Botswana is not dubbed the ultimate safari destination for no reason.
Come along with me as I guide you on why you should choose Botswana as your next vacation destination.
The history of Botswana dates back to the history of the Kalahari area.Botswana gained Independence in 1966, as before then, it was a British protectorate known as Bechuanaland. It is bordered by South Africa to the South, Zimbabwe to the Northeast, and Namibia to the NorthEast.
The country has a mean altitude of 3,300 feet (1,000 meters) which consists largely of a sand-filled basin, with gently undulating plains rising to highlands in neighboring countries. The highest point is 4,888 feet (1,490 meters) in the hills north of Lobatse in southeastern Botswana; the lowest point is 2,170 feet (660 meters) at the country’s easternmost point, in the Limpopo valley.
The official language is English, while the National Language is, Tswana (Setswana, Sechuana).
Diamonds is the major resource of the Country since 1970 they are mined on a large scale from the world’s largest diamond pipes at Jwaneng, Lethakane, Makagadikgadi.
The country’s cultural life reflects the dual heritage and intermingling of the people of Tswana and English cultural domination.
A little inside information on why you should visit Botswana.
It is a home to the highest concentration of Elephants in the world teeming with big cats. These concentration can be found in Chobe National Park and Linyanti Region. The Botswana Elephants is known for being safari friendy. Many Ecologist in the past had said that Botswana had an Elephant problem in the sense that there were too many Elephants for vegetation to support.
However, this had changed as the Elephants have changed the landscape of places from the Chobe river to open plains. The elephants move to permanent water areas during dry season.
NATIONAL PARKS
National parks are mostly run by the government in conjunction with the department of wildlife and Natural Reserves.
Some of its National Parks include; Okavango Delta, Chobe National Park, Central Kalahari Transformer Park, KgalagadiTransformer Park
Okavango Delta
Central Kalahari Transformer Park Botswana.
SAFARI
Going on Safari is usually considered the ultimate thing to do when you visit the African Continent and Botswana is considered the Ultimate safari destination.
The months of May-August is usually considered the best time to organize a Safari in Botswana. Some of the country’s best safari tours include but are not limited to the following; Get away to Chobe, Okavango Delta, and Moremi. As a first-time traveler or visitor, you get to experience its game drives, spa treatments, Rare rhino sightings, and sunset boat cruises.
Safari Game Drive
Spa Treatment
Sunset Boat Cruise
LOUVRE: Rock Paintings of Tsodilo, Botswana
This is a must-see sight in Botswana that contains the highest concentrations of Rock Art in the world. Hence it is referred to as the Louvre of the desert. The rocks date back to the stone age AD. Its site can be found in the Kalahari desert and it is made up of huge rock formations.
Rock paintings are usually divided into three groups; Red painting, white painting, and polychrome painting.
The bulk of the paintings is mostly color red.
BIRDING PARADISE
The country is essentially covered by a dry tree, shrub, and grass savanna, why is it semi-desert?
Botswana offers birding opportunities. It is home to over 600 recorded bird species. Breeding of these birds occurs sporadically every five or six years depending on water levels. Some of the birds include the Yello-billed Hornbill, Wattled Crane, Maves Starling, Starley Egret, etc.
The birding expedition is usually enjoyed with a pair of binoculars as you view the most intricate of details.
EXCLUSIVITY & LUXURY
If you are looking for a luxurious holiday experience, then Botswana should be your choice for that destination visit.
This attracts guests who specifically request a unique and stylish holiday experience. If you are willing to pay higher for the best experience, this is it.
DELICACIES
Your experience will be enhanced by unique and delicious traditional dishes. Some of the cuisine to enjoy are; Seswaa, Morogo, Dikgobe, Bogobe, Braai meat, etc.
- SESWAA
This is a very popular traditional meal in Botswana. It is made of beef or goat meat. It is usually prepared using leftover cuts or tough cuts such as legs, neck, and back. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity.
- MOROGO
This will be a favorite choice for those who love plant-based dishes. It is made with dark green spinach leaves which are nutrient-dense. It has various flavors but the taste is usually gentle. The taste is also flavored with onions and tomatoes.
- DIKGOBE
This delicacy is a combination of peas, beans, and samp also known as processed maize. The dish is mostly served at setswana celebrations of life like marriages, burial ceremonies, etc. The dish comes out in a porridge-like consistency. The ingredients are cooked in a small amount of fat and oil.
- BOGOBE
This is a National delicacy in Botswana characterized by delicate flavor. It is also known as slap-pap a type of servings at social gatherings such as weddings, naming ceremonies, etc. It is a well-known type of Porridge.
- BRAAI MEAT
This is a deadly combination of meat ( pork, beef, and lamb). It is usually served with the relish of garlic, tomatoes, and onions. Braai is a southern African name for Barbecue. It is served on the side of many dishes on special festival occasions.
TRADITIONAL OUTFITS
The country is blessed with rich and interesting clothing traditions. The pre-colonial era saw them wear clothes made from the skin and fur of local animals. The missionary period started in the mid-19th century which gradually changed the whole clothing tradition in Botswana.
Mary and Robert Moffat were the missionaries that saw the change in traditional dress. In the 20th century, Tswana people began using Western-Style clothing. Aside from the Tswana people, the Herero ethnic group inhabits several Southern AfricanCountries. Today, Herero people wear their national costume called the Herero dress.
I can only agree with you that Botswana is a must-see travel destination. From an insider’s point of view, you sure need to add this country to your Bucket list as the experience will surely be worthwhile. From exciting activities to an unforgettable experience, Botswana is it.