Botswana by Bushbaby Travel

Natural resources are fiercely protected in this landlocked nation which hosts one of Africa's most spectacular natural events when the Okavango Delta fills with water from the Angolan highlands flooding the plains, canals and maze of waterways. The resulting lily-scattered oasis creates one of the most rich and diverse wildlife viewing opportunities in the world.

Chobe, located further east, only a 90 minute drive from Victoria Falls, is characterised by floodplains and dense woodland. It is renowned for its vast herds of elephants during dry season, the excellent bird-watching on offer and river safaris.

The contrasting Kalahari Desert, which in fact stretches across 7 countries, covers the central and south-western regions of Botswana. Lying south-east of the Delta and Chobe, within this semi-arid savannah are the Makgadikigadi Salt Pans. A dry salty crust most of the year, from January to March the pans flood, creating a haven for wildlife. Grasses spring to life and a huge migration of zebra and wildebeest takes place, accompanied by nesting flamingos - producing what is surely one of Africa's greatest wildlife spectacles.

Further south, the vast Central Kalahari Reserve is also home to the San Bushmen who for many thousands of years have perused a traditional hunter-gatherer lifestyle.