Botswana🇧🇼 | best citiesExplore the 2 Best cities in Botswana

How many cities: Two or three cities is the sensible number for most backpackers in Botswana. Distances are large and transfers eat whole days, so adding a fourth usually means more time on a bus than in a place. Two cities with a few extra nights each give you a clear read on the country, one in the south for services and one in the north for onward travel.Choosing between kinds: The southeast urban centers suit travelers who want cheaper food, supermarkets, banks and a look at everyday Botswana. The northern gateway towns suit those whose real goal is the Okavango or Chobe, because that is where safari bookings, mokoro trips and park transfers are organized. Smaller Kalahari towns suit self-drivers who want space and quiet. Choose by purpose: if you plan on wildlife, base yourself in the … read more 👉

How many cities: Two or three cities is the sensible number for most backpackers in Botswana. Distances are large and transfers eat whole days, so adding a fourth usually means more time on a bus than in a place. Two cities with a few extra nights each give you a clear read on the country, one in the south for services and one in the north for onward travel.Choosing between kinds: The southeast urban centers suit travelers who want cheaper food, supermarkets, banks and a look at everyday Botswana. The northern gateway towns suit those whose real goal is the Okavango or Chobe, because that is where safari bookings, mokoro trips and park transfers are organized. Smaller Kalahari towns suit self-drivers who want space and quiet. Choose by purpose: if you plan on wildlife, base yourself in the north and keep the southern cities short. If you want culture and low-key local life, spend more time in the south.What it costs: Expect roughly US$45 to 80 a day on a lean independent budget, covering a dorm bed or basic guesthouse (US$15 to 40, or P200 to 550), local meals (US$4 to 10) and combis. Mid-range travelers should plan on US$90 to 150. Intercity combis cost about P60 to 250 depending on distance, and a taxi inside a city usually runs P40 to 100 because ranks are spread out. Museums and cultural sites charge small entry fees, often under P100. The big expenses are park fees and safari add-ons, which can run US$50 to 150 a day, so keep them separate from city spending.Why transport is the main cost: Public transport is cheap but thin, because the population is small and services follow fixed routes. Experienced travelers pre-book northern flights or shuttles during peak months and carry cash in pula for combis, since card machines are rare outside shops and lodges.Safety: Botswana is among the more stable and peaceful countries in Africa, but petty theft and phone snatching occur, especially around bus stations and after dark. Walking at night is discouraged in most cities because of poor lighting and few pedestrians, so use a taxi arranged through your guesthouse. Keep valuables out of sight on combis.Cultural considerations: Greet before asking for anything, usually with “Dumela” (hello). Handshakes are common, and polite conversation matters more than speed. Dress modestly in towns, with covered shoulders and knees being the norm in everyday settings. Ask before photographing people, and never photograph military sites or government buildings. Tipping is not mandatory in basic eateries but 10 percent is appreciated in restaurants.