botswana
Where Nature and Culture Collide in a Symphony of Beauty
Botswana is a place where adventure and serenity coexist in perfect harmony, and every turn offers a new surprise. Located in Southern Africa, this landlocked country is an oasis of unspoiled wilderness, rich traditions, and unparalleled hospitality.
Botswana’s capital, Gaborone, isn’t just a concrete jungle. Here you will find the world-famous Gaborone Game Reserve, where you can take in the African Safari in its raw nature.
Botswana’s capital, Gaborone, isn’t just a concrete jungle. Here you will find the world-famous Gaborone Game Reserve, where you can take in the African Safari in its raw nature.
North of the capital, African safaris take a whole new twist with nature eager to entertain. The Okavango Delta is at the heart of drama in the wild. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is a sprawling network of waterways, islands, and lush greenery that transforms into a vibrant wildlife theater during the annual flood season. Here is some detailed information on Botswana
History of Botswana
Botswana, predominantly inhabited by people of Tswana origin (Batswana), has a recorded history dating back to the 14th century. The Batswana are believed to be descendants of King Mogale, who resided in the present-day Magaliesberg Mountains in the Gauteng Province of South Africa.
Driven by various causes, they migrated northwards over time, establishing themselves in what was then relatively unexplored territory. By the turn of the 19th century, the region was home to at least eight ethnic chiefdoms, whose people shared a common language and history and co-existed in peace.
Driven by various causes, they migrated northwards over time, establishing themselves in what was then relatively unexplored territory. By the turn of the 19th century, the region was home to at least eight ethnic chiefdoms, whose people shared a common language and history and co-existed in peace.
At the time, Britain was emerging as a dominant colonial power in Southern Africa, ultimately annexing Botswana and naming it Bechuanaland. On September 30, 1966, Botswana gained independence and formed the Republic of Botswana, ending its 80-year British protectorate.
Capital of Botswana
The capital of Botswana is Gaborone. It was named the seat of government in 1965, just a year before the country gained independence from Britain. Today, it is a modern city with a diverse array of accommodations, from hotels to cinemas and casinos. You will also find numerous restaurants, offering a rich tapestry of flavors, while lively nightclubs and bars pulsate with the rhythms of live music.
The city’s cultural pulse is enriched by the National Museum, showcasing traditional crafts and southern African fine art near the old town. For wildlife enthusiasts, the Gaborone Game Reserve should be on your itinerary. Within the reserve’s 5-sq-km expanse, you will encounter an impressive array of indigenous species and birdlife.
The city’s cultural pulse is enriched by the National Museum, showcasing traditional crafts and southern African fine art near the old town. For wildlife enthusiasts, the Gaborone Game Reserve should be on your itinerary. Within the reserve’s 5-sq-km expanse, you will encounter an impressive array of indigenous species and birdlife.
Language in Botswana
Language in Botswana reflects its rich cultural diversity and historical legacy. English is the official business language. Setswana is the national language, spoken widely among Batswana and used in everyday interactions. Botswana also has over 20 dialects spoken by various tribes.
Currency of Botswana
Botswana uses the Pula, sometimes known as BWP, as its currency. One US dollar is currently worth 13 Pula. While the Pula is widely used throughout the country, many mid-range and top-end hotels, lodges, and tour operators also accept the U.S. dollar. It’s advisable to carry a mix of Pula and USD, especially when venturing into more remote areas where currency exchange facilities may be limited.
itinerary
- Arrive at Sir Seretse Khama International Airport
- Meet our Discover ME Representative
- Discover ME Partner Driver will pick you and drive you to the Hotel
- Discover ME will host our daily group dinner at the Hotel
Manyana rock paintings - the most visited rock painting site in the Gaborone area, the paintings are spread over five separate areas of rock cliff face. Images include giraffe, antelope, human figures, and geometric designs, all of which date from between 1100 and 1700AD. They were in all likelihood made by Khoe (click-speaking) herders. We take a 50km drive out of the city to experience a bit of the village life, in a beautiful village on the outskirts with a rich history that marked the first boarder-line of the country.
We then drive into the heart of the village to visit the David Livingstone Tree, where this missionary helped empower Batswana and left a mark on us as a People. Finally, to sum up the village experience we visit a homestead for a view of the life of a typical Motswana household in a village. A combination of tradition and modern practices depicted not forgetting the spirit of Batswana seen through a home. Women are not only known as homemakers but the actual builders, this will be illustrated as we share the way women built and maintained their homes.
We then drive into the heart of the village to visit the David Livingstone Tree, where this missionary helped empower Batswana and left a mark on us as a People. Finally, to sum up the village experience we visit a homestead for a view of the life of a typical Motswana household in a village. A combination of tradition and modern practices depicted not forgetting the spirit of Batswana seen through a home. Women are not only known as homemakers but the actual builders, this will be illustrated as we share the way women built and maintained their homes.
We head out to a location on the outskirts of town for a half day pottery making experience. Tell your personal tale through the works of your hands whilst learning from an expert story telling artist leaving Botswana with yet another skill worth taking home.
Upon arrival, group is taken to the Kgotla (traditional gathering place) with songs and dance from women leading them to the Kgotla for a proper welcome. Setswana culture including information and some depictions of traditional wedding ceremony will be shared with the group. Women will share the everyday life of Batswana such as pounding and grinding of sorghum, cleaning of floors, and smearing of cow dung to refurbish our huts. There will be a demonstration of a thanksgiving ceremony for good harvest. Transported by donkey cart for those who would like to partake, the group will be transported to a cattle post within the farm for a personal take on how we care for our domestic animals. There will also be traditional games such as Koi (rope skipping), Setswana, chess, Diketo and Morabaraba for the group. The group will be showed how we cook one of our traditional bread here in Botswana. Lastly traditional dance group will entertain and even teach the group some of their songs and dance. These are all interactive activities in which any who wishes to partake is welcome to do so. Lunch is to be served at the end, return scheduled to be 1600hrs latest.
- Begin your journey at then symbol of rich cultural heritage and historical significance. Immerse yourself in the stories of the great leaders who shaped a nation.
- The heart of the Mma Ramotswe literary tour. A must visit stop at the corner of the street where Mma Ramotswe’s home would have been located.
- Explore the vibrant heart of the city where modernity meets tradition. Feel the pulse of the city and taste the seasonal indigenous fruits in the process (free and non-compulsory, no cooked meals)
- As part of the literary tour we must visit the church where Mma Ramotswe and Mr. Matekoni would have gotten married. This is where Bishop Mwamba officiated their ceremony.
- The university of the people built by the people for the people. A close look at the academic prowess that shapes the future.
- We make a stopover at the national monument turned art gallery. Marvel at the diverse range of captivating artworks, showcasing the talent and expression of local artists. During our visit we will have 1 and half hour jewelry making class with an award-winning hand-making jeweller at this location, as well as a still art drawing class for each half of the group (based on interest).
- We conclude the tour we drive through the only township in the country, a neighborhood steeped in a sense of community and character. An essence of Botswana's past and present in this captivating locale. We immerse you in an environment that is down to earth and walk through an area where life is most simple.
Discover ME Partner driver will be ready to drive you to the Airport-please be on time or you will have to make personal arrangements for your airport transportation.