Southern Africa · 25 Places · Best May to October (Dry season)
Botswana is Africa's premier safari destination, home to the stunning Okavango Delta and massive elephant herds in Chobe National Park. This landlocked Southern African nation offers pristine wilderness, diverse wildlife, and a commitment to conservation tourism.
Botswana is Africa's premier safari destination, home to the stunning Okavango Delta and massive elephant herds in Chobe National Park. This landlocked Southern African nation offers pristine wilderness, diverse wildlife, and a commitment to conservation tourism.
Jump straight to the experience you're planning.
The 25 destinations our editors recommend — from iconic landmarks to under-the-radar finds.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Okavango Delta is one of the world's largest inland deltas. This pristine wetland wilderness offers exceptional wildlife viewing, mokoro (dugout canoe) safaris, and incredible birdwatching opportunities with over 400 species recorded.
Home to Africa's largest elephant population (over 50,000), Chobe offers exceptional game viewing. The Chobe Riverfront is famous for massive elephant herds coming to drink, while predators thrive throughout the park's diverse ecosystems.
Situated within the Okavango Delta, Moremi combines permanent water channels with dry land areas, creating diverse habitats. It's one of Africa's best reserves for leopard sightings and offers year-round wildlife viewing.
The vast Makgadikgadi Pans are among the largest salt flats in the world. During the dry season, the stark white landscape stretches to the horizon. In the wet season, it transforms into a breeding ground for thousands of flamingos.
One of the world's largest game reserves, the Central Kalahari offers a true wilderness experience. Home to the San Bushmen and adapted desert wildlife including black-maned Kalahari lions, this remote reserve is for serious adventurers.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Tsodilo Hills contains over 4,500 rock paintings spanning 100,000 years. These sacred hills are revered by the San people and offer incredible cultural insights alongside stunning views.
Pick a length, follow the route. Each itinerary balances headline sights with breathing room.
Three tiers, every traveller covered — from cost-conscious to flagship hotels.
Hostels, budget hotels, and guesthouses offer affordable stays without sacrificing experience.
Boutique hotels and well-located accommodations provide comfort and convenience at reasonable prices.
World-class resorts and premium hotels deliver unforgettable experiences.
Exclusive luxury lodge in the heart of the Okavango Delta with just 12 tented rooms. Features include a fish eagle-shaped swimming pool, world-class spa, and exceptional mokoro safaris. The lodge offers unparalleled access to waterways and wildlife.
Check rates on Booking.comWell-established riverside lodge in Kasane with excellent views of the Chobe River. Offers comfortable rooms, multiple pools, and easy access to Chobe National Park. Great value for money.
Check rates on Booking.comAffordable hotel in Maun offering clean, comfortable rooms with river views. Popular with budget travelers and self-drive safari enthusiasts. Good on-site restaurant and bar.
Check rates on Booking.comAn award-winning luxury camp on Chief's Island in the Moremi Game Reserve. With just 10 pavilions, this intimate lodge offers exceptional game viewing including Big 5, premium dining, and butler service.
Check rates on Booking.comCafés, neighbourhood gems, and tasting menus worth the table reservation.
Gaborone's premier fine dining establishment located in the Grand Palm Hotel. Serves exceptional steaks, ribs, and traditional Botswana cuisine in an upscale setting. Known for excellent service and extensive wine selection.
Authentic Italian restaurant in Maun owned and operated by Italians. Serves the best pizza in town alongside classic pasta dishes and risottos. Cozy atmosphere and friendly service.
Small intimate cafe and restaurant in central Maun close to tourist information center. Serves excellent coffee, pastries, sandwiches, and light French-inspired meals.
Collection of informal food vendors outside Broadhurst Mall in Gaborone. Serving authentic local dishes like fat cakes, vetkoek, and traditional meats at incredibly low prices.
Popular South African cafe chain with multiple Botswana locations. Known for excellent coffee, breakfast, and light meals in comfortable air-conditioned settings.
Contemporary fine dining restaurant in Gaborone offering authentic Italian cuisine with Mediterranean influences. Opened in 2016, it has quickly become one of the city's top culinary destinations with impeccable service.
Daily spend by tier in USD, broken out by category.
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $15-25 (camping or hostel dorm) | $60-100 (mid-range hotel or lodge) | $500-1800 (luxury safari lodge, all-inclusive) |
| Food (per day) | $12-18 (self-catering, cheap eats, street food) | $35-50 (mix of restaurants) | $100-200 (included at lodges, fine dining) |
| Transportation | $8-12 (combis, hitchhiking) | $30-50 (rental car fuel, occasional taxis) | $150-400 (charter flights, private transfers) |
| Activities | $5-5 (free attractions, minimal park fees) | $25-50 (park fees, some guided activities) | $50-100 (premium experiences, typically included) |
| Daily total | $40-60 | $150-250 | $800-2500 |
Avoid walking alone at night in Gaborone, Maun, and Francistown
Keep valuables out of sight in vehicles
Use reputable safari operators with experienced guides
Stay alert around wildlife - maintain safe distances
Avoid displaying expensive jewelry or electronics
Register with your country's embassy upon arrival; the US embassy is in Gaborone at +267-395-3982
Wildlife safety is critical: never exit your vehicle in unfenced game reserves and maintain at least 25m from elephants in Chobe
Malaria is present in northern Botswana (Okavango, Chobe, Kasane); take prophylaxis and use DEET repellent at dawn and dusk
Carry comprehensive travel insurance — medical evacuation from the Okavango Delta can cost $15,000+
Road conditions outside cities are often unpaved; a 4WD is essential for most national parks and game reserves
Petty theft exists in Gaborone's African Mall and bus ranks; keep bags zipped and phones out of sight in crowds
Water and food safety: avoid street food in rural areas; stick to lodges and established restaurants
Heat and sun are intense, especially in the Kalahari; carry at least 2L of water per person and wear SPF 50+
Photography of government buildings, military installations, and airport facilities is illegal and can result in arrest
Do not feed or approach vervet monkeys near lodges — they can be aggressive and carry diseases
Botswana is one of Africa's safest and most stable countries, with low crime rates relative to regional neighbors and a functioning democracy. Violent crime targeting tourists is rare, though petty theft occurs in city markets and bus ranks. The main safety concerns are wildlife encounters in national parks, malaria in northern regions, road hazards, and extreme heat. Emergency services: police at 999, medical at 997.
The best time to visit Botswana is May to October (Dry season). Botswana has a subtropical semi-arid climate with warm to hot temperatures year-round and a distinct dry season from May to October. The country experiences extreme temperature variations — summer day
No visa required for stays up to 90 days. Passport must be valid for 6 months with at least 3 blank pages. Proof of onward travel and sufficient funds required. Requirements vary by nationality, so check with your nearest embassy or the official immigration website before traveling.
The currency in Botswana is the Botswana Pula (BWP) (BWP). ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels and restaurants, but carry cash for markets and smaller establishments.
The main language(s) spoken in Botswana: English (official), Setswana (national). In tourist areas, English is generally understood. Learning a few basic phrases in the local language is appreciated by locals.
The top attractions in Botswana include Okavango Delta, Chobe National Park, Moremi Game Reserve, Makgadikgadi Pans National Park, and Tsodilo Hills. Each offers a unique experience, from historic landmarks to natural wonders.
