Introduction: Why Botswana Should Be on Your Budget Travel Radar
The first time I stepped off the plane at Sir Seretse Khama International Airport (GBE) in Gaborone, I had no idea how deeply Botswana would capture my heart—or how quickly it would empty my wallet. After three visits and countless mistakes, I’ve finally mastered the art of experiencing this southern African gem without financial ruin. Botswana has a reputation as one of Africa’s most expensive safari destinations, but I’m here to tell you that with some insider knowledge and strategic planning, this incredible country is absolutely doable on a modest budget in 2025.
What makes Botswana special? Imagine watching elephants wade across the Chobe River at sunset, hearing hippos grunt as you drift in a traditional mokoro canoe through the Okavango Delta, or witnessing the thundering migration of zebras across the Makgadikgadi Pans. These experiences typically come with luxury price tags, but I’ve discovered ways to access this natural splendor without emptying your savings account.
This guide reflects years of trial, error, and moments of pure budget-friendly bliss. From camping under the stars to navigating local transport, I’ll share exactly how to stretch your pula (Botswana’s currency) while still having the wildlife adventure of a lifetime in 2025.
Understanding Botswana’s Tourism Landscape in 2025
Botswana’s tourism model has historically focused on “high value, low impact” experiences, which typically means luxurious lodges charging $1,000+ per night. But 2025 brings subtle shifts in this approach, with the government promoting more inclusive tourism options while maintaining strong conservation priorities.
Recent Changes Affecting Budget Travelers
- Park Fee Adjustments: National park entrance fees increased by approximately 15% in late 2024, with Chobe National Park now charging 275 Pula (~$20 USD) for foreigners and Moremi Game Reserve at 295 Pula (~$22 USD).
- Post-Pandemic Recovery: Following tourism disruptions, many mid-range accommodations have introduced competitive rates to attract visitors.
- Community Tourism Initiatives: New community-based projects have emerged, offering authentic cultural experiences at fraction of safari lodge prices.
The best time for budget travel to Botswana remains the shoulder seasons (April-June and September-October), when weather is pleasant and prices drop from peak season highs. The least expensive time is during the rainy season (November-March), though some areas become inaccessible and wildlife viewing can be challenging.
INSIDER TIP: The new Botswana Tourism App launched in early 2025 includes a “budget traveler” filter that highlights affordable options throughout the country. Download it before your trip!
Getting to Botswana Without Emptying Your Wallet
Flying directly into Botswana’s Sir Seretse Khama International Airport (GBE) in Gaborone is rarely the cheapest option. During my first trip, I paid nearly double what I needed to by making this rookie mistake.
Strategic Flight Booking
Consider these money-saving flight strategies for 2025:
- Fly to Johannesburg instead: Flights to O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) in South Africa are typically 30-40% cheaper than direct flights to Gaborone. From there, you can:
- Take a 5-7 hour bus to Gaborone (approximately 300-400 Pula or $22-30 USD)
- Book a budget flight on Airlink to Maun or Kasane if heading directly to safari areas
- Consider Kasane as an entry point: If your main destination is Chobe, flying into Kasane Airport (BBK) often offers competitive fares from Johannesburg.
- Book domestic flights in advance: If flying within Botswana is necessary, book Air Botswana flights at least 3 months ahead for savings of up to 25%.
Crossing Land Borders
Botswana shares borders with four countries, offering multiple budget-friendly entry points:
| Border Crossing | Nearby Attractions | Transport Options | Approximate Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tlokweng (South Africa) | Gaborone | Bus from Johannesburg | 300-400 Pula ($22-30) |
| Kazungula (Zambia) | Chobe National Park | Ferry + shared taxi | 150-200 Pula ($11-15) |
| Mohembo (Namibia) | Okavango Panhandle | Bus from Windhoek to Shakawe | 500-600 Pula ($37-45) |
| Ramokgwebana (Zimbabwe) | Francistown | Bus from Bulawayo | 200-250 Pula ($15-19) |
My personal recommendation? The bus from Johannesburg to Gaborone offers the best balance of convenience and affordability. Intercape and Greyhound both operate comfortable coaches on this route, and if you book a few weeks in advance, you can find fares as low as 250 Pula ($19 USD).
Budget Accommodation Options Across Botswana
Finding affordable places to stay in Botswana requires creativity, but the options have expanded significantly in 2025. Here’s what I’ve discovered works best:
Urban Centers: Gaborone, Maun, and Kasane
The main gateway cities offer the most budget-friendly options:
- Guesthouses: Small, family-run establishments like Mokolodi Backpackers in Gaborone (250-350 Pula/$19-26 per night) provide basic rooms and local atmosphere.
- Backpacker Hostels: Old Bridge Backpackers in Maun offers dorm beds from 180 Pula ($13) and is a fantastic place to meet other travelers and arrange budget safaris.
- Airbnb: Private rooms average 400-600 Pula ($30-45) per night in cities, often including kitchen access—a significant saving on food costs.
Affordable Safari Accommodation
This is where most travelers struggle with Botswana’s prices, but I’ve found several approaches that work:
Public Campgrounds
The Department of Wildlife and National Parks (DWNP) operates basic campgrounds in most national parks and game reserves. These must be booked directly through their online portal or office in Maun/Kasane:
- Cost: 175-250 Pula ($13-19) per person per night
- Facilities: Usually just pit toilets and sometimes a water tap
- Experience: Raw but unforgettable—I’ve had elephants walk through my campsite at Savuti!
In 2025, the DWNP has added new public campsites in the western section of Chobe and northern Moremi, increasing budget options.
Community Campsites
These are my personal favorite budget option, offering a sweet spot between affordability and facilities:
- Moremi Crossing Community Campsite near the Okavango Delta: 200 Pula ($15) per person
- Mmadinare Cultural Camp in eastern Botswana: 180 Pula ($13) per person
- Sankuyo Bush Camp near Moremi: 250 Pula ($19) per person
These sites typically offer hot showers, cooking areas, and sometimes cultural programs—plus your money directly supports local communities.
BUDGET HACK: Many community campsites don’t have functional online booking systems. I’ve found that emailing or WhatsApp messaging 1-2 months in advance works best. Save these contacts before your trip!
Mobile Camping Safaris
For those without camping equipment or self-drive capability, budget mobile camping safaris offer good value:
- Sunway Safaris: Their 7-day “Botswana Experience” participatory camping trip (where you help with camp duties) starts at $1,200 USD in 2025
- Ujambo Safaris: Local operator offering 3-day Moremi camping safaris from 4,500 Pula ($335)
- Intrepid Travel: Their “Botswana Adventure” includes camping in key wildlife areas and group cost-sharing
Safari on a Shoestring: Accessing Wildlife Without Premium Prices
My first Botswana safari cost me over $400 per day. By my third visit, I had that down to under $100 daily while still seeing incredible wildlife. Here’s how you can do the same in 2025:
Self-Drive Safari Options
Renting a 4×4 vehicle with camping equipment is initially expensive but becomes economical when shared among 3-4 travelers:
- Vehicle Rental: A fully-equipped 4×4 with roof tents costs 1,200-1,500 Pula ($90-110) daily from companies like Africa Camper or Bushlore
- Cheaper Alternative: Rent in South Africa and drive across (saves about 30%)
- Fuel Costs: Budget approximately 250-300 Pula ($19-22) per day for fuel
Self-driving requires preparation but offers unmatched freedom. I recommend downloading the Tracks4Africa app (150 Pula/$11) before your trip—it saved me countless times when Google Maps failed in remote areas.
Budget-Friendly Safari Areas
Not all Botswana wildlife viewing requires expensive park fees:
Free and Low-Cost Wildlife Areas
- Chobe Riverfront Road: The public road along the Chobe River outside the national park offers excellent elephant and hippo viewing without entrance fees
- Nata Bird Sanctuary: Entry fee of only 105 Pula ($8) to see flamingos and other waterbirds
- Tuli Block: Lesser-known eastern region with private reserves offering camping from 250 Pula ($19) per person including game drives
Budget Boat Safaris
Water-based safaris often provide better value than vehicle tours:
- Chobe River Cruise: Community-operated boat trips from Kasane waterfront cost 350-450 Pula ($26-33) for 3 hours
- Okavango Mokoro Day Trips: Arrange through the Okavango Kopano Mokoro Community Trust for 600 Pula ($45) per person
INSIDER TIP #1: Skip the organized sunset boat cruises on the Chobe River where everyone pays premium prices. Instead, head to the Sedudu Bar at the Chobe Safari Lodge around 4pm and chat with the boat operators directly as they return from afternoon trips. If they have space on the sunset run, they’ll often take you for half price (I paid 200 Pula/$15 instead of 400 Pula/$30).
Organizing Budget Game Drives
For vehicle-based safaris without self-driving:
- Shared Safari Approach: Hostels like Old Bridge Backpackers and Crocodile Camp in Maun organize shared game drives where solo travelers can join others to split costs
- Morning-Only Drives: Half-day morning drives (typically 800-1000 Pula/$60-75) offer better wildlife viewing per dollar than full-day options
- Mobile Operators: Local guides with small operations often charge 30-40% less than established companies. In Kasane, visit the craft market where many guides look for clients
During my last trip, I met three other travelers at my hostel, and we negotiated a 3-day/2-night camping safari in Moremi for 2,800 Pula ($210) per person—less than half the standard rate.
Getting Around: Budget Transportation Strategies
Botswana is a vast country with significant distances between attractions. Transportation can quickly consume a budget if not planned carefully.
Public Transportation Network
While limited, public transport is extremely affordable:
- Intercity Buses: Services like Seabelo Express connect major towns for minimal fares (Gaborone to Maun: 280 Pula/$21)
- Combi Minivans: These run within and between neighboring towns for 5-30 Pula (under $2) depending on distance
- BR Passenger Trains: The Botswana Railways line from Lobatse through Gaborone to Francistown offers the cheapest long-distance option (though schedules are limited)
For remote wildlife areas, public transport won’t get you all the way, but it can significantly reduce costs for the main segments of your journey.
Budget-Friendly Transport Combinations
I’ve found these approaches work best for different regions:
Northern Circuit (Maun, Okavango, Chobe)
- Bus from Gaborone to Maun (280 Pula/$21)
- Shared taxi from Maun to Okavango Delta entry points (150-200 Pula/$11-15 per person)
- Bus from Maun to Kasane (300 Pula/$22)
Eastern Circuit (Francistown, Tuli Block)
- Train from Gaborone to Francistown (150 Pula/$11 for second class)
- Local bus to Bobonong (gateway to Tuli) (80 Pula/$6)
Car Rental Alternatives
If self-driving is necessary but a 4×4 is beyond your budget:
- 2WD Car Rental: Standard cars (600-800 Pula/$45-60 daily) can access many paved routes and some gravel roads during dry season
- Peer-to-Peer Car Sharing: The new DriveVA platform connects travelers with local car owners for lower rates
- Car Relocation Deals: Rental companies occasionally offer one-way specials at steep discounts when they need vehicles moved between cities
INSIDER TIP #2: When taking buses between major cities, arrive at the bus station early (5:30-6:00 AM). Most fill up quickly, and the ticketing system is often disorganized. I once spent an extra night in Maun because I arrived at 7:00 AM and all northbound buses were full.
Eating Well While Spending Less
Food costs can add up quickly in Botswana, especially in tourist areas where a basic restaurant meal starts at 120-150 Pula ($9-11). Here’s how I’ve learned to eat well for less:
Self-Catering Strategies
Cooking for yourself provides the biggest savings:
- Major Supermarkets: Shoprite, Choppies, and Spar in larger towns offer the best prices
- Local Markets: Fresh produce at markets like the Main Mall in Gaborone costs 30-50% less than supermarkets
- Basic Cooking Supplies: A small camp stove, pot, and basic utensils can be purchased for around 350 Pula ($26) if you don’t have camping equipment
A typical self-catering day might cost 80-100 Pula ($6-7.50) per person versus 300-400 Pula ($22-30) eating at restaurants.
Budget-Friendly Local Food
When you do eat out, try these affordable options:
- Shopping Mall Food Courts: Quick meals from 60-90 Pula ($4.50-6.75)
- Street Food: Magwinya (fat cakes/fried dough) with beef stew for breakfast (25-35 Pula/$2-2.60)
- Local ‘Chop Bars’: Simple eateries serving seswaa (pounded meat) with pap (maize porridge) for 50-70 Pula ($3.75-5.25)
My favorite budget food find was the Maun Fresh Produce market, where local vendors sell delicious grilled meat skewers (10 Pula/$0.75 each) and vetkoek sandwiches (15 Pula/$1.10).
Water and Beverage Savings
Staying hydrated in Botswana’s climate is essential but can be costly:
- Reusable Water Bottle: Most accommodations and many public buildings have filtered water stations for refilling
- Bulk Water: 5-liter bottles cost around 25 Pula ($1.85) versus 15 Pula ($1.10) for 500ml in tourist areas
- Local Beer Alternative: Skip imported beers (45-60 Pula/$3.35-4.50) for local St. Louis or Chibuku traditional beer (25-30 Pula/$1.85-2.25)
INSIDER TIP #3: In Maun and Kasane, many safari lodges have excellent restaurants that are open to non-guests. Their lunch menus are typically 30-40% cheaper than dinner but offer the same views and atmosphere. I enjoyed a riverside lunch at Chobe Safari Lodge for 160 Pula ($12) while dinner would have been 280 Pula ($21).
When I first arrived in Botswana, I made the mistake of buying individual water bottles daily. By the end of my first week, I’d spent over 300 Pula ($22) just on water! Now I travel with a 5-liter jug and refill my bottle, spending less than 100 Pula ($7.50) for a two-week trip.
Cultural Experiences That Don’t Cost a Fortune
Some of my most memorable moments in Botswana had nothing to do with wildlife—and cost very little. Here’s how to immerse yourself in Botswana’s cultural richness without spending much:
Free and Low-Cost Cultural Activities
- National Museum and Art Gallery in Gaborone: 10 Pula ($0.75) entrance fee
- Village Homestays: Several communities near Maun offer basic homestay experiences from 300 Pula ($22) including meals
- Traditional Dance Performances: Free shows at major hotels on weekend evenings (just buy a drink to watch)
- Craft Markets: Browse handmade crafts at the Maun or Kasane craft markets without obligation to buy
Community-Based Tourism Initiatives
These programs directly benefit local communities while offering authentic experiences:
- Kwa Nokeng Craft Centre: Cultural demonstrations and craft workshops for 80-150 Pula ($6-11)
- Sankuyo Cultural Village: Half-day village tours including traditional food preparation for 250 Pula ($19)
- Gaborone Creative Hubs: Free art exhibitions and occasional workshops
Local Festivals and Events
Timing your visit with these events provides free or low-cost entertainment:
- Maun Festival (July): Traditional music, dance, and food
- Maitisong Festival (March/April): Performing arts events in Gaborone
- Kuru Dance Festival (August): San cultural celebration in D’Kar
During my visit to the Kuru Dance Festival, I spent hours watching incredible San dance performances, tried traditional foods, and met local artisans—all for an entrance fee of just 50 Pula ($3.75).
When interacting with local communities, I’ve found these Setswana phrases helpful:
- “Dumela mma/rra” (Hello ma’am/sir) – Always greet people before asking questions
- “Ke a leboga” (Thank you) – Expressing gratitude goes a long way
- “Ke bokae?” (How much is it?) – Useful at markets and local shops
Communication and Connectivity on a Budget
Staying connected in Botswana has become much more affordable in 2025, with significant improvements in coverage and options:
Mobile Data Options
- Local SIM Cards: Available from providers like Orange, Mascom, and BTC for 10-15 Pula ($0.75-1.10)
- Best Data Package: Orange’s “Tourist SIM” offers 10GB valid for 30 days for 250 Pula ($19)
- Coverage Areas: Reliable service in towns and along major roads; spotty in remote wildlife areas
I recommend Orange for the best combination of coverage and value in 2025. Their network has expanded to cover most of the Okavango Delta and parts of Chobe National Park.
Free Wi-Fi Locations
Save your mobile data by using these free Wi-Fi spots:
- Shopping malls in Gaborone (Airport Junction, Game City)
- Most cafés in urban centers (purchase required)
- Public libraries in major towns
- Backpacker hostels and guesthouses (for guests)
Emergency Communication
For remote areas with no cell coverage:
- Offline Maps: Download Maps.me or Google Maps offline before traveling
- Satellite Communicators: If venturing into truly remote areas, consider renting a Garmin InReach from outfitters in Maun (150 Pula/$11 daily)
My mistake during my first Botswana trip was buying an expensive international roaming package from my home provider. I paid nearly $80 for what would have cost me $19 with a local SIM!
Health and Safety on a Budget Safari
Staying healthy and safe doesn’t require expensive measures, but it does require smart planning:
Medical Preparations
- Travel Insurance: The one expense I never skip, even on a tight budget. World Nomads or SafetyWing offer coverage from $40-60 for two weeks
- Malaria Prevention: Budget-friendly options include doxycycline (prescribed before travel) and rigorous use of repellent
- Basic First Aid: Bring essentials from home as pharmacy prices in tourist areas can be 2-3x higher
Drinking Water Safety
Tap water in major towns is generally safe, but in remote areas:
- Use a SteriPen UV purifier ($50-90 investment that pays for itself in avoided bottled water costs)
- Inexpensive water purification tablets (about 120 Pula/$9 for 50 tablets)
- Boil water for at least one minute if other options aren’t available
Budget-Conscious Safety Tips
- Shared Transportation Safety: Use registered taxis or bus services, particularly at night
- Wildlife Safety: Respect guidelines about distance from animals (it’s not worth risking your life for a closer photo)
- Camping Security: Simple measures like a combination lock for your tent and keeping valuables with you
A LESSON LEARNED: During my second visit, I tried to save money by skipping travel insurance. When I developed a severe ear infection in the Okavango, I ended up paying over 1,500 Pula ($110) for a doctor visit and antibiotics—far more than the insurance would have cost. Don’t make this mistake!
Sustainable Budget Travel in Botswana
I’ve discovered that traveling sustainably in Botswana often aligns perfectly with budget-friendly choices:
Eco-Friendly Budget Options
- Community-Owned Accommodations: Places like Khwai Community Trust campsites and lodges channel profits back to local communities
- Public Transportation: Buses produce far less carbon per passenger than private vehicles or flights
- Reusable Supplies: Bring a water filter bottle, shopping bag, and food containers to reduce plastic waste
Supporting Local Economies
Budget choices that maximize local benefit:
- Choose locally-owned guesthouses over international hotel chains
- Buy crafts directly from artisans rather than hotel gift shops (usually 40-50% cheaper too!)
- Hire guides from community tourism organizations rather than large safari companies
Responsible Wildlife Viewing on a Budget
Ethical choices that don’t break the bank:
- Self-driving with a good wildlife guide book instead of multiple guided tours
- Visiting less-crowded protected areas like Khutse Game Reserve instead of popular Chobe
- Contributing to citizen science through free apps like iNaturalist to help conservation efforts
During my time in the Okavango, I stayed at a community campsite for 200 Pula ($15) per night, whereas nearby private lodges charged $300+. Not only did I save money, but I learned from the staff that my fees helped fund a local school and wildlife monitoring program.
Seasonal Budget Strategies for Botswana
Timing can dramatically impact your budget in Botswana. Here’s my month-by-month breakdown based on personal experience:
| Season | Months | Budget Impact | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Green Season (Rainy) | Nov-Mar | Lowest prices (-30-50%) | Lush landscapes, newborn animals, bird migration | Some roads impassable, wildlife dispersed |
| Shoulder Season | Apr-Jun, Sep-Oct | Moderate prices | Good wildlife, fewer tourists | Apr-May can be wet, Sep-Oct gets hot |
| Peak Season (Dry) | Jul-Aug | Highest prices (+25-40%) | Best wildlife concentration, comfortable temperatures | Crowded, advance booking essential |
Best Budget Months for Different Activities
- Wildlife Safari: April-May (animals still concentrated around water, green season prices)
- Okavango Delta: June (water levels high from Angola floods, before peak pricing)
- Makgadikgadi Pans: February-March (zebra migration, rainy season discounts)
My personal favorite time is late April to early May. I’ve found wildlife viewing nearly as good as peak season, but accommodation prices up to 40% lower. The occasional rain shower is a small price to pay for the savings and smaller crowds.
Conclusion: Your 5-Step Action Plan for Botswana on a Budget
After three visits to Botswana and countless budget lessons (some learned the hard way!), I’ve distilled everything into this actionable plan for exploring this incredible country without emptying your bank account in 2025:
Your Budget Botswana Action Plan
- Time your visit strategically: Book for April-May or September-October to balance good wildlife viewing with lower prices. If possible, avoid July-August when prices peak.
- Prioritize your splurges: Identify the ONE must-have premium experience (perhaps a mokoro trip in the Okavango) and economize elsewhere. My strategy? Spend on experiences, save on accommodation.
- Book long-distance transport first: Secure your international flights 4-6 months ahead, and if self-driving, reserve your 4×4 at least 3 months in advance—availability is limited and prices increase dramatically closer to travel dates.
- Connect with other travelers: Join Facebook groups like “Backpacking Botswana” or the forums on SafariTalk to find potential travel companions for sharing vehicle costs.
- Pack strategically for savings: Bring essentials like a good headlamp, quick-dry towel, water filtration, basic first aid, and sufficient memory cards for photos—all items that cost 2-3x more in Botswana.
With careful planning, you can experience the magic of Botswana for approximately 1,000-1,500 Pula ($75-110) per day—a fraction of what many tourists spend. This budget includes accommodation, food, transport, and activities while still experiencing the country’s incredible wildlife and landscapes.
Remember that every dollar saved is another day you can spend exploring this remarkable country. By following these strategies, my third trip to Botswana lasted 18 days on the same budget that barely covered 7 days on my first visit. The memories I’ve made while traveling this way feel more authentic and hard-earned than any luxury experience could provide.
Botswana has dramatically transformed my understanding of travel, teaching me that the greatest adventures often come when you step away from the tourist infrastructure and connect directly with the land and its people. I hope these tips help you discover your own unforgettable Botswana experience without breaking the bank in 2025.
FAQ: Budget Travel in Botswana
Is Botswana really possible on a budget?
Yes, though it requires more planning than other African destinations. While Botswana’s tourism model traditionally caters to high-end travelers, budget options have expanded significantly in 2025. By using public campsites, self-driving or joining group safaris, and traveling in shoulder seasons, you can experience Botswana’s highlights for $75-110 per day.
What’s the absolute minimum budget needed for Botswana?
For a bare-bones experience covering basic transportation, camping accommodation, self-catering, and minimal activities, budget travelers can manage on 800-900 Pula ($60-67) per day. This assumes camping, cooking your own food, using public transportation where possible, and focusing on free or low-cost wildlife viewing areas.
Do I need a 4×4 vehicle in Botswana?
For many popular areas, yes. While main roads between towns are paved and accessible with 2WD vehicles, most national parks and game reserves require 4×4 capabilities, especially during the rainy season (November-March). However, you can access some wildlife areas like the Chobe riverfront road without a 4×4, or join guided tours instead of self-driving.
Is it safe to use public transportation in Botswana?
Generally yes. Botswana has one of Africa’s lowest crime rates, and public buses between major towns are relatively reliable and safe. The main limitations are schedule unpredictability and limited routes to wildlife areas. Shared taxis and minibuses may require some patience but are typically safe and very economical.
Can I see the Okavango Delta without spending a fortune?
Absolutely. While luxury lodges charge $1,000+ per night, budget travelers can experience the Delta through:
- Day trips by mokoro (traditional canoe) from Maun for 500-700 Pula ($37-52)
- Community-run campsites on the Delta’s edge for 200-300 Pula ($15-22) per night
- Mobile camping safaris with local operators from 4,500 Pula ($335) for 3 days/2 nights
What vaccinations do I need for Botswana?
As of 2025, no vaccinations are mandatory for entry to Botswana, but several are recommended including Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and routine vaccinations. Malaria prevention is recommended, especially when visiting northern regions like the Okavango and Chobe. Consult a travel doctor for personalized advice based on your itinerary and medical history.
Do I need to book parks and campsites in advance?
For public campsites within national parks (like those run by DWNP), advance booking is essential—especially during peak season (July-August) when sites can fill up 6+ months ahead. Community campsites outside park boundaries typically require less advance planning (1-2 months is usually sufficient), while private campgrounds can sometimes accommodate last-minute arrivals during shoulder seasons.
What’s the best way to withdraw/exchange money in Botswana?
ATMs are widely available in towns and accept most international cards. They offer better rates than currency exchange offices. Withdraw larger amounts less frequently to minimize transaction fees. Major credit cards are accepted at established businesses, but always carry cash for smaller vendors, rural areas, and emergencies. As of 2025, the most favorable exchange rates are typically found at ATMs in Gaborone and Maun.
References
- Botswana Tourism Organization – Official tourism website with updated information on destinations and regulations
- Lonely Planet: Botswana – Comprehensive travel information including budget options
- Safari Bookings: Budget Safaris in Botswana – Comparison platform for finding affordable safari operators
- Department of Wildlife and National Parks – Official source for park fees and camping reservations
- Expert Africa: Botswana on a Budget – Detailed advice on economical travel in Botswana
- World Nomads: Backpacking Botswana – Practical tips for budget travelers
- Africa Geographic: Self-Drive Botswana – Guide to independent exploration on a budget
- Tracks4Africa – Essential maps and guidebooks for self-driving
- Safari Drive Information Portal – Detailed route information and trip planning for self-drivers
- Responsible Travel: Botswana – Sustainable tourism options including community-based initiatives
- Community-Based Tourism in Botswana – Directory of community tourism enterprises offering affordable experiences
- Okavango Kopano Mokoro Community Trust – Community-run mokoro trips at lower rates than commercial operators