The Makgadikgadi and the Nxai National Park offer landscapes of great wild beauty. The skirts of Sua and Ntwetwe, which make up 12 000 km² of Makgadikgadi Pans, are the largest salt deserts in the world. Until 200 000 years ago, this territory was covered by one of the largest lakes in Africa that dried up gradually. Even today, archaeological remains of an ancient settlement are found on the shoreline.
In the region of Nxai Pan, the spectacle of animals - wildebeest, zebras, gemsboks, antelopes, giraffes, hounds, hyenas, lions... – gathering on the grassy sides remains very impressive especially during the annual migrations.
This region is also home to the gigantic baobab of Chapman, which measures 25 m in diameter and is the largest tree in Africa... it has also historically served as a landmark in these desert regions.
- Do not miss a "boat cruise" on the Chobe River at sunset: elephants and buffaloes get refreshed and play, hippos become active, crocodiles dry on the bank at the last light of day...
- As long as you are in this part of the world, pass easily Zimbabwe side to get to Victoria Falls, simply one of the most beautiful wonders of the world !!!
- The most impressive areas are those of Nxai and Kgama Kgama, which are also the most accessible area just 50 km from the Nata-Maun road... the best time is from December to July as the animals are the most visible.
- Live an unforgettable experience by spending a night in Lekhubu Island, the jewel of the area: campfire, stars gazing, sunrise and sunset breathtaking!
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...)