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Botswana
- Botswana is considered a relatively safe destination, offering stable governance and well-developed tourism infrastructure for wildlife and safari enthusiasts. Travelers should be mindful of petty crime in urban centers and road safety concerns, especially at night and in rural areas.
- Areas around Gaborone Dam and Kgale Hill are crime hotspots; travelers should exercise increased vigilance in these regions.
- The country experiences seasonal flooding, particularly due to heavy rainfall from November to March. The risk of flooding is higher in the Okavango Delta, where floods usually occur between March and April.
Risk Factors
- Crime rates are notable in urban centers, with incidents of violent crime, residential break-ins, and carjackings being reported in recent years. Foreign travelers are more likely to be targeted by petty criminals who engage in pickpocketing, bag-snatching and smash and grab thefts from vehicles. Travelers are advised to secure their accommodations and belongings, avoid walking alone at night, and use reputable transport services.
- Opportunistic crime has risen in Gaborone, Francistown and Maun in recent years. Other crime hotspots include areas around Kgale Hill, where muggings and petty theft are also prevalent.
- Botswana maintains a stable political climate. Demonstrations occur infrequently and are usually small-scale; clashes during protests are rare, though travelers are encouraged to exercise basic precautions and bypass large gatherings.
- Roads between major cities and towns like Gaborone, Francistown, and Maun are paved and in good condition. However, rural roads can be gravel or dirt, and they may become impassable during the rainy season, particularly in remote areas like the Okavango Delta or the Kalahari Desert. Travelers should avoid night driving due to inadequate street lighting and the potential presence of wildlife on roads. A well-maintained 4x4 vehicle is recommended for remote and off-road travel, along with a paper map and redundant means of communication.
- Public transport options like buses and minibuses (Kombis) are available but may not always meet safety standards expected by international travelers. It is advisable to avoid using public transport at night and in remote areas. International coach services are known to be safe and reliable. Unless familiar with local conditions, self-driving is not advised.
- Use reputable taxi services, which can be recognized by their marked vehicles and official registration plates. Confirm fares in advance to avoid disputes. Metered taxis are generally considered safe, especially in larger cities like Gaborone and Francistown. Taxis arranged through hotels, airports, or found at official taxi ranks are safer as they are typically linked to reliable companies.
- Botswana’s natural environment poses risks as wildlife encounters are common; visitors should respect distance regulations. Swimming in freshwater bodies is discouraged due to the risk of wildlife attacks and waterborne diseases.
- The country experiences seasonal flooding, particularly due to heavy rainfall from November to March. The risk of flooding is higher in the Okavango Delta, where floods usually occur between March and April.
- Dust Storms are common in the southwestern regions covered by the Kalahari Desert. These areas also experience extreme heat and a typically arid and dry climate.
Although public discrimination based on sexual orientation is illegal, public attitudes towards LGBTQ+ individuals are often conservative. Public displays of affection can attract negative attention or harassment, particularly in rural areas.