Practical information Botswana

86722  sq.mi

Around 14 hrs. Gaborone is 5,461 mi from London.

2029307 hab.

The Sir Seretse Khama international airport is 9 miles from the centre of Gaborone. The only reliable transport service between the town centre and the airport is a shuttle bus from large hotels (free). Taxis are quite rare and cost about £2 for a group of 12.

Attacks and crime: Botswana is a relatively safe country. However, avoid displaying valuable items.
Animal danger: in the reserves, wildlife is king. If you are alone in your vehicle, do not leave it under any circumstances. Despite its apparent indolence, a lion can charge at you at lightning speed. Never underestimate the danger represented by hippopotami; they are actually the main cause of accidents in Africa. If you would like to swim in the Okavango delta, ask the local population about the presence of crocodiles beforehand (they can reach 4 meters in length). If you are not sure, then don't do it!
In an emergency dial 999 for the police and 977 for ambulances.

English (official), Tswana (national).

The official religion is Christianity: 20% practicing Christians, 80% indigenous beliefs.

The Pula (BWP or P) is the national currency of Botswana. It consists of 100 Thebes (Pula literally means 'rain' and Thebe 'raindrop'). £1 Sterling = 11.02 Pulas. In certain regions, some items are actually sold in Pondos, or pounds, which are equal to 2 Pulas. Most credit cards (MasterCard and Visa), as well as travellers cheques, are accepted in hotels, shops and large restaurants in the cities (and in certain lodges). However, you will have to pay in cash at most petrol stations. Banks are generally open from Monday to Friday, from 9:00am to 2:30pm (from 8:15am to 12:00pm on Wednesdays), and on Saturdays from 8:15am to 10:45am.

By train: Although slow, the train is a very pleasant way of exploring Botswana's scenery. Divided into 3 classes, it serves the towns of Gaborone, Mahalapye, Palapye, Serule and Francistown, however, there are also regional lines and single class trains between Gaborone, Pilane and Lobatse.
By bus: Various buses and minibuses connect the different Botswanian towns, mainly in the east of the country. They leave from the bus stations at irregular times as the drivers generally wait until they are full before setting off.
By plane: Air Botswana has daily regular internal flights between Gaborone and Francistown (around £76), and Gaborone and Maun (£107); 3 weekly flights between Francistown and Maun, via Gaborone (£74); 3 weekly flights to Kasane, leaving from Maun (£89) and Gaborone (£120) and one weekly flight between Francistown and Kasane (£68). You can also rent one of several private planes connecting Gaborone to the large tourist sites.
By car: The main road network is of excellent quality, whereas the secondary network is far from it. In Botswana, you drive on the left. The national driving licence is valid for 6 months; however, if you are intending to buy a vehicle, you will need an international driving licence. It is easy to rent traditional vehicles and 4x4s, however, you need the appropriate budget and to be at least 25 years of age.

No vaccine is required. Only the people arriving from a country contaminated by yellow fever need to show vaccine certification. Risks of contracting paludism are real, especially in the northern districts, very touristy, where 80% of the contaminations are reported (zone A: Chobe, Okavango, Ngamiland, Tutume, Boteti).
There are occasional outbreaks of anthrax amongst wild animals. You should seek advice locally from park officials and not touch dead animals.

Use mosquito nets, mosquito repellent products and combine the consumption of chloroquin and proguanil. Tap water is drinkable, but just to be careful, favour boiled water or mineral water (check the cap condition and avoid ice cubes).

With the exception of the water currents of the Okavango Delta,avoid swimming in fresh water, due to risks of contracting bilharzia.
It must be pointed out that Botswana is the country most affected by the HIV virusin Africa (nearly 38% of the sexually active population).

First aid: MRI (Medical Rescue International): (00 267) 390 16 01
Gaborone Private Hospital: (00.267) 390 19 99

220 V. Two-pin electrical appliances. Adaptor needed.

Unknown.

Cameras must be declared upon arrival in the country. Tips are not mandatory but are a custom in hotels and restaurants. It is recommended to give tips only if the service is excellent.
Institutions and economy:
Botswana is a parliamentary republic, independent since 1966 and divided into 10 districts. Ian Khama is the President. There is also a bicameral parliament composed of the "House of Chiefs" (15 members representing the 8 main ethnic goups) and the National Assembly (44 seats). Though farming provides work for 80% of the population, it only provides 50% of the necessary food for the country and only represents 4% of the GDP. The tourism and diamond mining industries represent a large part of the economy. Percentages of GDP: agriculture: 4%, industries: 45% (mining: 35%) and services: 51%.

To telephone from the UK to Botswana: dial 00 + 267 + number of other party.
From Botswana to the UK : dial 00 + 44 + number of other party, without the initial zero.