There are plenty of reasons to take a trip to the Republic of Botswana, the beautiful country in Southern Africa that’s home to a diverse array of wildlife and some of the world’s most stunning natural beauty. If you’ve ever wanted to go on a perfect safari, Botswana is the place to visit. Even more, the people of Botswana have developed a vibrant culture complete with world class art and delicious cuisine. It’s a trip unlike any other … provided you do things the right way. Like any foreign country, there’s one or two things to know about Botswana before you head out.
1. Don’t Get Overly Worried
Botswana has its share of troubles, just like any developed nation, but it’s also considered one of the safest nations in Africa. The State Department has no warnings up, and the country itself is curating a real upscale traveler vibe for very good reason: it’s safe, it’s gorgeous, and they have rhinos there.
2. Don’t Play Fast and Loose With the Law
It’s probably a good idea to skim the local laws when you head into Botswana, if only because their punishments tend to be more severe than they are in America and you never want to spend time at a US Embassy in any country. So, skim the rules and then stick to them.
3. Don’t Skip the Okavango Delta
Take the leap and spend a few nights on the Okavango Delta. This lush natural reserve is like the opening ten minutes of The Lion King. You can sail over the waters on small boats, and you can camp out next to the river itself, always surrounded by some of Africa’s most majestic wildlife.
4. Don’t Speed Through Maun
At the southern tip of the Okavango Delta lies the small city of Maun. On the western side of the city are a series of traditional African villages that are home to a welcoming group of people who’ve largely maintained a centuries old culture. The rest of the city is decidedly modern and welcoming to travelers (it’s known as the tourism capital of Botswana).
5. Don’t Get Preoccupied With Street Crime
Unlike a lot of other countries in Africa, Botswana is relatively free of street crime, even in the larger cities. Seriously, tourists getting robbed just isn’t a thing in the country. That said, some people do advise caution in the Gaborone Dam area and in the Kgale Hill section of the country’s capital, Gaborone.
6. Don’t Get Careless Around the Wildlife
Most tour guides will know how to keep overly curious tourists in line. That said, if you do happen to slip past a watchful eye, just remember that you’re approaching a wild animal. An elephant won’t hesitate to stomp you into the ground if you get a little too close to its watering hole.
7. Don’t Pass on the Moremi Wildlife Reserve
There are lots of ways to see the Moremi Wildlife Reserve. You can take a flight over the roaming herds of animals, or you can head out on a game drive. Either way, expect to bask in the reserve’s jaw-dropping array of animals. Everything you’d hope to see is on display in plentiful fashion at the Moremi Wildlife Reserve. Tourists repeatedly praise the experience, no matter what time of year you visit.
8. Don’t Try to Resist a Carjacking
Carjackings have been known to happen within Botswana’s borders (mostly in urban areas). If it does, remember that you’re in a rental and don’t resist. Just let them take the car and your stuff. It’s just stuff.
9. Don’t Talk on a Cell Phone While Walking
There are some small time criminals who will walk up to someone talking on their cell phone and snatch it out of their hand and then take off. So, unless you feel like running a marathon, it’s best to keep your phone in your pocket and save chatting for situations when you’re not mobile.
10. Don’t Pack Expensive Luggage if You’re Traveling Through South Africa
At some of the major airports in South Africa, Johannesburg and Cape Town International Airports, there’s an epidemic of baggage theft. It’s best to ensure that your most expensive possessions stay on you when you’re traveling. Don’t check anything that might draw a greedy person’s attention.
11. Don’t Make Yourself a Target
More than anything, you can avoid crime in Botswana by simply leaving your jewelry at home. Don’t flash an expensive camera anywhere that it’s not necessary, don’t flash an expensive smart phone everywhere. Just make sure that you’re being discreet when you’re traveling around the country and you won’t have a problem.
12. Don’t Skimp on the Mosquito Repellant
Malaria is a thing in Botswana, so you’re definitely going to want some mosquito repellant. Most safari outlets actually provide some, too. You can also lower your risk of catching malaria by visiting during the winter months (May to October), wears one sleeves, long pants, use mosquito nets if you sleep outside, that kind of thing.
13. Don’t Forget the Kalahari
As lush as certain parts of Botswana are, the country is also home to Southern Africa’s most famous desert, the jaw-dropping Kalahari. The area is both beautiful and freaking massive and its worth exploring.
14. Don’t Miss Khama Rhino Sanctuary
If you’re interested in taking your entire family on a safari, then you should absolutely spend the evening (or two of them) at the Khama Rhino Sanctuary. Visitors explain that friendly creatures of all types — impala, jack rabbits, etc. — wandered into their camp, the washing facilities are top notch, and the day-long safaris are always rewarding to visitors.
