Have you ever travelled through Botswana? I could not believe what I found.
July 20, 2017
A landlocked country and the proud hosts of the world-renowned historical site the Okavango Delta. The Okavango is a gigantic water swamp with islands separating the water channels that are home to hundreds of indigenous land, water and winged wildlife. It is a country that comprises half of its landscape of arid desert where some of the world’s largest diamonds have been uncovered. Wildlife roams freely and is occasionally spotted strolling through the busy tourist town known as Kasane, situated on the embankment of the mighty Chobe River.
Moremi National Park
The reality of this freedom can be experienced when travelling along some of the countries major motorways that stretches from Nata, an arid small town to Kasane or Maun, further west. Visitors frequently encounter wild elephants crossing the tarred motorways and some are even lucky enough to view some Lion and Hyena whilst travelling at dusk or dawn. There are an estimate of 2.25 million (according to the 2016 census) people living in Botswana leaving vast landscapes untouched and un-inhibited.
Ihaha campsite, Chobe National Park
Tourism is one of the country’s main sources of income along with agriculture and mining. The most common activity the majority of tourists partake in would be a Safari trip to view the magnificent wildlife from the safety of a vehicle or boat. Nearly 200 000 ± wild Elephants occupy this landscape – if you are after some pachyderms, Botswana would be the place for you. Tourists also tend to enjoy the rugged landscape of the Kalahari Desert, as they test their own wits and skills of 4 x 4 driving and camping.
Boat cruise on the Boteti River, Makgadikgadi National Park
Exclusive and luxury lodges are designed and carved from the dreams of others and shared with those that appreciate the finer things in life. The land is full of surprises and around each corner there is something special to be experienced and to appreciate Africa at it’s best. In truth, I discovered the magic that lies deeply rooted within this beautiful country and still yearn for more.
By Marnus Roodbol
