The healthcare system in Botswana

The public sector dominates the healthcare system in Botswana - operating most of the care facilities. However, there is a huge gap between public and private medical provisions, and tourists are recommended to purchase private health insurance for the trip duration to Botswana.

People using different modes of transport

As in much of the rest of Africa, the public healthcare system mainly serves a lower-income bracket, while expats and those who can afford it use the private healthcare system.

A night sky view of Botswana

It is always recommended that visitors make use of travel insurance and medical aid services supplied by their providers at home, which will ensure that they can benefit from treatment in the private healthcare facilities in Botswana. Citizens of Botswana pay a very small fee for healthcare in public hospitals and mobile clinics, as the healthcare they receive is mostly subsidised. Private healthcare providers are geared towards catering for tourism, and provide a good service. Recommended medical services for tourists in Botswana are Medical Rescue International, and Okavango Air Rescue.

Malaria free safari in Botswana

There is no clear-cut answer to this question. Although Botswana’s malaria-risk is lower than some other African nations, there is still a certain risk associated with travel through the beautiful Botswana bush. It’s therefore advised that you practice precautions before you travel to Botswana. Anti-malaria medication is a must - and you should consult your doctor in this regard. Further precautions such as long-sleeved shirts and jeans in the evenings will reduce your chances of…

Vaccinations for Botswana

There are no mandatory vaccinations required for entering Botswana, but it is important to consider the surrounding countries that might require vaccinations if travellers will be crossing borders during their stay, e.g. Victoria Falls. Zambia requires a vaccination against Yellow Fever. Regarding hepatitis and tetanus; vaccinations are not required, but travellers are encouraged to consult their medical doctors for advice in these areas. The same applies for malaria prophylaxis: it is…

Is Botswana safe?

Botswana is considered one of the safest countries in Africa to travel in; in fact, tourism is welcomed and valued by the local people in general, as it brings opportunities and income. There is no reason for tourists to feel unsafe anywhere in Botswana in terms of crime, as there have been very few reported incidents of petty theft, or other opportunistic crimes, especially against tourists. Having said that, it is always a good idea for travellers to be aware of where their valuable…