Landlocked Botswana is separated from its neighbours South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia mainly by rivers. 17% of the land areas have been set aside for national reserves and game parks. Botswana is larger than France, comprising an area of 500,000 sq km. 84% of Botswana is covered by the Kalahari Desert, a savannah ecosystem interrupted by sand dunes and saltpans. The lily-clad waterways of the Okavango Delta to the west brim with wildlife, while the salt pans and their archaeological treasures are visited by a huge migration of antelope and predators with the arrival of the summer rains.

The country has the largest population of Brown Hyena in Southern Africa; of the endangered Wild Dog, fewer than 5000 remain, slightly less than half of which can be found in Botswana. Botswana's wilderness can be rough in some areas, a country best explored with a knowledgable guide and reliable transport. Gaberone is the capital, and major cultures include the European and Tswana. The official languages are English and Setswana, and the local currency is the Pula. Credit cards are not widely accepted (except for the game lodges), it is best to carry Pula. Please consult your local embassy with regard to visa requirements. Botswana is 2 hours ahead of GMT.

Seasons: Game viewing is excellent year round. Winter (Apr-Sep) is a particularly good time to visit Botswana, as the days are mild, the bush less dense and the wildlife congregates around water sources. Summer months (Nov-Mar) are an excellent time for birders in the Okavango Delta, however the rains may make many roads inaccessible. The high season runs from Jul-Oct, so if you are travelling during these months, it is advisable to book accommodation and tours well in advance.

Precautions: Compulsory vaccine: None. Recommended vaccines: Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, Tetanus Malaria prophylaxis: Indicated for travel to the Northern half of Botswana, especially bordering the Caprivi Strip, Zambia and Zimbabwe throughout the year. Medical information supplied by Medi-Travel International.