Botswana

Currency

The Pula is the currency of Botswana. Pula literally means ‘rain’ in Setswana, because rain is very precious in this region. Pula also means ‘blessing’ as when rain falls on Botswana’s soil, it is always considered a blessing. All major currencies can be exchanged in Botswana. Visa and MasterCard are widely accepted as payment methods.

What to bring

Here are some items you will need, when you visit Botswana. Comfortable 'safari' (non-colourful) clothing, mosquito repellent, a good pair of walking / hiking shoes, sun screen, binoculars, a good camera with a good lens, sunglasses and a sun hat.

Malaria

As with many regions of Africa, northern Botswana comes with the risk of malaria at certain times of the year. Visiting Chobe and the Okavango region therefore requires all visitors to take the necessary precautions. Consulting your doctor will greatly minimise the risk of contracting malaria. It is recommended to wear long sleeved clothing at sunset and the liberal use of mosquito repellent. All camps provide mosquito repellent creams.

Visas

Acquiring a visa is a necessary for most citizens of other countries before entering Botswana. There are however a few countries' citizens who do not need a visa to visit us. Here is a liste of the countries: here.

For more information about your visa requirement we suggest you visit Botswana's government website offering detailed information - click here.

Climate

Botswana has a low annual rainfall. The rains usually begin towards the end of the year in October or November. This is the start of the wet season, which runs until March or April. Typically, around April, temperatures begin to fall. May, the start of winter, is generally regarded as the first day of the dry season. The days are usually clear, sunny, long and warm (occasionally hot). In August, temperatures increase steadily and some days can become very hot and dry. As they approach the rainy season, September, October and November are typically dry.