COVID-19 UPDATES

Due to discordant periods for taking booster shots between Botswana and other countries, and for purposes of smoothening  international travel, the definition of being fully vaccinated in Botswana will no longer include a booster shot. having completed the primary vaccine series will be considered sufficient for one to be allowed entry, without the need to present a negative PCR test result.

For those who will be partially vaccinated, or not vaccinated at all, they will be required to present a negative 72 hour PCR test result and in addition, undergo COVID-19 testing at  a port of entry, at own cost. If negative, they will be allowed to proceed into the country. If positive, they will be isolated in the district of the port of entry at own cost and allowed to proceed into the country only after recovery.

Please note that these changes allow partially vaccinated or unvaccinated people to enter the country, if they comply with the required testing requirements. It is only when one is not fully vaccinated and is also not willing to undergo COVID-19 testing at the port of entry, that they will be charged and fined or taken to court of law.

The ministry wishes to emphasise that the removal of boosters from the equation, does not mean that boosters are no longer important. The ministry encourages all those eligible to take up boosters in order to keep their immunity against COVID-19 high. Members of the public are further encouraged to keep following all COVID-19 protocols since the pandemic is still with us. The ministry will from time to time advise on any new developments that may rise as the nation continues to battle with the pandemic.

Language

English is an official language in Botswana. It is taught at schools, and is widely spoken in all urban centres. Even in rural areas, many local villagers (especially younger ones who have received schooling) will be able to converse in English. All guides and general staff in the camps, lodges and hotel have a good command of English.

German, Italian and French translators are available on request through your travel operator or agent. When staying at a private camp or lodge, your guide can act as interpreter if necessary during social interactions.

Visas

Citizens of most European and Commonwealth countries do not require a visa for entry into Botswana. However, visitors should check with Botswana embassies or consulates, or their travel agents, before departure.It is vital for visitors to carry a valid passport and sufficient funds to facilitate their stay.

Note: For countries with whom Botswana has no diplomatic representation, visa information and processing are available through British Embassies and High Commissions.

Luggage Restrictions

It is advisable to adhere to the luggage restrictions for scheduled international, domestic and charter flights: 20kgs (44lbs) on domestic flights, 12kgs (26lbs) on light aircraft (including Okavango Delta charter flights), and 20kgs (44lbs) on international flights.

Vaccinations

If you are travelling to Botswana from areas infected with Yellow Fever, you must have a valid Yellow Fever vaccination certificate. Otherwise, no other immunisations are required. However, it would be wise to have an updated TPD (tetanus, polio, diphtheria) vaccine, and a Hepatitis A vaccine.Furthermore, depending on your destination within Botswana and the time of year you wish to travel, it may be advisable to visit a travel medicine clinic in your home country to establish if further vaccinations are required/advised.

Customs

All goods acquired outside Botswana must be declared when you enter the country.