Botswana, a landlocked country in Southern Africa, is known for its vast, pristine wilderness areas and commitment to conservation. A former British protectorate that gained independence in 1966, it boasts a stable democracy and impressive economic growth driven largely by its diamond industry. However, the country also faces challenges including income inequality and the effects of climate change, particularly impacting its vulnerable wildlife populations and water resources. Its striking landscapes, from the Okavango Delta to the Kalahari Desert, make it a popular destination for ecotourism.