The former Bechuanaland has been described as an "African miracle": this long-forgotten British protectorate long conquered its independence peacefully in 1966 and, since then, benefits from a democratic regime and an unparalleled sanitary, educational and social system in the African continent. The Republic of Botswana is dominated by the Kalahari desert, which covers almost 70% of the land area of the country. The Okavango Delta, located in the northwest of the country, is the second inland delta in the world in size, with an area of 18,000 km2. In the north of the country is the great saline, known as the Makgadikgadi Pan. The reputation of Botswana is due to its large desert, savanna and salt spaces, the beauty of its deserts, its welcoming villages, as well as the incredible wealth of the fauna, artistic traditions and natural attractions of the country.