Botswana

Originating in Angola where it is known as the Cubango river, the Okavango flows into Botswana draining into the Moremi reserve.

The "river that never finds the sea" disappears into a unique network of channels, islands and lagoons. Covering an area of 17 000 sq. kms and forming the largest inland delta in the world; the delta provides a prolific habitat for plant and animal life

HEALTH

Malaria prophylaxis is recommended for all travelers to the northern part of the country including the northern districts of Central, Chobe, Ngamiland, North East, and Okavango

White Rhino calf

Insect and tick protection
wear long sleeves, long pants, hats and shoes (rather than sandals)
For rural and forested areas boots are preferable with pants tucked in to prevent tick bites.
Ticks should be removed with tweezers, grasping the tick by the head.
Many tick borne illnesses can be prevented by prompt tick removal.

General advice
Bring adequate supplies of all medications
in their original containers - clearly labelled.

Carry a signed dated letter from your doctor describing any medical conditions and listing all medications.
If you wear glasses or contacts, bring an extra pair. If you have significant allergies or chronic medical problems, wear a medical alert bracelet.
Make sure your health insurance covers you for medical expenses abroad.

PACKING SUGGESTIONS
Light cotton trousers
Cotton shorts
Light cotton shirts (long and short sleeved)
Comfortable walking shoes
Sandals
Shower-proof rain jacket/windbreaker
Sunhat
Insect repellent
Small torch
Bathing suit
Suntan lotion
Sunglasses
Camera (telephoto lens recommended)
Binoculars

Warm jacket, hat, scarves and gloves if travelling during the winter months.

SEASONS

Winter months : May to September are dry with with warm and sunny days (26°C/79°F average).
Temperatures can drop to below freezing at night.

This is probably the best time to visit as the animals are forced to visit the permanent water courses, pans and waterholes.

Summr months:

October to April are hot (25°/77°F – 45°C/113°F).
Afternoon showers are a welcome relief from the heat.

CREDIT CARDS
All major credit cards are accepted at hotels, shops and restaurants

Outside of the major centures acceptance of credit cards is limited.

Most lodges and restaurants accept payment by Visa and MasterCard.

CURRENCY
The currency of Botswana is the Pula (1 Pula = 100 Thebe)

Most international airports have banks where money can be changed and facilities are usually available at hotels and lodges