Botswana

With some of the world’s largest national parks and vast unspoiled landscapes, Botswana is a paradise just waiting to be discovered. The abundant wildlife is the main reason to visit Botswana with the country offering game viewing experiences unlike any other in Africa. The Okavango Delta, the world’s largest inland delta, the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans, and the national parks cover an area around one and a quarter times the size of Tasmania. Chobe National Park, two hours from Victoria Falls, boasts the world’s highest concentration of elephant and the Central Kalahari is home to the nomadic San People and black-maned lions.

General Information

How to get there

Major international airlines fly into Gaborone, Botswana’s capital. Daily flights from Johannesburg are available on Air Botswana to Maun and regular charter flights into Kasane and the Tuli area, ensure easy access into the tourist areas. A number of private charter companies provide light aircraft internal flights throughout the country. Although Botswana has a good system of roads from neighbouring countries, the distances involved result in most visitors preferring to fly.

Health and entry requirements

A valid passport is required and visas are required by some nationalities. We recommend clients check requirements with visa authorities well in advance. No inoculations are required at this time but ant-malaria tablets are advisable year-round.

Clothing and climate

Light weight tropical clothing with rainwear from November to March. The evenings can be cool from May to August, during the winter months. Neutral colours are best on safari and smart casual is suitable for the evenings (camouflage clothing is not permitted). There is a 12 kg baggage limit on internal flights and soft bags are essential. There is a daily laundry service in most camps. Sunblock, sunglasses, hats and insect repellent are essential. A good pair of binoculars, a camera and comfortable walking shoes will enhance your stay. Summer (September-April): Average temperature is between 19°-33° C. Winter (May-August): Average temperature is 5°-23° C.

Currency

Botswana currency is the Pula. The South African Rand, US Dollars, Euro’s, Pounds and most major credit cards will be accepted at most lodges and camps.

Electric current

Camps which have generators produce 220/240 voltage. Few camps have electrical power, however, most offer facilities to generate battery operated camcorders/video cameras.