The thought of traveling to Africa brings excitement to many travelers who think of a fun continent filled with so much adventure. Planning the trip however, is another story. You of course have to consider the flights, accommodation, and transportation options. And, the list of attractions you want to see and visit must also be taken care of before your flight. The fact is that like other countries, you really have to make sure your plans are well-thought out and confirmed especially if you are travelling there with your kids.
So, where in Africa should you begin? It’s really up to your taste and interest, but in this article, join me as we explore the beautiful and fascinating country of Botswana. As a landlocked African nation, Botswana does not have the beautiful shores that South Africa has, but it has rivers brimming with life.
What could your family do and see in Botswana with kids? Well, there is only one way to find out. Read on to learn more about the plethora of things that you and your little ones can enjoy on your Botswanan trip!
1. Kalahari Desert
First on our list is the Kalahari Desert. This destination is one of the top choices for photographers, travelers, and tourists who want to experience life in the sandy savanna. Despite it being a dessert, Kalahari is not one in the strictest sense of the word. The abundance of wildlife can’t be dismissed. Additionally, interesting and amazing collection of flora and fauna live in this otherworldly environment. In fact, the Central Kalahari Game Reserve is famous for its grasslands and fossilized river that giraffes, cheetahs, hyenas and wild dogs call home. This place is undeniably the best place to take the kids to in Botswana.
2. San Tribe
While you are still in Kalahari, you better meet the San people. The San people are indigenous-hunter groups who serve as local guides to tourists and travelers who want to visit Kalahari in the most natural way. Being with one on your tour makes the trip more personal and intimate. Imagine walking through bushes and with a local San guide who not only leads the way but also share their culture. That is can be so special!
3. Chobe National Park
Anyone who has been to Chobe National Park can attest that this park is a truly unique vast and eco-diverse park with a huge population of elephants, birds, and antelopes and rivers that harbor buffalos and hippos. If you are lucky, you will also see the migrating zebras in action. One good tip is to take the kids on a boat cruise so they can get close up and personal with the wildlife while enjoying the scenery too.
4. Okavango Delta
Another stunning attraction to look forward to whenever you plan your trip to Botswana with Kids is the Okavango Delta. Located in the northern part of the country, Okavango Delta is among the world’s few inland river deltas. This distinction is enough reason why it deserves a place on your list. This place is also so ecologically diverse that is really worthy of exploration, an adventure the kids would love. You will meet antelopes and some finger-sized frogs, and if your budget permits, take a helicopter flight over Okavango Delta. Nothing beats the view from the sky!
5. Moremi Game Reserve
Another popular tourist destination in Botswana is the Moremi Game Reserve, which is located in the northern part of the country. In this gem of a national park, the family can spend a day or days in safari camps to enjoy the natural views of this lush animal sanctuary. The fact that Moremi is located close to Okavango Delta makes it a good place to track animals like rhinos, leopards, and even lions. Certainly, Moremi Game Reserve is one of the best reserves in Africa.
6. Makgadikgadi Salt Pan
Botswana’s geographical location created the most unique, unusual, and unlike-other kind-of landscapes worthy of appreciation. It is amazing how this African country has deserts with amazing and continuous dunes ideal for sunrise and sunset watching and at the same time has lush forests, bushlands, and rivers brimming with so much life. Furthermore, the country is also home to one of the world’s largest salt flats – the Makgadikgadi Salt Pan. This salt pan, which used to be part of Lake Makgadikgadi that has already dried up, is a tourist magnet. People visit this place for the vast salt pan and for the exceptional rock formations and pictures too. Some of the best things to see in this area include Kubu Island and the Lekhubu island.
7. Kubu Island
Kubu Island is one of the highlights whenever you visit Makgadikgadi Salt Pan. Although it is not a real island, this dry granite rock island attracts tourists and travelers for its beautiful sceneries, stunning rock formations, and rare tree species. Active teens and older kids will love the idea of climbing over rocks in Kubu.
8. Mokolodi Nature Reserve
This non-profit reserve hosts several activities that the family, especially the kids can enjoy. This animal sanctuary offers game drives where the little ones can enjoy a close encounter with the animals and wildlife. Older kids and adults can also try night drives to meet nocturnal animals in the wild. The best part is, by visiting the place, you also help the kids that this organization supports.
9. Tsodilo Hills
Kids, kids-at-heart or anyone who has fascination on culture and art will find Tsodilo a great place to enjoy both. This famous UNESCO World Heritage site is known for its one-of-a-kind rock arts that tourists from different parts of the world visit. The hill where this arts is located also offers a beautiful backdrop for selfie-lovers.
This article is part of our popular series, Place To Go With Kids!
