If you're searching for a less-traveled side of Southern Africa, look no further than Botswana, where wide horizons and stunning nature beckon. Things to do in Botswana tend to revolve around wildlife: cruise the Chobe River to spot hippos and crocodiles or tour the expansive Khutse Game Reserve or conveniently central Mokolodi Nature Reserve. Those interested in diving into the country's rich culture and history can also learn about the Indigenous San people at camping lodges in the Kalahari Desert.
The best time to visit Botswana is in the dry season, which runs from April to October and brings warm, sunny weather. These months are also ideal for visiting game parks—the animals tend to flock to water holes, and the dried-out grass makes them much easier to see. If you’re planning to spend much time at the game parks, bring plenty of layers, as the temperatures drop at night.
Within Gaborone, taxis and the rideshare app inDrive are your best bet for getting around; the capital city has limited public transport, but shared taxis are easy to find and affordable. For the rest of the country, it’s worth renting your own car, as regional buses can be unpredictable. Self-drive game tours are a great way to save money, but guided safari tours, game drives, and game cruises are available if you want an expert leading the way.
Go beyond the well-trodden safari trail by heading to the tiny village of D’kar, near Ghanzi. It’s home to the stunning Kuru Art Project, an outdoor gallery space showcasing the work of innovative San artists who blend ancient traditions with modern style. Many of the pieces go on to travel the world, and you will get the chance to pick out prints, hand-embroidered bags and pillows, and original art pieces that reflect the color and culture of Botswana.
