Top Ten Tourist Places in Botswana
Botswana, a landlocked country in Southern Africa, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. From the expansive savannas to the lush wetlands, Botswana offers a range of experiences that cater to every type of traveller. Here are the top ten tourist places in Botswana that should be on your travel bucket list.
1. Okavango Delta
Currency and Expenses:
Local Currency: Botswana Pula (BWP)
Hotel Expenses: £150-£500 per night for lodges and camps
Transport: Charter flights from Maun or Kasane cost around £150-£300 one-way
2. Chobe National Park
Chobe National Park is one of the premier tourist places in Botswana, famous for its large elephant population. The park offers diverse ecosystems, from lush floodplains to dense woodlands. A boat cruise along the Chobe River is a must, providing close encounters with hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of birdlife.
Currency and Expenses:
Hotel Expenses: £100-£400 per night
Transport: Safari drives and boat cruises cost around £50-£150
3. Moremi Game Reserve
Situated within the Okavango Delta, Moremi Game Reserve is one of the best tourist places for wildlife enthusiasts. It boasts a rich diversity of habitats, including forests, lagoons, and floodplains. Here, you can spot the Big Five, as well as other fascinating species such as African wild dogs.
Currency and Expenses:
Hotel Expenses: £200-£600 per night for lodges
Transport: Fly-in safaris from Maun or Kasane cost around £150-£300 one-way
4. Makgadikgadi Pans
The Makgadikgadi Pans are among the most unique tourist places in Botswana. These vast salt flats, remnants of an ancient lake, offer a surreal and otherworldly landscape. During the wet season, the pans transform into a haven for migratory birds, including flamingos and pelicans.
Currency and Expenses:
Hotel Expenses: £100-£300 per night
Transport: Self-drive or guided tours from Maun or Nata, costing around £50-£100
5. Kalahari Desert
The Kalahari Desert is one of the largest deserts in the world, covering much of Botswana. It is one of the most intriguing tourist places due to its unique ecosystems and the fascinating culture of the San people. The Central Kalahari Game Reserve is home to an array of wildlife, including lions, giraffes, and meerkats.
Currency and Expenses:
Hotel Expenses: £100-£350 per night
Transport: Guided tours from Gaborone or Maun, costing around £100-£250
6. Tsodilo Hills
Tsodilo Hills, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is one of the most culturally significant tourist places in Botswana. Known as the "Louvre of the Desert," it features over 4,500 ancient rock paintings. These paintings provide a glimpse into the lives of the San people, who have inhabited the region for thousands of years.
Currency and Expenses:
Hotel Expenses: £50-£150 per night in nearby lodges or campsites
Transport: Self-drive or guided tours from Maun, costing around £50-£100
7. Nxai Pan National Park
Nxai Pan National Park is one of the lesser-known yet incredibly rewarding tourist places in Botswana. The park is renowned for its striking baobab trees, vast grasslands, and seasonal waterholes that attract a variety of wildlife. The Baines' Baobabs, a cluster of ancient baobabs, are a highlight.
Currency and Expenses:
Hotel Expenses: £80-£250 per night
Transport: Self-drive or guided tours from Maun, costing around £50-£150
8. Khama Rhino Sanctuary
The Khama Rhino Sanctuary is one of the top tourist places in Botswana for conservation enthusiasts. This community-based wildlife project aims to protect the endangered rhino and restore their population. Visitors can enjoy game drives and guided walks to see both black and white rhinos up close.
Currency and Expenses:
Hotel Expenses: £50-£150 per night in chalets or campsites
Transport: Self-drive or guided tours from Serowe, costing around £20-£50
9. Gaborone
Gaborone, the capital city, is one of the key tourist places for those interested in the modern and cultural aspects of Botswana. Highlights include the National Museum and Art Gallery, Gaborone Game Reserve, and the vibrant Main Mall. The city offers a blend of traditional and contemporary experiences.
Currency and Expenses:
Hotel Expenses: £50-£200 per night
Transport: Taxis and public buses are available, costing around £1-£5 per ride
10. Tuli Block
Tuli Block, located in the eastern part of Botswana, is one of the most picturesque tourist places in the country. It is known for its dramatic landscapes, including rocky outcrops, riverine forests, and open savannas. The area is perfect for game drives, walking safaris, and bird watching.
Currency and Expenses:
Hotel Expenses: £100-£300 per night
Transport: Self-drive or guided tours from Gaborone or Francistown, costing around £50-£150
Practical Tips for Travellers:
When planning your trip to these tourist places in Botswana, here are some practical tips to help you make the most of your visit:
Currency Exchange: The local currency is the Botswana Pula (BWP). It's advisable to carry some local currency, although credit cards are widely accepted in urban areas and tourist facilities.
Language: English is the official language and is widely spoken. Setswana is the national language and can be useful to know some basic phrases.
Transport: While public transport is available, renting a car offers more flexibility, especially for reaching remote areas and national parks.
Accommodation: Botswana offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury lodges to budget-friendly campsites.
Local Cuisine: Try traditional dishes like seswaa (slow-cooked meat), pap (maize porridge), and vetkoek (fried dough bread).
Safety: Botswana is generally safe for tourists, but it’s always advisable to stay aware of your surroundings and follow local advice.
Conclusion
Botswana is a land of stunning contrasts, from the lush wetlands of the Okavango Delta to the arid expanses of the Kalahari Desert. Each of these top ten tourist places offers a unique experience, whether it’s thrilling wildlife encounters, rich cultural insights, or breathtaking natural beauty. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or a peace-loving traveller, Botswana promises an unforgettable journey. So, pack your bags and set out to explore the mesmerising tourist places in this enchanting African nation.