Botswana, known for its unspoiled wilderness, spectacular wildlife, and vast, open spaces, is a top destination for adventurers and nature lovers. Whether you're camping under the stars in the Okavango Delta, tracking elephants in Chobe National Park, or exploring the salt pans of the Makgadikgadi, Botswana offers an unforgettable travel experience. Here’s your complete guide to backpacking across this stunning country.
1. Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Botswana depends on your priorities:
- Dry Season (May to October): This is the best time for wildlife viewing, especially in the Okavango Delta and Chobe. It’s the high season for safaris, with cooler temperatures and clear skies. June to September is particularly popular for visiting the Okavango during its annual flood.
- Wet Season (November to April): The wet season brings lush green landscapes, fewer tourists, and newborn animals. However, wildlife can be more dispersed, and some areas become inaccessible due to heavy rains.
2. Top Destinations
- Okavango Delta: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Okavango Delta is a vast inland delta where wildlife thrives. Explore its waterways by mokoro (dugout canoe) and camp on remote islands, spotting elephants, lions, and hippos.
- Chobe National Park: Known for its massive elephant herds, Chobe offers some of the best safari experiences in Africa. Boat safaris along the Chobe River are a highlight.
- Moremi Game Reserve: Located within the Okavango Delta, Moremi offers excellent wildlife viewing in a pristine environment. It’s one of the best places in Botswana to see predators like lions, leopards, and wild dogs.
- Makgadikgadi Pans: These vast salt pans, among the largest in the world, are surreal and otherworldly. During the wet season, they fill with water and attract flocks of flamingos and other wildlife.
- Central Kalahari Game Reserve: One of the most remote and untouched areas in Botswana, the Central Kalahari is perfect for adventurers looking to explore desert landscapes and experience the solitude of the African wilderness.
- Nxai Pan National Park: Famous for the Baines’ Baobabs, Nxai Pan is a great place for wildlife viewing during the rainy season, when zebra migrations pass through.
- Tsodilo Hills: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, these hills are home to thousands of ancient rock paintings, offering a glimpse into the spiritual history of the San people.
3. Budgeting & Costs
Botswana is known for its high-value, low-impact tourism model, which can make it more expensive than some neighboring countries. However, backpackers can still explore Botswana on a budget with careful planning.
- Accommodation: Dorm beds in budget lodges and hostels range from BWP 150-300 ($10-$20), while camping is common, especially in national parks, with fees around BWP 100-250 ($7-$18).
- Meals: Street food or local eateries (known as shebeens) offer meals for BWP 50-80 ($4-$7). Dining in restaurants may cost around BWP 100-200 ($8-$15).
- Transport: Public buses between towns are affordable, costing around BWP 50-100 ($4-$8). Renting a 4x4 is a popular option for exploring remote areas, but prices can be steep, around BWP 800-1,500 ($60-$120) per day.
- Safari Tours: Guided safaris in Chobe or the Okavango Delta range from $100-$300 per day, depending on the level of luxury.
4. Getting Around
Botswana’s vast distances and limited public transport can make getting around challenging but rewarding.
- Self-Driving: Renting a 4x4 is the best way to explore Botswana’s remote parks and reserves. Be sure to have experience driving off-road, as some areas, especially in the Okavango Delta and Moremi, require careful navigation through sand and water crossings.
- Public Buses: Public buses and minivans (combis) run between major towns like Gaborone, Maun, Kasane, and Francistown. However, they can be slow and crowded.
- Private Shuttles: Some private companies offer shuttle services between popular destinations like Maun, Kasane, and Gaborone.
- Tours: Many backpackers opt for organized safari tours to explore national parks and remote areas like the Okavango Delta and the Kalahari.
- Hitchhiking: Hitchhiking is common in Botswana, especially in rural areas. Always use common sense and caution, and offer a small contribution for fuel if possible.
5. Safety Tips
Botswana is considered one of the safest countries in Africa for travelers, but there are still a few things to keep in mind:
- Wildlife: Be cautious when camping in or near wildlife areas. Never approach wild animals, and always follow the advice of local guides and rangers. At campsites, ensure tents are secured and food is stored properly to avoid attracting animals.
- Driving: Roads in Botswana are generally well-maintained, but be careful of wildlife crossing, especially at night. Avoid driving after dark in rural areas.
- Water: Stick to bottled or filtered water in rural areas, though tap water is generally safe in towns and cities.
- Health: Malaria is present in northern areas like the Okavango Delta and Chobe, so take precautions, especially during the wet season. Carry a basic first aid kit, and ensure you have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
6. Accommodation Options
- Hostels & Lodges: While not as common as in some other African countries, you can find budget-friendly lodges and hostels in towns like Maun, Kasane, and Gaborone. Backpacker lodges often offer dorms, private rooms, and camping facilities.
- Camping: Botswana is a camper’s paradise, with campsites located in most national parks and game reserves. You can also wild camp in designated areas, but always check local regulations and ensure your safety.
- Safari Camps: For those wanting to splurge, luxury tented camps are available in the Okavango Delta and other remote areas. These camps often include meals, safaris, and guides.
7. Packing Essentials
- Clothing: Lightweight, breathable clothing is ideal for the hot days, but bring warm layers for chilly mornings and evenings, especially during the dry season. Neutral-colored clothing is recommended for safaris to blend in with the environment.
- Sturdy Footwear: Whether you’re walking through the bush or hiking around Tsodilo Hills, sturdy hiking shoes or boots are a must.
- Water Bottle & Filter: Carry a refillable water bottle and consider a portable water filter for use in rural areas.
- Insect Repellent & Malaria Tablets: Essential for traveling in malaria-prone areas, especially during the wet season.
- Camera: Botswana’s wildlife and landscapes are breathtaking, so be sure to bring a good camera or smartphone with plenty of storage.
- First Aid Kit: A basic kit with bandages, antiseptic, pain relievers, and any personal medications is a good idea, especially if you’re camping or heading into remote areas.
8. Top Activities
- Safari in Chobe National Park: Chobe is one of the best places in Africa for viewing large herds of elephants. Take a boat safari on the Chobe River for a unique wildlife experience.
- Mokoro Ride in the Okavango Delta: A traditional mokoro (dugout canoe) ride through the Okavango’s tranquil waterways is a must-do activity. You’ll glide past hippos, elephants, and abundant birdlife.
- Camping in the Kalahari Desert: The Central Kalahari offers an off-the-beaten-path experience where you can camp under a sky filled with stars and listen to the sounds of the desert at night.
- Exploring the Makgadikgadi Pans: Take a quad bike or a 4x4 across the vast salt pans, where you’ll feel like you’ve entered another world.
- Visit the San Bushmen: Learn about the traditional way of life of the San people, one of the oldest cultures on earth, and gain insight into their hunting, gathering, and survival skills.
9. Wildlife and Nature
Botswana is renowned for its wildlife, offering some of the best game viewing in Africa:
- Elephants: Botswana is home to the largest elephant population in Africa, with huge herds roaming in Chobe National Park and the Okavango Delta.
- Big Cats: Lions, leopards, and cheetahs are commonly seen in Moremi Game Reserve, Chobe, and the Central Kalahari.
- Wild Dogs: Botswana is one of the best places to see endangered African wild dogs in the wild, particularly in Moremi and Chobe.
- Birdwatching: The Okavango Delta is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 500 species, including African fish eagles, kingfishers, and pelicans.
- Zebra Migration: During the wet season, the Makgadikgadi Pans host Africa’s second-largest zebra migration, a sight to behold.
10. Cultural Considerations
- Language: English is the official language of Botswana, and Setswana is widely spoken. It’s helpful to learn a few basic phrases in Setswana, such as "Dumela" (hello) and "Ke a leboga" (thank you).
- Respect for Local Traditions:
Always ask for permission before taking photos of people, especially in rural communities. Be respectful of local customs, and dress modestly when visiting villages.
11. Entry Requirements
- Visas: Many nationalities, including those from the EU, US, and Canada, can enter Botswana visa-free for up to 90 days. Always check the latest visa requirements before traveling.
- Passport Validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure from Botswana, with at least two blank pages.
12. Health and Safety
- Vaccinations: Ensure your routine vaccinations are up to date. Depending on your travel route, you may need vaccines for Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Yellow Fever.
- Malaria: Malaria is a risk in northern Botswana, particularly in the Okavango Delta, during the wet season. Use insect repellent and consider anti-malarial medication.
- Water: Tap water is safe to drink in urban areas, but in remote areas or the bush, stick to bottled or filtered water.
- Travel Insurance: Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers health emergencies, including evacuation.
13. Responsible Travel
- Respect Wildlife: Botswana’s wilderness is fragile. Always observe animals from a safe distance and never disturb wildlife. Follow the guidance of your guides and rangers.
- Support Local Communities: Buy locally made crafts and souvenirs, and support community-run tourism projects.
- Conservation: Many safari operators in Botswana are deeply involved in conservation. Choose ethical operators who prioritize sustainable tourism and the protection of wildlife.
14. Local Food to Try
- Seswaa: A traditional dish made of shredded beef or goat, slow-cooked and served with pap (maize meal) or dumplings.
- Vetkoek: A popular snack, similar to fried dough, often filled with minced meat or served with a side of jam or honey.
- Morogo: Wild spinach, usually cooked with onions and tomatoes, served as a side dish.
- Pap: A staple food in Botswana, similar to polenta, often served with meat stews or vegetables.
- Biltong: Dried, cured meat, similar to jerky, made from beef or game meats like kudu or springbok.
15. Important Apps to Download
- Maps.Me: Useful for offline navigation, especially in remote areas.
- iOverlander: Great for finding campsites, accommodations, and services for overland travelers.
- Rome2Rio: Helps with planning routes and comparing transportation options.
- XE Currency: To keep track of exchange rates for the Botswana Pula (BWP).
- WhatsApp: Widely used in Botswana for communication, especially for booking tours and accommodations.
16. Sustainable Travel Tips
- Carry a Refillable Water Bottle: To reduce plastic waste, use a reusable water bottle and refill it whenever possible.
- Eco-Friendly Accommodation: Stay in lodges and camps that prioritize sustainability, use solar power, and are involved in conservation efforts.
- Minimize Waste: Pack out all trash, especially in national parks and remote areas.
- Conserve Water: Botswana is an arid country, so be mindful of your water use, particularly in desert regions.
With this guide, you're ready to explore the stunning landscapes and incredible wildlife of Botswana. Whether you're canoeing through the Okavango Delta, spotting elephants in Chobe, or venturing into the vast Kalahari, Botswana offers a raw and authentic African experience. Safe travels!