Essential tips and local insights for a seamless journey
We provide practical, up-to-date guidance to help you make the most of your safari or journey, whether it’s your first trip or your fifth. Our advice covers travel seasons, local customs and language essentials, self-drive tips, health, money, travel documents, and travelling with children. We also share key insights on Botswana and Namibia, including history, politics, and culture, so you can travel with confidence and deeper understanding.
Country Information
Botswana and Namibia are among Africa’s most spacious and least densely populated countries. Botswana is around 19 times the size of Belgium, Namibia even 26 times, yet both have an average population density of only about four people per square kilometre. The result is a strong sense of space, with wide horizons, vast protected areas and unspoilt landscapes. Situated in Southern Africa, both countries border Zimbabwe, South Africa, Zambia and Angola and are widely regarded as safe, stable travel destinations. Botswana has been an independent republic since 1966, Namibia since 1990, and both have maintained democratic governance and long-term stability.
Travel Seasons
Botswana and Namibia follow a similar seasonal rhythm, yet each period offers a distinctly different travel experience. Rather than one “best” season, the right time depends on landscapes, wildlife, atmosphere and travel style. We personally have a soft spot for the green season, when landscapes transform and travel feels quieter and more intimate, especially in the Central Kalahari and Makgadikgadi where migrations gather thousands of animals. By understanding seasonal differences, we design journeys that align wildlife, scenery, comfort and budget into a perfectly timed experience.
For Self-Drivers
Driving in Namibia and Botswana is surprisingly relaxed, even though traffic keeps to the left. You get used to it quickly, although the windscreen wipers may occasionally win out over the indicators. In Botswana all main roads are tarred, in Namibia you’ll travel a lot on well-maintained gravel roads, which, after a short briefing, are comfortable and easy to navigate. What truly makes driving here special are the vast, breathtaking landscapes and the wildlife you may casually encounter along the roadside.
Health & Safety
As we are not medical professionals, we always recommend checking with your GP or travel clinic, as advice can change over time. In general, neither Botswana nor Namibia requires mandatory vaccinations. However, vaccinations such as MMR, DTP and Hepatitis A are commonly recommended.In northern Botswana, northern Namibia and the Caprivi Strip, malaria can occur, particularly during the rainy season. We therefore advise carrying mosquito protection (such as DEET) and consulting your travel clinic about appropriate malaria medication.
Money Matters
Namibia has the Namibian Dollar, Botswana the Pula (which means ‘rain’ by the way, the most valuable resource in these semi-arid regions), in South Africa you pay with Rands.Sure, in some establishments you can also pay in USD or Euro, but we advise you never to do that. It will turn out more expensive and there is simply no need. Virtually everywhere you can pay with your European debit or credit cards (don’t forget to ‘open’ them for international use). Of course having some cash at hand might come in handy, for in small grocery shops, souvenir stalls, tipping,… Bringing stags of cash into the country is really a thing of the past: in all cities and towns there are ATM’s of which most should accept your card.
Travelling with Children
One of the best destinations in Africa indeed. It’s safe! Both countries offer a safe way to discover the continent’s best. Both in terms of security as in terms of travel health.
Animals & adventure! What better way to entice your kids than offering them the chance to see big game up close?
Local Flavors
Food in Botswana and Namibia is generally familiar and accessible. In lodges, guesthouses and most restaurants you will find largely international cuisine with a Southern African influence, fresh salads, grilled fish, pasta dishes and hearty breakfasts. Nothing overly exotic, but consistently good and satisfying after a day outdoors.
