When travelling to Botswana, it’s important to have useful travel tips to ensure a smooth journey. This beautiful country provides unique safari experiences that offer a wide range of opportunities to explore its vast savannahs and wildlife. However, there are a few things you should know before your trip. These travel tips will give you insight into the weather conditions, customs, and cultures of the locals, along with practical advice on what to do and what not to do while in Botswana.
1. Respect the local culture and customs.
Botswana has a rich cultural heritage, so take time to learn about local customs and traditions. This enhances your appreciation of the culture and history of the country, while creating authentic experiences and meaningful connections with locals. It also shows respect to the community you visit. Approach cultural differences with curiosity and respect for a fulfilling travel experience.
When traveling to Botswana, it is crucial to adhere to cultural norms and become familiar with their customs. As a conservative country, it is essential to maintain modesty when it comes to your attire, particularly when you visit rural areas. Being respectful of their way of life and adhering to their customs is imperative to ensure that you fit in with the locals and do not cause any offense.By dressing suitably and appropriately, you can have a relaxing and enjoyable experience in Botswana while respecting their cultural customs and values.
Malaria is prevalent in Botswana, so make sure to take prophylaxis and use insect repellent.
When packing for a Botswana safari, practicality is key. In the summer months, daytime temperatures can exceed 40°C, so shorts and t-shirts are best, with a longer shirt for protection against the sun if you burn easily. Choose clothing in neutral colours (try to avoid white) and wear lightweight long-sleeved clothing at night and in the early mornings to protect against mosquitoes.
Botswana is a popular tourist destination, so it’s important to book accommodations in advance, especially during peak season.
While Botswana has an abundance of wildlife, it’s important to not feed them as it can lead to damaging behavior.
Botswana is home to some of the most unique wildlife in the world, so make sure to follow park rules and regulations to help preserve the environment.
Botswana’s main attractions are spread out across the country, so be prepared for long drives to get to your destination.
| Best time to visit Botswana is during the dry season from May to October. Wildlife is easily spotted around water sources and weather is pleasant for safari experiences. Wet season from November to April can make game viewing harder but offers the opportunity to see migratory birds. Peak tourist season is from June to August, visiting in May or September can mean fewer crowds and lower rates. |
| When traveling to Botswana, it’s crucial to take the necessary precautions and obtain appropriate vaccinations from your doctor in advance of your trip. In particular, malaria is a common illness in the surrounding regions, so it’s essential to receive relevant inoculations to avoid any issues. Additionally, the weather in Botswana can be unpredictable, so it’s advisable to pack appropriate clothing for various weather conditions. rates. |
| To visit Botswana for less than one (1) month, tourists need a valid tourism visa. No work allowed on this visa. For more info visit https://www.gov.bw/visa-applications/visa-application-tourism-visa |
Botswana is a country rich in culture, tradition, and history, with influences from its indigenous people and its colonial past. The country’s people are friendly, welcoming and have a deep sense of community that is reflected in their daily lives. One of the most prominent and celebrated aspects of Botswana culture is its art, particularly its basket weaving. The intricate baskets are made from natural materials and reflect the beauty of the country’s landscape. Music and dance are also integral to the culture of Botswana, with traditional performances featuring drumming, singing, and intricate movements. The country’s cuisine is deeply influenced by the traditional dishes of the indigenous people, with dishes such as seswaa (pounded beef) and morogo (a type of spinach) being popular staples. The people of Botswana take pride in their heritage and are committed to preserving it for future generations. |
Botswana offers plenty of restaurants, cafes, stalls and street food which include both hearty and delicacy foods, comfort and gourmet dining and cheap and budget blowout meals, One must-try dish is seswaa, a beef or goat dish that is boiled or steamed until the meat falls apart and is mixed with a thick maize meal known as pap. Traditional drinks include beer brewed from sorghum, palm wine, and ginger beer. Modern Botswana has also embraced international cuisine, and visitors can enjoy a range of restaurants serving Chinese, Thai, Indian, and Western dishes. |
Botswana offers high-quality products that are unique to the region. If you’re looking for unique items, the local markets are the place to be. You’ll find colorful bags, jewelry, clothing, and other decorative items that are perfect for taking home as a reminder of your trip. Some of the most popular markets in Botswana include the Gaborone Main Mall Craft Market, the African Botswana Craft Market, and the Maun Artisan Market. For those who prefer a more modern shopping experience, Botswana’s malls have everything you need. You’ll find stores selling clothing, electronics, gifts, and more – all in air-conditioned comfort. Major cities like Gaborone, Maun, Kasane, and Francistown contain both luxury boutiques and designer stores. Shopping in Botswana is a rewarding experience that provides insight into the country’s rich history and culture. |
Botswana is a country brimming with culture and tradition, and tourists have the opportunity to experience this through the numerous festivals and cultural events that take place throughout the year. These events provide an exciting and memorable way to immerse oneself in Botswana’s unique heritage, customs and way of life. Some of the most popular festivals and cultural events include the Maun Festival – a celebration of the diverse cultures in the country, the Maitisong Festival – a performing arts festival that showcases Botswana’s best talent, and the Khawa Dune Challenge – a popular motorsport event that takes place in the expansive Kalahari Desert. Visitors can also witness traditional dance performances and take part in cultural activities such as basket weaving and beekeeping. With such a rich cultural scene, Botswana truly offers a unique and unforgettable experience for tourists looking to explore its heritage.
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Yes, all passengers travelling with Afri Travelnet must have travel insurance before participating in any of our tours.
Your guide will collect your travel insurance details on the first day of your trip. It is your responsibility to make sure you have an adequate and suitable travel insurance in place.
Free Wi-Fi is common in hotels, cafes, and restaurants across Botswana. Many internet cafes can be found in the cities as well. Alternatively, purchasing a Botswana SIM card for the duration of your tour may be a cost-effective option. Your tour leader will be happy to advise on this. Make sure to enable data roaming on your mobile if you wish to use 3G/4G.
Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels and restaurants in Botswana, however some museums, public transport, national parks and small shops only accept cash. We would recommend to carry some cash with you for small purchases.
