A BRIEF GUIDE TO
BOTSWANA
RUSSEL WASSERFALL
Botswana, formerly known as Bechuanaland, was a British protectorate from the late 19th century until independence in 1966. Unlike other African nations, Botswana managed to avoided the devastating conflicts that plagued the continent during this period.
A small, well laid out capital, Gaborone is a city which serves much more as a regional business hub than a jumping-off point for tourist adventures.
Botswana is a developing nation on a continent with the youngest average age in the world. One of the key economic drivers for the development and empowerment of its youth is tourism.
Established traditional governance structures, helped maintain order and resolve disputes within communities. The relatively small European settler population allowed traditional governance structures to remain largely intact and United Nations pressure internationally helped leaders like Sir Seretse Khama to navigate a peaceful exchange of power.
Botswana's independence was a culmination of gradual political development and negotiations with the British authorities. In 1965, the country held its first general elections, leading to the formation of a democratic government. On September 30, 1966, Botswana officially gained independence, with Seretse Khama becoming its first president.
A land of stunning contrasts, Botswana offers visitors both the lush welcome of the continent’s biggest inland alluvial fan and the harsh beauty of the Kalahari desert.
The economy of Botswana has thrived on its rich natural resources, particularly diamonds and tourism. This has enabled the country to maintain a stable economy and invest in infrastructure, healthcare, and education. Botswana is often cited as one of Africa's success stories due to its sustained economic growth and political stability.
Established in the 1960s, Gaborone is the nation’s capital. The city's skyline is dotted with modern skyscrapers, reflecting its status as a regional business hub, but despite modernisation, Gaborone retains its cultural heritage, with traditional markets thriving alongside contemporary buildings.
Almost every African wildlife encounter imaginable is available withing Botswana’s borders.
While it offers a unique blend of cultural experiences and natural beauty, Gaborone is not a popular destination for visitors to the country. Most tourists find themselves landing in the beautiful Okavango Delta town of Maun and dispersing into the various reserves, lodges and other attractions from there.
With diamonds and wildlife as its main economic drivers, and a healthy agricultural sector, Botswana is a relatively young country which is stable and secure. It is very welcoming of international travellers and well set up to offer some of the best safari and wildlife experiences on the continent.