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Botswana is a land-locked country dominated in geographical terms by the Kalahari Desert - a sand-filled basin averaging 1,100 metres above sea level. The country lies between longitudes 20 and 30 degrees east of Greenwich and between the latitudes 18 and 27 degrees approximately south of the Equator.
Foreigners from Commonwealth countries are not required to obtain visa for entering Botswana, except in cases where the Minister of Labour and Home Affairs has directed otherwise. Botswana has also signed visa abolition agreements with a number of countries, and their nationals are not required to obtain entry visa.
The national carrier, Air Botswana, operates scheduled domestic flights from Gaberone to several destinations, including Francistown, Maun, Kasane, while numerous other carriers operate services to the capital and private operators maintain links to a variety of tourist destinations. The air charter industry is well developed in Botswana, offering flights to the national airport network as well as private destinations. Maun Airport, which serves a huge tourist market, is one of the busiest in southern Africa.
All Botswana's population centres are connected by highways and very good tarmac roads. Other areas are being developed and road-tarring projects are moving ahead at a record pace. Off main routes, the roads range from good, high-speed gravel to deep, rutted sand.
As in most other southern African countries, driving is on the left side of the road. The national speed limit on tarred roads is 120km/h, while through towns and villages the speed limit is 60km/h, even in the absence of a sign. Seat belt use is compulsory, as is proof of no-fault insurance.
Hiring a vehicle, especially 4W-D, will allow you the freedom to explore some of Botswana's most beautiful wilderness areas. To hire a vehicle in Botswana, you must be in possession of a valid International Drivers license, or a home drivers license as long as the details are in English (one may use their home drivers license for a period of 6 months).
The months between April and November, when large number of animals migrate towards the waterways of the Okavango Delta, is best time to go.
November and December - the calving months - are an excellent time to witness nature's own timetable of regeneration. The rainy season, from January to March, sees the migration of large numbers of game into the summer grazing areas, while the delta comes alive with sounds of hundreds of bird species.
In March and April thousands of zebras and other animals migrate towards the Savuti area of Chobe National Park.
Summers (particularly from December through to February) can become exceptionally hot, and rain may make some roads muddy and impassable.
During the rainy summer season, animals in many game areas disperse, while in the dry winter season they congregate around water sources, making for good game viewing. This does not mean, however, that game viewing is impossible during the summer season.
Clothing
In summer, lightweight, light-coloured cottons are preferable. Avoid synthetic materials and black clothing, as they increase perspiration and discomfort. Dress is casual in Botswana. Shorts and trousers are permissible for women. Most hotels have swimming pools, so do bring a bathing suit. Bring a lightweight jacket and/or pullover for unexpected temperature changes.
In winter, bring a pair of trousers, long-sleeved shirts or blouses and pullovers. Make sure you have a very warm jacket for early mornings and evenings, - it does get surprisingly cold at night but warms up during the day.
Footwear
Comfortable walking shoes are a must; supplement with sandals and plastic flip-flops.
Sun protection
Special attention should be given to protecting yourself from the sun, particularly in the summer when the sun can be scorching. Bring sunhat, sunscreen, sun lotion and sunglasses.
Miscellaneous
Binoculars, torch (with plenty of spare batteries and bulbs), matches, penknife, water bottle, insect repellent (spray and coils), lip salve, water purification tablets, sewing kit, safety-pins, tweezers, cello tape and masking tape are all very useful. A basic first-aid kit is a must, as in many instances you will be traveling to areas far from health facilities. Camera film is available at most shops and petrol stations. Cosmetics, medications, cigarettes and imported liquors are all available in the major towns. |
