Highlights of Southern Africa in 4 countries

This vast country is undoubtedly one of the most culturally and geographically diverse places on earth. Fondly known by locals as the 'Rainbow Nation', South Africa has 11 official languages and its multicultural inhabitants are influenced by a fascinating mix of African, Asian and European cultures. Spend your days: discovering the gourmet restaurants, impressive art and nightlife scenes and fine beaches of Cape Town; enjoying a typical local braai (barbecue) in the Soweto township; browsing the bustling Indian markets in Durban; or sampling some of the world’s finest wines at the myriad wine estates dotted around the picturesque Cape Winelands. Due to its rich and turbulent history there are plenty of historical attractions to explore including the Zululand battlefields of KwaZulu-Natal, the Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg and Robben Island, just off the coast of Cape Town. Above all else, South Africa’s attraction lies in its remarkably untamed wilderness with its astonishing range of wildlife roaming freely across massive unfenced game reserves such as the world famous Kruger National Park. With all of this variety on offer, it is little wonder that South Africa has fast become Africa’s most popular tourist destination.

Currency

The currency is the Rand, which is divided into 100 cents. There are R200, R100, R50, R20 and R10 notes. Coins come in R5, R2, R1, 50c, 20c, 10c and 5c.

Banking

Banks are found in most towns, and are generally open from 09h00 to 15h30 on weekdays and 08h30 to 11h00 on Saturdays (Closed Sundays and Public Holidays). Most of them offer foreign exchange services - with cash, bank & credit cards as well as travellers cheques. You can also obtain cash from automatic teller machines (ATMs). Several international banks have branches in the main city centres. Always advise your bank that you are travelling outside of the country as they might block your purchases if they are not informed.

Travelling around South Africa is relatively easy by air, road and rail.

Principal air routes are serviced by SAA and British Airways, operated by Comair. There are 2 low-cost carriers on main routes, namely Kulula.com and Mango.

Facilitating travel around South Africa are 10 airports managed by the Airports Company South Africa (Acsa). In addition, there are some 90 regional airports, including the Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport in Nelspruit and the Skukuza Airport, offering access to the Kruger National Park.

An extensive tarred road system makes travelling in South Africa by vehicle convenient and easy. You will find gravel roads in rural areas though. Note:

A valid international driver's licence is required.

We drive on the left hand side of the road.

Wearing seat belts is compulsory and cellphones can only be used ‘hands free'.

Speed limits are generally set at 120km on freeways, 100km on secondary roads and 60km in urban areas.

Toll fees apply on certain national roads.

Petrol stations are widespread.

Most global car hire firms have branches in South Africa

Another means of getting around South Africa are luxury inter-city bus services such as Greyhound and Trans-Lux. Metrobus buses are available for in-city transport. Metered taxis must be ordered by telephone. There is a hop-on-hop-off bus in Cape Town and Johannesburg.

Our rail system includes the long-haul, inexpensive Shosholoza Meyl Metrorail trains. More luxurious options are the Blue Train, Premier Classe and the steam train Rovos Rail. There is also the new Gautrain rapid transit railway system in Gauteng Province which links Johannesburg, Pretoria, Ekhuruleni and OR Tambo International Airport.

Standards of hygiene in relation to food health and safety in South Africa, are generally high in hotels, restaurants, pubs and nightspots. Tap water in South Africa is safe to drink and cook with when taken from taps in urban areas. Not all tap water in rural areas is safe for consumption, so take precautions if necessary.

It is safe to eat fresh fruit, vegetables and salads, and put ice in your drinks. South Africa's fish, meat and chicken are of excellent quality, so there is no need to limit yourself when enjoying the local cuisine.

Restaurants are subject to South Africa's food safety control legislation, which is implemented by local government. Regulations include certification and regular inspections by health inspectors to ensure hygienic standards are maintained.

Street food is not as common in South Africa as it is in other countries, although vendors selling traditional snacks and meals can be found in city centres and townships. Food safety in such instances cannot always be guaranteed.

South African temperatures, which are measured in centigrade, average at highs of 28°C to average lows of 8°C in the summer months while winter temperatures range from 1°C at night to around 18°C in the day. Average annual rainfall is on the low side at under 500mm a year, making the country somewhat dry. Much of the rain falls in the Western Cape in the winter, differing from the rest of the country, which experiences summer rainfall. On the plus side, the South African climate boasts more than its fair share of sunshine, recording an average of 8.5 hours a day.

Summer

Bring clothes that are cool, light and comfortable because summer temperatures can get well into the 30 - 40 degree Celsius range in some areas.Also bring an umbrella or raincoat during summer as this is when most of the country gets its rain, but don't forget a swimming costume (bathing suit).

Winter

The winters are generally mild, comparing favourably with European summers. But there are days when temperatures dive, especially in high-lying areas such as the Drakensberg, so be prepared with jerseys and jackets. Cape Town gets its rain during the winter season so it’s advisable to bring rain gear along.

General

Always bring a hat, sunglasses and sunblock as the sun can be strong even in the winter months.

Walking shoes are a good idea all year-round, with warm socks in the winter.

If you are doing business in the country, business attire (suit and tie) is generally called for in the corporate sector, but media for example generally dress more casually.

For game viewing, a couple of neutral-toned items will be useful, but there's no need to go overboard. A good pair of walking shoes is also advisable.

For the evening, if you are dining at an upmarket restaurant or seeing a show, smart-casual attire is recommended.

Internet cafes: Yes, mainly in urban areas
Accommodation options: Yes, with good connectivity
Restaurants: Yes, in major cities
Cafes: Yes
Shopping malls: Yes
Public parks: Yes, in major cities
Libraries: Yes

Current is 220/240 volts at 50 cycles per second. As South Africa still uses the old British Standard three-point round-pin plug an adapter should be brought for your electrical appliances - such adapters are available at all major airports in South Africa.

With its well-developed infrastructure, some of the best tourist facilities in Africa and an impressive list of breathtaking natural wonders, touring Namibia is truly a pleasure. Visit the capital of Windhoek and the lovely coastal town of Swakopmund to discover remnants of the country’s German influence, reflected in the architecture, culture, cuisine and the annual Oktoberfest celebrations. To properly appreciate this extraordinary country, you will have to venture out of the cities to explore the remarkable natural landscapes Namibia has to offer. These include: the impressive Fish River Canyon Park; the vast Etosha National Park teeming with local subspecies, such as desert lions, desert elephants and the Hartmann's Mountain Zebra; the hauntingly beautiful Kalahari Desert; and of course the Namib Desert stretching for nearly 1000 km along the magnificent Atlantic coastline. Namibia is an ideal destination for travellers seeking an unforgettable African experience in a uniquely beautiful untamed wilderness.

Currency

Namibia uses the Namibian Dollar (N$) this is linked on a one to one exchange with the South African Rand. The Rand is legal tender in Namibia, but the N$ cannot be used in South Africa.

If you are wishing to purchase currency before arriving in Namibia, it is easiest to buy Rand as the Namibian Dollar is seldom available in banks outside of Namibia.

Banking

Banks are found in most towns, and are generally open from 09h00 to 15h30 on weekdays and 08h30 to 11h00 on Saturdays. Closed on Sundays and public holidays. Most of them offer foreign exchange services - with cash and credit cards as well as travellers cheques.

You can also obtain cash from many of the ATMs. Several international banks have branches in main city centres. Always advise your bank that you are travelling outside of the country as they might block your purchases if they have not been informed.

Public transport in Namibia is geared towards the needs of the local populace, and is confined to main roads between major population centres. Although cheap and reliable, it is of little use to the traveller as most of Namibia’s tourist attractions lie off the beaten track.

It is easy to travel around Namibia by car, and a 2WD vehicle is perfectly adaquate for most journeys. However, long distances, poor mobile phone coverage outside of main towns and infrequent petrol stations that only accept cash mean that planning ahead is vital.

There are major airlines that fly into Windhoek and Swakopmund. Other destinations are reachable by car or charter flight.

Namibians drive on the left and all signposts are in English. Seat belts must be worn at all times and talking in a mobile phone while driving is prohibited. The general speed limit is 120km/h on tarred roads outside of towns and 100km/h on gravel roads. In built up areas, the speed limit is 60km/h.

Traditional Namibian cuisine is rarely served and so the food at restaurants tends to be European in style and is, generally, of a very high standard.

Namibia is very meat-orientated, and many menu options will feature steaks from various animals. However, there is usually a vegetarian and seafood section offered by most camps and restaurants.

In the supermarkets you'll find pre-wrapped fresh fruit and vegetables, and plenty of canned foods, pasta, rice, bread, etc. Most of this is imported from South Africa.

The water in Namibia's main towns is generally safe to drink, though it may taste a little metallic if it has been piped for miles. Natural sources should usually be purified, though water from underground springs and dry riverbeds seldom causes any problems. However, filtered and bottled water are readily available in most towns and all camps, lodges and hotels.

Partially covered by the Namib Desert, one of the world's driest deserts, Namibia's climate is generally very dry and pleasant – it's fine to visit all year round. Namibia only receives a fraction of the rain experienced by countries further east. Between aboutDecember to March some days will be humid and rain may follow, often in localised, afternoon thunderstorms. These are more common in the centre and east of the country, and more unusual in the desert.

April and especially May are often lovely months in Namibia. Increasingly dry, with a real freshness in the air, and much greenery in the landscape; at this time the air is clear and largely free from dust.

From June to August Namibia cools down and dries out more; nights can become cold, dropping below freezing in some desert areas. As the landscape dries so the game in the north of the country gravitates more to waterholes, and is more easily seen by visitors. By September and October it warms up again; game-viewing in most areas is at its best, although there's often a lot of dust around and the vegetation has lost its vibrancy.

November is a highly variable month. Sometimes the hot, dry weather will continue, at other times the sky will fill with clouds and threaten to rain – but if you're lucky enough to witness the first rains of the season, you'll never forget the drama.

Namibians have a somewhat relaxes attitude to dress codes. A jacket and tie is very unusual. In fact, long trousers and a shirt with buttons are often quite adequate for a formal occasion or work wear. A pair of sensible shoes, jeans and a t-shirt is recommended.

During the day it is generally hot, so pack light weight loose fitting clothes in natural fabrics, such linen or cotton, that will keep you cool and are easy to wash and dry.

Avoid blue clothing - the tsetse flies are drawn to the colour blue, and their bite can give you African Sleeping Sickness.

Long sleeved shirts and long trousers will protect your against mosquitoes at night.

Botswana is one of the most popular safari destinations in Africa. The vast untamed wilderness of this land-locked country with miles of open space attracts the minds of those who want an exclusive and unmatched safari experience in close quarters with nature. There are few places that offer a similar kind of experience especially if we consider the famous Okavango Delta in the northwest part of the country and the Chobe National Park with the highest density of elephants in Africa. Botswana offers a lot as a country- safaris by vehicle, nature walks, horseback or motorboat game drives, river cruises and so much more! There is plenty of game like buffalo, zebra, hippo, antelope and rhino (recently reintroduced) and the resultant population of predators is therefore good. You might be lucky to see lions, hyenas, leopards and wild dogs. Not only is the wildlife good but also the bird watching is a truly captivating experience.

The most popular safari destination in Botswana is the Okavango Deta, which is an amazing and one of the world's largest natural inland water deltas. The game viewing here is best during the dry season when the place is teeming with wildlife and birds and a variety of different animal life. In addition to this truly spectacular place to go to for wildlife watching, The Moremi Game Reserve (part of the delta), Linyati region and Chobe National Park towards the north are the other truly engaging places to visit. The game-turner is that these places are fed by 4 rivers- Okavango, Kwando, Linyati and Chobe that have turned this region into a rich wetland with an ecosystem most varied and beautiful. The Chobe has a very high density of wildlife and is popular for its proximity to the Victoria Falls.

As you travel towards the south, the landscape changes into a semi-desert Kalahari desert region for miles together only occasioned by a village and a farmland. You can also see the Makgadikgadi salt pans, the 1000th World Heritage Site, stretch south of the delta. Here is where you can experience some exciting quad-biking safaris and the seasonal migration that happens after the rains when scores of zebra, wildebeest and antelope visit to feed on the newly grown grasses. Taking advantage of these thousands of prey are the predators, especially the lions who do not miss any opportunity to feed! This presents some good photo ops for wildlife enthusiasts who in turn make most of these interactions between prey and predators. Also meet with the San for a believably real cultural exchange in the fine desert and also enjoy the Tsodilo Hills, where rock paintings date back thousands of years.

The type of safari that can be booked depends on the requirement of the tourist. Botswana has on offer fine photographic safaris exclusive for eager photographers but can also be a purely exploratory safari experience for the enthusiastic wild lifer. There are also exclusive honeymoon safaris included in few lodges. Botswana safaris are generally quite exclusive and the game lodges are classy and luxurious. Visitor numbers are usually limited. The high standards maintained by the lodges in their service and also the guides are one of the best across the continent. A superb migration takes place in the dry season and the rains also offer some truly exciting opportunities to see the residents, especially birds who breed in this season. Botswana offers best-for-value holidays and hence it is becoming a must-see destination for serious safari enthusiasts.

Entering Botswana is usually straightforward provided you are carrying a valid passport. Visas are available on arrival for most nationalities and are issued in no time. For vehicles rented in South Africa, Namibia or other regional countries, you will need to show a letter from the owner that you have permission to drive the car into Botswana, in addition to all other registration documents.

At all border crossings you must pay P120 (a combination of road levy and third-party insurance) if you’re driving your own vehicle. Hassles from officialdom are rare.

Customs Regulations

Most items from elsewhere in the Southern African Customs Union (SACU) – Namibia, South Africa, Lesotho and Swaziland – may be imported duty free. You may be asked to declare new laptops and cameras, but this is very rarely enforced.

Visitors may bring into Botswana the following amounts of duty-free items: up to 400 cigarettes, 50 cigars or 250g of tobacco; 2L of wine or 1L of beer or spirits; and 50mL of perfume or 250mL of eau de cologne.

The most rigorous searches at customs posts are for fresh meat products – don’t buy succulent steaks in South Africa for your camping barbecue and expect them to be allowed in.

There is no restriction on currency, though you may need to declare any pula or foreign currency you have on you when entering or leaving the country. This depends on the border crossing and who is on duty.

Passports

All visitors entering Botswana must hold a passport that is valid for at least six months. Also, allow a few empty pages for stamp-happy immigration officials, especially if you plan on crossing over to Zimbabwe and/or Zambia to Victoria Falls.

Visas

Visitors to Botswana are issued a visa on arrival, valid for 30 days.

More Information

Most visitors can obtain tourist visas at the international airports and borders (and the nearest police stations in lieu of an immigration official at remote border crossings). Visas on arrival are valid for 30 days – and possibly up to 90 days if requested at the time of entry – and are available for free to passport holders from most Commonwealth countries (but not Ghana, India, Nigeria, Pakistan and Sri Lanka), all EU countries, the USA and countries in the Southern African Customs Union (SACU), ie South Africa, Namibia, Lesotho and Swaziland.

If you hold a passport from any other country, apply for a 30-day tourist visa at an overseas Botswanan embassy or consulate. Where there is no Botswanan representation, try going to a British embassy or consulate.

Tourists are allowed to stay in Botswana for a maximum of 90 days every 12 months, so a 30-day visa may be extended twice. Visas can be extended for free at immigration offices in Gaborone, Francistown, Maun and Kasane. Whether you’re required to show an onward ticket and/or sufficient funds at this time depends on the official(s).

Anyone travelling to Botswana from an area infected with yellow fever needs proof of vaccination before they can enter the country.

Money

There are ATMs in major towns. Credit cards are accepted in most top-end hotels, but lodges and tour operators require advance payment by bank transfer. Otherwise, bring US dollars in cash.

ATMs

Credit cards can be used in ATMs displaying the appropriate sign, or to obtain cash advances over the counter in many banks – Visa and MasterCard are among the most widely recognised. Transaction fees can be prohibitive and usually apply per transaction rather than by the amount you’re withdrawing – take out as much as you can each time. Check also with your bank before leaving home to see if some banks have agreements with your home bank that work out cheaper than others.

You’ll find ATMs at all the main bank branches throughout Botswana, including in Gaborone, Maun, Francistown and Kasane, and this is undoubtedly the simplest (and safest) way to handle your money while travelling.

Cash

The unit of currency is the Botswanan pula (P). Notes come in denominations of P10, P20, P50 and P100, and coins (thebe, or ‘shield’) are in denominations of 5t, 10t, 25t, 50t, P1, P2 and P5.

Most common foreign currencies can be exchanged, but not every branch of every bank will do so. Therefore it’s best to stick to US dollars, euros, UK pounds and South African rand, which are all easy to change.

Foreign currency, typically US dollars, is also accepted by a number of midrange and top-end hotels, lodges and tour operators. 

Most banks and foreign-exchange offices won’t touch Zambian kwacha and (sometimes) Namibian dollars; in border areas you can sometimes pay at some businesses with the latter. 

There are five commercial banks in the country with branches in all the main towns and major villages. 

Changing Money at the Border

Credit & Debit Cards

All major credit cards, especially Visa and MasterCard, but also American Express and Diners Club, are widely accepted in most shops, restaurants and hotels (but only in some petrol stations).

Major branches of Barclays Bank and Standard Chartered Bank also deal with cash advances over the counter and don’t charge commissions for Visa and MasterCard. Almost every town has at least one branch of Barclays and/or Standard Chartered that offers foreign-exchange facilities, but not all have the authority or technology for cash advances.

Tipping

While tipping isn’t obligatory, the government’s official policy of promoting upmarket tourism has raised expectations in many hotels and restaurants. A service charge may be added as a matter of course, in which case there’s no need to leave a tip. If there is no service charge and the service has been good, leave around 10%.

It is also a good idea to tip the men who watch your car in public car parks and the attendants at service stations who wash your windscreens. A tip of around P10 is appropriate.

Guides and drivers of safari vehicles will also expect a tip, especially if you’ve spent a number of days under their care.

Most safari companies suggest the following as a rule of thumb:

• guides/drivers – US$10 per person per day
• mokoro trackers and polers – US$5 each per person per day
• camp or lodge staff – US$10 per guest per day (usually placed in a communal box)
• transfer drivers and porters – US$3

Travellers Cheques

Travellers cheques can be cashed at most banks and exchange offices. American Express (Amex), Thomas Cook and Visa are the most widely accepted brands. Banks charge anywhere between 2% and 3% commission to change the cheques; Barclays usually offers the most efficient service and charges 2.5% commission for most brands.

As a general rule, it is preferable to buy travellers cheques in US dollars, euros or UK pounds. Get most of the cheques in largish denominations to save on per-cheque commissions.

You must take your passport with you when cashing cheques.

Public transport in Botswana is geared towards the needs of the local populace and is confined to main roads between major population centres. Although cheap and reliable, it is of little use to the traveller as most of Botswana’s tourist attractions lie off the beaten track.

Driving off the main roads in Botswana is only recommended to expects in 4x4 vehicles, that are equipped correctly. Most lodges offer transfers or they can be arranged. If, however, you will be driving in Botswana: your home driving licence will be accepted (with an official English translation if necessary; driving is on the left side of the road; and the national speed limit is on tarred roads is 120km/h and 60km/h in towns and villages).

Be sure to watch out for wild animals on the roads!

There are major airports in Maun, Kasane and Gaborone, while smaller charter flights are used to get to the other top attractions and camps. There is a strict luggage restriction for all guests travelling by light aircraft transfers of 20kg (44lbs), 25cm (10 inches) wide x 30cm (12 inches) high and 62cm (24 inches) long per person in soft, manageable bags, which includes hand baggage and camera equipment. No
hard suitcases and no bags with wheels or frame. This is for safety and logistical reasons.
The aircraft in use are Grand Caravans, Airvans and a Kodiak which are perfect for the bush landing strips in Northern Botswana. However, weight is a safety issue and the small luggage storage pod restricts the storage/transfer of any large or solid suitcases. Please do not bring Samsonite or similar hard suitcases.
Guests are welcome to store excess luggage in our Maun office provided that their safari begins and ends in Maun. If this is the case, guests must make sure they pack smaller bags in advance to avoid delays to onward travel at Maun Airport. Should clients arrive with excessive luggage they will be asked to re-pack into smaller bags or to leave their luggage behind UNLESS they have pre-arranged extra space in the plane by means of booking an additional seat (at full seat rate).

As long as you stay up-to-date with your vaccinations and take basic preventive measures, you’re unlikely to succumb to most serious health hazards. While Botswana does offer an impressive selection of tropical diseases, it’s more likely you’ll get a bout of diarrhoea or a cold than an exotic malady. The main exception to this is malaria, which is a real risk.

A little predeparture planning will save you trouble later. Get a check-up from your dentist and from your doctor if you have any regular medication or chronic illness, eg high blood pressure or asthma. You should also organise spare contact lenses and glasses (and take your optical prescription with you); get a first-aid and medical kit together; and arrange necessary vaccinations.

Travellers can register with the International Association for Medical Advice to Travellers (www.iamat.org), which provides directories of certified doctors in-country. 

If you are bringing medications with you, carry them in their original containers, clearly labelled. A signed and dated letter from your physician describing all medical conditions and medications, including generic names, is also a good idea. If carrying syringes or needles, be sure to have a physician’s letter documenting their medical necessity.

Recommended Vaccinations

The World Health Organization (www.who.int/en/) recommends that all travelers be covered for diphtheria, tetanus, measles, mumps, rubella, and polio, as well as for hepatitis B, regardless of their destination. The consequences of these diseases can be severe, and outbreaks do occur.

According to the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (www.cdc.gov), the following vaccinations are recommended for Botswana: hepatitis A, hepatitis B, rabies and typhoid, and boosters for tetanus, diphtheria, and measles. Yellow fever was not a risk in the region at the time of writing, but the certificate is an entry requirement if you’re coming from an infected region.

Health Insurance

In Botswana, most doctors expect payment in cash. Find out in advance whether your insurance plan will make payments directly to providers, or will reimburse you later for overseas health expenditures. It’s also vital to ensure that your travel insurance will cover any emergency transport required to get you to a hospital in a major city, or all the way home, by air and with a medical attendant if necessary. Not all insurance covers this, so check the contract carefully. If you need medical assistance, your insurance company might be able to help locate the nearest hospital or clinic, or you can ask at your hotel. In an emergency, contact your embassy or consulate.

In Botswana

Availability & Cost of Healthcare

Good-quality health care is available in all major urban areas in Botswana, and private hospitals are generally of an excellent standard. Public hospitals, by contrast, are often underfunded and overcrowded, and reliable medical facilities are rare in off-the-beaten-track areas.

Prescriptions are generally required in Botswana. Drugs for chronic diseases should be brought from home. There is a high risk of contracting HIV from infected blood transfusions if you need to receive a blood transfusion. To minimize this, seek out treatment in reputable clinics. The BloodCare Foundation (www.bloodcare.org.uk) is a useful source of safe, screened blood, which can be transported to any part of the world within 24 hours.

Tap Water

Stick to bottled water.

Specific medical conditions need to be advised upon booking; this assists the Camp Managers in making suitable prior arrangements and/or raising awareness in the case of a medical emergency. Ker & Downey Botswana camps have 24-hour access to Okavango Air Rescue (OAR) and in the case of emergency a medical evacuation facility is available.
Emergency evacuation insurance is included in our rates; however, the OAR professionals define the nature of the ‘emergency’ and the transfer is to the closest medical facility that has the capacity to deal with the specific injury/illness. Treatment once at the medical facility is not covered.
It is strongly recommended that all guests take out private travel/medical insurance which will cover them for the duration of their stay and that the details of this insurance (policy number, insurance company and emergency contact number) is lodged with their agent and our Camp Managers. This assists with efficient processing of the emergency evacuation.

Botswana is considered a safe travel destination and is both financially and politically stable having been spared much of the unrest and turmoil which plagues so many countries in Africa. As is the case elsewhere, the larger cities and population centres generally have the
most crime, but once you are on safari, such problems are all but non-existent. It is, however, a good idea to leave your valuables (expensive watches, jewellery, etc.) at home thus eliminating the temptation for possible thievery. Luggage locks are always advisable when flying.

Food and water safety:  
Can you drink the tap water: Yes within major cities 
Fresh fruit and veg: Yes within major cities 
Ice: Yes within major cities 
Meat: Yes within major cities 
Street food: Yes within major cities 
 
Local cuisine: Food centres around meat such as goat, beef, chicken and fresh water fish, and a maize meal known locally as “pap”.  Adventurous culinary enthusiasts may want to try the traditional speciality of Mopane Worms, while those with a sweet tooth should make sure to sample the local Kalahari Truffles (made as a dessert) and unusual fruit called Marula. It is believed that watermelon originated here.  

Drinks:  Bojalwaja Setswana (the beer of Botswana) - created using fermented sorghum seeds.  

Tipping: 10%, usually added to the bill at restaurants. It is also customary to tip game drivers and guides.

Botswana's climatic pattern is typical of southern Africa, although its rainfall is less than countries further east. The rains in Botswana come mostly between December and March, when average minimum temperatures are in the low 20°s. Some days will be bright and sunny, some will have afternoon thunderstorms, and some will just be grey.

As with Namibia, April and May in Botswana are generally lovely, with the sky clear and the landscape green. Night temperatures start to drop during these months, especially in the Kalahari. Note that places in and around the Okavango tend to have less extreme, more moderate temperatures than the drier areas of the Kalahari.

From June to August the night-time temperatures in drier areas can be close to freezing, but it warms up rapidly during the day, when the sky is usually clear and blue. It's now very much 'peak season' for most safari areas: the land is dry in most areas so the animals congregate around the few available water sources.

This continues into September and October, when temperatures climb again, drying the landscapes and concentrating the game even more. This is the best time for big game safaris – although October can feel very hot, with maximum temperatures sometimes approaching 40°C.

November is difficult to predict, as it can sometimes be a continuation of October's heat, whilst sometimes it's cooled by the first rains; it's always an interesting month.

In summer, lightweight, lightcoloured cottons are preferable. Avoid synthetic materials and black clothing, as they increase perspiration and discomfort. In winter, wear trousers, longsleeved shirts / blouses and jerseys. From May – August, night temperatures can fall below zero degrees celsius, so warm jerseys and jackets are vital, especially on morning and evening game drives. Garments of neutral colours that blend with the bush and forest are advisable for safaris and game viewing. Bring a lightweight jacket and/or jersey for unexpected temperature changes or rain. Closed, comfortable walking shoesor gym shoes are a must in all seasons. Special attention should be given to protection from the sun. Bring a sunhat, good quality sunscreen, sun lotion and polarised sunglasses. Wide brimmed sun hats are essential.

Internet cafes: Yes in cities 
Accommodation options: Yes 
Restaurants: Yes in cities 
Cafes: Yes in cities 
Shopping malls: Yes 
Public parks: No 
Libraries: Yes in cities 

Electrical sockets (outlets) in Botswana are the "Type M " South African SABS1661 ("Large" 15 amp BS-546) sockets. This is actually an old British standard. The "Type M " South African plug and socket is not to be confused with the "Type D " Indian plug and socket. In pictures, they look very similar, but the South African type is much larger than the Indian type, and they are physically incompatible. If your appliance's plug doesn't match the shape of these sockets, you will need a travel plug adapter in order to plug in. Travel plug adapters simply change the shape of your appliance's plug to match whatever type of socket you need to plug into.

Electrical sockets (outlets) in Botswana usually supply electricity at between 220 and 240 volts AC. If you're plugging in an appliance that was built for 220-240 volt electrical input, or an appliance that is compatible with multiple voltages, then an adapter is all you need.

But travel plug adapters do not change the voltage, so the electricity coming through the adapter will still be the same 220-240 volts the socket is supplying. If you need to use appliances that are not compatible with 220-240 volt electrical input, you will need a voltage converter.

Please be advised that the Samsung Galaxy Note 7 is not permitted on any flights in Botswana due to the possible fire hazard associated with the device. Many thanks for your co-operation

New Immigration requirement for travelling to Botswana with children under 18 years old:

· Parents travelling to South Africa and Botswana with children under 18 years old are required to produce an unabridged birth certificate (including details of the child’s father as well as mother) for all children travelling in addition to their valid passports.

· In the event that one parent is not travelling with the child, the other parent’s affidavit consenting to such travel should be availed. However, an affidavit will not be required if the father’s name does not appear on the child’s birth certificate.

· Adults travelling with children under 18 years old who are not the parents must produce a signed affidavit from both parents stating that the identified adult has been given their authority to travel with their child, said adult will need unabridged birth certificate of all children in their care.

This new requirement has taken effect on 1st June 2015 for South Africa and on 1st October 2016 for Botswana.

What to bring
TRAVEL DOCUMENTS
Passport with appropriate visas
Health Certificates as recommended by your physician for your specific destination(s)
Airline tickets (always reconfirm reservations 72 hours in advance)
Customs registration (sometimes required for cameras, videos, binoculars and expensive watches)
ACCESSORIES
Good binoculars
Flashlight – optional 
Reading materials
Pen and paper, or writing journal/diary
Locks for luggage
Pack your equipment in a good, soft-sided case, and carry it on the plane with you. Africa can be dusty and you should protect your equipment well. Plastic ‘Ziploc’ bags or cloth pillowcases are ideal means of covering and storing your photographic equipment during your safari.

PACKING LIST – suggestion only
CLOTHING
Pair of lightweight slacks or jeans (women may prefer skirts or culottes)
Wind-breaker or bush jacket
Shirts- three long and three short sleeved
Pairs of shorts/skorts
Pair of comfortable walking shoes, tennis shoes or lightweight hiking boots
Warm sweater for evenings and early mornings
Underclothing
Pyjamas or sweat suit for sleeping
Pair socks
Swimsuit
Sun protective hat
Pair of flip flops
Lightweight rain jacket (November – April)
Warm and windproof jacket, gloves, hat (May – August)
Pair of light shoes for evenings
TOILETRIES
Aspirin
Antiseptic cream
Chapstick or lip balm
Sunscreens
Band Aids
Extra pair or prescription glasses or contact lenses
Anti-diarrhoea medicine
Skin moisturiser
Eye and nose drops
Antihistamine if you suffer from allergies/hay fever as the grass and dust levels can be quite high
Shaving kit
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Hairbrush
Deodorant
Shampoo & Conditioner – although provided
Nail clippers
Personnel toiletries
Insect repellent (containing DEET)
Sunglasses
Moist towelettes

Zimbabwe invites slow, meaningful travel. Think big skies, warm welcomes, and days shaped by wildlife, culture, and time outdoors.

Start with a focus: perhaps Victoria Falls with a safari in Hwange, where elephant herds and open savannas set the pace. Or choose the Zambezi—canoeing and walking in Mana Pools, with a few lazy days on Lake Kariba. Another route leans into history and scenery: the granite domes of Matobo Hills, the stone walls of Great Zimbabwe, and the cool forests of the Eastern Highlands. You might also keep Gonarezhou’s red cliffs for a later chapter.

You won’t fit it all in one journey—and that’s the charm. Pick a pair of regions that speak to you now, then leave room for what comes next. Zimbabwe rewards return visits, each trip adding new corners, new stories, and new favorite places.

Currency

Zimbabwe uses their own currency called Bond as it's own unit of currency (the Zimbabwe Dollar) is suspended. Rand and Euros are accepted currencies at most places. Dollar - Euros and Rans are accepted at few hotels and at some supermarkets. It is advised to carry small denominations of change with you, however it is best to pay for as much as possible outside of the country.

Banking

Banks in Zimbabwe are open for business Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 08h00 to 15h00, on Wednesdays from 08h00 to 13h00 and Saturdays from 08h00 to 11h30. They are closed on Sundays and Public Holidays.

Taxis are safe and reliable, and can be booked through your hotel front desk. Taxis in cities travel within a 40km radius of the city. Always take a taxi at night.

Major airlines fly into Victoria Falls, Harare and Bulawayo. Charter flights are available to most attractions and camps.

Zimbabwe has a good road infrastructure, by African standards, although potholed. Between major towns, there are frequent road blocks. Traffic drives on the left side of the road.

If you are driving yourself around Zimbabwe, be sure to check on fuel availability in advance. If you are covering long distances within the country, ensure you carry extra fuel in 5 or 10lt metal containers in case of emergency. Fuel is generally available, but supply can fluctuate. Fuel is only available for cash.

Vaccinations (obligatory)

All visitors to Zimbabwe over 1 year of age are required to have valid Cholera and Yellow Fever Vaccinations if coming from an infected area/country. The World Health Organization (WHO) provides a list of yellow fever countries.

The yellow fever vaccine is recommended if you're traveling to:

* an area where yellow fever is found
* a country that requires you to have a certificate proving you have been vaccinated against yellow fever if you traveled in an endemic country.

To    prevent    the    international    spread    of    the    disease    by    protecting    countries    from    the    risk    of    importing    or    spreading    the    yellow    fever   virus.    These    are    requirements    established    by    the    country.

Vaccinations (recommended)

Malaria: although no vaccination exists, a prophylaxis with Lariam (mefloquine), Malarone (atovaquone/proguanil), or Doxycycline is recommended for all areas.

Useful vaccinations - depending on the type of travel - include Hepatitis A and Typhoid as these can be contracted through contaminated food and water regardless of where you eat or stay.

Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before every trip. These vaccines include measles-mumps-rubella, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, varicella, and polio.

It is wise to consider vaccination against rabies if you intend to be working closely with animals or camping in the bush amid wild animals. Hepatitis B is not really an issue provided one avoids sharing “body fluids”.

Zimbabwe's native cuisine is based on sadza, a cooked porridge made from ground maize which is normally be accompanied by some tasty relish, perhaps made of meat and tomatoes, or dried fish. Safari camps will often prepare sadza if requested, and it is almost always available in small restaurants in the towns.

Camps, hotels and lodges that cater to overseas typically serve a variety international fare, and the quality of food prepared in the most remote bush camps is usually excellent.

If you are driving yourself around and plan to cook, then get most of your supplies in main towns. There are a number of South African shopping chains operating in Zimbabwe which will generally have all that you will need.

Water in the main towns is usually purified.. The locals drink it, and are used to the relatively innocuous bugs that it may harbour. If you are in the country for a long time, then it may be worth acclimatising yourself to it. However, if you are in Zimbabwe for just a short period of time, then try to drink only bottled, boiled, or treated water available in towns and from all camps, lodges and hotels.

In Zimbabwe, the rains come principally in December, January,February and March; the further north you are, the earlier the precipitation arrives and the later it leaves. Zimbabwe's higher eastern areas usually receive more rainfall than the lower-lying western ones.

By April and May most of the rain is gone, leaving a verdant setting, which is starting to dry out. Especially in more southerly and higher locations, the night-time temperatures start to drop.

The nights in June, July and August become much cooler, so don't forget to bring some warmer clothes, in case you want to spend an evening outside; the days are still clear and warm. For Zimbabwe, this is the start of the 'peak season'– days are often cloudless and game sightings continually increase.

Into September and October the temperatures rise once again: Zimbabwe's lower-lying rift valley – Mana Pools – can get very hot in October. During this time, you'll see some fantastic game, as the Zimbabwe's wildlife concentrates around the limited water sources.

November is unpredictable; it can be hot and dry, it can also see the season's first rainfalls – and in this respect it's a very interesting month, as on successive days, you can see both weather patterns.

When in Zimbabwe the cardinal rule is to wear casual, comfortable clothes during the day as temperatures can get very hot. It is advisable to wear light loose fitting clothing, such as cotton or linen, as they are cool and easy to wash. Warmer clothes are advised for the evenings and rainwear for the wet season.

A brimmed hat and sunglasses are a good idea year round. Long sleeved shirts and long trousers will also guard against the scourching sun rays. It is recommended you wear light shoes, especially if your itinerary entails a lot of walking.

For safaris, please remember to wear appropriate clothing and shoes. Earth colour clothes, such as browns and greens are advisable.

Internet cafes: Limited, mainly in major cities
Accommodation: Yes, including hotels, guesthouses, and lodges
Restaurants: Yes
Cafes: Yes
Shopping malls: Limited
Public parks: Limited, in urban areas
Libraries: Limited