Example Itinerary - Botswana - Cape Town Combination

A nation of spectacular natural beauty, friendly people and rich culture, Zimbabwe’s status as one of Africa’s leading safari destinations was dampened for years by its political instability. But now that the country is transcending its strife and returning to a state of equilibrium, it is once again emerging as a vacation highlight of the continent. Victoria Falls – known to locals as ‘The Smoke That Thunders’ – is one of the seven natural wonders of the world and the sheer power of this massive body of water plunging into the Zambezi Gorge is awe-inspiring and unforgettable. Lake Kariba, with its game-rich shores and islands, is an idyllic safari spot featuring mind-blowing sunsets; Hwange National Park is known for its huge herds of elephants; and a kayak trip down the Zambezi through the Mana Pools National Park will appeal to the intrepid traveller, providing close encounters with crocodiles, hippos and a host of other wildlife.

Entry Requirements
A visa on arrival is available for citizens of Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. A passport valid for at least 6 months is required.
Visa fees:

• Approximately USD 30–50 depending on nationality and type of entry

An eVisa option is also available in many cases prior to travel.
Note:
Entry requirements may change at short notice. It is recommended to check the latest regulations before departure.

Currency & Payments

• Official currency: Zimbabwe Gold (ZWG), however US Dollars (USD) are widely used in daily transactions and often preferred

Important notes:

• Credit card acceptance is limited (mainly Visa and Mastercard in larger hotels)
• Cash is essential for travel in Zimbabwe
• ATM availability and reliability are limited outside major towns

Transport

Flights & Luggage

• Charter flights typically allow a maximum of 20 kg luggage (including camera equipment)
• Only soft-sided bags are permitted
• Hard-shell suitcases are generally not accepted
• Luggage size restrictions may apply (approx. 62 x 25 x 30 cm)

Taxis & Transfers

• Only use taxis arranged through accommodations or trusted providers
• Avoid accepting unsolicited rides

Medical Care
In major cities such as Harare and Bulawayo, private clinics provide a good standard of medical care. In rural areas, however, medical services are limited.
We strongly recommend comprehensive travel health insurance, including medical evacuation cover. Upfront payment is often required in private medical facilities.

Vaccinations & Travel Medicine
No mandatory vaccinations are required for entry (except yellow fever if arriving from a risk area).
Recommended vaccinations include:

• Routine immunisations (e.g. tetanus, diphtheria, and influenza)
• Hepatitis A
• Depending on itinerary: Hepatitis B, typhoid, rabies

Malaria
There is a malaria risk in Zimbabwe, particularly in low-lying and rural areas.
Recommendations:

• Consistent use of insect repellent and long clothing
• Individual medical advice regarding malaria prophylaxis

Important Note
If you develop fever during or after your trip, seek medical attention immediately and inform the doctor about your stay in a malaria-risk area.

Safety

Zimbabwe is generally a welcoming destination for travellers; however, standard safety precautions should be observed.
General recommendations:

• Avoid walking alone after dark
• Keep valuables and documents secure
• Carry only small amounts of cash
• Use reputable taxis arranged through your accommodation
• Withdraw cash only from secure ATMs in banks or shopping centres
• Do not accept assistance from strangers at ATMs

Cuisine & Drinking Water

Zimbabwean cuisine is simple and traditional.
Typical dishes:

• Sadza (maize porridge) served with stews
• Grilled meats and vegetables
• Chibuku (traditional fermented sorghum beer)

Drinking water:

• Tap water is not safe for drinking
• Only bottled, filtered, or boiled water should be used
• Always check bottle seals when purchasing water

Recommendation:

• Avoid ice cubes where water quality is uncertain

Climate
Zimbabwe has a subtropical climate with distinct seasons:

• Dry season: April to October (cooler and dry)
• Rainy season: November to March (warm, humid, with rainfall)

Temperatures:

• Daytime: approx. 15–40°C depending on region and season
• Nighttime in winter (May–August): can be cool to very cold

Clothing

• Daytime: light, breathable clothing
• Evenings: warm layers (fleece, jacket)
• Rainy season: waterproof shoes and rain gear
• Safari: neutral colours (beige, khaki), long clothing for protection against sun and insects
• Revealing clothing should be avoided in public areas

Internet & Connectivity

• Wi-Fi is available in most hotels and lodges
• Mobile coverage is good in cities but limited in rural areas

Recommendation:

• eSIM services (e.g. Airalo) or local SIM cards for mobile data

Electricity

• Voltage: 220–240 V / 50 Hz
• Plug types: D and G (adapter required)

Power cuts and voltage fluctuations may occur, particularly outside major cities. Many accommodations use generators or backup power systems.

General Information

Souvenirs

Popular items include:

• Handmade crafts, textiles, wood carvings, and jewellery

Please note:

• Products made from protected animal or plant species must not be purchased or exported

Tipping

• Rangers in national parks / lodges: approx. USD 10–15 per person per day
• Safari guides/drivers: approx. USD 10–15 per day
• Cooks, housekeeping, porters: approx. USD 5 per day
• Restaurants: 10–15% is customary
• Taxi drivers: approx. USD 5–10 or rounding up depending on distance

Opening Hours (Guideline)

• Banks: Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri 08:00–15:00, Wed 08:00–13:00, Sat 08:00–11:30
• Offices: Mon–Fri 08:30–17:00
• Shops: Mon–Fri 08:00–17:00, Sat 08:00–13:00 (some open longer)

Situated in the southern reaches of Africa, Botswana is renowned for its pristine wilderness areas characterised by deep lagoons, wetlands, lush palms, rugged hills and desert plains. The country’s primary tourist drawcard is undoubtedly the vast red expanse of the Kalahari Desert and its remarkably beautiful Okavango Delta, the largest inland delta in the world. These natural wonders provide a tranquil haven for an abundance of African wildlife to thrive. Other highlights include the impressive Makgadikgadi Salt Pans, where visitors are privy to massive zebra migrations during the flood season; the Savuti plains, which host a significant pride of lions; and the Tsodilo Hills, where 4500 rock paintings form a unique record of human settlement over many millennia.

Entry Requirements
EU citizens (e.g. Germany, Austria, Switzerland) do not require a visa for tourist stays of up to 90 days.

• Passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the travel date and contain blank pages
• For minors: an unabridged birth certificate and, if applicable, parental consent

Yellow fever:
A vaccination certificate is required only if arriving from a yellow fever endemic area.
Please note that entry requirements may change. We recommend checking with the relevant Botswana embassy or consulate prior to travel.

Currency & Payments

• Local currency: Botswana Pula (BWP)

Credit cards are widely accepted in cities and lodges. Cash is recommended for smaller purchases and in rural areas.
US Dollars are accepted in some high-end tourist establishments, but Pula is generally required for everyday transactions.

Transport & Luggage (Safari Flights)
Charter flights usually have the following restrictions:

• Luggage: approx. 15–20 kg per person (including hand luggage)
• Only soft-sided bags are permitted

Please note that exact regulations may vary depending on the airline.

Medical Care
Medical facilities in cities such as Gaborone, Maun, and Francistown are of a good standard, with both public and private options available. In rural areas, however, medical services are limited.
We strongly recommend a travel health insurance, including medical evacuation coverage. Please note that upfront payment is often required for medical treatment in Botswana.

Vaccinations & Travel Health
There are no mandatory vaccinations required for entry (except for yellow fever; see below). Recommended vaccinations include:

• Routine immunisations (e.g. tetanus, diphtheria, and seasonal influenza)
• Hepatitis A
• Depending on itinerary: Hepatitis B, typhoid, rabies

Malaria
There is a malaria risk in northern regions (including the Okavango Delta and Chobe), particularly between November and June.
Recommendations:

• Use insect repellent consistently
• Wear long-sleeved clothing
• Seek medical advice regarding malaria prophylaxis

Important Note
If you experience fever during or after your trip, please seek medical attention immediately and inform the doctor about your stay in a malaria-risk area.

Safety
Botswana is generally considered a safe travel destination. However, we recommend:

• Caution in cities at night and avoiding isolated areas
• Keeping valuables secure
• Withdrawing cash only from reputable ATMs

Petty crime (such as pickpocketing) can occur occasionally.

During safaris:

• Always maintain a safe distance from wildlife
• Follow your guide’s instructions at all times

Emergency Numbers

• Police: 999
• Ambulance: 997
• Fire: 998

Diplomatic Representations

• German Embassy: +267 (0) 395 3143 | Emergency: +267 71 300 139
• Austrian Consulate: +267 (0) 395 1514
• Swiss Consulate: +267 (0) 7154 3491

Cuisine & Drinking Water
Typical dishes include:

• Pap (maize porridge)
• Seswaa (traditional meat dish)
• Mopane worms (local delicacy)
• Rock Shandy (refreshing soft drink)

Tap water is generally safe to drink in cities. In remote areas, bottled water is recommended.

Climate
Botswana has a dry to semi-arid climate:

• Rainy season: November to March (short but sometimes heavy showers)
• Dry season: April to October

Temperatures:

• Daytime: approx. 25–35°C
• Nighttime (especially in winter): can be significantly cooler

Clothing

• Light, breathable clothing
• Long sleeves and trousers for sun and insect protection
• Neutral colours (beige, khaki) for safaris
• Warm layers for early mornings and evenings

Layering is recommended.

Internet & Connectivity

• Wi-Fi is available in many lodges
• Mobile network coverage is generally good, but limited in remote areas

Recommendations:

• Local SIM cards (e.g. Mascom, Orange Botswana), or
• eSIM providers (e.g. Airalo)

Electricity

• Voltage: 230 V / 50 Hz
• Plug type: primarily Type M (South African standard)

Many lodges operate on generators, which may be switched off at night.
Recommendation: bring a universal adapter and a power bank.

Souvenirs & Customs
Popular souvenirs include:

• Handmade ceramics
• Jewellery and wood carvings

Please note:
The export of products made from protected animal or plant species (e.g. ivory) is strictly prohibited.

VAT (Value Added Tax)

• Currently: 12%

Refunds may be available upon departure, subject to conditions (e.g. presentation of receipts and purchased goods).

Tipping
Tipping is customary and an important part of income:

• Restaurants: approx. 10–15%
• Rangers: approx. USD 12–20 per person/day
• Trackers: approx. USD 5–10 per person/day
• Guides/drivers: approx. USD 10 per day
• Hotel staff: approx. USD 5–10 per day