| Botswana in a nutshell |
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Geography
Botswana is almost the size of France or Kenya and a little smaller
than Texas in the USA. Most of the country consists of nearly level
sand-filled basin at an elevation of 1000m. The Okavango River flows in
from Namibia in the northwest and soaks into the sand to form the
Okavango Delta with its channels and islands. The central and
southwestern part is called the Kalahari which is a semi-desert
landscape.
Climate
As is typical of deserts far from the moderating influence of the sea,
and as the country extends over nine degrees of latitude, there is
considerable variation in the seasons and climatic conditions in
Botswana.
There are generally only two seasons: summer, which lasts from October
to April; and winter which is slightly shorter, from May to September.
The vast majority of rain falls between December and February, although
even during this period there can be long dry spells when temperatures
can soar to over 40C (104F). In winter the night temperatures can
plummet to below freezing. But at any time of year, be it mid-winter or
mid-summer, visitors can generally count on sunny clear-blue skies with
very consistently cloudy days.
The temperature in the Okavango in winter (May to August) is warm
during the day and cool in the evenings. In summer, however, it is hot
and humid during the day while the night temperature rarely drops below
18 degrees C. The Kalahari Desert warm to hot all year round with the
typical desert winters were sub-freezing night temperatures are common.
Population
Almost 60% of the 1,5 million inhabitants of Botswana are concentrated
on the Eastern side of the country. The ancient San (or Bushmen) can
still be found at settlements around the Central Kalahari Game Reserve.
Clothing
Bring comfortable, light clothing in summer and warmer gear for the
winter months, especially if you plan to visit the Kalahari during the
period June to August. Short sleeve "khaki" shirts and shorts will be a
good investment for the journey. A hat and a good pair of walking shoes
is also a must. And remember your sun glasses, sun blockers and
mosquito repellent.
Money Matters
Local currency is the Pula (100 Thebe in one Pula) Most credit cards
are accepted by shops, restaurants and gas stations. Credit card cash
advances are available at local banks in Gaborone, Lobatse,
Francistown, Kasane and Maun. Most facilities accept Rand, US Dollar
and Sterling.
Cell Phones
Your cell phone will work in all larger towns only. (Just arrange with
your service provider for roaming facilities beforehand)
Health
Please consult a doctor or travel clinic about the necessary
precautions against malaria and take your prophylactic as prescribed.
Boil or sterilise all drinking water outside of the main towns, or
stock up with bottled water. AIDS is widespread throughout Africa so
please ensure that you take all necessary precautions.
Getting There
By Air: Most
fly-in tourist arrive in Botswana at the tourist centres of Maun or
Kasane which both have international airports. Pre arranged charter
flights from Namibia and South Africa can be made to most airstrips
within the country, but customs and immigration formalities will have
to be adhered to first.
By Road:
There are approximately 25 official crossing points into Botswana. Road
travelers usually enter at Tlokweng, Ramatlabama or Martin's Drift from
South Africa, Mamuno or Mohembo from Namibia, Kazungula from Zambia and
Zimbabwe and Ramakgwebana from Zimbabwe in the southwest.
Useful Reading
For more information on Botswana and the country's attractions you are
encouraged to read the following publication:
Discovering Botswana by Molly Joyce and Susan Loftus
Boraro Promotions
PO Box 10280
Ramotswa
BOTSWANA
Email: boraropro@mweb.co.za
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