I've been fortunate enough to call Africa home for most of my life. Furthermore, I've also been blessed to travel and take in the wealth of experiences, sights and stories our continent has to offer. Recently, however, I was able to travel to Botswana and spend some time in a corner of Africa I'd left unexplored for far too long…
A wildebeest looks out over the vast plains at Nata Bird Sanctuary, Image Credit: Brad Mitchell
Botswana Beckons
Ever since I was young, I've had a passion for the wild and always felt happiest and most at peace in the African bush. It's hard to explain, but it's a place I connect with far more than anywhere else in the world.
Naturally, I've always had a "bucket list" of countries I dream of visiting. And, as you might expect from a safari enthusiast like me, Botswana was a firm fixture on that list for quite some time. So, when the opportunity to drive the length of the country came about, I couldn't say yes fast enough.
A baby elephant enjoys a drink from the Chobe River, Image Credit: Brad Mitchell
Travelling through Botswana was something I'll most definitely never forget. More than a trip, it was an experience, a lived journey more than a series of stops on the road. I've tried to put into words what it's like. However, the truth is that you'll simply have to experience it yourself!
The True African Wild
Botswana is the perfect place to feel the beat of Africa's wild heart, Image Credit: Brad Mitchell
One thing that struck me about Botswana as a whole was just how "wild" it is. Don't get me wrong. I've had my fair share of the African wild close to home growing up. But nothing quite like this. Seeing elephants, hyenas and buffalo on the outskirts of town were eye-opening, and warthogs roam the streets like lovable strays. That said, even a drive in a national park feels like a wilder experience than what I'd been accustomed to elsewhere in Africa.
This "wildness" is something that moved me. At times, I did not even have to do anything to feel this connection to the wild. Even just sitting quietly and taking in the scenery was enough. Also, it was during these moments of stillness that the bush seemed to come alive on its own, almost as if prompted.
What It’s Like Travel to Botswana
The Chobe region is one of the best places on Earth to see elephants, Image Credit: Brad Mitchell
When it comes to a safari, Botswana has a diversity that few countries can compete with. The variety of habitats and landscapes throughout the country takes guests from deserts and salt pans to flooded deltas and mighty rivers from one day to the next.
This, along with just how “wild” the country felt gave me the sense of being a true African explorer. It gave me a sense of really delving into what makes this unique corner of Africa so special and really allowed me to get to grips with it on a deeper level. I think the easiest way to express it is, to travel to Botswana is to feel the beating of Africa’s wild heart.
Where to Travel in Botswana
Travel to Botswana is filled with breathtaking moments, Image Credit: Brad Mitchell
If you're anything like me, the list of things to see and do when travelling to Botswana is endless. And if that isn't enough, it's a place that will always leave you begging for more. That said, there are obvious highlights you shouldn't miss.
For example, the Chobe region is a wildlife paradise, with elephants abound. And seeing them both in and around the water almost guarantees moments leaving you gasping in wonder. Not just that, Victoria Falls is close enough that you can hop over for a day trip.
The Makgadikgadi Pans are stark yet beautiful in contrast. The largest collection of salt flats in the world, this destination is fascinating in its own right and possibly one of the best places on earth I've ever watched the sunset.
The crown jewel, of course, is the Okavango Delta. Sadly, I was unable to tick it off my list on this trip, but it has been the source of inspiration for my next African adventure. If all goes to plan, I'll find myself getting lost in the intricate labyrinth of these magical swamps in the not too distant future.
It's Time to Travel to Botswana
There's no reason to hang around waiting, travel to Botswana is a life-changing adventure, Image Credit: Brad Mitchell
So, if you're considering travelling to Botswana, do not ask yourself "why" or "where". Instead, ask "when". For any safari-goer, nature lover or African enthusiast, it's a place that will leave you forever changed and live on in your most treasured memories.
Our Rhino Africa Travel Experts are on hand to help you plan the perfect itinerary. And, if you ask me, there's no better time to start than today.
Loved Botswana! Thank you for reminding me, I am only home a few weeks, but you described yur adventures beautifully!
Hello Wendy,
Thank you for reading our blog post about Botswana. We were a little jealous of Brad’s trip, but after reading about it, it feels a bit like he took us with him.
We hope you will see yourself in Africa sooner than you can say “It means no worries for the rest of your days”.
Thank you for reading and commenting Wendy.
Best regards
The Rhino Africa team