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Pre-Trip Checklist

Pre-Trip Checklist

Botswana

Chronological Planning Timeline

A structured approach to pre-trip planning covers all critical requirements.

Milestones

Organizing your preparations by timeline yields a smooth and stress-free journey.

1

Months Before

Passport & Visa Matters

Check passport validity (6+ months, 2 blank pages). Initiate renewal or visa application if needed.

Health Consultations

Schedule a travel health doctor appointment for vaccinations (e.g., Yellow Fever) and prescriptions (e.g., antimalarials).

Initial Bookings

Research and book international flights and initial accommodation in Gaborone for potentially better prices.

2

Month Before

Itinerary & Tours

Finalize your Gaborone itinerary. Book specific tours (e.g., Mokolodi Nature Reserve activities).

Travel Insurance

Purchase comprehensive travel insurance. Coverage for medical emergencies, evacuation, cancellation, and lost luggage. World Nomads

Driving Permit

Obtain your International Driving Permit (IDP) if self-driving. It accompanies your national driver's license.

3

Week Before

Packing & Documents

Begin packing. Organize physical and digital copies of essential documents (passport, visa, bookings, insurance).

Bank Notification

Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel dates to Botswana.

Home Security

Arrange for home security, mail hold, and care for plants and pets.

Required Advance Bookings

Securing reservations in advance simplifies your journey.

Useful Reservations

  • International flights to Sir Seretse Khama International Airport (GBE).
  • Your main accommodation in Gaborone.
  • Rental car (if you plan to self-drive).
  • Specific tours or activities with limited availability (e.g., Mokolodi activities).

Pre-Trip Research

Familiarizing yourself with the destination prior to arrival enriches your experience.

Recommended Reading

  • Read about Gaborone's culture, history, and current events.
  • Familiarize yourself with basic Setswana phrases (refer to Section 11.1 for more).
  • Review local safety guidelines (Section 2.4) and transportation options (Section 5).

Home Preparation Before Departure

Ensuring your home is secure and managed during your absence brings peace of mind.

Home Security

  • Secure your home: lock doors and windows.
  • Activate alarms if installed.
  • Arrange for care of pets and plants.
  • Put a hold on mail and newspaper delivery.

Financial & Digital Checks

  • Pay any bills due while you are away.
  • Backup important digital files.
  • Consider a VPN for secure browsing: NordVPN.
  • Download entertainment for your journey.

Trusted Contacts

  • Inform a trusted friend/family member of your itinerary.
  • Provide them with emergency contacts.
  • Leave a spare for emergencies.
  • Establish a communication plan for updates.

Streamlined Departure

A comprehensive pre-trip checklist streamlines your preparations, leading to a smooth and worry-free departure.

Arrival Checklist

The first few hours in a new city establish the tone for your trip.

First Steps Upon Arrival

  • 1
    Immigration:

    Clear immigration by presenting your passport and any required visa/documents.

  • 2
    Luggage:

    Collect your checked luggage from the baggage claim area.

  • 3
    Customs:

    Proceed through customs. Declare any items as required by regulations.

Orientation Strategies

  • Local Currency:

    Locate an ATM at the airport or once you reach the city to withdraw Botswana Pula for immediate needs.

  • Transport:

    Find your pre-arranged transport, a taxi, or a Bolt ride to your accommodation.

  • SIM Card:

    Visit an official mobile provider store in a Gaborone mall to purchase and register a local SIM card.

Currency & Transport from Entry Point

Currency Exchange

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.

Airport Transfers

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.

Route to Accommodation

Confirm your accommodation address for the driver to prevent delays.

Initial Steps

Upon arrival, prioritize acquiring local currency and securing reliable transport to your accommodation for a seamless start.

Departure Preparation

Finalizing arrangements before your departure yields a smooth exit from Gaborone.

Souvenirs & Shipping

  • Complete souvenir shopping well in advance of your departure date.
  • If shipping larger items internationally, arrange this through a post office or courier service.
  • Be aware of shipping costs and customs regulations for your home country.
  • Careful packing protects fragile purchases during transit.

VAT & Timing

  • Botswana lacks a general Value Added Tax (VAT) refund scheme for tourists.
  • This step is not relevant for visitors to Gaborone.
  • For international flights from Sir Seretse Khama International Airport (GBE), arrive 2-3 hours before departure.
  • This time frame accounts for check-in, security, and immigration.

Return Trip Details

A final check of departure details is prudent.

Pre-Flight Essentials

  • Reconfirm flight details with your airline or travel agent.
  • Pack bags according to airline baggage rules and weight limits.
  • Ensure all necessary documents for your onward or return journey are ready.
  • Settle any outstanding bills at your accommodation prior to leaving.

Land Border Crossing

  • If departing by long-distance bus or private vehicle via a land border, factor in potential traffic.
  • Account for potential border crossing queues and processing times.
  • Arrive at the Main Bus Rank with sufficient time to locate your bus and load luggage.
  • Confirm your destination and drop-off points with the transport provider.

Smooth Exit

Confirm your return flight details and arrive at the airport with sufficient time for all procedures.

Careful planning for land border crossings.