streets and performance venues are filled with traditional dancing, theatre, music and a whole lot of fun.

Botswana Day

This annual celebration of Botswana's independence sees locals indulging in food, beer and music. While not a cultural event, it's a great time to feast and party with locals as displays of happiness and national pride spill out on to the streets.