North West

DistrictBotswana, Africa

North West is a STATE in Botswana, Africa.

North West Botswana is a breathtaking region where the wild heart of Africa beats strongest. Home to the iconic Okavango Delta, this subdivision offers unparalleled wildlife experiences, from mokoro (dugout canoe) safaris to spotting the Big Five. The delta's labyrinth of waterways, lush islands, and floodplains is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. Beyond the delta, the region boasts the Moremi Game Reserve, one of Africa's most pristine wildlife sanctuaries. The local communities, such as the Bayei and Hambukushu tribes, add cultural richness with their traditional practices and warm hospitality. North West Botswana is a paradise for adventurers seeking both natural wonders and authentic cultural encounters.

Best time to visit North West

The best time to visit North West Botswana is during the dry season (May to October) when wildlife congregates around water sources, making game viewing exceptional. The wet season (November to April) transforms the delta into a lush, green paradise, ideal for birdwatching and experiencing the region's vibrant flora.

October

Now

Typical for October

Weather
Cool 8-13°C, autumn colors

Travel notes

Crowds
Low
Prices
Low

Beautiful foliage, good for walking

Know before you go

Getting there

MAN

Manchester Airport

International

0 km away

LPL

Liverpool John Lennon Airport

International

50 km away

LBA

Leeds Bradford Airport

International

80 km away

NCL

Newcastle International Airport

International

150 km away

BHX

Birmingham Airport

International

140 km away

Getting around

"Getting around North West Botswana typically involves 4x4 vehicles, especially for safaris and navigating the delta's terrain. Mokoro trips and motorized boats are popular for exploring the waterways. Chartered flights are also common for reaching remote lodges and camps."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

30 Mbps

Mobile data

Excellent

WiFi

Widely available in cities, cafes, hotels, and public transport

Local SIM

Local SIM available at airports and shops from $10

Stay safe

Overall

8/10

Cities have occasional petty crime. Rural areas very safe.

Night safety

7/10

Cities have occasional petty crime. Rural areas very safe.

Transport

9/10

Scam risk

6/10

"Wildlife encounters are common; always follow your guide's instructions. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in rural areas. Keep valuables secure and be cautious of petty theft in urban centers."

Entry and health

Health information

"Malaria is prevalent in North West Botswana, so take prophylactics and use insect repellent. Ensure your vaccinations, including hepatitis A and typhoid, are up to date. Carry a basic first-aid kit for minor injuries."

Culture

Local customs

"Respect for elders and traditional leaders is deeply ingrained in local culture. When visiting villages, it's customary to greet people with a handshake and a smile. Always ask for permission before taking photos of individuals or their homes. Traditional ceremonies, such as the Domboshaba Festival, offer a glimpse into the region's heritage."
EnglishSetswana

Costs and practicals

Cost level

Mid-range

Meals

$15-25 | a mid-range meal costs around $15-25 per person

Hotels

$80-150 | budget hotels $50-80, mid-range $80-150 per night

Local transport

$3-5 | local bus ride ~$3-5, train between cities varies

Cost notes

Prices higher in Lake District and during peak season. Student discounts available.

Timezone

Africa/Gaborone +02:00 (GMT+2)

More facts

Population

200,000

Area

129,930 km²

ISO code

BW-11

Type

District

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: Північно-Західний округ, مقاطغة شمال غرب, ノースウェスト地区, North West District, Паўночна-заходняя акруга Батсваны, Dystrykt North West, ناحیه شمال غربی, North-West, ჩრდილო-დასავლეთის ოლქი, Šiaurės vakarų rajonas, Паўночна-заходняя акруга, Distretto Nordoccidentale, 西北區, North-West District, BW-NW, Nordwest-Distrikt, Distrik Barat Laut, Noroeste, District du Nord-Ouest, Βορειοδυτική Περιφέρεια, Северозападен округ, Kuzeybatı Bölgesi, Distritu Noroeste, Noordwesdistrik, Северозападен окръг, Северо-Западный округ, Northwest, شمال-مغربی ضلع, 북서부구, NW, 西北区, مقاطعة الشمال الغربي, Ipar-mendebaldea, Distrito Noroeste, Districtul North-West, MUB, Maoun, Maun, Maunas, ma weng, ma'una, maun, mawn, mawn bwtswana, maʿuni, Μαούν, Маун, Маўн, מאון, ماؤن, ماون, ماون، بوتسوانا, माउन, মাউন, ਮਾਉਨ, ማኡን, マウン, 馬翁, 마운

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