Dry Season
May to October, ideal for wildlife viewing.
Travel guide
Botswana
Botswana, known for its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife, offers a unique blend of adventure and culture. Beyond the capital, Gaborone, explore the Okavango Delta, Chobe National Park, and the Kalahari Desert.
- Best monthsMay to October
- AirportsMaun, Gaborone, Kasane
- TransitRoads and domestic flights
- Power230V, 50Hz
- Tipping10% recommended
- LanguageEnglish, Setswana
01
When to go
The best time to visit Botswana is during the dry season from May to October, when wildlife viewing is at its peak.
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Easiest monthsHot, coast booked outWinter: rain and cold nights
Wet Season
November to April, lush landscapes but less wildlife.
Transitional Season
April and October, great for photography.
02
Where to stay
Pick the neighbourhood by how you want the day to start and end, not by distance to one museum.
City life
Gaborone
The capital city offers a mix of modern amenities and cultural experiences.
Busy urban environment.
Adventure
Maun
Gateway to the Okavango Delta, perfect for adventure seekers.
Tourist-centric but can be crowded.
Wildlife
Kasane
Located near Chobe National Park, ideal for wildlife enthusiasts.
Small town with limited options.
Cultural
Francistown
Botswana's second-largest city with rich history and culture.
Less touristy than Gaborone.
Nature
Okavango Delta
Stay in lodges or camps for an immersive nature experience.
Remote and requires planning.
Desert
Kalahari Desert
Experience the vast landscapes and unique wildlife.
Limited facilities, be prepared.
Cultural
Serowe
A traditional village offering insight into local culture.
Less developed tourism infrastructure.
Nature
Nata
A small town near the Makgadikgadi Pan, great for bird watching.
Limited accommodation options.
03
What to eat
Everyday food, eaten the way locals do. Look for a busy place rather than a ranked list.
Seswaa
A traditional meat dish, often found at local eateries.
→ Try it with pap.
Biltong
Dried cured meat, popular as a snack throughout the country.
→ Look for it at markets.
Pap
A staple made from maize meal, commonly served with meat.
→ Pair it with stews.
Morogo
Wild spinach, often served as a side dish.
→ Best in local homes.
Vetkoek
Fried dough bread, often filled with meat or jam.
→ Great for breakfast.
Chakalaka
A spicy vegetable relish, perfect with braai.
→ Look for it at barbecues.
04
What to see
An order that works on foot, with the trip out of the first city at the end.
Okavango Delta
A UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its unique ecosystem.
Chobe National Park
Famous for its large elephant population and diverse wildlife.
Makgadikgadi Pan
One of the largest salt pans in the world, stunning at sunset.
Moremi Game Reserve
A prime wildlife viewing area within the Okavango Delta.
Tsodilo Hills
Known for ancient rock art and cultural significance.
Kalahari Desert
Explore the vast landscapes and unique wildlife.
Gaborone Game Reserve
A wildlife reserve within the capital, great for a quick visit.
Botswana National Museum
Offers insights into the country's history and culture.
Khama Rhino Sanctuary
A conservation area dedicated to rhino protection.
Nata Bird Sanctuary
A haven for bird watchers, especially during migration.
Serowe
A traditional village showcasing local culture.
Tswapong Hills
Beautiful hills with hiking opportunities.
05
Getting around
Airport to city, across the city, and onward to the next region.
Air Travel
Main airports include Maun, Gaborone, and Kasane.
MUBMaun
GBEGaborone
CSWKasane
Road Trips
Self-drive is popular; roads are generally well-maintained.
Public Transport
Buses connect major towns, but schedules can be irregular.
Guided Tours
Consider guided safaris for in-depth wildlife experiences.
06
Practical notes
Plugs
Type D and M plugs are used; bring an adapter.
Cash
ATMs are available in cities; carry cash in rural areas.
Tipping
Tip around 10% in restaurants and for guides.
Language
English is widely spoken, along with Setswana.
Data
A travel eSIM covers maps and tickets after landing.
Trip Duration
A week is ideal to explore major attractions.