The Botswana are considered among the region's worst in welcoming tourists according to a new report.

Botswana tourism industry is the worst in the region in terms of receiving tourists, a Regional Tourism Organisation of Southern Africa (Retosa) study shows.

The southern African country is globally celebrated as one of the best for wildlife tourism, but the latest Retosa study claims that Batswana (people of Botswana) are hostile towards visitors.

And Environment, Wildlife and Tourism minister Kitso Mokaila fears the finding on hospitality may ruin Botswana’s tourism industry which is a major contributor to the country's GDP.

Mr Mokaila attended a Retosa convention in Mauritius recently and has said it is critical to educate citizens on the significance of tourism.

"Botswana was considered the worst when it comes to accepting or welcoming tourists in the country though we are probably the best when it comes to policies,” said Mr Mokaila.

The study centred on those who meet tourists when they arrive in the country, such as taxi drivers, cleaners and other tourism service providers like hotel employees.

The minister reckons the challenge stems from a lack of understanding about the importance of tourism among citizens and believes Botswana educating  on how to interact with holiday-makers could make a huge difference.

Mr Mokaila is convinced it is time to invest further into the tourism industry as indications are that current mainstay resources like diamonds may wane in future.

Two years ago when South Africa hosted the soccer World Cup, Botswana failed to reap the benefits despite its proximity to the continent’s first time hosts.
Botswana have exotic places to explore,  its is landlocked in Southern Africa, and visiting Botswana you can also view the other African destinations such as Zambia and Zimbabwe where you can meet the world wonders Victoria falls, book your cheap flights to Botswana, and reserve the best safri with flights master.