Botswana
A structured approach to pre-trip planning covers all critical requirements.
Organizing your preparations by timeline yields a smooth and stress-free journey.
Check passport validity (6+ months, 2 blank pages). Initiate renewal or visa application if needed.
Schedule a travel health doctor appointment for vaccinations (e.g., Yellow Fever) and prescriptions (e.g., antimalarials).
Research and book international flights and initial accommodation in Gaborone for potentially better prices.
Finalize your Gaborone itinerary. Book specific tours (e.g., Mokolodi Nature Reserve activities).
Purchase comprehensive travel insurance. Coverage for medical emergencies, evacuation, cancellation, and lost luggage. World Nomads
Obtain your International Driving Permit (IDP) if self-driving. It accompanies your national driver's license.
Begin packing. Organize physical and digital copies of essential documents (passport, visa, bookings, insurance).
Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel dates to Botswana.
Arrange for home security, mail hold, and care for plants and pets.
Securing reservations in advance simplifies your journey.
Familiarizing yourself with the destination prior to arrival enriches your experience.
Ensuring your home is secure and managed during your absence brings peace of mind.
A comprehensive pre-trip checklist streamlines your preparations, leading to a smooth and worry-free departure.
The first few hours in a new city establish the tone for your trip.
Clear immigration by presenting your passport and any required visa/documents.
Collect your checked luggage from the baggage claim area.
Proceed through customs. Declare any items as required by regulations.
Locate an ATM at the airport or once you reach the city to withdraw Botswana Pula for immediate needs.
Find your pre-arranged transport, a taxi, or a Bolt ride to your accommodation.
Visit an official mobile provider store in a Gaborone mall to purchase and register a local SIM card.
While some major foreign currencies exchange at the airport, better rates generally arise from withdrawing Pula from ATMs in the city.
Make initial purchases to break larger notes and acquire smaller denominations for public transport.
If you have a pre-booked hotel shuttle, locate its meeting point. Airport taxis are readily available; agree on fares beforehand.
The Bolt ride-sharing app presents a convenient transfer to your hotel or guesthouse.
Confirm your accommodation address for the driver to prevent delays.
Upon arrival, prioritize acquiring local currency and securing reliable transport to your accommodation for a seamless start.
Finalizing arrangements before your departure yields a smooth exit from Gaborone.
A final check of departure details is prudent.
Confirm your return flight details and arrive at the airport with sufficient time for all procedures.
Careful planning for land border crossings.