The Pride of Africa

Botswana is the pride of Africa - a country that after its independence in 1966 has enjoyed economic and political stability. Although the country is completely landlocked - between Namibia, Zambia, Zimbabwe and South Africa - its two big rivers, the Okavango Delta and the Chobe River, keep the traditional safari animals in the country all year round, and it's the place to go if you want to see The Big Five (lions, elephants, buffalo, rhinoceros and leopard) in the wild, along with zebras and other mammals. On a visit to Botswana be sure to visit the following:

CHOBE NATIONAL PARK
This vast park is home to the most varied wildlife in Botswana and, as a result, it's got the most safari lodges and companies. With water supply from the rivers, animals can stay alive in the region all year round, and you have good chances of seeing lions, elephants and giraffes. Kasane is the main town from which most safari companies work and you can spend the night here before heading out to the bush.

OKAVANGO DELTA
Based around the Okavango River, which gives life to much of the region, the Delta is flooded every year, attracting both wildlife and birds. The Tsodilo Hills - four in number - are located in the Okavango Delta and rise mysteriously in the desert. With plenty of ancient rock paintings, most likely created by the San people thousands of years ago, there's plenty to discover here. Maun is the closest main town.

THE KALAHARI
Southern Africa's famous desert is the home to plenty of game reserves. Maun is the easiest way into the Kalahari, and you'll find local safari guides in the town. Be aware that distances are large and transport rare - you are likely to fly into a camp before you head out on safari by jeep. The Central Kalahari Game Reserve is Africa's largest protected area with 52,000 sq km of land.

Going on a safari is a great way to discover the rich wildlife and stunning landscape in Botswana. We suggest you find a lodge you like in an area of the country you prefer and let them take you out on daytrips in the wild. Remember to do exactly what the trained guides tell you to do - most animals are harmless until they get agitated.