ITB Berlin witnessed a vibrant celebration of Botswana’s tourism potential as the southern African nation made an impressive appearance at the global travel trade show held from 3–5 March 2026 in Germany. The country used the international platform to highlight its unique tourism offerings, conservation-driven model and growing global profile in sport and culture.
Leading Botswana’s delegation was the Minister of Environment and Tourism, Wynter Boipuso Mmolotsi, who addressed travel professionals, investors and tourism stakeholders during Botswana Night on 4 March. The event served as a showcase of the country’s cultural heritage, wildlife attractions and investment opportunities within its tourism sector.
In his address, the minister described Botswana as a “premier high-value, low-volume tourism destination”, emphasising its reputation for pristine wilderness, rich biodiversity and authentic cultural experiences that offer visitors exclusive and memorable journeys.
Tourism’s strong economic impact
Mmolotsi noted that tourism continued to play a crucial role in Botswana’s economy. In 2023, the country recorded approximately 1,183,432 international visitor arrivals, reflecting the sector’s steady recovery and growth. Tourism’s total contribution to the national economy reached 12.1 per cent of GDP, equivalent to about BWP 32.8 billion, while directly supporting more than 50,000 jobs, representing roughly 7 per cent of national employment.
He emphasised that Botswana’s tourism development model prioritises sustainability by ensuring that growth aligns with conservation and community empowerment.
“Our model ensures that tourism growth goes hand in hand with conservation and community empowerment, promoting sustainable tourism,” the minister said.
The minister highlighted Botswana’s extraordinary natural attractions, which continue to attract travellers seeking immersive wildlife and nature experiences.
Among the country’s most celebrated sites is the iconic Okavango Delta, recognised both as a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance and as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Often described as the “Jewel of the Kalahari,” it is the world’s second-largest inland delta and one of Africa’s most extraordinary ecosystems.
Other notable attractions include the ancient rock art landscapes of Tsodilo Hills, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the wildlife-rich Chobe National Park, home to the largest concentration of savanna elephants in the world, estimated at around 140,000 animals.
Botswana’s natural wonders also extend to the vast Makgadikgadi Salt Pans, one of the largest salt flats on Earth, as well as the rugged landscapes of Tuli Block and the arid wilderness of the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park.
“These destinations offer exclusive, sustainable and immersive travel experiences,” Mmolotsi told delegates, stressing that Botswana remains focused on delivering quality tourism and long-term value for both visitors and investors.
Sporting achievements elevating Botswana’s global profile
Beyond tourism, the minister also highlighted Botswana’s growing prominence on the global athletics stage.
He noted that Botswana’s sporting achievements have significantly raised the country’s international profile. Among them is the success of Collen Kebinatshipi, who was crowned world champion in the 400 metres at the 2025 World Athletics Championships and anchored Botswana’s gold-medal-winning men’s 4×400 metre relay team.
The minister also celebrated the achievements of Letsile Tebogo, who made history at the 2024 Summer Olympics by winning the 200 metres, securing Botswana’s first-ever Olympic gold medal. Tebogo had earlier won silver in the 100 metres and bronze in the 200 metres at the 2023 World Championships.
Building on these successes, Botswana is set to host the World Athletics Relays 2026 in the capital, Gaborone, from 2–3 May 2026, an event expected to further boost international attention on the country.
Strengthening partnerships through destination marketing
At ITB Berlin, Botswana focused strongly on building strategic partnerships and expanding its tourism markets. Mmolotsi said the government considers destination marketing a key pillar of national development and is committed to collaborating with industry stakeholders to grow the sector.
He outlined the government’s intention to address barriers to tourism growth, including air connectivity, visa facilitation and tourism infrastructure development, while encouraging sustainable investment throughout the tourism value chain.
“The Government of Botswana commits to working closely with stakeholders to address constraints to tourism growth,” he said.
Closing his address, the minister invited global travel partners to help position Botswana as a premium destination for travellers seeking authenticity, open landscapes and wildlife encounters.
“When the world is thinking travel, let us ensure they think Botswana,” he said, urging delegates to experience the country’s natural beauty, cultural diversity and renowned hospitality.
He also encouraged visitors to sample Botswana’s celebrated beef, explore local crafts and immerse themselves in the traditions of the Batswana people—experiences he said would leave travellers with lasting memories of Destination Botswana.
