Basket making is the first traditional handcraft in Botswana. You can find a good range of price and quality in local co-operatives.
Money
The unit of currency in Botswana is the Pula, divided into 100 thebe. Pula notes come in denominations of -1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50. Coins come in denominations of -1, 2, 5, 10, 25, 50 tshebes and 1 pula.
Foreign Exchange
Most of the credit cards are accepted in lodges and restaurants in big towns. Please note that you can not buy petrol with credit card.
Hours
Post Office :
08:15:12:45 and 14:00/16:00 (weekdays)
Shops :
08:00/13:00 and 14:00/17:00 (weekdays)
08:00 to 12:00 (Saturdays)
Banks :
09:00 to 14:30 (weekdays)
08:15 to 10h45 (Saturdays)
Post Offices
Your mail will take one month to go from Botswana to oversea countries.
Tips (at your discretion)
Restaurants :
10% should be added to the bill.
Guide and/or driver :
1 USD per guide par day.
Electricity
The voltage is 220/240 V. It is important to note that lodges in the more remote parts of Botswana do not have electricity, and generators are used.
Programme
Distances :
It is important to keep in mind that sometimes the distances to cover each day are very long (especially in the north).
Wake-ups :
These are often early due to the long distances and the fact that the days are short (18h in winter/ 19h in summer).
Restaurants
Water :
Tap water is drinkable, unless you are advised otherwise.
Food :
Food served at restaurants and hotels is safe to eat. Fruit and vegetables bought from markets should be washed before eaten.
Health
Malaria : It is advisable to take malaria prophylactics before entering Botswana even if it is not a risky region.
Telephone
The international dialling code for Botswana is 267. When making an international call from Botswana, dial 00, then the international country code e.g. 44 (UK), and then the number.
