Although vast, semi arid and empty, Botswana has prospered since independence and is comparatively well off in relation to its neighbour's - especially those to the north and east. The economy relies on mining (Botswana supplies de Beers with over 50% of its diamonds), cattle ranching and tourism. Perennially short of water, the word for Botswana's currency unit (one of the strongest currencies in Africa) is the same word for rain.
The Okavango Delta, the largest inland delta in the world is Botswana's major attraction, the water levels rising and falling annually with the rivers originating in the Angolan highlands. Nestled to the north east of the Okavango Delta is the Moremi Game Reserve, regarded one of the most spectacular game parks in Africa. Still further north Chobe National Park is situated on the boarder with Namibia, Zambia and Zimbabwe. Its main attractions are the high concentration of elephants and the majestic game viewing to be had on the Chobe River. By contrast the Makgadikgadi Pans is one of the largest salt pans in the world. Conservation wise, Khama Rhino Sanctuary was established in 1992 to help the preservation of rhinos. Today, almost 20 white rhino live in this natural habitat.