Botswana - Useful information for your trip

Botswana, located in Southern Africa, is a magical land, the perfect destination for anyone looking for close contact with nature, dream safaris and luxury camps in the savannah.

Its territory features a tableland and the expanses of Kalahari desert, being washed only by two river basins, Okavango and Limpopo. Its climate is very hot, almost desert, with little precipitations and high temperature excursions. During a holiday in Botswana you will have the chance to view many animal species (the world-famous Big 5). Furthermore, the governments has established many national parks and protected areas over the last few years: here you can admire the genuine beauty of this land. But what makes this country unique is Okavango Delta, an immense flood plain formed by the river bearing the same name, punctuated by small masrhy islands that you can explore on a mokoro, a little traditional boat used by the locals.

If it's the human aspect what charms you the most during a vacation, local people will you surprise just as the landscape: the population is mainly made up of Bantu blacks, who colonized this area in the 17th century. The region was later invaded by the British settlers around the end of the 19th century. Surprisingly enough, unlike what happened in the neighbouring countries, here white and black inhabitants always lived together peacefully, so much so that the national flag shows a white and black strip on a blue background representing the water and the good relationship between the two ethnic groups. In 1966 Botswana became indipendent and a member of the Commonwealth. Many local traditions originated from the combination of Bantu black and white Anglo-Saxon customs and they are reflected in literature, art, architecture and delicious cuisine.

The economy of the country is mainly based on mining, livestock and tourism. The rich soil provides gold, nickel, carbon, manganese, copper and especially diamonds whose trade is the major source of the country's earnings.

Botswana is famous for safaris and game drives, but you'll also be amazed at the sight of the beautiful colonial towns, the multi-faceted heritage of modern cities such as Gaborone and Francistown and the hospitality of the people. Depart with our local travel experts and discover Botswana: it will be a trip you will never forget.