Botswana is the kind of place where silence speaks louder than words. You wake up to elephant tracks near your tent, spend the day cruising past hippos in a dugout canoe, and fall asleep under a sky filled with more stars than you thought possible. This is not just another safari stop—it’s a land of rhythm, resilience, and raw natural beauty.

Whether you’re gliding through the Okavango Delta, tracking lions in Chobe, or meeting San communities in the Kalahari, Botswana leaves you feeling like you've seen Africa in its purest form.

Why Go to Botswana?

Botswana is one of the most stable, safe, and conservation-focused countries in Africa. It limits the number of visitors in its protected areas, which means fewer crowds and more space to truly connect with nature.

Unlike many other destinations, Botswana doesn’t chase mass tourism. Here, it’s about quality over quantity. Wildlife viewing is exceptional—thanks to vast unfenced reserves where animals roam freely. You can go from wetlands to desert in a single day, or spend the night in a remote eco-lodge with only elephant calls for company.

If you're seeking something real, immersive, and deeply memorable, Botswana delivers.

Must-See Attractions in Botswana

Okavango Delta

A UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Africa’s most extraordinary ecosystems. Explore by mokoro (traditional canoe) or on foot with local guides. Wildlife sightings here feel like scenes from a nature documentary.

Chobe National Park

Home to one of the largest elephant populations in the world. Take a boat safari on the Chobe River and see herds bathing and playing at the water’s edge.

Makgadikgadi Salt Pans

Otherworldly and flat as far as the eye can see. Visit in the dry season for quad biking and surreal sunsets; in the wet season, flamingos arrive in thousands.

Moremi Game Reserve

Part of the Delta but more forested—ideal for spotting leopards, wild dogs, and rare birds. A top pick for safari purists.

Tsodilo Hills

Known as the “Louvre of the Desert,” this sacred site features thousands of ancient rock paintings. It’s quiet, spiritual, and rich with local legend.

What to Eat in Botswana

Seswaa – National Staple

Slow-cooked, shredded beef or goat, typically served with maize meal (pap). Simple, hearty, and full of flavor.

Bogobe – Sorghum Porridge

A traditional dish eaten with meat or sour milk. Comfort food that’s part of daily life across the country.

Vetkoek – Fried Dough Delight

Crispy on the outside, soft inside. Served stuffed with minced meat, cheese, or eaten plain as a snack.

Morogo – Wild Greens

Spinach-like greens cooked with onions and tomatoes. Often served as a side dish with pap or meat.

Madila – Fermented Milk

Thick, tangy, and rich in probiotics. Usually eaten at breakfast or offered to guests as a sign of hospitality.

Essential Travel Tips for Botswana

Best Time to Visit

May to October (dry season) is best for safaris—clear skies and easier animal spotting.

November to April is the green season—fewer tourists, dramatic thunderstorms, and great birdwatching.

 

Money & Payments

Currency: Botswana Pula (BWP)

Cards: Accepted in cities and larger lodges.

Cash: Essential in rural areas or for tips.

Tipping: 10% is customary at restaurants and for guides.

 

Getting Around

Domestic flights or 4x4 transfers are common for reaching remote camps.

In cities like Gaborone or Maun, taxis and rental cars are available.

Self-driving is possible but requires preparation and knowledge of conditions.

 

Staying Safe

Botswana is one of Africa’s safest countries for travelers.

Always listen to local guides, especially in wildlife areas.

Wear neutral colors on safari and pack layers for cold mornings and hot days.

Staying Connected in Botswana

Wi-Fi is available in most lodges and hotels, but it may be limited or slow in remote areas. Mobile networks cover cities and main roads, but signal drops in the bush are common.

Buying a local SIM card is possible, but you’ll need to show ID, go through registration, and may still face patchy coverage across national parks or delta lodges. Data top-ups are manual and often require local payment options.

JetSet eSIM makes it simple.

Activate your Botswana JetSet eSIM before your trip and stay connected wherever your adventure takes you. Whether you’re tracking rhinos in Moremi or uploading a sunset shot from the Delta, you’ll have reliable coverage—without paperwork or delays.

If you need a new eSIM, get one online without hassle.

JetSet eSIM keeps you connected—through grasslands, game drives, and golden hours.