We all work hard for most of the year, so come holiday time we want things to go smoothly. The foundation for a pleasant and relaxing vacation is laid before you even leave your house. We have compiled a 7 point checklist to prepare the perfect holiday in beautiful Botswana.

1. Don’t Forget to Sign Travel Insurance

It is very important to sign insurance. Most insurance packages include a rescue service allowing you to be transported to the nearest hospital in case of emergencies, a service that is invaluable when you’re out in the bush.

2. Update Your Vaccinations

Bring your vaccinations up to date. In Botswana the following vaccinations are recommended:

• Hepatitis A and B,
• Typhoid,
• Tetanus-diphtheria,
• Measles-mumps-rubella.

3. Malaria Risk in Northern Botswana

Malaria prophylaxis is necessary for journeys in the northern part of Botswana especially from November through to June. That includes Chobe National Park and the Okavango Delta among others. As a rule pregnant women should not go to Malaria endangered areas.

4. International Driver’s License recommended

If you’d like to experience self safari drives you should have an international license. It is especially important in case of accidents. An international document is known worldwide and can help you to solve appearing problems faster.

Note: The international document has to be accompanied by your actual drivers license at all times.

5. Money

The currency of Botswana is pula. The exchange rate is about 1 BWP = 0.15 USD. The most common means of payment is cash. But most lodges also accept credit cards so that you can pay cashless easily.

6. Passport and Visa

If you want to travel to Botswana your passport has to be valid for at least six months beyond the date of entry. To figure out if a visa is necessary for you have a look at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ site.

7. Copy Your Documents

Copy your passport, travel insurance, credit card, etc. and put them separate from the actual documents. In case of loss this precaution is invaluable. Additionally you can scan your documents and send them to yourself via email.

Do you have more tips on how to prepare a safari vacation? Please share your advice in the comment section!

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