Discovering Botswana
10 Reasons to Come Visit and Make it Your Next Adventure
Before we jump into the fascinating allure of Botswana, let's be honest—Google can only get you so far. There's a certain magic about a place that you can only truly understand by being there. We’ve done our fair share of research, trying to imagine what it might be like. Here are a few things we’re excited about.
1. Solitude Seekers Rejoice – No Crowds Here
Botswana proudly holds the title of being one of the world's least crowded countries. A whopping 45% of its land is set aside for protection, creating a haven for those who seek the beauty of untouched landscapes. The government has opted for a high-value, low-volume ecotourism model in an effort to protect the country’s natural treasures for future generations while allowing local communities to benefit from wildlife and sustainable ecotourism.
2. Elephant Paradise – Where Giants Roam
For the elephant enthusiasts out there, Botswana is a dream come true. Its protected areas are home to the largest population of African elephants in the entire continent. We’ve been hearing a lot about Elephant Sands Reserve, a watering hole that allows for up close encounters, and the famous Linyanti Wetlands.
3. The Okavango Delta – Nature's Masterpiece
The Okavango Delta, one of Africa's Seven Natural Wonders, spanning 15,000 square kilometers.This is the place that attracts a lot of safari-goers. It's a mosaic of wildlife, featuring giraffes, elephants, hyenas, black rhinos, and Nile crocodiles in their natural habitat.
People!
While all 10 of these things are enticing I’m probably most excited to meet people. This is an image from the Gaborone Striders, a popular running group. Fingers crossed they let me join!
And Kris had the chance to record a few voices on his first week below.
4. Kalahari Allure – Beyond Endless Sand Dunes
The Kalahari Desert is more than just a sea of sand. It’s home to the Gcwihaba Caverns, where two-story caves are adorned with exquisite stalactites and stalagmites. There is also an annual migration of zebras – a spectacle that unfolds from December to April.
5. Big Cat Kingdom – A Wildlife Photographer’s Paradise
Botswana proudly stands as one of Africa's prime locations for spotting big cats – from leopards and lions to cheetahs. The result of persistent conservation efforts, particularly in the renowned Chobe National Park.
6. Tsodilo – The Canvas of the Desert
Imagine a desert transformed into an open-air art gallery. Tsodilo, dubbed the "Louvre of the Desert" by UNESCO, boasts over 4,500 paintings dating back a staggering 100,000 years. It's a cultural and historical treasure trove.
7. A Birdwatcher’s Delight
While many travelers head to Botswana for the big five wildlife, we’ve read that many people come away with an appreciation for birdwatching. Botswana’s conservation efforts help protect a number of threatened and endangered species, and viewing these colorful avians can be a pleasant surprise.
8. Rhino Sanctuary – Conservation at Its Core
Botswana extends its conservation efforts to the beleaguered rhino population. The Khama Rhino Sanctuary is a safe haven for both white and black rhinos, contributing to the country's commitment to wildlife preservation.
9. Chobe River – Nature's Water Symphony
Chobe National Park is Botswana's first national park, and also the most biologically diverse. The initial dwellers of this region were the San Bushmen, alternatively recognized as the Basarwa people in Botswana. Remnants of their presence can be discovered in the form of San paintings nestled within the rocky hills of the park. Chobe is famous for boat rides down the Chobe River, where visitors can see hippos and buffalo to a variety of birds and wildebeest.
10. A Peaceful Haven
Botswana is considered one of the safest countries in Africa, and crime rates are relatively low compared to other countries in the region. It is also Africa's oldest continuous democracy. Since gaining independence in 1966, it has upheld a tradition of democratic elections. Plus, the currency, called "pula," translates to "rain" in Setswana, highlighting the scarcity and value of rainfall in this desert landscape.
