Botswana Tours in 2025

Visa requirements may change, so for the most up-to-date information we recommend using our Entry Requirements tool. Alternatively, check the Botswanan embassy website in your country of departure.

Please note that a yellow fever vaccination will be required upon entry if you’re travelling from the following countries in Africa and Latin America.

Other vaccinations to consider include hepatitis a, hepatitis b, tetanus, rabies if you’re in rural areas, meningitis, typhoid and polio. However, as advice can often change, you can check out our Entry Requirements tool for the most up-to-date details on vaccination requirements.

Botswana tends to experience a sub-tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The wet season runs from November to April, and sees the most rainfall fall between the months of January and February. The dry season runs from May to October, and there tends to be barely any rainfall during this time period. Temperature-wise, you’re looking at highs of around 25°C (77°F) and lows of 17°C (62.6°F) — there’s also an average of 300 days of sunshine here, so pack those sunnies!

While there’s no bad time to visit Botswana, generally the best time to visit Botswana is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. These months offer cooler temperatures with less rain, making it ideal for wildlife viewing and exploring the country's various different landscapes. The Okavango Delta is at its prime during this time, and the conditions are great for safaris.

Tipping isn’t expected in Botswana, though it is very much appreciated and is an important source of income for those within the tourism industry. The usual ballpark figure is around 10% for good service in restaurants and other hospitality venues. If the service is exceptional, then go for 15-20% instead.

You can use this guideline for staff on your tour if you'd like to show appreciation:

• CEO: USD $5-8 per person, per day
• Driver/Safari guide: USD $2-3 per person, per day
• Local guides: USD $2-3 per person, per day

Internet access in Botswana is generally pretty good — particularly in places like Maun and Gaborone. However, in rural areas like the Okavango Delta, expect it to be much slower and less reliable.

Yes — you’ll find plenty of ATMs in Botswana, especially in urban areas, and major towns and cities like Gaborone. Most accept Visa and Mastercard cards, but it's a good idea to check with your bank before you travel to avoid any issues with your cards and to see if you’ll be charged withdrawal fees. If you’re heading out into rural areas like game reserves, it’s a good idea to carry cash with you in case you can’t locate an ATM.

Botswana is one of the more liberal countries in Africa, and same-sex relations have been legal here since 2019. However, outside of towns and cities like Gaborone, attitudes will likely be far more conservative — so use discretion.

As part of their commitment, all CEOs receive LGBTQ+ inclusion training so every traveller feels respected and welcomed on all of our tours. We commit to making our tours a safe and inclusive place for people to express their authentic selves without judgement, free from any discriminatory language or harassment.

While travelling with G Adventures, all travellers must treat each other with dignity and respect to create an environment that is positive, safe, and where everyone feels welcome. You can find out more via our LGBTQ+ travel page.

The official language of Botswana is English, which is widely spoken across the country. The second most widely-spoken language is Setswana (or Tswana), with other languages spoken here including Kalanga, Herero, Ndebele, Shona, and Sekgalagadi.

In major cities and towns like Gaborone and Francistown, the water is generally treated to international standards and is ok to drink. However, in rural areas, it’s best to stick to bottled water.

Please note however that all drinks provided on our tours are safe to drink (including drinks with ice), as well as the water in most hotels and restaurants visited on tour. If in doubt, please ask your CEO for further info.

Botswana is widely considered to be extremely safe for travellers, and it’s really only wild animals which are a slight risk here. Take heed of local warnings in national parks and rural areas.

G Adventures takes all reasonable measures to ensure your safety and enjoyment while travelling with us. All of the included activities are properly vetted and regularly checked by us, and we take great care in choosing the right transportation, stays throughout your trip, and guides to lead your tour. However, there are always inherent risks when travelling — you can find out more via our travel safety page.