Botswana has a rugged landscape and vast wildlife that enchants the adventurous people. This South African country is the home of diamonds and wildlife. Most people fear traveling because of the climate and environment of the place. It is a joyful experience to explore South African regions and make journey adventures. Whether you are a solo traveler or visiting with a group it is important to keep in mind some tips to have your journey safe and secure. In this guide, we will discuss the tips to know before you visit Botswana.
Quick Headlines
Where is Botswana?
Botswana is a landlocked country located in Southern Africa. It is situated to the north of South Africa and shares its borders with Namibia to the west and north, Zimbabwe to the northeast, Zambia to the north, and South Africa to the south and southeast. The capital and largest city of Botswana is Gaborone.
Tips to Know Before Visiting Botswana
In the undersection, we have mentioned the best tips to know before visiting Botswana.
Is it Safe to Travel Alone?
Yes, it is a safe country for tourists. The local people are hospitable to foreigners and help during the visit. There is a low crime rate compared to other crowded areas of the world. So if you are a solo traveler, you can visit there with some precautions and consideration to enjoy an adventurous journey.
Currency
Before you travel to Botswana, it is essential to know about the currency of the country. The official currency of Botswana is Pula. You can also know about currency exchange before visiting there. It is better to exchange from the airport or your country to avoid fraud or scams. Pula is also spoken there when something extraordinary happens.
Geography and Climate
Most of the area is semi-desert which is named Kalahari. Climate and environment can be changed there because of the forests and lush green places and deserts. When you plan to visit there research about the climate and geography to have an idea of what to pack along with essential considerations. From November to March, the winter season falls there. The temperature can be 27C to 46C and you need precautions during the journey for a safe and secure tour. In desert areas, humidity falls in the nighttime.
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Visa Process and Travel Essential
The travel process is different for each country in the world and you must be sure to know about Botswana’s visa policy and travel process to complete your documentation. A visa is required to travel there and you can contact the embassy in your country. They allow every foreigner with a visa to visit whether for wildlife or cultural immersion.
Some Essential Documents Needed:
- Covering letter
- Two recent passport-size photo
- Page 1 or 2 copy of passport
- Booking details of airlines and accommodations in Botswana
- Statement from the host who hosts you in Botswana
- Host ID card copy, work permit, residency permit
- Financial permit or proof
Attractions of Diamonds
The diamonds are the friends of girls in Botswana. It is an underdeveloped country and it lacks exports which affects the country’s economy. But in the Jwaneng, there is a mine of diamonds. Most of the local works in the mine and they have strong export of the diamonds. It is the world’s largest diamond production in the Jwangeng which is located in the south of Botswana. There is a lack of other industries or exports such as plastic, salt, coal, and textiles.
Healthy Consideration
Health and safety consideration is the first priority for every traveler. Botswana has no reliable climate and health reputation. If you have a plan you visit it is important to consider vaccinations for serious diseases. Yellow fever is a high-risk disease due to its climate and it is mandatory to get vaccinated before the journey after reaching there. Care about your health, as use sunscreen and other products to protect yourself. There are also some other disease risks such as hepatitis B, cholera, and rabies that can harm you during the journey.
Rules and Laws
Respect the local culture and resident people as they are helpful to tourists. Tourism is not as in the other countries of the world, but so you have to talk with people in respective manners to attract them. The crime rate in Botswana is not high and don’t need to worry about snatching essentials on the road. But it is better to keep your belongings safe and keep on your surroundings. If you have to capture photos or shoot videos in a restricted area, you must get permission from the government.
Accommodations Options
You may be surprised that there not such luxury hotels in Botswana due to less tourism and a low economy. But you can book the rooms or guest houses on shared bassed in advance for your stay. You can take the help of your local tour guide to get rooms or private homes on rent but you have to pay a large amount. There’s another option like camping in the outdoor area. You can join the group of tourists to rent a house or apart for a stay.
Transportation
Getting around in unfamiliar areas you may need private cars or 4D vehicles. Public transport and shuttle buses run between major cities. It is not an expensive means of transportation but these only connect the big cities. But the bad conditions of the road makes it difficult to travel on buses or shuttles. If you have to visit the deserts or field areas it is important to hire a 4D vehicle due to challenging routes. The transport is left-handed and you may need a valid license to hire a car for private rent.
Respect Wildlife
Africa region is famous for wildlife protection and Botswana has unique animals in the far areas. The national parks of Botswana preserve wildlife which is the best attraction for tourists especially adventurous people. Visit Chobe National Park to witness the lions, elephants, eagles, impala and fish. It is important to take a tour guide with you and don’t feed them as they can harm you or outside feed harm their health.
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Buy Your Own Sim
Botswana is an underdeveloped country and you may find fewer Wi-Fi areas. Wi-Fi is only available in major cities or some famous parks. So, when you reach there buy a reliable network with quality signals so that you can use it everywhere.
Conclusion
Traveling to Botswana is an adventurous journey. It is the safest country in Africa with low crime rates. Local people cooperate with tourists, but it is important to respect the laws. Check your visa process and requirements and know the currency exchange. Prioritize your health and get vaccinated to avoid the risk of yellow fever and other diseases. Diamond export is the best attraction, but the country is lacking of another industry. Accommodations and transportation are not reliable so you must get the help of a tour guide to travel around and stay.
