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Visa requirements for Botswana

Who can enter Botswana, by nationality. Tourism. Data as of October 14, 2026.

Passport holders from 146 countries can enter Botswana without a visa in advance. All 146 enter visa-free on a valid passport. Everyone else needs a visa, or an e-visa where one is offered, before travelling.

146 visa-free
0 on arrival
0 eTA
0 e-visa
96 visa required

Visa-free entry

146 nationalities

Visa required in advance

96 nationalities

UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Botswana

Botswana has 2 sites on UNESCO's World Heritage List.

Okavango Delta
Tsodilo

Source: Wikidata, community-maintained and not the official UNESCO count.

Nearby destinations

South Africa Lesotho Eswatini Mozambique Zimbabwe Namibia

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a visa to visit Botswana?

It depends on your passport. 146 nationalities can enter Botswana without arranging a visa in advance (visa-free, on arrival, or eTA); everyone else needs a visa or e-visa. Use the tables below to check a specific passport.

What is the best time to visit Botswana?

March, April, September, based on Gaborone's climate normals: mild temperatures and below-average rainfall for the year.

What currency is used in Botswana?

Botswana pula (BWP). 1 USD is approximately 13.95 BWP.

What side of the road does Botswana drive on?

Botswana drives on the left.

How many UNESCO World Heritage Sites does Botswana have?

2: Okavango Delta, Tsodilo.

What is the emergency number in Botswana?

911 / 997 / 998 / 999.

What time zone is Botswana in?

Gaborone (UTC+2).

What is the nearest airport to Gaborone?

Sir Seretse Khama International Airport (GBE), about 11 km away.

Visa rules change frequently and can depend on your specific circumstances. This site is compiled from public government sources and is provided for general information only. Always confirm requirements with the official immigration authority or a consulate of your destination before you travel.

About Botswana

Botswana, officially the Republic of Botswana, is a landlocked country in Southern Africa. Botswana is topographically flat, with approximately 70% of its territory being a part of the Kalahari Desert. It is bordered by South Africa to the south and southeast, Namibia to the west and north, Zambia to the north, and Zimbabwe to the northeast. Its total area is 581,730 square kilometres (224,610 sq mi). Gaborone, in the South-East District, is the country's capital and largest city.

CapitalGaborone

RegionSouthern Africa

Population2.6M

Area582,000 km²

CurrencyBotswana pula (1 USD ≈ 13.95 BWP)

LanguagesEnglish, Tswana

Calling code+267

Drives on theleft

TimezoneGaborone (UTC+2)

Nearest airportSir Seretse Khama International Airport (GBE), 11 km

Emergency number911 / 997 / 998 / 999

UNESCO sites2

Income levelUpper middle income

GDP per capita$7,778 (2025)

Tourist arrivals1.8M (2018)

Climate in Gaborone

Warmest January, coolest July, driest May, sunniest January. Best time to visit: March, April, September.

Monthly climate normals for Gaborone, 2020
Month	High	Low	Rainfall	Sunshine
January	30.8°C	20°C	56mm	356h
February	30.7°C	19.8°C	47mm	328h
March	30°C	18.1°C	12mm	332h
April	27.9°C	15.5°C	27mm	296h
May	24.1°C	9.2°C	0mm	328h
June	20.6°C	5.7°C	1mm	312h
July	21.1°C	5.2°C	0mm	327h
August	25°C	8.5°C	0mm	330h
September	29°C	14.2°C	2mm	321h
October	30.9°C	18.1°C	90mm	330h
November	30.6°C	18.3°C	64mm	332h
December	30°C	19.8°C	44mm	352h

Avg. high/low, °C (left axis) Rainfall, mm (bar maxes out at 250mm/month)

Daily normals for 2020. Hover a month for exact figures.

Travel guide

Botswana is a landlocked country in Southern Africa, completely surrounded by four countries: Namibia, South Africa, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. Botswana is a true gem among African nations, boasting a remarkable level of wealth and tranquility that few other countries on the continent can match. With its high standard of living and extremely low crime rates, Botswana has established itself as an oasis of stability amidst the many challenges faced by its neighbours. But Botswana is much more than just a peaceful haven. This captivating country is also home to a wealth of attractions that are sure to delight any traveller. From the stunning Tsodilo Hills and Chobe National Park to the Moremi Game Reserve in the Okavango Delta and the Central Kalahari Game Reserve, there is no shortage of natural wonders to explore.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Okavango Delta
Tsodilo

Upcoming public holidays

September 30, 2026Independence Day

October 1, 2026Botswana Day holiday

December 25, 2026Christmas Day

Full source list on About.