Botswana Travel Guide

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Passports and Visas

All visitors require a passport, return or onward tickets and sufficient funds to cover their stay in Botswana. Visa extensions are possible and should be organized prior to arrival.

Americans

US nationals do not require a visa for stays of up to 90 days.

UK Nationals

UK nationals do not require a visa for stays of up to 90 days.

Canadians

Canadian nationals do not require a visa for stays of up to 90 days.

Australians

Australian nationals do not require a visa for stays of up to 90 days.

South Africans

South African nationals do not require a visa for stays of up to 90 days.

Irish Nationals

Irish nationals do not require a visa for stays of up to 90 days.

New Zealanders

New Zealanders do not require a visa for a stay of up to 90 days.

Healthcare

Malaria is a particular risk in Botswana between November and June in the northern parts of the country. Visitors who are camping or walking in the bush should be cautious of tick bites. There are no compulsory vaccinations, but a yellow fever vaccination certificate is required from travelers over one year of age coming from infected countries. Occasional outbreaks of anthrax occur among wild animals, and visitors to affected areas should seek local advice and not touch dead animal carcasses. Botswana has a good public health system, but facilities are limited outside urban areas. Health insurance for visitors is vital. Tap water in towns is safe to drink, and all foodstuffs are safe to consume.

Safety

The majority of visits to Botswana are trouble-free, but visitors should be aware of the increasing incidence of crime, particularly armed robbery and rape, in the main towns. Wildlife and livestock make driving hazardous, so driving at night should be avoided.