Joanna James
Blessed with a stunning array of exotic wildlife and natural beauty, Botswana provides many thrilling excursions. Of course, such experiences are not just relegated to safaris and art lovers have something to look forward to as well. Intrigued? Read on for more!
If you are looking to spot elephants in their natural habitat, Chobe National Park is one of the best places to do so. It is home to thousands of these gentle giants, one of the largest concentrations in all of Africa; the best time to view elephants here is the dry season (June to October) especially in the area in and around the Chobe River where they tend to congregate or cross the water. Apart from pachyderms, you can spot buffalos, cheetahs, lions, leopards, zebras, wildebeests and giraffes too.
Covering a massive area of water, the Okavango Delta is located in the northern part of the country and offers lots of adventures aboard a "mokoro"; this is the name given to a wooden dugout that is used as a traditional form of transport as well as a vessel to go fishing. Travellers on mokoro safaris have a chance to venture along enchanting waterways and lagoons, spot all manner of wildlife and birdlife and even enjoy camping. Those visiting in September can also try some fly fishing with an opportunity to catch-and-release species such as tiger fish.
For an unforgettable adventure when darkness descends, try a special drive at the Mokolodi Nature Reserve that lets you encounter creatures of the night in Botswana! Resorts in the capital, Gaborone, are within easy reach of this park which has much to explore during the day as well. However, those choosing the night safari can expect a whole new perspective of the landscape and wildlife; they can look forward to a chance of spotting wild cats, brown hyena, porcupine, aardvark, nocturnal birds and if lucky, leopards too.
While the Gaborone Game Reserve may not be large compared to its counterparts in the country, it is in fact, one of the busiest. Easy to access from city properties the likes of Avani Gaborone Resort & Casino, this game reserve is a top attraction for those staying in the capital, including those who love birdwatching. Amongst the avifauna one can see here are snake eagles, hornbills, sandpipers, kingfishers, African crakes and flamingos. Animals such as ostriches, wildebeests, zebras, impalas, giraffes and warthogs can be spotted too.
Not all adventure-filled things to do in Botswana are centred around wildlife and as art lovers will tell you, avant-garde artistic creations can be just as exciting to see! One place you can view such art is at the Thapong Visual Arts Centre in Gaborone. The exhibits, mostly by up and coming local artists, display artwork that touches on a broad range of subjects be it wildlife or culture. While one will find various exhibitions held here, the centre also features different workshops to promote artistic expression and creative talent.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
