ATMs, Bank cards accepted, and Banking hours:

• ATMs are widely available, especially in major cities.
• Visa, Mastercard, and American Express are commonly accepted.
• Banking hours are typically Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

CURRENCY:

• Local currency: Pula (BWP)
• Symbol: P
• ISO code: BWP
• Central bank: Bank of Botswana
• Subunit: Thebe
• Banknotes: 100 Pula, 50 Pula, 20 Pula, 10 Pula. 5 Pula, 2 Pula, 1 Pula.
• Coins: 25 Thebe, 10 Thebe, 5 Thebe, 2 Thebe, 1 Thebe.
  

By AIR

• Inbound / Outbound Airlines: Search for flights here.
• Sir Seretse Khama International Airport in Gaborone is the main international airport.
• Domestic flights are also available to major destinations like Maun and Kasane.

Note: Most Naturecrazi package tours include airport Meet & Greet and shuttle services.

By ROAD

• Roads are generally well-maintained, especially in the south.
• Self-drive is a popular option.
• 4×4 Vehicles are required in most wildlife conservation areas.

BUS & RAIL

• Intercity bus services are available, but they can be less frequent.
• There is no extensive rail network.

By WATER

• Boat trips are offered in areas like the Okavango Delta, but they are often part of organized tours.
• Some remote area river crossings offer pontoon or boat ferry services.
• House boats can be hired on most large lakes and rivers.

Food and water safety:

• Tap water is generally safe to drink, but it is advisable to stick to bottled water.
• Food hygiene standards are generally good in major tourist areas.

Local cuisine: 

• Botswana cuisine is influenced by South African and African traditions.
• Popular dishes include seswaa (beef stew), sadza (cornmeal porridge), and mokoro (vegetable stew).
• Food generally focuses on meat dishes, 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: 

• Popular drinks include traditional African beers like chibuku and imported beverages.
• Local alcoholic drinks include Bojalwaja Setswana (the beer of Botswana) – created using fermented sorghum seeds.

Tipping: 

• Tipping is customary in restaurants and hotels.
• A 10-15% tip is common.
• 10% is usually added to the bill at restaurants.
• It is also customary to tip game drivers and guides.

Seasons:

• Botswana has two main seasons: dry (May-October) and wet (November-April).
• The wet (also known as the green) summer season runs from November through to April.
• The winter (dry season) runs from May to October, with October being the hottest month.
• Botswana doesn’t really have a Spring and Fall season.

Climate and Weather:

• The climate is generally hot and dry, with temperatures ranging from mild in the south to hot in the north.
• The dry season is cooler and drier.
• Annual rainfall: 475 mm 
• Average temperature: 27°C
• Summer:  Average highs: 31°C and average lows: 20°C
• Winter: Average highs: 23°C and average lows: 22°C

Best time to visit:

• The dry season (May-October) is generally considered the best time to visit, as it offers comfortable temperatures and ideal conditions for wildlife viewing.
• During the dry winter months animals usually stay close to their water sources, increasing your chances of seeing them.

Summer Clothing:

• Lightweight, breathable clothing is ideal for the hot weather.
• Shorts, T-shirts, and dresses are suitable.

Winter Clothing:

• While winters are mild, evenings can be cool.
• Long pants, sweaters, and light jackets are recommended.

General:

• Modest dress is generally appreciated, especially in rural areas and when visiting cultural sites.

Internet Availability:

• Internet access is widely available in major cities and tourist areas
• Wi-Fi is often offered in hotels and restaurants.

Electricity and Plug Standards:

• The standard voltage in Botswana is 220* volts, and the plug type is primarily three-pin (BS 1363).

*Travel plug adapter and voltage converter might be necessary depending on your appliances.