Africa

Botswana: a practical guide

How to dress

We traveled in August, and temperatures can be quite low during summer, especially at night, so it is worth wearing layered clothing. During the day, in the sun, you can wear short-sleeved t-shirts and, if the weather is mild, even shorts. Do not forget your hat to protect from the sun during game drives. However, we recommend to bring a pair of long trousers and a heavy sweatshirt/jacket with you. At night you will need a good sleeping bag.

TRANSPORTATION

On a 4×4 vehicle with a guide/local tour. From previous travel stories we had read that driving through Botswana parks is difficult for the terrain conditions (dirt roads, fords and rivers to cross) and orientation. Moreover if you are not with a local guide, the chances of seeing some animals are very scarce. They know exactly where to go and if someone finds an animal, htheye will let the others know via radio. In such a way, the groups that are in the immediate vicinity can reach them.

Where to sleep

The choice of accommodation is quite radical: either camping or extremely luxurious lodges, inclusive of every comfort. There is no middle way. Of all the countries we have visited, Botswana is the only one that prefers elite over mass tourism.

Vaccinations

As always, when visiting these countries, we recommend consulting the office in charge to understand which vaccinations are needed to have a safe and relaxed trip. When we went there, the prophylaxis for malaria, hepatitis A and B, tetanus and typhus fever was recommended.