BOTSWANA - LAND OF OKAVANGO AND KALAHARI

Botswana is THE shining example of southern Africa. Of all countries in the world it has one of the fastest growing economies in the world - as a result of its diamant industry. Initially Botswana was one of the less attractive colonies - and the diamants were only discovered just after independence. Which explaines why Botswana is doing so well in comparison with most of its neighbours.

Botswana is divided in two: the Okavango Delta and the Kalahari desert. The Okavango Delta is one of the most important watersystems in the world - with permanent water - which means it attracts a lot of animals. Which is one of the most important tourist attractions of Botswana: the lions, leopards, elephants, antelopes. Many tourists come yearly to see game from one of the luxury camps. And luxurious they are! Botswana has chosen (unlike Kenya) for the upper segment to avoid mass tourism by which they try to limit the impact on nature. Rates of 1,000 dollar per person per night are not an exception!

But also the desert has to offer a lot. The main areas are Nxai pan, Makgadikgadi pan and Deception Valley - where one can also find a lot of wildlife. Beautiful desolate landscapes where still wildlife seem to survive - which is almost incredible.

Culturally Botswana is not very interesting. The oldest inhabitants, the San (or Bushmen as they are sometimes called) are losing their culture. The only thing one can still find are century old rock paintings as at Tsodilo Hills.