BOTSWANA TRAVEL ADVICE

Fast Facts

Full Country Name: Republic of Botswana

Population: 1.6 million

Capital: Gaborone

People: Batswana (95%), Kalanga, Basarwa, Kgalagadi

Main languages: English, Setswana

Religion: Christian (50%) indigenous beliefs (50%)

President: Festus Mogae

Passports and Visas

Passports: All visitors are required to carry a passport that is valid for six months beyond the intended length of stay. There should be sufficient blank pages for entry stamps upon arrival.

Visas: Irish and UK and USA nationals do not require visas for stays of less than 90 days.

Health Risks

Malaria

Weather

Summer: November-April
Winter: May-October

During summer the days are hot and generally sunny in the morning with possible afternoon thunderstorms. Daytime temperatures can rise to 38ºC and night temperatures drop to around 20ºC - 25ºC. The afternoons can be very humid. The rainy season begins late in October/November and ends in March. The northern areas receive up to 700mm while the Kalahari Desert area averages as low as 225mm.
During winter the days are dry, sunny and cool to warm while evening temperatures drop sharply. Daytime temperatures generally reach 20ºC and can drop to as low as 5ºC at night. Please note that exceptionally cold spells can occur (although this is the exception rather than the rule) so it is recommended to bring appropriate clothing, just in case!

Money

Currency: The unit of currency is the Pula (P)

Credit Cards: All major credit cards are accepted at hotels, shops and restaurants. However, please note that certain lodges and restaurants do not accept payment by Diners or American Express. Credit cards are not accepted at petrol filling stations.

Banks: Banks in Maun & Kasane: Mon - Fri 08h30 - 14h30
Sat 08h15 - 10h45

First National Bank, Maun: Mon - Fri 09h00 - 12h45; 14h15 - 15h30
Sat 08h30 - 11h00

Standard Chartered Bank, Maun: Mon, Tue, Thur, Fri 08h15 - 14h00
Wed 08h15 - 13h00
Sat 08h15 - 10h45

Major hotels have foreign exchange facilities and most shops, lodges and travel agencies will accept traveller’s cheques.