Botswana Nutz and Bolts

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Country: Botswana
Where is it?: Botswana lies in southern africa, north of South Africa
Why do people go here?: Another country for safari holiday-makers, Botswana once only catered to high-end safari tourists. Slowly, more and more independent travelers are attempting to traverse the vast country. Due to its vast national parks and the famous Okavango Delta, as well as the lack of tourists, this is quickly becoming Africa's best destination.
What are the main entry points?: There are flights into Gaborone, but it's more affordable to fly into Harare or Johanessburg. A number of travelers come ffrom South Africa, Namibia and Zimbabwe.
Currency used: Pula
Country Code for Phones: 267
Area codes for Major Cities: Gaborone 31
Other Phone Tips:
Religion: Khoisan 50%, Roman Catholic 50%
Population: 1850000
Ethnic Breakdown: Tswana 95%, Kalanga, Baswara, Kgalagadi 4%, White 1%
Government: Republic
Languages: English, Tswana
Major Cities: Gaborone, Francistown
Attractions: Okavango Delta, Chobe National Park
Accomodation: Botswana Hostels, Botswana Hotels
Tourism Office locations and links: Botswana-Department of Tourism Private Bag 0047 Gaborone, Botswana, http://www.gov.bw/tourism/index_f.html
Off-the-Beaten-Path: Gemsbok National Park, Makgadikgadi & Nxai Pan National Park
Health Issues: Malaria
When to go: April through September are the best times to visit Botswana
Common Phrases: English is the official language, although Setswana is spoken by a huge majority of the population
Specific Events/Holidays: Presidents Day: July 30, October 1: Botswana Day
Getting Around: Botswana has a few major buslines between the bigger cities. However, without a vehicle, traveling around Botswana can be difficult. Hitching is a good option.
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