Botswana Travel Guide: What to Do

What to do in Botswana? Main activities and attractions

The ancient rock paintings in Tsodilo Hills, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offer a glimpse into Botswana’s prehistoric past and spiritual traditions. The Three Chiefs’ Monument in Gaborone explores the story of national independence and leadership. Visitors interested in culture should not miss the National Museum and Art Gallery, which houses ethnographic exhibits and local artworks. For those looking to experience village life, traditional homestays in Serowe or Maun provide insight into customs, crafts, and Setswana hospitality in a setting far from conventional tourism.

Nature is the heart of any visit to Botswana. The Okavango Delta offers unforgettable safaris by mokoro (dugout canoe), while Chobe National Park boasts one of Africa’s largest elephant populations. In the Central Kalahari Game Reserve, travelers can observe black-maned lions and desert landscapes. For culinary exploration, try seswaa (slow-cooked beef) and morogo (wild spinach), found in local eateries of Gaborone and Francistown. Experiencing a sundowner in the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans is a must-do moment for nature lovers seeking vast horizons and silence.

Unusual and off-the-beaten-path experiences in Botswana

While Botswana shines for its safaris and deltas, there are lesser-known gems for travelers looking to escape the crowds. These hidden experiences offer a deeper connection to culture, nature, and unique landscapes.

Explore the village of D’Kar in Ghanzi District, home to the San people. There, you can join a bushman walk and witness traditional survival skills, fire-making, and storytelling under the stars. For geology enthusiasts, the Sua Pan (part of the Makgadikgadi Pans) offers night drives and rare desert wildlife like brown hyenas and aardwolves.

If you’re in the northern region, visit the remote village of Gudigwa, where local community tourism allows travelers to sleep in eco huts and take part in traditional music dance rituals. Most never hear about the Motlhabaneng rock art site near the Tuli Block, where petroglyphs can be found while hiking pomegranate-colored trails along the Limpopo River.

For something completely surreal, take part in a “Zebra migration” bush camping journey across Nxai Pan National Park. This annual event attracts few tourists and allows immersion in Botswana’s seasonal animal movements.

Leaving the classic lodges behind and seeking out such experiences not only supports local communities but also offers a more intimate, less polished, but more authentic look into this extraordinary African destination.

When to visit Botswana? Best travel periods

Essential practical information for traveling to Botswana

📋 Formalities and visa

EU, UK, and US citizens do not need a visa for stays under 90 days. A passport valid for at least six months beyond the intended departure date is required. Proof of onward travel and sufficient funds may be requested upon entry. Make sure children traveling with one parent have a birth certificate and letter of consent.

🚗 Driving rules

Botswana drives on the left-hand side of the road. An international driving license is required along with your national license. Roads connecting major cities are paved and in good condition, but 4x4s are recommended in national parks and rural areas. Wildlife can cross unexpectedly, so avoid driving at night.

🔌 Electricity

Power outlets are type D, G, and M. Botswana uses a voltage of 230V and a frequency of 50Hz. European travelers will need an adapter. Most lodges and hotels provide basic charging facilities, but remote camps may have limited electricity during daytime only.

📱 Mobile network and internet

Network coverage is good in urban areas and main roads, provided by Orange, Mascom, and BTC. SIM cards are cheap and available at airports. Data packages and mobile Wi-Fi are affordable. In remote lodges, signal may be limited or unavailable, offering a digital detox experience.

⚠️ Safety and areas to avoid

Botswana is one of Africa’s safest countries for travelers, with low crime in tourist regions. Still, petty theft can happen in urban areas, so stay aware. Do not travel at night in the bush due to animals and poor visibility. Emergency services: Police (999), Ambulance (997), Fire (998).

🚫 Prohibitions and regulations

Plastic bags are banned across Botswana. Possession can lead to fines. Do not bring meat or fresh produce across borders without proper documentation. It is illegal to photograph military or government buildings without permission. Drug laws are strict with zero tolerance.

🤝 Cultural codes and behavior

Respect for elders is essential and greetings are formal and expected. Public displays of affection are generally avoided. Dress modestly in villages and religious areas. Avoid pointing at people or objects with your finger—use a full hand instead. Tipping 10% in restaurants is appreciated.

🕌 Respect for religious traditions

Christianity is the dominant religion in Botswana, but respect is shown to local spiritual beliefs and ceremonies. When visiting churches or sacred sites, dress conservatively. Do not disturb ceremonies or take photos without permission. Major holidays include Christmas and Independence Day (Sep 30).

Sources: Foreign Office, Embassy in Botswana, Botswana National Tourism Office. Last updated: January 2025