Frequently Asked Questions

What are the entry requirements for travelers visiting Botswana?

Botswana maintains customs requirements similar to many international destinations. For complete details on duty-free allowances, restricted and prohibited goods and more, please click here.

Are visitors from the U.S. required to have a visa?

No, visitors from the U.S. are not required to have a visa to enter Botswana.

What is the best time to visit Botswana?

The months between April and November, when large number of animals migrate towards the waterways of the Okavango Delta, is best time to go.

November and December - the calving months - are an excellent time to witness nature's own timetable of regeneration. The rainy season, from January to March, sees the migration of large numbers of game into the summer grazing areas, while the delta comes alive with sounds of hundreds of bird species.

In March and April thousands of zebras and other animals migrate towards the Savuti area of Chobe National Park.

Summers (particularly from December through to February) can become exceptionally hot, and rain may make some roads muddy and impassable.

During the rainy summer season, animals in many game areas disperse, while in the dry winter season they congregate around water sources, making for good game viewing. This does not mean, however, that game viewing is impossible during the summer season. (see climate).

What types of items should travelers be sure sure to bring on a safari vacation to Botswana?

In summer, lightweight, light-coloured cottons are preferable. Avoid synthetic materials and black clothing, as they increase perspiration and discomfort. Dress is casual in Botswana. Shorts and trousers are permissible for women. Most hotels have swimming pools, so do bring a bathing suit. Bring a lightweight jacket and/or pullover for unexpected temperature changes.

In winter, bring a pair of trousers, long-sleeved shirts or blouses and pullovers. Make sure you have a very warm jacket for early mornings and evenings, - it does get surprisingly cold at night but warms up during the day.

Comfortable walking shoes are a must; supplement with sandals and plastic flip-flops.

Special attention should be given to protecting yourself from the sun, particularly in the summer when the sun can be scorching. Bring sunhat, sunscreen, sun lotion and sunglasses.

Binoculars, torch (with plenty of spare batteries and bulbs), matches, penknife, water bottle, insect repellent (spray and coils), lip salve, water purification tablets, sewing kit, safety-pins, tweezers, cello tape and masking tape are all very useful. A basic first-aid kit is a must, as in many instances you will be traveling to areas far from health facilities. Camera film is available at most shops and petrol stations. Cosmetics, medications, cigarettes and imported liquors are all available in the major towns.

What kinds of transportation are available to visitors to Botswana?

The national carrier, Air Botswana, operates scheduled domestic flights from Gaborone to several destinations, including Francistown, Maun, Kasane, while numerous other carriers operate services to the capital and private operators maintain links to a variety of tourist destinations. The air charter industry is well developed in Botswana, offering flights to the national airport network as well as private destinations. Maun Airport, which serves a huge tourist market, is one of the busiest in southern Africa. Click here to see Air Botswana domestic flights working timetable.

All of Botswana's major cities are connected by highways and roads. Other areas are being developed and road-tarring projects are moving ahead at a record pace. As in most other southern African countries, driving is on the left side of the road. Seat belt use is compulsory, as is proof of no-fault insurance.

There is a number of passenger transport companies in Botswana which offer services throughout the country. Some of them are Motlogelwa, JNG, Mahube and Seabelo Express. They offer daily routes from Gaborone to: Selebi-Phikwe, Palapye, Mahalapye, Serowe, Francistown, Ghanzi, Tshabong, Hukuntsi, Orapa, Lobatse, Maun, Kasane, Ramotswa, and other routes.

Botswana Railways operates one of Africa's few air-conditioned passenger rail services, with a variety of passenger accommodation from luxury private sleeper compartments on the overnight train to the modern well-serviced economy class on the day train. All coach classes are air conditioned and served with dining facilities, running water and toilets.

Daily rail service between Francistown - Gaborone and Gaborone - Lobatse.
Gaborone - Francistown costs approximately USD3.00 one-way.
Monday through Thursday, Saturday and Sunday departing both Gaborone and Francistown at 10:00 am. Friday departures at 8:00 am and 2:30 pm.
Night services between Lobatse and Francistown.

All vehicles licensed to carry passengers can be easily identified by their number plates, which have blue backgrounds. Taxis carry up to 5 passengers at a time. If however you would prefer not to share a taxi with other passengers, at an additional fee, this can be arranged with the taxi driver.

Renting a vehicle, especially 4WD, will allow you the freedom to explore some of Botswana's most beautiful wilderness areas. To hire a vehicle in Botswana, you must be in possession of a valid International Drivers license, or a home drivers license as long as the details are in English (one may use their home drivers license for a period of 6 months). There are a few rent-a-car companies in Botswana such as: AVIS (tel. 353-745), Budget rent-a-car (tel. 302-030), Imperial car rentals www.imperialcarrental.co.za (tel. 307-233), etc.

The transport between Gaborone, Francistown and Selebi-Phikwe and their respective airports is serviced by mini buses, operated by AVIS or other rent-a-car agencies, as well as, mini-buses from big hotels for their guests. Taxi service is also available on phone call.