bots tourism with map

8/2/2019 Bots Tourism With Map

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COMPANION

TravelEASTERN BOTSWANA


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is the aesthetic of lostnessRay Bradbury

Half the fun of the travel..


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TTo plan, develop and implement

tourism marketing and promotionstrategies aimed at creating andsustaining a positive image ofBotswana as a tourist and investordestination;

To plan, formulate and implementstrategies for promoting sustainabletourism development in collaborationwith the tourism industrys privatesector, local authorities, local

communities and Non-GovernmentalOrganisations (NGOs);

To determine policies for givingeffect to the objects and purposes ofthe Act that established the BTB;

To advise Government to change,review or formulate policy andstrategies where necessary;

To implement Governmentpolicies and programmes aimed atfacilitating the continued growth anddevelopment of the tourism sector;

To set performance targets andto design programmes aimed atfacilitating the continued growth anddevelopment of tourism;

To develop and implementappropriate strategies for achievingannual work plan objectives and toset performance targets aimed at thepromotion of tourism business inBotswana;

To investigate any matter that has a

negative effect on the tourism industry,and to make recommendationsthereon to the Government;

To manage and co-ordinateBotswanas tourism promotional andpublicity programmes;

To provide market researchinformation and market intelligenceon tourism;

To promote the expansion ofexisting and new investment inBotswanas tourism sector;

About Us...

The Botswana Tourism Board(BTB) was established by an Act ofParliament in 2003. Its mandate is tomarket and promote Botswana as apremier tourist destination of choice,to promote Botswana as a tourisminvestment venue, and to grade andclassify accommodation facilities inthe country. The Board commencedits operations in January 2006.

A Board of Directors, consisting

of 15 members and appointed by theMinister of Wildlife, Environment andTourism, governs the BTB. The Boardis comprised of the Chairperson andthe Vice Chairperson, a representativefrom the governing Ministry, and 12members from the public and privatesectors in the tourism industry.

BTB holds a broad portfoliothat touches nearly all aspects oftourism development in the country,including:


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To establish and expand localas well as international travel tradenetworks to promote and sellBotswana;

To market and promote theestablishment of joint tourism businessventures between citizen and foreigninvestors;

To grade and classify accomm-odation facilities in the tourismindustry;

To promote the improvementof tourism industry standards, in theareas of service standards and a codeof ethics;

To conduct tourism awarenesscampaigns within and outsideBotswana; and

To develop and improve existingtourism opportunities, and to diversifythe sector to include other forms oftourism, such as cultural and heritagetourism, eco-tourism, entertainment,

recreational and leisure tourism,and to bring them to the requiredmarketable standard.

The grading system serves as ameans to protect the consumer andguarantee quality accommodationand services in Botswana. It also assiststhe accommodation establishment tobenchmark its performance againstset standards.

Additionally, the grading system

is a useful tool to indicate to travelagents, tour operators and tourists thegeneral quality of accommodationfacilities in the country. This can serveas a guide for tourists planning theirdestinations in Botswana.

The system also provides aframework to industry investors so thatthey are able to design their facilities toattract the desired market segments.

BTB is funded through grantsreceived from the Government.

LoCAL offiCes

HadquartrTel: +267 391-3111Fax: +267 [email protected]

www.botswanatourism.co.bw

Man MallTel: +267 395-9455Fax: +267 318-1373

MaunTel: +267 686-1056Tel: +267 686-3093 (airport ofce)Fax: +267 686-1062

[email protected]

KaanTel: +267 625-0555Tel: +267 625-2210/1 (airport ofce)Fax: +267 [email protected]

franctwn

Tel: +267 244-0113Fax: +267 [email protected]

GhanTel: +267 659-6704Fax: +267 [email protected]

Palap

Tel: +267 492-2138Fax: +267 [email protected]

TabngTel: +267 654-0822Fax: +267 654-0813/[email protected]

See page 31 for additional contact details

for all local and international ofces.


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Eastern HighlightsTour the Northern Tuli Game

Reserve on horse back, mountain

bike or hiking.

Explore the rich historicaland archaeological sites of

ancient civilisations.

Visit Francistowns SupaNgwao Museum, an important

repository of northern cultures.


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Experience the exhilaratingwaterfalls and historical sites

of Moremi Gorge.

Enjoy the unique andbreathtaking topography of

eastern Botswana.

COMPANIONTravel

Prducd b:Botswana Tourism Board, GaboroneSeptember 2009

BTBAll rights reserved. No part of this book maybe reproduced or utilised in any form and by

any means, electronic or mechanical, includingphotocopying, without the written permission ofBTB.

Wrtr/edtr: Linda PfotenhauerGraphc Dgn: Sarah Banks, Kolobe BotswanaCartgraph: Department of Surveys and Mapping

iNTRoDUCTioNWelcome to BotswanaAbout UsHighlights

DesTiNATioNsNorthern Tuli Game Reserve

Mapungubwe HillMotlhabanengSolomons Wall

Old PalapyePhotophoto Gorge

Tswapong HillsMoremi Gorge

Selebi-PhikweLetsibogo DamLepokole Hills

FrancistownSupa Ngwao MuseumBirds and Game Botswana

Tachila Nature ReserveDomboshaba

ReGioNAL MAPsEastern RegionFrancistownBotswanaDistance Chart

iNfoRMATioNBotswana at a GlanceVisitor InformationEmergency NumbersBTB contact details

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69

1011

12131414161617181919

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18-218-3

fold out18-4

24253233

EASTERN BOTSWANA


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SSpectacular landscapes, rich andvaried wildlife, and a host of historical,cultural and natural history attractionsdene this unique and very strikingcorner of northeastern Botswana.

Straddling the Shashe, Motloutseand Limpopo Rivers, which serve asnatural boundaries with Zimbabweand South Africa, the Northern Tuli

Game Reserve (NTGR) comprises71,000 hectares of remarkablydiverse habitat, including mophanebushland, riverine woodland, andmarshland, punctuated by toweringsandstone cliffs, basalt formations andunusually shaped kopjes making fortruly breathtaking scenery.

One of the largest privately owned

game reserves in southern Africa andincorporating three major privateconcessions (Tuli Safari Lodge, Nitani

Private Game Reserve, and MashatuGame Reserve), the NTGR is home to48 species of mammals and over 350species of birds, with an estimated20 000 animals residing in thereserve.

Most naturally occurring wildlifespecies are present, includingelephant, kudu, zebra, impala, duiker,

wildebeest, waterbuck, steenbok, andwarthog. Large herds of eland oftennot seen elsewhere in Botswana are present, and these are indeed anawesome sight. All major predators,including lion, leopard, cheetah andhyena, are present, and the birdlife isprolic.

The NTGR is adjacent to a larger

area of eastern Botswana called theTuli Block. This is a ten kilometre widestrip of land running approximately

TravelCOMPANION to... Northern Tuli Game Reserve180 kilometres south to Martins Driftthat holds a string of commercialagricultural and game farms, severalof which also offer tourist facilities.

Travellers keen for a more activesafari experience will delight in allthere is on offer. You can hike thereserve, bike the reserve, horse-ridethe reserve, and even hot air balloon

the reserve!At Mashatu Game Reserve, guests

can accompany elephant or predatorresearchers, to gain rst-hand insightsinto the behaviour, feeding habits,territories, demography, and socialstructure of these animals, as well ascritical wildlife conservation issues.A similar experience awaits guests at

Nitani as they come to understandthe complexities of a long-term hyenaresearch project.


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Molema Bush Camp, acommunity based tourism projectmanaged and operated by Tuli SafariLodge, is an ideal way to take partin a tourism concept that is rapidlygaining momentum in Africa. Localcommunities become active partnersin tourism projects, from whichthey can more readily see clear-cut

nancial and social benets.Molema is a joint venture between

three local villages: Motlhabaneng,Lentswe le Moriti and Mathathaneand two tour operators: Tuli SafariLodge and Talana Farms.

Archaeological sites provide animportant historical perspective to theregion. Iron Age sites demonstrate the

formidable skills in pottery, mining,and smelting of the Zhizo, LeopardsKopje and Mapungubwe peoples,

who practised agriculture and animalhusbandry in the area.

Artifacts from the MapungubweKingdom (1220-1290AD), a precursorto the Great Zimbabwe civilisation,reveal the sophistication of thetechnology and society of its people,and their extensive trade networks.

The NTGR will form the heart of

the proposed Shashe/Limpopo Trans-Frontier Conservation Area (TFCA), itssignatories Botswana, Zimbabweand South Africa agreeing tocooperate to conserve and manageshared natural resources. Rich inbiodiversity, the proposed TFCA willcover approximately 4,872 squarekilometres and will be one of the

largest wildlife conservation areas insouthern Africa.

ACTiviTies

Game drives

Hot air balloon

Horse-back safari

Walking or cycling safari

Family safari

Animal tracking

Predator drives

Ivory drive

Mountain bike safariStargazing

Bird watching

Cultural tourism

Community tourism

Basket weaving

Arts and crafts

Historical sites

Health spaHyena research project


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The Northern Tuli Game Reserve offers unique wildlife viewing opportunities, including safari drives, horseback safaris, walking

safaris, mountain biking safaris and even hot air balloon safaris.


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The stunning Mapungubwe Hill is accessible through two very steep and narrow paths;

Inset: One of the many archaeological nds from the hill, a Golden Sceptre.

ACTiviTies

Community tourism

Basket weaving

Arts and crafts

MAPUNGUBWe HiLL

Mapungubwe was a prosperousIron Age metropolis situated on thebanks of the Limpopo River thatthrived nearly a thousand years ago.It was ruled by a king of the LeopardKopje people, and its extensive tradenetworks reached as far as Egypt,India and China.

The kingdoms capital was situated

at the 300 metre long MapungubweHill, which today is only accessible

through two very steep and narrowpaths that twist their way to the top.

The civilisation of Mapungubwewas highly developed; its uniquearts were of a superior craftsmanshipand quality. One of the most famouspieces unearthed by archaeologists isa superbly crafted golden rhino. Otherpieces include beautiful pottery andjewellery.

Mophane woodlands, riverine

forests and sandstone formationscreate a breathtaking backdrop for

Mapungubwe Hill. The area is richin wildlife, including white rhino,elephant, giraffe, gemsbok, eland,lion, leopard and hyenas, as well asover 400 species of birds.


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MoTLHABANeNG

Local village tours often become ahighlight of a trip to Tuli. A delightful

mornings outing to the quaint villageof Motlhabaneng consists of a visit tothe kgotla for a chat with the villagechief or headman, a visit to the localprimary school where children dontraditional clothing and dance, and a

visit to a basket-makers home whereguests interact with villagers, learn

something of their traditional way oflife and watch hand-woven baskets inthe making.

Ancient rock paintings, almostcertainly done by southern Africasoriginal inhabitants, the San, can

also be seen at the outskirts ofMotlhabaneng. The paintings depict

people, animals, hunting scenes andmythological creatures, part of theSans complex cosmology and beliefsystem.


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soLoMoNs WALL

This rather amazing naturalphenomenon, situated in the TuliBlock, is a 30 metre high basalt dykethat once formed a steep-sided naturaldam wall across the Motloutse River.A full ten metres wide, this ancientdyke once held back a great lake,with waterfalls spilling over the dyke.Evidence of this great lake are the

numerous semi-precious stones (e.g.quartz and agate) found along theMotloutse riverbed. Tall fever treesline the natural beach, making for ashady picnic site. Solomons Wall canonly be reached with a four-wheeldrive vehicle.

Solomons Wall; Facing page:Village women produce beautifully

woven and designed baskets.


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Situated near the village ofMalaka (where there are waterfalls),Old Palapye has been earmarked forfurther tourism development, throughthe Malaka community based tourismproject, and in conjunction with

developments at Tswapong.Old Palapye was gazetted as aNational Monument in 1938, and fallsunder the jurisdiction of the NationalMuseum and Monuments.

ACTiviTies

Archaeological sites

Historical sites

OOld Palapye is an important multi-cultural historical site containing

artifacts from the Middle Stone Age,the Late Stone Age, the Early Iron Age,and in contemporary times, the 19thcentury capital of the Bangwato (ledby Khama III), who occupied the areafrom 1889-1902.

Though only capital for thirteenyears, the population of this settlementat the foot of the Tswapong Hills is

estimated to have been approximately300 000 people, including residentEuropean missionaries and hunters.The wet, well watered micro-climateof Tswapong, and the perennialsprings and waterfalls of Photophotovalley are believed to have been themain attractions for settlement.

When water supplies dwindledand proved insufcient, the Bangwato

left Phalatswe and established theirnew capital at Serowe, where itremains today.

The occupation of Old Palapye issignicant in the history of Botswana,particularly its role in restricting theNdebeles penetration to the thenRhodesia. It was critical as a centre forEuropean encounters with Batswana,

and provides evidence for one of therst agro-towns in Botswana.Stone walls, middens (the stone

remains of rondavels), rock paintings,and the remains of a prison, marketcentre and historic graves (bothEuropeans and Batswanas) can allbe seen at Old Palapye. The mostoutstanding structure is the remainsof the London Missionary Society

Church, which was built between1891 and 1894. The front and back

of the burnt-brick structure stillstand, giving some idea of the hugeeffort that would have gone into itsconstruction.

Some wild animals, suchas baboons, vervet monkeys,

porcupines, rock dassies and leopard,still inhabit the area. There are twoCape Vulture breeding colonies, thelargest situated at Gootau, with morethan 200 breeding pairs. The villageheadman must be approached to visitthis site, and care should be taken notto disturb the birds.

The nearby Photophoto Gorge isless impressive than Moremi Gorge,

but more accessible. It is used to waterlivestock and for religious rituals.


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MoReMi GoRGe

Situated deep within the hills, whichcan only be reached by a rathervigorous climb, Moremi Gorge is thesource of three permanent waterfalls.The rst two are smaller, but fan out intolarge waterholes, whilst the uppermostfalls is a full ten-metres high, givingrise to arresting scenes of clear watercascading over rocky outcrops, thencollecting in a deeply hidden, lushlyvegetated, fern-fringed lagoon.

The Moremi Gorge is a designatedNational Monument and is managed bythe Department of National Museum,Monuments and Art Gallery.

The Moremi Mannonye Conservation

Trust, through the support of theBotswana Tourism Board, involveslocal residents in developing the areafor non-consumptive eco-tourism. Thearea is of great religious and spiritualimportance to the community.

Before venturing into the hills, youshould, as a matter of courtesy, requestpermission from the local headman. ANational Museum guide is available atMoremi village.

Tswapong is an ideal weekendgetaway for residents of and visitors toGaborone or Francistown. It doesntrequire a four-wheel drive vehicle, andcamping is allowed near the site, thoughat present visitors must come fullyself-contained. Plans are underway todevelop camping and ablution blocks,

trail signage and wooden elevatedpathways.

S

TravelCOMPANION to... Tswapong HillsSituated east of Palapye, the imposingTswapong Hills rise almost four hundredmetres above the surrounding plains. Theseone-billion year-old titans extend 60 kms westof the village of Moremi, and measure a full20 kms in breadth. Comprised of sandstone,ironstone and quartzite, which give themtheir characteristic rich hues, Tswapong holdsnumerous fascinating, and very beautiful,archaeological, historical and natural historysites.

Some of the earliest traces of Bantu-speaking people in southern Africa havebeen found in the gorges at Tswapong,and many are littered with fragments ofbeautifully decorated pottery dating back tothe rst millennium. Collapsed and buriediron smelters give evidence of the iron

smelting that took place in the gorges; andred ochre paintings can be seen under rockyoverhangs.

Big game used to occupy this area, but nowthe hills are home to such mammals as rockdassies, baboons, brown hyena and leopard.Over 350 species of birds have been recordedin the area, including the endangered CapeVulture, the Black Eagle, the Black Stork andthe beautiful Meyers Parrot, as well as over ahundred buttery species.

One of the biggest draws is the lush,wet vegetation and a series of waterfalls uncharacteristic of Botswanas generally dry,waterless terrain.

The hills absorb water from deep aquifersin the ground and accumulated rain fromabove, releasing it in natural fresh springsscattered throughout the hills, which in turn

form brooks and with greater accumulationsof water waterfalls that collect in beautifullagoons.

ACTiviTies

Community tourism

WaterfallsCamping


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TThe mining town of Selebi-Phikwewas established to house and servicethe employees of the BamangwatoConcessions Ltd., a nickel mine thatbegan operations in 1973. Originallythere were two villages that straddledthe then unexploited deposits ofnickel and copper in the area. Whenthe minerals were discovered, themine and township were built on theland between the two villages, andtheir names were combined Selebi-Phikwe.

Copper-nickel ore is extractedfrom shafts in deep, open cast mines,

and is transported by rail. The coal-red power station Morupule was

built to supply electricity to the mineand surrounding areas. The mine isthe main employer in the town, whichhas the usual amenities of shoppingcentres, hotels, guest houses and anairport.

LeTsiBoGo DAM

The Letsibogo Dam is part ofthe massive North-South Carrier(NSC) Water Project, which sawthe construction of several dams,water transmission systems andwater treatment works to develop

water resources in the northeast ofthe country and relieve tight water

demand in the southeast, particularlyin the capital. NSC links Letsibogoand major wellelds to Gaborone viaa large, 400 kilometre pipeline.

A major leisure venue for residentsof, or visitors to, Phikwe, theLetsibogo Dam is situated near thenearby village of Mmadinare.

TravelCOMPANION to...

Selebi-Phikwe

Rock paintings at Lepokole Hills;

Left: Letsibogo Dam; Facing page:

Fabulous scenery at Lepokole Hills.

ACTiviTies

Swimming

Fishing

Sailing

Windsurng

PicnicsPanoramic views


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LePoKoLe HiLLs

Situated approximately 25 kilometresnortheast of the village of Bobonong,the Lepokole Hills are composed ofcolossal granite blocks often piled

one on top of the other, giving wayto fantastic creations of rock, trees,vegetation and sky. The Hills are infact the southernmost extension ofthe Matopos Hills in Zimbabwe,which feature similar terrain.

Hiking, climbing and fabulousscenery are some of the mainattractions here, with incredible viewsfrom atop the highest hills. And thearea is extremely rich in archaeologicaland historical treasures.

San rock paintings can be seenin the rocky overhangs of kopjes,and some tell the story of theirretreat from encroaching peoplesinto these hills. Walled ruins in the

style of the Great Zimbabwe era canalso be seen, as can the remains ofancient village settlements and IronAge sites, their evidence includingstone arrangements, granaries, potteryand Iron-Age tools.

A community based tourism pro-ject for the development of Lepokoleis being administered through theMapanda Conservation Trust. Plansare underway to fence the areasurrounding the hills, restock it withindigenous wildlife, and offer naturewalks and wildlife viewing, as wellas guided hikes up the hills. The Trustalso plans to build camping facilities.At present a camp site is available,but there are no ablution blocks orother facilities, thus travellers mustcome fully self-contained. It is propercourtesy to request permission tocamp at the hills from the villageheadman.

Botswana Tourism Board is assistingthe communities in the LepokoleConservation Area to promote localconservation, generate importantincome for rural residents, and diversifytheir tourism product, enabling thecommunities to achieve the maximum

tourism potential of this rich and diversearea. Proposed development projectswill include activities such as naturewalks, sunset moments, insects and birdwatching, camping, game viewing andhiking.

ACTiviTies


Rock paintingsBird watching

Panaoramic viewsHistorical sitesHill climbingIron age sites

Hiking


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TravelCOMPANION to... FrancistownOne of Botswanas oldest towns,Francistown was the centre ofsouthern Africas rst gold rush.It came to prominence through

European prospectors discovery andmining of gold in the region in the mid19th century, rst at Tatitown (about

50 kilometres from Francistown), andlater at Francistown itself (at MonarchMine, recently revived).

Gold had been mined by Africans

living in the region for generationsbefore. Indeed the wealth andprosperity which the regions gold

deposits have brought stretches as farback as the 12th to 14th centuries.

The city was named after the Britishprospector and miner Daniel Francis,

who acquired prospecting licenses in1869, eventually becoming director ofthe Tati Concessions Company. Francis

The modern face of Francistown,

as reected in this government

building.


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scene showcases good local musicand dance.

sUPA NGWAo MUseUM

This interesting museum contains

exhibitions on the culture and historyof the Kalanga people, as well as aphotographic exhibition on the earlyhistory of Francistown and Botswana,thus serving as an important repositoryof northern Botswanas heritage.Its collection includes pottery,woodcarvings, basketry and musicalinstruments.

Authentic, hand-made crafts canbe purchased at the Museums CraftShop, which supports approximately200 craftsmen/women mostly fromthe surrounding areas.

The Museum also serves asinformation centre for Francistownand conducts guided walking toursof the city, covering most of theimportant historical sites. To book a

tour, call +267 240-3088, or [email protected]

BiRDs AND GAMe BoTsWANA

An animal orphanage established byUncharted Africa, Birds and GameBotswana has served as refuge forinjured or orphaned wild animals forthe past twenty years. A popular out-ing for local residents and a venue forschool trips, it has also helped to edu-cate the public about the countryswildlife heritage.

ACTiviTies

Bird watching

Arts and craftsMuseum visits

and other prospectors often usedancient gold shafts as guiding pointsfor their prospecting, or they simplycarried on the mining which had beenstarted in those shafts generations ago.The city is still surrounded by old,

abandoned mines.The original town was founded

as a settlement near Monarch minein 1897, consisting of only one mainstreet lined with bustling saloons andsupply stores running parallel to therailway line, which was established byBritish entrepreneur Cecil Rhodes asa vital link between South Africa andBritains northern colonies.

Situated 436 kilometres northof Gaborone, Francistown is thecountrys second largest city, and anindustrial and transport hub, with arailway line leading north to Bulawayo,Zimbabwe. The main road northwestof Francistown gives passage to Maunand the Okavango Delta, Kasane andChobe National Park, Livingstone,

Zambia and Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe.Francistown is currently under-

going an economic boom, mostlydue to the recent resuscitation ofgold mining; this has given new lifeto the property and transport sectors,with the accompanying infrastructuraladditions and developments.

Over the years, Francistown(population approximately 115 000)has undergone continual expansionand modernisation, to the point thatmuch of its original dusty frontier townatmosphere has disappeared. Modernmalls, shops, hotels, restaurants,housing developments and industrialcomplexes now dominate the city, withsome old, colonial buildings still to beseen in the city centre. Yet colourful,

distinctively African local markets dotthe city, and pleasant parks give it auser-friendly feeling. A lively nightclub

Arts and crafts on display at Supa Ngwao Museum; Top: Foot

rattles and hand woven grass mat; Middle: woodcarvings;

Bottom: pottery.


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TACHiLA NATURe ReseRve

Established on Tati Company Land,Tachila Nature Reserve coversapproximately 8 200 hectares of wellpreserved natural habitat in an areaadjacent to Francistown city.

Thachilas mandate is to serve asa recreational facility for residentsof and visitors to Francistown, toprovide environmental educationfor Botswana schoolchildren, topromote wildlife and other naturalresource conservation, to increase

eco-tourism potential and to helpdiversify the largely mining dependent

economy, thus creating employmentopportunities.

Tachila a Kalanga name meaningsaviour of all living things is abroad-based community project thatoffers natural, archaeological, historicaland cultural attractions unique toFrancistown and North East District.Naturally occurring wildlife speciesinclude leopard, hyena, kudu, impala,bushbuck, steenbok, klipspringer, rockdassie and warthog. Eventually, rhino,sable and roan antelope, cheetah,giraffe, zebra, wildebeest and eland

will be introduced.A luxury lodge, with conference

centre and restaurant will be builtin the reserve; and all structures willbe eco-friendly, utilising renewableenergy, recycling programmes,grey-water reticulation and organicgardens.

Whilst still in the developmentstages, visitors can now enter thereserve for game drives. This is on aself-drive basis, and on arrangementonly. Tel: +267 241-2313, or +267 74-086-277, email [email protected]

ACTiviTiesGame drives


Historical & cultural tourism

Conferencing


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DoMBosHABA

An Iron Age, stone wall sitedating back to 1450AD,Domboshaba (meaning redrock in Kalanga) was occupiedtowards the end of the GreatZimbabwe period.

Great Zimbabwe was anextensive kingdom centredat modern-day Masvingo,

in present day Zimbabwe,which stretched into northernBotswana.

Situated in the northeast ofthe country, along the Masunga-Kalamati Road, Domboshabacontains excellent examples ofcement-less, stone walling andenclosures; some have been

reconstructedby the National

Museum archaeologists. Itwas one of the rst NationalMonuments to be gazetted inthe country in 1938.

Domboshaba is an opensite (approximately 8 hectaresin area) that includes severalenclosures and the remains ofpartitions and bulkheads, the

most spectacular of which isWall 28. This was rebuilt byarchaeologists and incorporatesbeautifully owing coursesof granite blocks built aroundexisting boulders and trees.

The most striking featuresof the walls are their even-ness, despite their massivewidth (some are 2 metres thick)and their beautiful decorative

motifs and stylistic variations, bothunderlining the absolute precisionand aesthetic considerations with

which they were built. Despite thefact that no cement was used intheir construction, some walls havesurvived intact for centuries.

Further up the hill, the oor planof what is believed to have been aheadmans or chiefs residence canbe seen. And the circular remainsof houses that once dotted this

community reveal earthen oors withstone edgings.

Many walls have collapsed andthe National Museum has prioritisedthis site for further restoration and

development, including improvedtrail signage, camping and ablutionfacilities.

An easy return day drive fromFrancistown that doesnt requirefour-wheel drive, Domboshabagives entrance to one of Africasgreatest empires, and an importantcultural heritage of the nation.

Entrance to the famous National Monument

Domboshaba; Facing page: Fifteenth

century stone walling at Domboshaba.


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Botswana at a GlanceLoCATioN: Botswana is a land-locked country

situated in southern Africa. It bordersSouth Africa, Namibia, Zambia andZimbabwe. Approximately two-thirds ofthe country lies within the Tropics.

CoUNTRy size: Botswana covers an area of 581 730square kilometres about the size ofFrance or Kenya.

ToPoGRAPHy: Most of the country is at, with somesmall hills in the eastern areas. Kalaharisands cover 84 percent of the surfacearea. With the exception of the northernareas, most of Botswana is without

perennial surface water.CAPiTAL: Gaborone

URBAN CeNTRes: Francistown, Lobatse, Selebi-Phikwe

ToURisM CeNTRes: Maun, Kasane

iNDePeNDeNCe DAy: 30 September 1966

GoveRNMeNT: Multi-party democracy

HeAD of sTATe: His Excellency Lt. Gen. Seretse KhamaIan Khama

PoPULATioN: 1.85 million, with an average annualgrowth rate of 2.4 % (2006 statistics)

NATioNAL LANGUAGe: Setswana

offiCiAL LANGUAGe: English

CURReNCy: Pula

MAiN exPoRTs: Diamonds, copper nickel, beef, soda ash,tourism

MAjoR CRoPs: Maize, sorghum, millet


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Visitor InformationNational Parks & Reserves 31

National Parks Central Botswana 31

National Parks Northern Botswana 31

National Parks Southern Botswana 31

National Parks Western Botswana 31Nxai Pan National Park 31

Ofce Hours 29

Pets (importing) 27

Plants (importing) 28

Restricted Goods (importing) 28

Safety 30

Self Drive Camping 32

Shopping 30Sun and Heat-Related Problems 30

Time 29

Travel Insurance 30

Vaccinations 27

Value Added Tax 30

What to Bring 28

What to Wear 28

Accommodation 31

Banks and Banking Hours 29

Boats (importing) 27

Central Kalahari Game Reserve 31

Chobe National Park 31Communications 29

Consumer Goods (importing) 28

Credit cards 29

Crime 30

Currency 29

Cutm 27

Diamond Purchase 29

Distance Chart 33Drinking Water 30

Drivers Licenses 27

Duty Free Allowances 27

Electrical Supply 29

Emergency Numbers 32

entr frmalt 26

Firearms & Ammunition 29

Firewood 32

Fishing 32

Gaborone Game Reserve 31

Gattd Brdr Pt 26

Gttng Arund n Twn 26Gttng Thr 26

Health 30

HIV/AIDS 30

Importation of Goods 28

Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park 31

Khutse Game Reserve 31

Luggage Restrictions 27

Makgadikgadi Pans National Park 31Malaria 30

Mannyelanong Game Reserve 32

Maun Educational Park 31

Meat / Dairy Products (importing) 28

Money 29

Moremi Game Reserve 31

Motor Vehicles (importing) 27

See page 33 for all local and international Botswana Tourism Board ofces.

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Most major roads in Botswana are tarredand driving conditions are generallygood. The main roads to establishedareas are regularly graded. Four-wheel

drive is required when travelling in thenational parks and reserves, as well asin remote areas.

Car and four-wheel drive rental servicesare widely available in major touristcentres, airports and hotels.

By BUsThere are scheduled bus services

across borders between Botswana andSouth Africa, Zimbabwe, Namibia andZambia, as well as good internal busservices linking major and minor townsand villages across the country.

By RAiLThere are no passenger train services inBotswana. Cargo services run on a dailybasis.

For more information consult:Th Btwana Ralwa wbt:www.botswanarailways.co.bw

GeTTiNG ARoUND iN ToWNsTaxis are normally a convenient way to getaround in towns and are reasonably priced.They are easily identied in designatedstations or can be contacted by telephone.Taxis to Gaborone are also available from SirSeretse Khama International Airport.

eNTRy foRMALiTies

visAsCitizens of most European and Common-wealth countries do not require a visa forentry into Botswana.

Visitors should check with Botswana

embassies or consulates, or their travelagents, before departure.

TravelCOMPANION

GeTTiNG THeRe

By AiR

Air Botswana, Botswanas national andonly airline, provides internationalights between Gaborone and Johannesburg, Gaborone and Harare,Maun and Johannesburg, Kasane and Johannesburg and Francistown and Johannesburg. Domestic ights runbetween Gaborone and Francistown,Maun and Kasane, and the airline hasrecently re-introduced its Maun toKasane ight (three times per week).

Air Botswana has thrice dailyights between Gaborone andJohannesburg.South African Airways has twicedaily ights between Johannesburgand Gaborone, during the week.South African Express has veights daily between Johannesburgand Gaborone, during the week.

Air Botswana has daily ights from Johannesburg direct to Maun.Air Namibia ies Windhoek toMaun every day of the week,except Tuesday and Thursday.Kenya Airways ies Nairobi toGaborone.Air charter services are also available.

Most major international airlines fromEurope, the United States, Asia andAustralia y to Johannesburg, SouthAfrica, where connecting ights

can be booked to Sir Seretse KhamaInternational Airport in Gaborone, or toMaun, Francistown or Kasane.

For ight details contact:

Ar Btwana Cntral RratnTel: +267 395-1921Web: www.airbotswana.bw

suth Arcan eprTel: +267 397-2397

Web: www.ysax.comsuth Arcan ArwaTel: +267 390-2210/12Web: wwwsaa.com

Ar NambaTel (South Africa): +27 11-978-5055Tel (Namibia): +26 461-299-6444Web: www.airnamibia.com.na

By RoAD

Botswana is accessible by tarred roadfrom South Africa, Zimbabwe, Zambiaand Namibia. Vehicles are driven onthe left hand side of the road. A validinternational drivers license, alongwith vehicle registration documents,are required to drive in Botswana, anddrivers should always carry them.

BoTsWANA /NAMiBiA

Mamuno 07h0000h00Ngoma 07h0018h00Mohembo 06h0018h00

BoTsWANA / soUTH AfRiCA

Pont Drift (Tuli) 08h0016h00Martins Drift 06h0022h00Tlokweng Gate 06h0000h00Ramotswa (Bridge) 07h0019h00

GAzeTTeD BoRDeR PosTs

Ramatlabama 06h0022h00Pioneer Gate 06h0000h00McCarthy Rest 08h0016h00

BoTsWANA/ ziMBABWe

Kazungula 06h0018h00Pandamatenga 08h0017h00Ramokgwebana 06h0022h00

BoTsWANA / zAMBiA

Kazungula (Ferry) 06h0018h00


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it tal r tr t carr a aldpassport and sufcient funds toacltat thr ta.

Nt: For countries with whom Botswanahas no diplomatic representation, visainformation and processing is availablethrough British Embassies and HighCommissions.

LUGGAGe ResTRiCTioNsIt is advisable to adhere to the luggagerestrictions for both scheduled international,domestic and charter ights: 20kgs (44lbs)on domestic ights, 12kgs (26lbs) on light

aircraft (including Okavango Delta charter

DUTy fRee ALLoWANCes

HeADQUARTeRsPrivate Bag 0041, GaboroneTel: +267 363-8000 / 363-9999Fax: +267 392-2781

ReGioNAL offiCes

soUTH ReGioNP.O. Box 263, LobatseTel: +267 533-0566,Fax: +267 533-2477

soUTH CeNTRAL ReGioNPrivate Bag 00102, GaboroneTel: +267 363-8000 / 363-9999Fax: +267 392-2781

CeNTRAL ReGioN

P.O. Box 129, Selebi PhikweTel: +267 261-3699 / 261-0627Fax: +267 261-5367

NoRTH ReGioNP.O. Box 457, FrancistownTel: +267 241-3635Fax: +267 241-3114

NoRTH WesT ReGioNP.O. Box 219, MaunTel: +267 686-1312Fax: +267 686-0194

ights), and 20kgs (44lbs) on internationalights.

vACCiNATioNs

If you are travelling to Botswana fromareas infected with Yellow Fever,you must have a valid Yellow Fevervaccination certicate. Otherwise,no other immunisations are required.However, it would be wise to have anupdated TPD (tetanus, polio, diphtheria)vaccine, and a Hepatitis A vaccine.

CUsToMs

All goods acquired outside Botswana mustbe declared when you enter the country.

BoATsNo boat, mokoro or aquatic apparatusmay be imported into Botswana, unlessthe owner is in possession of an importpermit issued by the Department ofWater Affairs.

For more information contact:

Dpartmnt Watr AarP/Bag 0029, GaboroneTel: +267 360-7100

PeTsThe importation of animals is closelyregulated for public health reasons andalso for the well being of the animals.Domestic pets and livestock may beimported subject to animal health

restrictions.

For more information contact:Drctr Anmal Halth & PrductnP/Bag 0032, GaboroneTel: +267 395-0500

Nt: A valid certicate of identity,rabies vaccination and movement permitissued in Lesotho, Malawi, South Africa,Swaziland, Namibia or Zimbabwe will be

accepted at the time of importation intoBotswana.

DRiveRs LiCeNsesDrivers are required to carry theirlicenses at all times. Licenses from

neighbouring countries are acceptedin Botswana. If not written in English, acertied written translation is required.International drivers licenses areaccepted in Botswana.

iMPoRTATioN of MoToR veHiCLesNon-residents visiting Botswana andcoming from a country outside theSouthern African Common Customs

Area for a limited period are normallyrequired to produce a carnet or bill ofentry (any duty liability thereon being

CUsToMs offiCes

Customs duties are not charged on

the following goods imported asaccompanied or unaccompaniedpassengers baggage:

* Includes all other alcoholicbeverages

** Includes cigarette and pipetobacco

Note: Duty will be payable at theapplicable rates where travellers

import goods exceeding the aboveallowances. Travellers importinggoods for business or commercialpurpose will not qualify for the aboveallowances.

Wines ..............................

Spirituous*........................

Cigarettes ........................

Cigars ..............................

Tobacco** .......................

Perfume ...........................

Toilet water.......................

2 litres

1 litre

200

20

250 gms

50 ml

250 ml

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TravelCOMPANION

or gym shoes are a must in allseasons.Special attention should be givento protection from the sun. Bring asunhat, good quality sunscreen, sunlotion and polarised sunglasses.Wide brimmed hats are preferableto baseball caps.

secured by bond or cash deposit) inrespect of their motor vehicles. Forfurther information, please contactDepartment of Customs.

Nt: The Southern African CommonCustoms Area comprises Botswana,Lesotho, South Africa, Swaziland andNamibia.

WHAT To BRiNG

Binoculars, torch, insect repellent, lipsalve, sunscreen, sunglasses. Cosmetics,medications, and cigarettes are allavailable in the major towns, but ifspecic brand names are needed, it isbest to bring enough to last your stay.

However, care needs to be taken tocomply with international aviationsecurity regulations for items in carryon luggage. Contact your airline fordetails.

WHAT To WeAR

In summer, lightweight, light-coloured cottons are preferable.Garments of neutral colours thatblend with the bush and forestare advisable for safaris and gameviewing.Avoid synthetic materials and

black clothing, as they increaseperspiration and discomfort.Bring a lightweight jacket and/or jersey for unexpected temperaturechanges or rain.In winter, wear trousers, long-sleeved shirts / blouses and jerseys.From May August, nighttemperatures can fall below zerodegrees celsius, so warm jerseysand jackets are vital, especially onmorning and evening game drives.Closed, comfortable walking shoes

PRoDUCT MAxTyPe QUANTiTy

MeATRed meat, goat/lamb 25 kg PFPoultry meat 5 kg PPTinned poultry meat 20 kg PP

DAiRyEggs 36 eggs PPFresh milk 2 litres PP

oTHeRsMaize / maize products 25 kg PP

Wheat 25 kg PPPulses (beans, peas, lentils) 25 kg PPSorghum / sorghum 25 kg PPproducts

Cabbage, Onions 1 bag PPPotatoes, Oranges,Tomatoes, Chimolia,Rape, Spinach

Bread loaves 6 per week

CoNsUMeR GooDs

The following consumer goods maybe imported for private use withoutan import permit, provided they donot exceed the maximum allowablequantities.

Key: PP-per person. PF-per family

iMPoRTATioN of GooDs

PLANTs

Plants may be imported subject toplant health restrictions, and SouthAfrican transit permits may also berequired in respect of plants shippedthrough South Africa.

For more information contact:Mntr Agrcultur, enqurP/Bag 003, GaboroneTel +267 395-0500

MeAT / DAiRy PRoDUCTs

The regulations on importing meatproducts change frequently, becausethey are based on disease outbreaks

in different countries. Always askcustoms ofcials upon arrival whatare the specic regulations.

For more information contact:Mntr Agrcultur, enqurP/Bag 003, GaboroneTel +267 395-0500

ResTRiCTeD GooDsThese are goods that can only be

imported with a license or permit.

Narcotic, habit forming drugs andrelated substances in any form;

Firearms, ammunition andexplosives;

Indecent and obscene materialsuch as pornographic books,magazines, lms, videos, DVDsand software.


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CoMMUNiCATioNs

Most of Botswana is networked byautomatic telephone exchanges, with

public telephones in even the mostremote places.

The International access code inBotswana is 00. When callinginternational to Botswana, dial +267.

Cellular phone coverage is providedby three mobile networks in Botswana:Mascom, Orange and be Mobile.

Mobile Sim cards are available in mostsupermarkets and service stations. Allmajor towns in Botswana are networkcovered, as well as portions of thenational highway.

Mobile networks in Botswana offervarious services to their subscribers,including Internet access, fax, andInternational Roaming. It is alwaysimportant to seek advice about networkservices so as to choose one that willwork for you.

Using a cellular phone whilst driving isagainst the law in Botswana, and liableto a P300 ne. Earphones or hands-freedevices are recommended.

For further information on the networkproviders in Botswana, consult the

following services:

MASCOM www.mascom.co.bwORANGE www.orange-botswana.co.bwBTC www.btc.co.bwbe Mobile www.be-mobile.co.bw

MoNey

CURReNCy

The Botswana currency is the Pula(meaning rain in Setswana). It is

divided into 100 thebe (meaningshield in Setswana).

Travellers cheques and foreign currency

may be changed at banks, bureaux dechange, and authorised hotels.

The US dollar, Euros, British Pound andthe South African Rand are the mosteasily convertible currencies.

Automatic teller machines acceptforeign visa cards, but are mostly foundin larger towns and cities. Cultural sites

and community art and craft outletsusually only accept cash.

BANKsSeven main commercial banks, aswell as a number of foreign exchangebureaux, operate in Botswana.

BANKiNG HoURs:Monday to Friday 8:30-15:30Saturday 8:30 to 10:45.

CReDiT CARDsMajor credit cards, such as MasterCardand Visa, are accepted throughout thecountry, in most hotels, restaurants,retail outlets and safari companies.However, shops in remote areas andservice stations may only accept cash.

offiCe HoURsGovernment Ofces / Departments

7:30 - 12:45 and 13:45 - 16:30Business 8:00 - 13:00 and 14:00 - 17:00Shops 9:00 - 18:00 Monday to Friday,

9:00 - 15:00 Saturday9:00 - 13:00 Sunday

TiMe

GMT plus 2 hours

eLeCTRiCAL sUPPLy

Electricity is supplied at 220/240v. Both

square and round wall plugs are used.

fiReARMs & AMMUNiTioN

The issue of rearms licenses inBotswana is strictly controlled, and allrearms imported under the authorityof an import permit must be licensedimmediately upon arrival in Botswana.The importation of rearms that do not

have the manufacturers serial numberor other number by which they canbe identied, stamped or engraved ona metal part of the weapon is totallyprohibited.

It should also be noted that policepermits for rearms are issued on alimited quota basis, and there can be aconsiderable delay in obtaining a permit,

particularly on rst importation. It isadvisable for intending importers to makeapplications well in advance of dispatch,so that unnecessary inconvenience andexpenses can be avoided.

Police permits for rearms are issued by:Cntral Arm, Th RgtrP O Box 334, Gaborone.Tel: +267 391-4202, +267 391-4106

DiAMoND PURCHAse

Visitors to Botswana have theopportunity to purchase diamond jewellery from authorised dealers. Astrict certifcation system is in placeto inform the buyer of the origin ofthe diamond, and the stated value andquality is verifed.

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HeALTH

Botswana is one of the healthiestcountries in sub-Saharan Africa, withgood primary health care facilitiesavailable throughout the country.However, the following healthprecautions are advised.

TRAveL iNsURANCeIt is essential for visitors to remote areasof Botswana to have a comprehensivemedical insurance policy, to providecoverage for the treatment of serious

illnesses/accidents, and if required,medical evacuation. Personal effectsinsurance is also advisable.

Check that your insurance policy willbe accepted by service providers inBotswana. Ensure that you are treatedby licensed medical personnel to enableyou to provide your insurance companywith appropriate documentation and

receipts.Reasonably priced medical servicesare available at government clinics andhospitals throughout the country. Privatemedical practitioners are available inthe cities and major towns, such asGaborone, Francistown and Maun.

Gaborone Private Hospital is the largestprivate hospital in Botswana. The

hospital requires medical coverage,or cash payment in advance wheremedical coverage is not available.

DRiNKiNG WATeRTap water throughout the country issafe to drink. Bottled mineral wateris readily available in most shopsand supermarkets, and at camps andlodges.

Tourists travelling by road are advised tocarry sufcient water at all times.

Hiv/AiDsVisitors are advised to take the necessaryprecautions against HIV/AIDS and otherSexually Transmitted Diseases.

MALARiAMalaria, including cerebral malaria, iscommon in northern Botswana, in theOkavango and Chobe areas, particularlyduring and immediately following therainy season, from November to April.

As the strains of malaria, and the drugsused to combat them, frequently change,

and as certain strains can become drugresistant, it is best to seek medicaladvice before your departure and takeany medication prescribed. Pregnant orvery young children are not advised totravel to malarial areas.

Other precautions are: to wear longsleeves, socks, closed shoes, andgenerally keep the body covered, tosleep with a mosquito net and to usemosquito coils and repellent.

sUN AND HeAT-ReLATeD PRoBLeMsAlways take preventive measures thatinclude wearing a wide-brimmed sunhatand sunglasses, liberally applyingsunscreen every three or four hours,regularly taking rehydration mixes,drinking plenty of water and fruit juices(at least three litres of liquid daily),

avoiding prolonged exposure to thesun, and avoiding excessive amounts ofalcohol, which causes dehydration.

sHoPPiNG

All major towns in Botswana, includingMaun and Kasane, have shoppingcentres and supermarkets, and all basic

commodities can easily be purchased.Many regional chain stores operate inBotswana. In addition, there are 24-

hour convenience shops at most fuelservice stations.

There is an increasing range of local arts

and crafts on sale in Gaborone, Maunand Kasane and other tourist areas; theyinclude Botswanas renowned world-class baskets, woodcarvings, jewellery,pottery, tapestries, fabrics and clothing,glassware, and San crafts.

vALUe ADDeD TAxTo claim 10% VAT refund for total valueof goods purchased, the amount spent

should be more than P5 000. In suchcases, the following is required: a taxinvoice stating VAT paid, your passportnumber and your bank account details.

It is always advisable to keep a copy ofthe VAT form as a record for any follow-up on the transaction.

VAT claims usually can be made at allmajor border posts and airports.

sAfeTy

The self-drive camper driving the openroads in Botswana should always drive ata reasonable speed, and avoid over-taking,except when absolutely necessary.

CRiMe

Botswana remains a relatively safe placeto visit or live. Take the normal precautionsyou would take anywhere else:

Always lock car doors;Always lock hotel rooms;Dont leave valuables in cars orhotel rooms;Take care with your bags in shoppingcentres and other crowded places,and after coming out of banks orATM kiosks;Avoid walking alone at night.

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ACCoMMoDATioN

All major towns and villages in thecountry have hotels, lodges, motels

and guesthouses, catering to a rangeof budgets, and some have campingfacilities. In and around parks andreserves, there are a variety of lodges, aswell as camps in private concessions.

Camping facilities are widely availablearound the country, both at privatelodges and/or hotels, and within thegovernment parks and reserves.

Visit www.botswanatourism.co.bw forgraded accommodation facilities.

NATioNAL PARKs & ReseRves

Botswanas extensive system of nationalparks and game reserves comprisesapproximately 17% of national landarea. A further 18% of national land

is allocated as Wildlife ManagementAreas which act as buffer zones aroundthe parks and reserves.

The parks are primarily unfenced,allowing wildlife to freely roam, aresituated in a variety of habitats and forthe most part are well managed.

Camping facilities are available in all

national parks and reserves. Campsitestypically have standpipes and ablutionblocks, with toilets and showers.

All camping in the national parks andreserves is in designated campsites,and campers are not allowed to campelsewhere in the parks.

Reservations for camping in nationalparks and reserves should be made

prior to departure.

For park camping reservations, contact:Dpartmnt Wldl & Natnal ParkGaborone Ofce: P.O. Box 131, GaboroneTel: +267 318-0774, Fax: +267 391-2354

Maun Ofce: P.O. Box 11, MaunTel: +267 686-1265, Fax: +267 686-1264

Ofces can be emailed on [email protected]

Nt: If you cannot honour yourreservations, please cancel well inadvance to give others a chance.

NoRTHeRN BoTsWANACHoBe NATioNAL PARKA park abundant in wildlife, offering asafari experience of a lifetime.s: 11 700 km2

Whn t t: all year roundRanall: 600mm per annumAltitude: 930m to 1000m above sea level

MoReMi GAMe ReseRveDescribed as one of the most beautifulwildlife reserves in Africa.s: 5 000 km2

Whn t vt: all year roundClmat: Temperatures range fromabout 14o Celsius (July) to 24o Celsius(January)Ranall: 525mm per annum, varyingAltitude: 930m to 1000m above sea level

NxAi PAN NATioNAL PARKOnce part of a prehistoric lake thatcovered central Botswana, this parkis now transformed into fossil panscovered with grassland that attract anabundance of game.s: 2 578 km2

Whn t t: all year roundClmat: Hot, extreme daytimeconditions

MAKGADiKGADi PANs NATioNAL PARKPart of one of the worlds largest saltpansand prehistoric lakes.

s: 12 000 km2

Whn t t: all year round

Clmat: Hot, extreme daytimeconditionsRanall: 500mm per annumAltitude: 930m to 1000m above sea level

MAUN eDUCATioNAL PARKSituated on the eastern banks of theThamalakane River, the park is aneducation centre for schoolchildren; ithas a variety of wildlife species that canbe viewed from game hides.Whn t t: all year round

CeNTRAL BoTsWANACeNTRAL KALAHARi GAMe ReseRveThe worlds second largest reserve,holding vast open plains, scrub bush, saltpans, ancient riverbeds, and sand dunes.s: 52 800 km2

Whn t t: all year roundClmat: Hot, dry conditionsRanall: 150mm per annumAltitude: 600m to 1600m above sea level

KHUTse GAMe ReseRve

Characterised by undulating plainsand dry Kalahari bush savannah, withan extensive mineral pan system in thereserve, which attracts animals.s: 2,500 km2

Whn t t: all year round

WesTeRN BoTsWANAKGALAGADi TRANsfRoNTieR PARKFamous for its large antelope herds,

this is Africas rst peace park, whereanimals roam freely across the nationalborders of Botswana and South Africa.s: 36 000 km2

Whn t t: all year roundClmat: Hot, dry conditionsRanall: 200mm per annum, varyingAltitude: 900m to 1100m above sea level

soUTHeRN BoTsWANAGABoRoNe GAMe ReseRve

Nestled in the city and a popular spotfor city residents, the park offers game

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and bird viewing, picnic sites and aneducation centre.s: 500 HectaresWhn t t: all year round

Ranall: 510mm per annumAlttud: 970m above sea level

MANNyeLANoNG GAMe ReseRveThe name of the park derives from theCape Vulture, an endangered bird thatis protected; the area is fenced and thebirds can only be viewed from afar.Whn t t: all year round

seLf DRive CAMPiNG

Embarking on a camping trip inBotswana requires a good deal ofplanning and preparation. You will begoing to remote areas, accessible onlyby four-wheel drive, where water, petrolor food may not be available. You mayoften be driving on rough terrain, andthrough heavy sand, in conditions very

different from those you are used to.

As a general rule, take all foodrequirements to last your stay. Takeat least 20 litres of water per person,preferably more; for desert destinations,carry between 50 and 100 litres. Carryat least 100 litres of petrol in long-rangetanks or in metal jerry tins. Take sparevehicle parts for breakdowns.

As campsites within game reserves andnational parks are usually not fenced, it isimportant for campers to take necessaryprecautionary measures to ensure theirsafety, and to abide by the informationprovided by wildlife ofcers.

The following basic camping rulesshould be strictly heeded:

Only camp in designated campsites.

Always sleep in your tent, roof tentor vehicle. Make sure your tent zips

up well.Dont sleep with legs or armsprotruding from the tent.

Use rubbish receptacles at thecampsites; if there are none, carryaway all rubbish until you get to thenext town.

Cigarette butts should be wellextinguished and placed in a rubbish

bag, not thrown on the ground.Make sure the campre is wellextinguished at the end of theevening, or after use, and cover itwith sand.

Dont sleep on bridges or animalpaths, particularly those of elephantsand hippos.

Bury all faecal matter and burn all

toilet paper.

Dont bathe or drink from still bodiesof water; there is the danger ofbilharzia.

In the Okavango, dont swim inlagoons or streams; there is thedanger of crocodiles and/or hippos.

Children must be constantlysupervised. Never leave them alonein the campsite. Never allow childrento nap on the ground or in the open.

Dont stray far from the campsite,or walk in the bush, unless with aqualied guide.

Th gnral rul thumb r campngn Btwana tak nl mmr,la nl tprnt.

fisHiNGIn the Panhandle area of the Okavango,there are a number of camps and lodgesthat specialise in shing excursions.

Fishing can also be done on the ChobeRiver, outside the park. Fishing is onlyallowed in designated areas of thenational parks, and only with an ofcialpermit.

For shing permit enquiries, contact:Dpartmnt Wldl & Natnal ParkGaborone Ofce: P.O. Box 131,GaboroneTel: +267 397-1405Fax: +267 391-2354 / 393-2205Maun Ofce: P.O Box 11, MaunTel: +267 686-0368, Fax: +267 686-0053Kasane Ofce: P.O. Box 17, KasaneTel: +267 625-0486, Fax: +267 625-1623Nt: Permits must be applied for inperson. Both monthly and annual permitsare issued.

fiReWooD

Firewood is dened as wood that isboth dead and fallen and which canbe removed without the use of tools.Self-drive campers should use rewoodsparingly and only when necessary.

TravelCOMPANION

Ambulance 997 (toll free)

Police 999 (toll free)Fire Brigade 998 (toll free)

Medical Rescue 911 (toll free)

Medical Air Rescue 390-1601

Mascom 122

Orange 112

be mobile 1333

eMeRGeNCy NUMBeRs


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BoTsWANA ToURisMBoARD CoNTACTs

LoCAL offiCes

HadquartrPrivate Bag 00275Plot 50676, Fairgrounds Ofce ParkGaborone, BotswanaTel: +267 391-3111Fax: +267 [email protected]

Man MallCresta President Hotel, Ground FloorGaborone, BotswanaTel: +267 395-9455Fax: +267 318-1373

franctwnP.O. Box 301236

Plot 316 Shop D5 & D6, C.B.D,Ground oor of Diggers Inn Hotel,Francistown, BotswanaTel: +267 244-0113Fax: +267 [email protected]

GhanP.O. Box 282Department of Tourism Building,Opposite Shell Filling StationGhanzi, BotswanaTel: +267 659-6704Fax: +267 [email protected]

slb-PhkwP.O. Box 2885Lot 2574, Block 2, Shop 3B

Central Business DistrictSelebi-Phikwe, Botswana

KaanP.O. Box 381Madiba Shopping Centre,Opposite Bus Rank, next to The BakeryKasane, BotswanaTel: +267 625-0555Tel: +267 625-2210/1 (airport ofce)Fax: +267 [email protected]

MaunP.O. Box 20068, BosejaPlot 246, Apollo HouseMaun, BotswanaTel: +267 686-1056Tel: +267 686-3093 (airport ofce)Fax: +267 686-1062

[email protected]

PalapP.O. Box 11040Plot 3726, along the A1 Road,Agrivert BuildingPalapye, BotswanaTel: +267 492-2138Fax: +267 [email protected]

TabngP.O. Box 688Department of Tourism BuildingTsabong, BotswanaTel: +267 654-0822Fax: +267 654-0813/[email protected]

offiCes AND AGeNCies ABRoAD

Grmanc/ intrac intrnatnalKarl-Marx-Allee 91 A10243 Berlin, GermanyTel: +49 30-42-49-43Fax: +49 30-42-25-62-86Contact: Frank [email protected]@interface-net.dewww.botswanatourism.de

Untd Kngdmc/ Btwana Hgh Cmmn6 Stratford PlaceLondon, W1C 1AYTel: +44 207 499-0031Fax: +44 207 495-8595

Contact: Dawn [email protected]

c/ Partnr Cncpt LLC127 Lubrano Drive, Suite 203Annapolis, MD 21401 USAToll-free (USA/Canada): +1-888-675-7660Tel: 410-224-7688Fax: 410-224-1499Contact: Leslee [email protected]


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CReDiTs:

Cover photo montage:

Tuli panorama, Roger and Pat de la Harpe; Basket and

Basket weaver, Sarah Banks.

Inside front cover: Roger and Pat de la Harpe.Inside back cover: Roger and Pat de la Harpe.

Page 2-3: Roger and Pat de la Harpe.

Page 4-5: Top row from left: Roger and Pat de la Harpe;Roger and Pat de la Harpe; Eva Spyrdis; Botswana

National Museum; Roger and Pat de la Harpe. Bottom

row: Roger and Pat de la Harpe.

Page 6-7: Roger and Pat de la Harpe.

Page 8: Roger and Pat de la Harpe.Pagr 9: Roger and Pat de la Harpe.

Page 10: Sarah Banks.Page 11: Sarah Banks.

Page 12: Botswana National Museum.

Page 13: Botswana National Museum.

Page 14: Botswana National Museum.Page 15: Botswana National Museum.

Page 16: Left: Eva Spyrdis; Right: Sarah Banks.

Page 17: Sarah Banks.Page 18: Jono Sibanda.

Page 18-1: Eva Spyrdis.Page 19: Eva Spyrdis.

Page 20: Vincent Grafhorst.Page 21: Eva Spyrdis.

Page 22: Eva Spyrdis.

Page 23: Eva Spyrdis.Page 24: Vincent Grafhorst.

Page 25: Roger and Pat de la Harpe.

All Maps produced by Department of Surveys and

Mapping, Gaborone, 2009.

Republic of Botswana.


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Travel

COMPANIONTravel

The denitive travel guides to Botswana

COMPANION

Travel

BTB 2010

R gional MapCOMPANION

COMPANIONTravelEASTERN BOTSWANA

TravelCOMPANION Distance Chart (kms)


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18-2

TravelCOMPANIONEasternRegion

18-3

FrancistownOPENFORBOTSWANAMAP

Regional MapsEastern Region 18-2

Francistown 18-3

Botswana fold out

Distance Chart 18-4

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100 kilometers = 62.1 miles

BainesDrift

275 Francistown

418 436 Gaborone

1083 769 665 Gantsi

5 61 2 86 7 22 4 83 G we ta

5 80 5 97 1 62 5 03 9 86 Jwa ne ng

8 17 8 28 3 99 2 65 74 8 2 38 K an g

508 525 90 581 811 78 316 Kanye

7 66 4 92 9 27 7 86 4 02 1 08 9 1 05 1 1 0 17 K as an e

7 66 5 52 1 17 5 41 1 02 4 2 15 2 76 1 43 1 04 4 L et lh ak en g

490 507 72 631 793 128 366 50 999 188 Lobatse

2 47 2 35 2 01 8 58 5 21 3 62 5 93 2 68 7 26 31 7 27 2 M ah al apy e

1 13 2 74 3 31 9 89 5 60 4 93 7 23 4 21 76 6 44 8 40 3 1 34 M ar ti ns Dr if t

764 490 887 279 204 782 544 860 507 820 959 687 726 Maun

469 486 51 607 772 149 342 77 978 66 122 251 382 938 Molepolole

462 188 623 581 98 785 846 713 304 740 695 423 462 302 674 Nata

475 229 528 636 1069 696 902 618 703 645 600 327 366 357 579 399 Orapa

223 163 272 930 449 434 664 362 655 389 344 72 111 615 323 351 256 Pal apye

66 1 3 86 82 2 10 73 2 97 98 3 1 33 9 9 12 10 5 9 38 8 93 6 21 6 60 5 00 8 72 1 98 59 7 5 50 Pa nd am at en ga

497 515 79 639 801 136 374 58 1007 196 8 280 411 967 130 703 607 352 901 Pi oneer Gate

611 385 660 506 251 822 772 750 653 777 732 459 498 227 711 350 130 388 548 739 Rakops

539 557 121 672 843 169 407 91 1048 238 49 322 452 1008 172 744 649 393 943 57 781 Ramatl abama

452 469 34 668 755 217 403 93 961 151 58 235 365 921 84 657 562 306 856 66 694 108 R amotswa

12 9 1 4 6 4 0 7 10 28 4 32 56 8 7 99 4 97 6 38 5 23 4 78 2 06 1 51 7 49 4 57 33 4 3 90 1 34 5 32 4 86 5 22 5 28 44 1 S el ebi -P hi kw e

268 208 317 849 494 478 709 407 699 433 388 116 155 570 367 396 211 45 594 396 343 438 351 179 Serowe

1 14 1 8 6 6 1 2 63 5 24 5 80 1 02 7 7 89 1 10 5 9 82 1 06 5 1 1 55 1 06 3 1 1 02 3 76 1 13 1 6 78 7 34 9 91 8 77 1 16 3 6 03 1 19 6 1 1 92 1 01 2 9 4 7 S ha ka we

9 34 9 52 5 16 6 28 1 111 3 55 3 62 43 3 1 44 4 5 70 4 83 71 7 8 48 9 07 5 04 11 40 1 04 4 7 89 13 38 49 1 1 17 6 5 2 4 52 0 9 23 8 33 1 15 2 T sa bo ng

26 248 392 1087 534 553 784 482 740 508 463 202 86 808 442 436 449 193 634 471 581 513 426 102 238 1184 908 Z anzibar

LEGEND

Town

Village

TarredRoad

Track

River

Lake/Dam

NationalPark

BorderPost

Airstrip

PetrolStation

Accommodation

Placeofinterest

Lodge

Campsite

LEGEND

Road

Railway

CommercialArea

ResidentialArea

AgriculturalArea

Waterbody

PoliceStation

InternationalAirport

M fMOHEMBONGOMA BRIDGE

07h00 - 18h00KAZUNGULA06h00 - 20h00

KAZUNGULA FERRY06h00 - 18h00


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Map ofBotswana

PONT DRIFT08h00 - 16h00

PLATJAN08h00 - 16h00

ZANZIBAR08h00 - 16h00

MARTINS DRIFT06h00 - 22h00

PARRS HOLT08h00 - 16h00

SIKWANE07h00 - 19h00TLOKWENG

06h00 - 00h00

RAMOTSWA

07h00 - 19h00

RAMATLABAMA06h00 - 22h00

PIONEER GATE06h00 - 00h00

PHITSHANE MOLOPO07h30 - 16h30

MAKOPONG08h00 - 16h00

HEREFORD / BRAY08h00 - 16h00

McCARTHY REST08h00 - 16h00

MIDDELPITS08h00 - 16h00

BOKSPITS08h00 - 16h00

MAMUNO07h00 - 00h00

MOHEMBO06h00 - 18h00

PANDAMATENGA08h00 - 17h00

RAMOKGWEBANA06h00 - 22h00

N

Bobonong

LEGEND

City

Town

Village

Gravel Road

Tarred Road

Track

River

Lake / Dam

National Park

Border Post

International Airport

Airstrip

Petrol Station

Accommodation

Monument

Police Station

Clinic

Shopping

Diamond Shopping

Basket Crafts

Health Spa

Water Spring

Sand Dunes

SAFARI OPTIONS

Bird Watching

Boat Cruise

Camel Ride

Elephant Back

Fishing Safari

Game Drives

Horse Safari

Hot Air Balloon

Mekoro

Photographic

Quad Biking

Scenic Flight

Star Gazing

Walking Safari

bots tourism with map

Documents