Geography

Botswana is almost the size of France or Kenya and a little smaller than Texas in the USA. Most of the country consists of nearly level sand-filled basin at an elevation of 1000m. The Okavango River flows in from Namibia in the northwest and soaks into the sand to form the Okavango Delta with its channels and islands. The central and south western part is called the Kalahari which is a semi-desert landscape.

Climate

As is typical of deserts far from the moderating influence of the sea, and as the country extends over nine degrees of latitude, there is considerable variation in the seasons and climatic conditions in Botswana.

There is generally only two seasons: summer, which lasts from October to April; and winter which is slightly shorter, from May to September. The vast majority of rain falls between December and February, although even during this period there can be long dry spells when temperatures can soar to over 40C (104F). In winter the night temperatures can plummet to below freezing. But at any time of year, be it mid-winter or mid-summer, visitors can generally count on sunny clear-blue skies with very consistently cloudy days.

The temperature in the Okavango in winter (May to August) is warm during the day and cool in the evenings. In summer, however, it is hot and humid during the day while the night temperature rarely drops below 18 degrees C. The Kalahari Desert warm to hot all year round with the typical desert winters were sub-freezing night temperatures are common.

Population

Almost 60% of the 1,5 million inhabitants of Botswana are concentrated on the Eastern side of the country. The ancient San (or Bushmen) can still be found at settlements around the Central Kalahari Game Reserve.

Clothing

Bring comfortable, light clothing in summer and warmer gear for the winter months, especially if you plan to visit the Kalahari during the period June to August. Short sleeve "khaki" shirts and shorts will be a good investment for the journey. A hat and a good pair of walking shoes is also a must. And remember your sun glasses, sun blockers and mosquito repellent.

Money Matters

Local currency is the Pula (100 Thebe in one Pula) Most credit cards are accepted by shops, restaurants and gas stations. Credit card cash advances are available at local banks in Gaborone, Lobatse, Francistown, Kasane and Maun. Most facilities accept Rand, US Dollar and Sterling.

Cell Phones

Your cell phone will work in all larger towns only. (Just arrange with your service provider for roaming facilities beforehand)

Health

Please consult a doctor or travel clinic about the necessary precautions against malaria and take your prophylactic as prescribed. Boil or sterilise all drinking water outside of the main towns, or stock up with bottled water. AIDS is widespread throughout Africa so please ensure that you take all necessary precautions.

Getting There

By Air: Most fly-in tourist arrive in Botswana at the tourist centres of Maun or Kasane which both have international airports. Pre arranged charter flights from Namibia and South Africa can be made to most airstrips within the country, but customs and immigration formalities will have to be adhered to first.
By Road: There are approximately 25 official crossing points into Botswana. Road travellers usually enter at Tlokweng, Ramatlabama or Martin's Drift from South Africa, Mamuno or Mohembo from Namibia, Kazungula from Zambia and Zimbabwe and Ramakgwebana from Zimbabwe in the southwest.