Travelling to Botswana from the United States for your first safari experience? Entry is generally uncomplicated, particularly for tourist visitors. Unlike many long-haul destinations, Botswana doesn’t require you to complete a lengthy visa application in advance, and entry procedures are clear and well established.
With that said, Botswana visa rules, passport, entry requirements, health considerations, travel advice, and what to expect on arrival can become confusing if you haven’t visited before.
This simplified guide aims to put any concerns to rest and outline everything those travelling from the US to Botswana need to know to prepare in plenty of time and avoid any last-minute surprises.
Do You Need a Visa for a Botswana safari?
The short answer is No.
Unlike some countries, entry to Botswana from the US for holiday and safari travel does not require a visa application prior to travel unless you are planning to stay longer than 90 days. Entry permission is instead granted on arrival, provided legislated requirements are met.
These are mostly straightforward, but it is important to ensure everything is in order before departure.
Botswana Entry Requirements
Passport Validity Requirements
To enter Botswana upon arrival, your passport must:
- Be valid for at least six months beyond your date of entry into Botswana
- Contain a minimum of two blank pages for entry and exit stamps
You should also ensure your passport is in good physical condition. Excessively worn or damaged passports can occasionally cause delays at immigration, even if they are technically valid it’s always best to play it safe side to avoid further waiting.
Proof of Onward or Return Travel
You might also be asked to show evidence of onward or return travel, such as:
- A return international flight ticket
- Proof of onward travel to another country after Botswana
For safari travellers, there is no direct flight from the US to Botswana, and you will require at least one stop. Typically, Johannesburg, London and Addis Ababa are the most popular stops. You should keep evidence of these connections in case you are asked upon arrival to Botswana.
Proof of Accommodation and Sufficient Funds
Botswana immigration officials can also request:
- Confirmation of accommodation or safari itinerary
- Evidence that you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay
For guests travelling on a Bush Ways guided safari, don’t worry. We will provide confirmed bookings and plenty of evidence that will serve as proof of accommodation and planned activities, making this requirement easy to satisfy.
Once you have met all the asked for requirements, immigration officials will assess your documents on arrival and stamp your passport with the permitted length of stay.
How Long Can You Stay in Botswana?
While all of our Bush Ways lodge and camp safari stays last around 2-3 weeks, those looking to stay beyond are typically allowed to stay in Botswana for up to 90 days if for tourism purposes.
The length of stay granted is again at the discretion of the immigration authorities, so it’s important that your documentation clearly reflects the purpose and duration of your visit beyond the safari.
Arriving in Botswana: What to Expect at Immigration
Now we’ve covered the main logistics and travel requirements, what can you actually expect upon entering Botswana?
Most safari travellers arrive via Maun Airport or Kasane Airport, Botswana’s two main gateways to the Okavango Delta, Chobe National Park, and surrounding wildlife areas.
On arrival, the immigration process is typically calm and efficient. As mentioned, you can expect to present your passport and answer a few routine questions about the purpose of your visit, the length of your stay, and where you will be travelling within the country. Once approved, your passport will be stamped with your authorised stay. Travellers booking with Bush Wayswill be well briefed in advance on arrival procedures, ensuring a prompt transition from the airport to the safari experience.
Botswana Health Requirements and Recommended Vaccinations
Are Any Vaccinations Required for Botswana?
For travellers arriving directly from the United States, no vaccinations are mandatory for entry into Botswana. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is only required if you are entering Botswana from, or transiting through, a country where yellow fever is present (this only applies if leaving the airport you are connecting from). If your travel itinerary includes multiple African countries before your Botswana safari, it’s important to check whether any transit points may trigger this requirement
Recommended Vaccinations and Health Precautions
- Ensure routine vaccinations are up to date.
- Consult a healthcare provider or travel clinic about malaria prevention, particularly for northern Botswana and safari regions.
- Carry prescription medications in original packaging, along with copies of prescriptions should evidence be required.
- The CDC also recommends vaccinating for Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Measles, Rabies and Typhoid.
Malaria risk varies by region and season, and a medical professional can provide guidance tailored to your itinerary and travel dates. It’s best to schedule health consultations several weeks before departure to be on the safe side and ease any worries you might have.
Additional Considerations for Safari Travellers
There are a few additional points that can be useful to consider when booking a safari-focused experience in Botswana.
Regional and Multi-Country Travel
If your itinerary includes neighbouring countries such as Namibia, Zimbabwe, or South Africa, entry requirements may differ. Visa rules, passport validity requirements, and health regulations can vary, so it’s important to review each country’s entry conditions separately.
Travel Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended for travel to Botswana. Policies should include:
- Emergency medical cover
- Medical evacuation
- Trip cancellation and interruption
Due to the remote nature of many safari areas, medical evacuation coverage is
particularly important.
Customs and Restricted Items
Some items, such as drones or professional filming equipment, may be restricted or require prior permission. Travellers planning to bring specialised equipment should check regulations in advance to avoid issues on arrival.
Seasonal factors, such as travelling during Botswana’s dry season or green season, do not affect visa or entry requirements, but may influence packing and travel logistics.
Preparing for your Botswana safari
Botswana remains one of the most accessible safari destinations in Africa from a visa and entry perspective. With no advance visa required and clear, well-established entry rules, most travellers find the process simple and stress-free.
By ensuring your passport meets validity requirements, organising basic documentation, and staying informed on health and travel advice, you can focus fully on the experience ahead. With good preparation, your arrival in Botswana becomes a seamless first step into one of Africa’s most authentic and beautiful wilderness destinations.
Congratulations, you can now get started on your Botswana safari! Why not enquire with our team today for a tailored experience in the bush?
