Botswana is revered for pioneering a model of tourism focused on conservation and sustainability, rather than volume. This approach ensures that wildlife habitats remain less affected while affording visitors an intimate, uncluttered experience. It’s a calculated model that makes Botswana one of Africa’s premier safari destinations. Geographically, Botswana occupies a niche space. Situated inland, it serves as a buffer of sorts between the savannahs to the north and the deserts to the south, thus playing a unique role in Africa’s geological and ecological spectrum. The bedrock formed by ancient rifts and tectonic activities further enhances its geographical intrigue.
However, Botswana’s story isn’t solely ecological—it’s deeply human. The Khoisan, indigenous peoples with ancestral ties to the region, offer a sobering counterpoint to the nation’s luxury safari narrative. These communities have faced forced removals from their lands, replaced by mining or conservation efforts. It’s an issue that the industry prefers not to discuss, but awareness and ethical conversations are long overdue.
