National Classics

• Seswaa: Slow-cooked and shredded beef or lamb, a traditional dish served at celebrations and gatherings, often accompanied by pap.
• Bogobe or Pap: A smooth maize porridge that serves as a staple food, usually paired with stews or vegetables.
• Braai (barbecue): A Southern African-style grilled meat feast, typically featuring beef and sausages, and a must at social gatherings.
• Morogo: Local leafy greens, often eaten with pap, adding a fresh contrast to rich meals.

Safari Camp Dining

• Bush breakfasts and afternoon teas: Safari camps often serve light meals and drinks at sunrise or sunset, adding a special touch to game viewing.
• Legally sourced game meat: Some camps offer game meats like springbok, but always confirm that it is legally sourced.
• Local beers and drinks: Botswana’s locally brewed beers are refreshing and ideal for hot afternoons.

Where to Eat & Tips

• Gaborone and Francistown: Offer the widest range of dining options, from fast food to sit-down restaurants.
• Maun and Kasane: Concentrate tourist-friendly restaurants and camp meals.
• Meals in protected areas and camps are often included in safari packages. Outside urban areas, dining options are limited, so plan ahead.

Overall, prices in Botswana are relatively high. Meals in camps and protected areas are usually covered by safari packages, while city restaurants mainly serve braai, fast food, and South African-style cuisine. Vegetarians will generally find beans, pap, and vegetable stews as common options—check with restaurants beforehand.

At safari camps, most operators will ask about dietary restrictions or allergies in advance. If you have specific needs such as vegetarian, halal, or other requirements, please mention them when booking. Some remote camps have limited menu flexibility due to pre-stocked ingredients and fixed supply schedules.