Okavango waterways, elephant herds and premier safari reserves
Botswana Travel Guide
Explore one of Africa’s leading safari destinations through the Okavango Delta, Chobe and northern wilderness areas.
- Okavango Delta
- Chobe elephants
- Mokoro safaris
- Kalahari
Essential travel information
All About Botswana
Practical information about regions, seasons, transportation, currency, languages and tipping before planning your vacation.
Botswana FAQLearn what Botswana is known for, where to visit, how long to stay and what travelers should expect.
What is Botswana known for?
Botswana is known for low-density safari tourism, the Okavango Delta, Chobe elephants and large protected wilderness areas.
Travel centers on game drives, mokoro excursions, luxury lodges and light-aircraft connections.
What are the best places to visit in Botswana?
Choose destinations according to the time available and whether you want to emphasize cities, coast, wildlife, culture or natural landscapes.
How many days should I spend in Botswana?
Approximately 7-10 days for two or three safari regions.
Tripmasters vacation packages are customizable, allowing travelers to select nights, hotels, transportation and activities in each destination.
What currency is used in Botswana?
Botswana pula (BWP).
Which languages are spoken in Botswana?
English is an official language; Setswana is widely spoken.
Best Time to Visit BotswanaCompare seasons according to weather, wildlife, beaches, outdoor activities and visitor demand.
When is the best time to visit Botswana?
Dry months are strongest for concentrated wildlife viewing; the Delta’s water cycle creates distinctive seasonal patterns.
December – March
Green Season
Summer rains create green landscapes and strong birdlife, though some roads can be more challenging.
Best for: Birding, photography and lower-season travel.
April – May
Transition Season
Rainfall generally eases and landscapes remain green while visitor numbers can be lower than peak safari months.
Best for: Value and mixed wildlife touring.
June – September
Dry Safari Season
Dryer conditions concentrate wildlife around water sources and usually improve road access.
Best for: Game viewing, safaris and outdoor touring.
October – November
Hot Transition
Temperatures rise before the main rains, with excellent wildlife opportunities in many areas.
Best for: Wildlife, shoulder-season safaris and regional touring.
Tipping in BotswanaUnderstand gratuities in restaurants, hotels, taxis and guided tours.
Is tipping customary in Botswana?
Safari staff, guides and lodge teams commonly receive gratuities for good service.
Which currency should I use?
Use the local currency or another legally accepted currency appropriate to the destination for routine payments and gratuities.
Restaurants, cafes and bars
Around 5-10% is a practical guideline for good service when a service charge is not already included.
Hotel staff
Small gratuities are appreciated for porters, housekeeping and particularly helpful service.
Taxi drivers
Rounding up or leaving a modest amount is appropriate where tipping is customary; use reputable taxi services.
Tour guides
Guides and drivers appreciate discretionary gratuities after a strong private or full-day experience.
Check bills for included service before adding an additional gratuity.
Getting Around BotswanaCompare flights, cars, buses, trains, ferries and transfers according to the itinerary.
What is the best way to travel around Botswana?
Safari travel often combines light aircraft, lodge transfers and 4WD vehicles; independent driving is best suited to experienced visitors on prepared routes.
What should I verify before traveling?
- Drive on the left
- Confirm luggage limits on light aircraft
- Carry adequate water on road trips
- Reserve safari transfers early
- Check malaria guidance for northern areas
- Do not underestimate wilderness distances
Build transportation around the actual route rather than assuming one mode works throughout the country.
Cities and regional gateways
Top Destinations in Botswana
Explore the principal Tripmasters destinations in Botswana, then continue through additional cities, resorts, islands, parks or regional gateways where available.
Featured destination
Chobe National Park
A primary gateway to the culture, landscapes and travel experiences of Botswana.
- Okavango Delta
- Chobe elephants
- Mokoro safaris
- Kalahari
Okavango
Okavango Delta
A key Tripmasters destination offering a distinct introduction to the landscapes, culture and travel experiences of Botswana.
Explore Okavango DeltaChobe Gateway
Kasane
A key Tripmasters destination offering a distinct introduction to the landscapes, culture and travel experiences of Botswana.
Explore KasanePrepare for your vacation
What to Expect While Traveling
Review Tripmasters guides covering flights, accommodations, transportation and sightseeing so you can understand each component of your Botswana vacation.
Before departure
Air Travel
Review check-in, baggage, airline schedules, connections and other preparations for international and regional flights.
Accommodations
Hotels
Understand hotel categories, room arrangements, check-in procedures and services commonly encountered during a vacation.
Independent travel
Rental Cars
Review rental requirements, vehicle collection, insurance and practical considerations for road travel.
Local connections
Transfers
Learn how airport, hotel and station transfers work and what to verify before meeting a transportation provider.
Rail transportation
Train Travel
Review the role of rail in your itinerary and when buses, flights, ferries or private transfers are more practical.
Activities and experiences
Sightseeing Tours
Review meeting points, vouchers, schedules and practical details associated with booked excursions and activities.
Continue exploring destinations, regions and practical travel information across Africa with Tripmasters.
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