The international travel and tourism industry has weighed in on which are the top travel destination candidates in 2020 and Botswana has once again been awarded a well-deserved spot on that list.
A land of remote and contrasting wilderness regions, where ticking clocks are replaced by the rising and setting of the sun as the best times for game and bird watching, Botswana has always been one of the – if not the – top travel destinations in Southern Africa for newbies and long-time enthusiasts that want an authentic wildlife safari experience.
“While many southern African countries monetized the safari as an economy of scale, Botswana leaned into exclusivity instead of volume, championing singular, upmarket experiences for the few instead of midrange camps for the many. The strategy paid off as the peaceful nation has garnered an international reputation for its roaring population of wildlife versus a small huddle of tourists” – Harper’s Bazaar, 30 December 2019
Quality over quantity
As referred to by Harper’s Bazaar above, Botswana’s ‘quality over quantity’ ethos has ensured that the wildlife safari experience here has remained true to its origins. So, for example, exploring the bush and encountering wildlife within the private concessions of the Okavango Delta is not marred by the exhaust fumes, clicking cameras and blocked visibility of other 4x4s that can often define a safari in other countries.
Tourism done responsibly
It is this particular approach taken by the government and travel industry that has made Botswana stand out from its neighbours in a way that really counts. Sustainable and responsible tourism initiatives form an integral part of each safari lodge and camp’s investment into community empowerment, wildlife conservation and ecosystem protection.
Wildlife comes first
On the whole, regulations regarding human activity and property development in Botswana’s key wilderness areas are consistently enforced, which results in high standards within the safari industry. For instance, boating on the Chobe River does not disturb the goings on of aquatic animal and bird life as accessibility to this important ecosystem is limited and regulated.
Luxury with respect
Safari camps and lodges ensure guests are afforded modern luxuries but not at the expense of the surrounding environment. Properties are generally small and unfenced so that animals’ natural pathways and access to food and water are, as far as possible, not blocked. Guests are briefed on safari etiquette that is applied when at their accommodation and out in the bush walking, driving or boating.
We love Botswana and are confident that you will from your very first safari in its magical wilderness areas. Chat to us if you want to experience this top travel destination in 2020.
Feature image courtesy of Melanie van Zyl.
