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Pre-Trip Checklist

Pre-Trip Checklist

Botswana

Essential Preparations

Start planning early to secure your preferred safari experience.

Chronological Planning Timeline

Follow this timeline for a stress-free safari organization.

1

-18 Months Before Trip

Research Safari Options

Research safari operators and camps. Compare itineraries, inclusions, and prices.

Book Your Safari Package

Book your safari package 12-18 months in advance for popular camps and peak season (July-October).

Book International & Regional Flights

Book international flights to Johannesburg (JNB) and connecting regional flights to Maun (MUB) or Kasane (BBK).

2

-6 Months Before Trip

Confirm All Bookings

Confirm all safari, international and regional flights, and any pre/post-safari accommodation.

Apply for Visas

Apply for any required visas for Botswana and any transit countries (e.g., South Africa).

Health Consult & Vaccinations

Consult a travel health professional for required and recommended vaccinations and malaria prophylaxis.

3

-2 Months Before Trip

Purchase Travel Insurance

Purchase comprehensive travel insurance, including emergency medical treatment and evacuation coverage, and trip cancellation/interruption.

Check Passport Validity

Check passport validity (6 months beyond departure, 2 blank pages).

Arrange IDP if Self-Driving

Arrange an International Driving Permit if you plan to self-drive in Botswana.

Pre-Safari Gear & Packing

Safari Equipment

  • Start purchasing neutral-colored clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, quality binoculars.
  • Acquire any specific camera equipment needed for wildlife photography.
  • Buy high-DEET or picaridin insect repellent and broad-spectrum sunscreen.
  • Ensure soft-sided bags are suitable for light aircraft luggage limits.

Document & Financial Preparations

Organizing your papers and funds safeguards your journey.

Pre-Travel Checks

  • Inform your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans.
  • Arrange for some Botswana Pula or plan to use ATMs in Maun.
  • Make copies of all important documents and store them digitally and physically.
  • Reconfirm all internal and international flight details.

Pre-Trip Research

Learn about the Okavango Delta's unique ecosystem, animals, and conservation efforts. This fosters a appreciation.

Ecosystem Insights

  • Understand its annual flood cycle.
  • Learn about its unique biodiversity.
  • Explore its status as an UNESCO World Heritage site.
  • Appreciate its role as a wetland.

Wildlife Information

  • Research animals you hope to observe.
  • Learn about their behaviors and habitats.
  • Familiarize yourself with local bird species.
  • Understand the predator-prey dynamics.

Conservation Efforts

  • Discover Botswana's conservation policies.
  • Learn about anti-poaching initiatives.
  • Understand sustainable tourism practices.
  • Research community involvement in conservation.

Affiliate Notice

Purchasing comprehensive Travel insurance is a prerequisite for your safari. We affiliate with World Nomads.

Home Preparation Before Departure

Household & Pet Care

  • 1
    Pet & House Sitting

    Arrange for pet or house sitting to care for your home and companions.

  • 2
    Mail & Deliveries

    Put a hold on your mail delivery or arrange for a neighbor to collect it.

  • 3
    Notify Loved Ones

    Notify family or friends of your itinerary and emergency contacts.

Home Security & Finances

  • Secure Your Home

    Ensure all doors and windows are locked, and activate any alarm systems.

  • Bill Payments

    Confirm all recurring bills are paid or set up for auto-payment during your absence.

  • Unplug Electronics

    Unplug non-essential electronics to save energy and reduce fire risk.

Pre-Departure Timing Recommendations

Safari Operator Coordination

Your safari operator coordinates your transfer from your last camp's airstrip back to Maun.

This ensures ample time to connect with your onward flight, including buffer for potential weather delays affecting light aircraft.

Airport Arrival

For international flights departing Maun, arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before departure for check-in.

Allow extra time during peak travel seasons or if you have specific needs.

Return Trip Confirmation

Reconfirm your return international flights a few days before departure.

Ensure all your travel documents are in order for your journey home, including any transit country requirements.

Last Minute Packing

Pack any last-minute items and ensure your bags meet weight and size restrictions for your onward flights.

Post-Safari Considerations

Reflecting on your journey and preparing for your next adventure.

Future Planning

  • Consider a return visit during the Green Season (Nov-Apr) for different wildlife viewing and birdwatching.
  • Explore different concessions within the Delta for varied ecosystems and wildlife concentrations.
  • Share your safari experiences and photos with friends and family.
  • Keep a journal or blog about your trip for future reflection.

Skills and Learning

  • Consider online photography courses to refine your safari photo skills. (Skillshare)
  • Learn more about conservation efforts in other African wildlife areas.
  • Deepen your knowledge of the animals encountered through documentaries or books.
  • Develop language skills for future travels. (Babbel)

Post-Trip Financials

Reviewing expenses and financial impact of your safari.

Spending Breakdown

  • Safari Package Costs:Detailed Inclusions
  • International Flights:Airfare Overview
  • Tips & Gratuities:Local Contributions
  • Souvenirs & Personal Items:Discretionary Spending

VPN & Connectivity

  • Use a VPN for secure browsing while traveling and post-trip, especially on public Wi-Fi. (NordVPN)
  • Data privacy is a consideration when accessing online services.
  • Maintain secure connections for banking and personal accounts.
  • VPNs permit access to geo-restricted content from home or abroad.

Continued Engagement

Your safari experience is a foundation for ongoing learning about conservation and global ecosystems.

Consider supporting conservation organizations dedicated to protecting wilderness areas like the Okavango Delta.