the role of tourism in natural resource management in the okavango ...

Figure 6.5: Accommodation Facility Monthly Tourist Numbers, Okavango
Delta, 2003 - 2004
49
Number of Tourists
However, Table 6.10 shows that there has been an overall decline of 2.1 percent in
room occupancy since 1999. This may be attributed to an increase in the number of
rooms available since 1999 due to the expansion of existing hotels, lodges and
safari camps in the Delta, and the establishment of new accommodation facilities in
this area.
Table 6.10: Room Occupancy Rates (%) for Tourism Accommodation Facilities
in the Okavango Delta, 1999 - 2001
Year Room Occupancy (%)
1999 56.3
2000 51.9
2001 54.2
Source: Adapted From the Republic of Botswana Statistical Bulletin, 2001.
There is no clearly defined grading system for accommodation facilities in Botswana.
However, most hotels, lodges and safari camps in the Okavango Delta region
maintain a high standard, largely catering for foreign tourists. Due to the high prices
charged, tourists expect luxurious accommodation. The more up-market facilities in
the region have luxurious rooms, restaurants, air-conditioning, swimming pools,
television and entertainment facilities, while most other accommodation facilities
have most of the basic amenities. Lodges and safari camps in the Okavango Delta
242