Home to well-known landmarks such as the Okavango Delta, the Kalahari Desert, Makgadikgadi Salt Pans and the Chobe National Park, Botswana is one of Africa’s most popular and exclusive destinations.

Botswana is a landlocked country located in Southern Africa and was formerly the British protectorate of Bechuanaland.  Botswana adopted its new name on 30 September 1966 after becoming independent within the Commonwealth. After independence the country embarked on innovative ways to deal with tourism. The leaders of the country took the view that high-quality, low-volume tourism was the best way to create a sustainable industry that would employ a large percentage of its people while still preserving the environment – wildlife and tourism now employs some 45% of those living in Northern Botswana.

One of the most sparsely populated countries in the world (less than two million people) with around ten percent of the population living in the capital city Gaborone.

Botswana is topographically flat, one of its most striking features, with about eighty percent of its territory being made up of the Kalahari Desert. Rainfall mostly occurs in the summer months peaking in January.  Average rainfall is about 500mm per annum in the northeast and in other parts of the country as little as 250mm.

Through the centre of the Kalahari Desert runs the Okavango River, creating the unique ecosystem of the Okavango Delta from which abundant bird and wildlife populations flourish.

While wildlife viewing is good all year round, each season has its own nuance and special attraction. It is always an idea to remember that although the emphasis of a Botswana safari is often on large game, there are many other specialised creatures to be seen and enjoyed. These range from beautiful reed frogs to brightly coloured birds and secretive nocturnal visitors. Botswana Bespoke Safaris will happily guide and advise you of what is the best time to visit depending on what you are wanting to experience whilst on safari.