Francistown is the oldest city in Botswana; built in1860, while adventurers of all kinds traveled to Botswana to find gold. Today, the earth is full of a few less noble metals but its industrial and agricultural activity is still good. Some period buildings such as the prison, the court or the station have been preserved which gives the place a pinch of charm of yesteryear.
The capital of the central district with nearly 100,000 inhabitants, Serowe is one of the most important cities in sub-Saharan Africa. It is its rich historical past to King Khama III, leader of the Ngwato, who raised to the rank of capital in 1902 and this to the detriment of Phalatswe. The museum of Khama III, dedicated to this family and its history. In the center of the city, at the top of the Thathaganyana hill, stands the Royal Cemetery, ruins of a village dating back to the 11th century.
Twenty kilometers north-west of the city, the Khama Rhino Sanctuary is a reserve 25 km from Serowe. Not only does it host the largest Rhino population of the country but there are also elands, wildebeest, zebras, spingboks and giraffes in a landscape quite similar to the large neighboring pans...
This South-Eastern area in Botswana, which corresponds to a strip of about 200km at the south-eastern border, is not the most touristic in the country. However, this area concentrates nearly 80% of its population: cities of Gaborone and Francistown are vital economic and administrative poles in the country. However the landscapes are worth seeing: distinguished from Kalahari by a more rugged relief mixing hills and rocky cliffs. The capital Gaborone, then further north the region of Tuli Block, and Francistown and its surroundings are definitely points of interest while visiting the country!
- All of this southeastern part of Botswana is the cradle of the nation and the main Tswana tribes. A very good way to immerse yourself in Botswana's cultures.
- Gaborone does not deserve a visit in itself but can be a nice and cultural stopover from South Africa - Madikwe Game Reserve for example...
- The Tuli Block area combines well with either a stay in North Kruger and Venda area. It can also be a great stop on the road between Johannesburg and the famous Victoria Falls ...
Botswana, the Greatest Wildlife
Botswana's National Parks are, without doubt, the wildest in Africa. Tourism is intentionally limited to preserve pristine nature. If you can afford authentic Africa, head for Botswana, one of the last wild sanctuaries on the continent, distinguished by an abundance of exceptionally rich wildlife. A trip to Botswana almost inevitably involves a visit to Victoria Falls in Zimbabwean territory due to their strategic position: take a step at the end of your safari, their grandiose appearance will amaze you.
When to go?
The dry season lasts from April to October to the south and November to the north where, however, the rain totals are higher. The southern part of the country is most exposed to cold winds during the winter period (early May to late August) when the average temperature is about 14 ° C (57.2 ° F). The whole country has hot summers with average temperatures around 26 ° C (78.8 ° F). Temperatures are high throughout the year although winter is the sunniest period. The whole country is windy and dusty during the dry season.
Formalities
The visa is not compulsory for French nationals. The passport must be valid for at least six months after entry into Botswana. The permitted length of stay is in the sole discretion of the Immigration officer, it is recommended to check the date on the stamp when entering the country.
Anyone traveling to Botswana with a minor child must be able to provide a complete and certified copy of the child's birth certificate or a plurilingual birth certificate in addition to his or her valid passport. If the child is traveling with only one of his parents, he will have to present a travel authorization signed by the absent parent.
Health
No vaccination is mandatory but some vaccinations are recommended; Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory for all travellers from a country where endemic yellow fever is present but may be advised to all travellers.
Antimalarial treatment is recommended (see your doctor).
Currency
The Pula (which in Tswana means "rain") is the official currency of Botswana.
Major credit cards are accepted in most of lodges but it is imperative to possess US dollars in sufficient quantity to regulate the extras (drinks, tips...)