BOTSWANA - Covid 19 FAQs

Note: This page is no longer being updated regularly. As per the latest updates, proof of Covid-19 vaccination, proof of pre-departure Covid-19 test and quarantine are not required for travel. For further information, please visit Travel Restrictions - Sherpa.

Section below updated: 23/12/2022

Pre-travel to Botswana ...

What is the current situation in Botswana?

Botswana is excitedly awaiting travellers from all over the globe - offering up unforgettable stays, breathtaking landscapes and beautiful wildlife.

The "green list" has been scrapped and this means we are safe and free to travel to our hearts content- especially in Botswana!

🟢 Travellers are allowed to enter Botswana WITHOUT the need of any documentation (PCR Test or proof of vaccination)

What documentation do I need to enter Botswana?

You do not need any documentation to enter Botswana.

Do I need to quarantine when I get to Botswana?

No, you do not need to quarantine when you get to Botswana.

Do I need to wear a face mask in Botswana?

No, wearing masks is no longer mandatory in Botswana.

[Source: Botswana Covid-19 Portal]

[Source: Botswana Embassy in Germany]

Entering your home country… 

Entry regulations for Germany 🇩🇪

Can I return to Germany from Botswana?

Yes! You are allowed to re-enter Germany from Botswana.

What documentation do I need to re-enter Germany from Botswana?

You do not need any documentation to re-enter Germany.

Do I need to enter quarantine when I re-enter Germany from Botswana ?

You do not need to quarantine.

[Source: Federal Ministry of Health, Germany]

Entry regulations for Switzerland 🇨🇭

Can I return to Switzerland from Botswana?

Yes, you absolutely can.

What documentation do I need to re-enter Switzerland from Botswana?

You do not need any documentation to re-enter Switzerland.

Do I need to enter quarantine when I re-enter Switzerland from Botswana?

You do not need to quarantine.

[Source: Federal Office of Public Health, Swiss Confederation]

Entry regulations for Austria 🇦🇹

Can I return to Austria from Botswana?

YES, you are allowed to re-enter Austria from Botswana.

What documentation do I need to re-enter Austria from Botswana?

You do not need any documentation to re-enter Austria.

Do I need to enter quarantine when I re-enter Austria from Botswana?

You do not need to quarantine.

[Source: Austrian Government]

Entry regulations for the United Kingdom 🇬🇧

Can I return to the United Kingdom from Botswana?

Yes, you are allowed to travel to the UK from Botswana.

What documentation do I need to re-enter the United Kingdom from Botswana?

You do not need any documentation to re-enter the United Kingdom.

Do I need to enter quarantine when I re-enter the United Kingdom from Botswana?

You do not need to quarantine.

[Source: The United Kingdom Government]

Departure and entry regulations for France 🇫🇷

Can I leave France to go to Botswana?

You are allowed to leave France without needing a compelling reason.

What documentation do I need to re-enter France from Botswana?

You do not need any documents to re-enter France from Botswana.

Do I need to enter quarantine when I re-enter France from Botswana?

No, you do not need to quarantine.

[Source: The French Ministry of the Interior]

Entry regulation for the United States 🇺🇸

Can I return to the United States from Botswana?

Yes, you are allowed to travel to the United States from Botswana.

What documentation do I need to re-enter the United States from Botswana?

You do not need any documentation to re-enter the United Kingdom.

Do I need to enter quarantine when I re-enter the United States from Botswana?

You do not need to quarantine.

[Source: The Centre for Disease Control]

Getting tested while in Botswana for your return home…

Eventhough testing now is not a neccessity when returning home, here is some information in case you do feel the need to get tested.

Can I have a Covid-19 test done in Botswana?

Yes, PCR tests are available in:

  • Gaborone: Lancet, Pharma Group, Sidilega Hospital, National Health Laboratory, MRI Clinics, Optimum Health Medical Laboratory, Gaborone Private Hospital Laboratory and Diagnofirm Labs

  • Francistown: Diagnofirm labs

  • Maun: MRI Clinic, National Health Laboratory, CT Diagnostics Laboratory and Diagnofirm Labs carry out PCR testing

  • Kasane: the Weigh Bridge Clinic and Diagnofirm Labs. Some of the hotels/lodges and even safari camps in areas like the Okavango Delta can arrange PCR tests for their clients

How long will it take to get results?

  • Testing generally has a 24-hour turnaround time

  • Express testing in Maun and Kasane with Diagnofirm has a turnaround time of 2 hours

Contracting Covid-19 while in Botswana

How likely is it that I will get Covid-19 on my trip to Botswana?

Very unlikely. Covid-19 infections are few and far between in Botswana. Chances are very low to zero of getting infected.

What happens if I get Covid-19 whilst on my trip?

If you suspect that you might have Covid, don’t panic. Isolate yourself and seek medical attention if you are unwell. Check what the Covid-19 procedure is at your hotel or lodge and follow their guidelines.

Will I be able to find a doctor and hospital?

Definitely! Each major city in Botswanaa will have top-class health care available. Smaller towns will also have clinics nearby. In extreme cases, consider going to a larger town or city. Have a look at our FAQs page for more information.

Is healthcare in Botswana good?

Great quality private hospitals are found in most major Botswana cities and all are on par with international standards. Emergency rescue services are incredibly well run and organized - so even if your are in a remote area you don't have to worry. You will have access to professional support and various levels of care at any facilities.

Who covers the cost of a medical emergency?

If you have taken out comprehensive travel insurance, your insurer will cover the costs for usual medical treatment. Check the details of your insurance before you leave and if faced with an emergency situation while travelling.

ℹ️ The provided information serves as guidance and is only valid at the time of issuing. We suggest always checking government websites before your trip.