Overview of Botswana

Quick Overview

In the heart of Southern Africa, landlocked, Botswana is a vast plateau with an average altitude of 1,000 m, largely occupied by the Kalahari Desert. The north, a livestock region, consists of sparse forests and the marshes of the Okavango River delta (which never reaches the sea). It is also here that the country's main parks and reserves, rich in wildlife, are concentrated, forming the primary tourist attraction.

Very sparsely populated, with its population mainly in the east, Botswana derives its income primarily from its subsoil, with vast diamond deposits, as well as nickel and copper. Thanks to these well-managed resources, the country is the wealthiest in Africa, earning it the nickname "Switzerland of Africa". However, a large portion of the population does not truly benefit from this wealth, given the unemployment, underemployment, and poverty rates (though it is worse among its neighbors). Politically, Botswana is a model on the continent for democracy and governance. For over a century, it has never experienced conflicts, including during decolonization, guerrilla movements, or coups.

Key Facts

• Location: in the heart of Southern Africa, just above South Africa.

• Latitude/longitude: 22.00' S, 24.00' E.

• Local time: Heure : 6200

• Capital: Gaborone.

• Nature of the state: parliamentary republic.

• Official language: English (but Setswana is the national language).

• Currency: pula.

• Population: 2,249,104 inhabitants (2018).

• Area: 581,730 km².

• Density: 3.9 inhabitants/km².

• Highest point: Tsodilo Hills (1,489 m).

• Lowest point: 513 m.

• Coastline: 0.

• Driving: on the left.

• Flag: [drapeau: Botswana]

Tourism

Tourism is a key sector of Botswana's economy, not so much in terms of visitor numbers but due to the high-end orientation chosen by the government with the "official" aim of reducing its environmental impact. It accounts for 12% of national wealth and employs tens of thousands of people directly or indirectly. One of the strategies is to involve local communities in the planning and management of projects, particularly in safari zones.

Each year, the country welcomes over 1.5 million visitors (1.623 million in 2017), many from South Africa. Around 10,000 to 15,000 French visitors also travel to Botswana annually. The main attraction remains the parks and reserves for safaris. The Moremi and Chobe parks, as well as the Okavango Delta, are the most visited sites.

Travel Essentials

• Destination: for beginner travelers.

• By air: France-Gaborone for 750/950 € round trip.

• Entry requirements: passport valid at least 6 months after return date.

• Currency to bring: euros.

• Exchange rate:

• Daily "backpacker" budget: 35 to 40 € per person for daily expenses + at least 200 € per safari day.

• Accommodation: guesthouses or camping/campsites, especially on safari.

• Getting around: car (not necessarily 4x4) with a "roof tent."

• Risks: relatively low in terms of health and safety.

• Best time for climate/crowds/prices: late April to early June and September offer the best balance.

• Interests (out of ★★★★): Nature ★★★★; Adventure ★★★; Culture ★; Relaxation/Holidays ★.

Addresses in France

Tourist Office: see online (English).

Addresses in Belgium, Switzerland, and Quebec

Socio-Economic Statistics

• "Quality of life": 101/188 (rank in 2018)

• GDP per capita: $17,000 (2017)

• Average monthly income: $620 (2012)

• Inflation: +3.3% (2017)

• "Official" unemployment: 20% (2013)

• Population below poverty line: 21% (2011)

• Life expectancy: 63.8 years (2018)

• Migration rate per 1,000 inhabitants: +3 (2017)

• Population growth: +1.52% (2018)

• Literacy rate: 88.5% (2015)

• Urban population: 69.4% (2018)

• Press freedom: 48/180 (rank in 2018)

• Political regime: flawed democracy (28/167 in 2018)

Sources: World Bank, Human Development Indicators, RSF, The Economist, The World Factbook