Entry Requirements and Visas
Botswana has a relatively straightforward visa policy compared to many countries. Whether you need a visa depends on your nationality.
Citizens of Commonwealth countries do not require a visa, with the exceptions of Bangladesh, Cameroon, Ghana, India, Nigeria, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. Citizens of European Union countries, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Switzerland also enter visa-free. Additionally, citizens of Argentina, Angola, Bahrain, Brazil, Chile, Costa Rica, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Israel, Japan, Kuwait, Mexico, Oman, Paraguay, Peru, Qatar, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Korea, South Sudan, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, United States, Uruguay, Venezuela, and Zimbabwe do not need a visa.
If you are from a country not listed above, you will need to obtain a visa before arrival. The visa application process typically takes about a week to process. Visas can be applied for at Botswana embassies in Australia, Belgium, Brazil, China, Ethiopia, India, Japan, Kenya, Namibia, Nigeria, South Africa, Sweden, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and at the United Nations in New York City.
If there is no Botswana diplomatic post in your country of residence, you may be able to apply through a British embassy, high commission, or consulate. British diplomatic posts charge £50 to process a Botswana visa application, with an additional £70 possible if Botswana authorities need to review your application directly. Botswana authorities may also charge additional fees for direct correspondence.
Money, Currency, and Costs
The currency of Botswana is the Pula (BWP). When entering Botswana by car, be aware that foreign currencies are no longer accepted for road levies as of August 2019 due to exchange costs. Credit cards are accepted for these payments.
If you need prescription medications and run out, you can visit a local pharmacy (called a "chemist") with proof of your prescription from a doctor. The cost will depend on the specific medication you need.
Staying Safe
Botswana is one of the safest countries in Africa. People are generally very friendly, and the country has no civil war, low corruption levels, strong human rights protections, and no natural disasters such as earthquakes or tsunamis. However, crime has been rising in recent years, so it is wise to remain aware of your surroundings and exercise basic common sense, particularly in rural areas with wildlife.
Important note on drugs: Drug trafficking carries a mandatory prison sentence. If you are bringing prescription medications into Botswana, you must carry a prescription for each medication. Undeclared drugs may result in significant fines or imprisonment, as drug smuggling is taken very seriously.
Emergency contacts: For emergencies requiring immediate medical assistance, seek out a private hospital rather than a government facility, though this will be more costly. For non-urgent medical issues, government hospitals and clinics are appropriate options.
Health
Medical care in Botswana is generally good compared to other African countries, and the system includes a universal healthcare framework. Most people live within five kilometers of a healthcare facility. Major cities like Gaborone have well-equipped hospitals, though rural areas have limited healthcare resources.
Several health precautions should be considered:
- HIV/AIDS: Botswana faces one of the world's most severe HIV/AIDS epidemics. Take all necessary precautions, including avoiding needle sharing and practicing safe sex. If you develop a serious relationship with a local partner, both parties should consider getting tested before proceeding further.
- Malaria: The northern parts of Botswana, including Chobe National Park and the Okavango Delta, are malaria zones. Seek medical advice before traveling to these areas. Vaccines for typhoid and hepatitis A+B (if not already immune) are typically recommended, along with oral vaccines for diarrhea and cholera prevention.
- Water: In urban and semi-urban areas, tap water is chlorinated and safe for locals, but visitors should drink bottled water to avoid traveler's diarrhea. Outside urban areas, water is contaminated and should not be used for drinking, ice cubes, teeth cleaning, or for eating unwashed unpeeled fruits and vegetables.
Staying Connected
Botswana's international dialing code is +267. When calling within Botswana, use either the format xx xxxxx or xxx xxxxx (the first two or three digits indicate the geographical area, as there are no separate area codes). From outside Botswana, use +267 followed by the local number.
Internet and WiFi: Free public WiFi is increasingly available in shopping malls and government facilities as of 2022. Many shopping malls and shops offer their own free WiFi hotspots, though usage is typically limited to about 15 minutes per device before requiring a token purchase to continue. Libraries also provide free WiFi and have desktop computers available for public use. Internet cafes with desktop computers are another option. WiFi speeds vary depending on the internet provider.
Local Customs and Etiquette
The primary ethnic group in Botswana is the Batswana (the plural form), with the singular form being Motswana. The term Batswana has come to be used generally for all citizens of Botswana. People in Botswana are known for being very friendly and welcoming to visitors. Understanding and respecting local customs will enhance your experience and interactions with residents.