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The Botswana Pula (BWP) is Africa’s strongest and most stable currency at about P6 to the US dollar with minor daily fluctuations – our prices are converted at the current exchange rate.
Foreign exchange services are available at the airport, border posts and major towns. While there is no control you must declare cash amounts over P10,000 upon entering or leaving the country.
Major credit cards are accepted in most outlets, banks and cash machines; hotels and lodges will usually accept Traveller’s Cheques and foreign currency.
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Everything is potentially life-threatening in the wilderness. From the whining mosquito to the yelping hyena and you should take due care when going on safari, heed the advice of your ranger and follow the park’s rules.
Tame monkeys have been known to nick shiny objects and devour toiletry bags but apart from that, crime is non-existent. Do keep your money, valuables and important documents out of temptation’s way and use the safes if at all worried.
The northern regions of Botswana are malaria areas. Start your prophylaxis before the safari but don’t get whacked by an over-zealous physician - some of the anti-malarial drugs out there have side-effects that make malaria seem preferable. Take mosquito repellent with you and cover up with those loose cotton clothes at night to avoid being bitten. If at any time you feel the symptoms of flu and a bad headache go straight to a doctor and tell him you’ve been to a malaria area.
HIV is prevalent in southern Africa and you should be wary at all times, regardless of where you are or who you’re with, and always take the necessary precautions.
The Princess Marina in Gaborone is a modern hospital with high standards that can cover most situations. Private medical evacuation services operate throughout the country but you may have to prove that your medical insurance policy will pay up before they’ll lift a finger – get written confirmation before you leave.
Rangers are trained in first aid and all the lodges have essential supplies. The smaller towns have pharmacies/chemists that supply your basic hangover and itchy-bite remedies but you should bring your own supply of specialist or prescription drugs.
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Unless you are from one of the far flung outer perimeter galaxies with which Botswana shares a frosty relationship, holiday visas are issued at the door for the duration of your stay – and not a day longer – for up to 90 calendar days. If you are in any doubt, we will gladly advise and comprehensive visa information is available from the Botswana Tourism website - http://www.botswana-tourism.gov.bw/entry_req/entry_req.html]
No vaccinations or inoculations necessary – unless you come from a yellow fever area - but you’ll have to walk through some gooey sludge on entry to prevent the spread of diseases. Do not take any fresh food into the country – chances are it will be confiscated.
Neighbouring countries have different regulations so if you’re going on a multi-country tour, check the requirements for each country with your consultant.
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Coffee – $1.50
Men’s Health – US$5
Heineken – US$2.50
Car Hire – US$45/day |
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South Africa Standard Time is 2 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT+2). This is ideal for European clients as the time difference is minimal. South Africa does not operate Daylight-Saving Time. International Dialling Code for South Africa is 0027.
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Combine one of the best safaris experiences in the world with a trip to the spectacular Victoria Falls - The Okavango Delta joins the Chobe National Park, which borders with Zimbabwe and Zambia.
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The Savuti channel has inexplicably dried up several times in 100 years - it has been dry now since 1982
Chobe National Park has the world’s largest elephant population
The delta is at its fullest when the rest of the area is at its driest
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