Botswana was originally known as the British Protectorate of Bechuanaland until 1966 when it gained independence and since then it has regularly held free democratic elections.
Botswana is a landlocked country bordered by South Africa in the South and Southeast, by Namibia in the West and the North and both Zambia and Zimbabwe in the East. When it gained independence it was one of Africa’s poorest countries but has since become one of the world’s fastest growing economies.
Botswana is today one of the most sparingly inhabited countries in the world with a population of approximately two million. The original inhabitants of Botswana were the San and Khoi people (known as Bushmen) and after that, Tswana tribes from the South and East moved into the area and formed tribes, foremost of which was the Bamangwato tribe led by Khama the Great who united other Tswana tribes that eventually formed the Botswana nation.
Botswana is a land of stark differences and outstanding splendor and is without doubt a very stimulating and thrilling tourist destination offering extensive and unspoiled Game Parks and reserves containing a hugely varied and copious amount of wildlife including Africa’s big 5. The largest game parks, The Gemsbok National Park and the Kalahari Game Reserve are situated in the Kalahari Desert.
The Okavango Delta in the Northwest of Botswana with its clear sparkling water and numerous islands is home to an abundance of birds, plants and small animals and is the world’s largest inland Delta covering more than 15,000 square kilometers and often referred to as “The Jewel of the Kalahari”. This magnificent Oasis in a land that is mainly desert attracts thousands of tourists annually from all over the world.
The amount of amazing activities available in Botswana is endless in all areas. In the North visitors can cruise along the Chobe River with its awesome scenery and rich wildlife. See Tsodilo’s San Rock paintings or visit the Gowihaba spelunking caves. Take the opportunity to enjoy captivating Mokoro rides around the Okavango Delta.
In the Kgalagadi/Central region visitors can take part in walks with the San people to observe the marvelous migrations of Zebra of the Makgadikgadi or take advantage of a self drive safari to view the unusual birds of the desert.
Eastern Botswana offers horseback riding, hiking or mountain bike touring through the Tuli Game reserve, see archeological sites of ancient civilizations and enjoy the Moremi gorge with its historical sites as well as many other unique activities.
Visit the vibrant modern capital city of Gaberone in the South with its luxury hotels and conference centers. Enjoy the exciting music and dance performances available and visit village homesteads to learn about traditional life.
There is a wide variety of accommodation available including excellent hotels, luxury lodges and safari camps as well as guesthouses and camp sites.
