Found this for you TC!! (Looks like a refreshing change to the other war torn dictator led countries aorund that area!!)
Still Current at: 26 August 2004
Updated: 14 June 2004
Botswana
SUMMARY
Visitors should be aware of the increasing incidence of violent crime, and the poor standard of driving. The threat from terrorism is low, and most visits to Botswana are trouble-free.
SAFETY AND SECURITY
Terrorism
There is no history of terrorism in Botswana. British nationals should be aware of the risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks, in all countries of the world, against civilian targets in public places, including tourist sites (see Security and General Tips and Risk of Terrorism when Travelling Overseas).
Crime
Most visits to Botswana are trouble-free but Botswana is not as safe as it once was. Attacks on tourists are rare but petty and violent crime is increasing, particularly in the major towns of Gaborone, Francistown and Maun. There has been an increase in the number of house burglaries, often by armed gangs. Security precautions at home are as important as on the streets. There have been some cases of car jacking, particularly of four by four vehicles. If an attack takes place, do not resist. Theft from parked cars does occur. Take sensible precautions. Keep important documents such as passports in a safe place and ensure copies of important documents are kept separately.
There have been incidences of rape and sexual assault. Given the high level of HIV/AIDS in the country, you should seek immediate medical advice if you are sexually assaulted or otherwise injured. Women, in particular, should not walk alone at night.
Local Travel
Botswana is a vast country and an exciting place to visit for game viewing. Game reserves and other tourist areas are generally secure, but visitors should be alert to the dangers due to the unpredictable nature of wild animals. Whether travelling on land or water, humans are at risk from potentially fatal animal attacks. You should follow closely park regulations and wardens? advice. Do not bathe in rivers and lakes due to the dangers from both wildlife and water-borne diseases.
Botswana has some extremely remote areas. If you intend travelling to such areas you should plan your trip with care and seek and follow local advice on what precautions to take. Vehicles should be stocked with emergency supplies and be properly prepared for off-road driving conditions. Transport and accommodation are extremely limited outside of Gaborone, so make arrangements in advance.
In major towns taxis are generally safe to take. You should agree a price before setting off on a journey.
If you are thinking of driving to neighbouring countries you should check the FCO travel advice for the country to be visited.
Road Safety
Botswana has good tarmac roads over most of the country but you should be careful when driving off-road. The standard of driving is lower than in the UK and many drivers ignore road safety rules. Speeding (the maximum speed limit is 120kph), dangerous driving and drink driving are the cause of serious accidents and deaths all over the country. Driving, particularly outside the major urban areas, is dangerous because wildlife and stray livestock can pose a serious hazard. Avoid driving out of town at night. You must hold a full UK or international driving licence and carry it with you at all times.
LOCAL LAWS AND CUSTOMS
There are severe penalties for all drug offences.
Taking photographs or using video equipment near military and government installations is prohibited. Always ask permission before taking photographs of Botswana people.
There are no problems over religious observance.
Homosexuality is illegal in Botswana.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
British nationals do not require visas to enter Botswana. However, you should know how many days you are allowed to stay in Botswana (maximum 90 days without a visa). Overstaying can cause delays on departure. If you wish to extend your stay, you should seek an extension from the Department of Immigration. For further information on entry requirements, you should contact: Botswana High Commission, London
British visitors do not need visas for South Africa. But if you are planning to enter the country before or after your visit to Botswana, there must be one clear blank page in the passport for the South African entry stamp otherwise entry will be denied.
HEALTH
Malaria exists in the northern parts of Botswana. It is important to seek medical advice regarding the type of prophylactic to be taken as this can vary according to the individual. Sensible precautions to avoid mosquito bites should be taken, such as using insect repellent, wearing light coloured clothing and covering up at night. Southern Botswana is not affected by Malaria but mosquitoes are prevalent.
Botswana has one of the highest HIV/AIDS infection rates in the world. You should be alert to the dangers of unprotected sex.
Some people suffer from skin problems from Botswana?s hot and dry climate. Bring skin and sun creams and a hat. Anyone intending to camp or walk in the bush should be cautious of tick bites. A good tropical repellent is recommended.
Health care in Botswana is good but medical facilities and communications are limited outside urban areas. For serious medical treatment, medical evacuation to the UK or South Africa may be necessary.
For further information on health, check the Department of Health?s website at www.dh.gov.uk
GENERAL
We strongly recommend that all travellers take out comprehensive medical and travel insurance, including a provision for medical treatment and evacuation.
Private hospitals will not treat patients unless they can pay and health care is not cheap. Outpatients must pay cash before receiving treatment. Emergency patients will only be accepted provided they have full insurance cover.
Travellers' cheques are accepted at banks, hotels and the airport. ATMs are available in the major towns, but only bankers cards showing the Visa sign are accepted. Mastercard is not. Know your PIN number. Major credit cards are accepted at many shops/restaurants.
It is unlikely that travellers will be able to exchange Scottish or Northern Ireland banknotes in Botswana.
You should carry some form of identification with you at all times.
OTHER
Botswana Country Profile
CONTACT DETAILS
Address: British High Commission
Plot 1079-1084 Main Mall,
off Queens Road
Gaborone
Postal Address:
Private Bag 0023
Gaborone
Telephone: (267) 395 2841
Facsimile: (267) 395 6105
Email: [email protected]
Office Hours: GMT:
Mon-Thurs: 0600-1430; Fri: 0600-1100
Local Time:
Mon-Thurs: 0800-1630; Fri: 0800-1300
Website: www.britishhighcommission.gov.uk/botswana
See Also: Travellers' Tips: Botswana
UK Overseas Mission: Botswana