Botswana Travel Guide: Things to Know Before You Travel to Botswana

Planning a safari trip to Botswana? Then, here, is a complete Botswana travel guide just for you. From information on the climate to local laws to activities that you can indulge in, this guide explains all. Thus, go ahead and take a look, and make the most of this guide.

1. Its a Safe Country to Travel

Being one of the richest countries (due to diamond mining), Botswana is considered a safe South African nation. It’s politically stable and tourism here is well-developed. As such, you’d come across a lot of tourists here in all seasons. Botswana is also safe for solo women travellers. However, just like any other country, one needs to be cautious at all times when travelling to a foreign country.

2. Follow Rules and Regulations

This is one of the most important Botswana travel tips. Punishments in Botswana can be quite severe, so its best that you adhere to rules and regulations. Before you set out to explore this wonderful country, read about local laws. Also, check out where the local Embassy/Consulate of your country is located before leaving.

3. List of Activities in Botswana

Botswana safaris are the most popular excursion to do in this country. So there are ample game drives, horseback safaris, birdwatching, jeep safaris etc. Apart from this, other activities include hot-air balloon ride, a canoe ride on the Okavango Delta, quad biking across the Kalahari desert, walking with the elephant, exploring ancient caves and rock art site among others.

You also get to meet the Bushmen, who are the San people of the Kalahari and the oldest inhabitants of South Africa. In short, there is a lot that you can do here if you are planning a safari in Botswana.

4. Botswana Climate

The wet season in Botswana begins in November and ends in April (summer and rainy season), while the dry season is from May to October (winter season). During the dry season, the days are pleasantly warm, while the nights can be freezing. There is no rainfall during the winter season.

The summer season, on the other hand, can be extremely harsh with high temperatures. However, since it’s also the rainy season, the temperature can vary from cool to warm. Here, it is important to note that January and February are the wettest months, wherein torrential rainfall is guaranteed.

5. Listen to Your Safari Tour Guide

One of the other Botswana travel tips is to always listen to your safari tour guide. They know best! Its good to be curious, but overzealousness can cause great harm. Thus, this is a common safety tip for all African safaris that you need to follow at all costs.

6. Carry a Mosquito Repellent

There is a high risk of Malaria in certain areas of Botswana. During the winter months, the risk of catching Malaria is lower. However, no matter what season you travel to this country, make sure that you carry along with you an insect and mosquito repellent. Wearing long sleeves shirt/t-shirts and long pants are also recommended. Additionally, for those camping outside, a mosquito net is a must.

#Conclusion

This perfectly sums up the Botswana travel guide. The rules of safety are more or less the same, no matter which country you travel to. When it comes to health, it is important to check what essential vaccinations are required.

Being an African country, there is a lot of safari options in Botswana. So, all you have to do is pick one based on your budget and requirements. Also, to avoid the harsh climate, it is better if you plan your trip in the winter season.

Jenny Tyler is a travel writer and speaker.