Botswana Safety Guide
Health, security, and travel safety information
Emergency Numbers
Save these numbers before your trip.
Healthcare
What to know about medical care in Botswana.
Healthcare System
Botswana has a dual healthcare system with public facilities (free for citizens but variable quality) and private hospitals and clinics (higher quality but expensive). Major towns have adequate medical facilities, but remote safari areas have very limited healthcare access.
Hospitals
Princess Marina Hospital (Gaborone) is the main referral hospital. Private options include Bokamoso Private Hospital (Gaborone), Gaborone Private Hospital, and Maun Private Hospital. Medical facilities in safari areas are extremely limited—most lodges have basic first aid only.
Pharmacies
Pharmacies are available in all major towns and stock common medications. Some prescription drugs may require local prescriptions. Bring adequate supplies of any regular medications as specific brands may not be available. Pharmacies typically open during business hours; 24-hour pharmacies are rare.
Insurance
Travel insurance with comprehensive medical coverage and emergency evacuation is essential and strongly recommended by all tour operators. Medical evacuation from remote areas can cost $50,000+ and must be paid upfront without insurance.
Healthcare Tips
- Bring a complete first aid kit, especially for safari travel to remote areas
- Carry copies of prescriptions and sufficient medication supplies for your entire trip plus extra
- Ensure your insurance explicitly covers safari activities and medical evacuation by air ambulance
- Private clinics require upfront payment; keep insurance details and emergency numbers accessible
- Malaria prophylaxis is essential for northern Botswana including Okavango Delta and Chobe
- Water in major towns is generally safe but bottled water is recommended; always use bottled or purified water in rural areas
Common Risks
Be aware of these potential issues.
Pickpocketing, bag snatching, and theft from vehicles occur in urban areas, markets, bus stations, and tourist areas. Opportunistic theft is more common than violent crime.
Smash-and-grab thefts from parked vehicles and car break-ins are common, particularly in urban parking areas and at tourist sites.
Road accidents are a leading cause of injury and death. Hazards include poor road conditions, wildlife on roads, long distances, driver fatigue, speeding, and livestock on highways.
Dangerous wildlife including elephants, lions, hippos, crocodiles, and buffalo pose serious risks. Most incidents occur when tourists ignore safety guidelines or approach animals too closely.
Malaria is present year-round in northern Botswana, with highest risk November to June (rainy season). This is a serious, potentially fatal disease requiring prevention.
The climate is hot and dry, particularly in the Kalahari. Dehydration and heat-related illness are common, especially during safari activities.
Botswana has one of the world's highest HIV prevalence rates (approximately 20% of adults). Risk to tourists is primarily through unprotected sexual contact or medical procedures.
Scams to Avoid
Watch out for these common tourist scams.
Unlicensed individuals approach tourists offering cheap safari tours or accommodations, take deposits, then disappear or provide substandard/dangerous services.
Street money changers offer favorable rates but use sleight of hand to short-change tourists or pass counterfeit notes.
One person creates a distraction (spilling something, asking for help, causing a commotion) while an accomplice steals bags, wallets, or other valuables.
Unlicensed taxi drivers quote one price then demand much higher payment at destination, sometimes becoming aggressive.
Individuals approach tourists claiming to represent orphanages or charities, requesting donations that never reach intended recipients.
Safety Tips
Practical advice to stay safe.
Urban Safety
- Avoid walking alone after dark, especially in Gaborone; use taxis at night
- Stay in well-lit, populated areas and avoid quiet streets and shortcuts
- Keep car doors locked and windows up while driving in cities
- Be alert at ATMs and avoid using them after dark; shield your PIN
- Don't carry large amounts of cash; use credit cards where accepted
- Keep a photocopy of passport separate from the original
- Be cautious in bars and nightclubs; don't accept drinks from strangers
- Avoid political gatherings and demonstrations
Safari and Wildlife Safety
- Never exit your vehicle unless in designated safe zones or with a guide
- Maintain at least 20-30 meters distance from elephants and other large animals
- Never walk between a hippo and water, or a mother and her young
- Follow your guide's instructions immediately and without question
- Stay quiet and still if you encounter dangerous wildlife on foot
- At unfenced camps, never leave your tent alone at night; request an escort
- Store all food securely to avoid attracting animals to your campsite
- Book with reputable safari operators who prioritize safety and employ experienced guides
Driving Safety
- Rent a proper 4x4 vehicle if traveling to remote areas or parks
- Carry spare tires (at least two), extra fuel, water, and emergency supplies
- Inform someone of your route and expected arrival time
- Avoid driving at night due to wildlife, poor lighting, and road conditions
- Drive slowly on gravel roads (60 km/h maximum) to maintain control
- Watch for livestock and wildlife on all roads, especially at dawn and dusk
- Carry a GPS device or detailed maps as cell coverage is limited in remote areas
- Never drive under the influence; DUI laws are strictly enforced
Health Precautions
- Start malaria prophylaxis before arrival as directed by your doctor
- Ensure routine vaccinations are current; consider Hepatitis A/B, Typhoid, and Rabies
- Drink only bottled or purified water in rural areas and when unsure
- Avoid swimming in freshwater lakes and rivers due to bilharzia (schistosomiasis) risk
- Use insect repellent consistently, especially at dawn and dusk
- Wash hands frequently or use hand sanitizer, particularly before eating
- Avoid contact with animals to prevent rabies exposure
- Seek immediate medical attention for any animal bites or scratches
Money and Valuables
- Use hotel safes for passports, excess cash, and valuables
- Carry only what you need for the day; leave expensive jewelry at home
- Distribute money in different locations on your person and in luggage
- Notify your bank of travel dates to avoid card blocks
- Carry some US dollars or Euros for emergencies (widely accepted)
- ATMs are widely available in towns but rare in remote areas; plan accordingly
- Credit cards are accepted in major hotels and lodges but rarely in rural areas
Communication
- Purchase a local SIM card for better rates and coverage in towns
- Cell coverage is limited or non-existent in national parks and remote areas
- Carry a satellite phone or emergency beacon for remote wilderness travel
- Download offline maps before traveling to remote areas
- Learn basic Setswana phrases; English is widely spoken but appreciation for local language goes far
- Keep emergency contact numbers saved in your phone and written down
- Register with your embassy if staying for extended periods
Information for Specific Travelers
Safety considerations for different traveler groups.
Women Travelers
Botswana is generally safe for women travelers, including solo female travelers, and is considered one of the safest African countries in this regard. Harassment is less common than in many destinations, and the culture is relatively conservative and respectful. However, standard precautions should still be observed, particularly in urban areas and at night.
- Dress modestly in urban and rural areas; conservative clothing is culturally appropriate and draws less attention
- Avoid walking alone after dark; use registered taxis or hotel transportation
- Join group tours or safaris if traveling solo for added security and social interaction
- Book accommodation in well-reviewed, secure hotels or lodges
- Be cautious in bars and nightclubs; watch your drinks and don't accept drinks from strangers
- Trust your instincts; remove yourself from uncomfortable situations
- Consider wearing a fake wedding ring to deflect unwanted attention
- Keep family and friends informed of your itinerary and check in regularly
- Carry a charged phone and keep emergency numbers accessible
- Be aware that unwanted attention may increase in tourist areas; respond firmly but politely
- Solo women should avoid hitchhiking under any circumstances
- When using taxis, consider sharing ride details with a friend or hotel staff
LGBTQ+ Travelers
Homosexuality was decriminalized in Botswana in 2019, marking significant legal progress. Same-sex relationships are legal, but same-sex marriage is not recognized. Anti-discrimination laws do not explicitly protect LGBTQ+ individuals.
- Exercise discretion with public displays of affection regardless of location
- Avoid discussing sexual orientation openly, particularly in rural areas and with strangers
- Research LGBTQ+-friendly accommodations in advance; some lodges and hotels are more welcoming
- Be aware that some safari camps and lodges may have policies about room sharing for unmarried couples
- Connect with local LGBTQ+ organizations like LEGABIBO for current information and support
- Urban areas and international hotels tend to be more accepting than rural locations
- Be cautious on dating apps; arrange meetings in safe, public locations
- Consider booking with LGBTQ+-friendly tour operators who understand specific needs
- Respect local cultural norms while maintaining personal safety and comfort
- Have a support network and emergency contacts established before traveling
Travel Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance is absolutely essential for Botswana, particularly due to the remote nature of safari destinations and limited medical facilities. Medical evacuation from bush camps can cost $50,000-100,000 and requires upfront payment. Most safari operators and lodges require proof of insurance covering emergency evacuation. Without insurance, you may be denied treatment or face catastrophic costs.
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