Botswana Travel Guide
Organize the country by travel region
Southern Botswana centers on Gaborone and road links from South Africa. Maun serves the Okavango Delta, Moremi and routes toward Makgadikgadi. Kasane serves Chobe and the far northeast. Central Kalahari and Kgalagadi journeys require separate logistics, long distances and dependable fuel planning.
Money, communications and supplies
The pula is Botswana’s currency. Cards are common at established lodges and urban businesses, but remote travel still requires a cash and payment backup. Maun and Kasane are important places to buy supplies before entering wildlife areas. Mobile coverage can disappear quickly outside towns, so keep maps, bookings and emergency contacts offline.
Driving and safari transfers
Main intercity roads are generally different from park tracks. Inside remote reserves, deep sand, water crossings, wildlife and limited recovery support change the risk. Confirm vehicle permission, tire equipment, insurance territory and border authorization in writing. Light-aircraft transfers may be the more realistic option for short itineraries.
Health and insurance
Seek current professional advice on routine vaccines, malaria prevention for relevant regions and any yellow-fever certificate triggered by the travel route. Insurance should cover the activities booked and medical evacuation from remote areas. Carry adequate prescribed medication.
Language and respectful conduct
English is used officially and Setswana is widely spoken. Ask before photographing people, homes or ceremonies. Use local guides at cultural heritage sites and remember that communities are not safari attractions.
Editorial and official sources
Reviewed 3 August 2026. Recheck visa, border, health, park and road conditions immediately before travel.