Due to discordant periods for taking booster shots between Botswana and other countries, and for purposes of smoothening international travel, the definition of being fully vaccinated in Botswana will no longer include a booster shot. having completed the primary vaccine series will be considered sufficient for one to be allowed entry, without the need to present a negative PCR test result.
Those who will be partially vaccinated, or not vaccinated at all, will be required to present a negative 72-hour PCR test result and in addition, undergo COVID-19 testing at a port of entry, at their own cost. If negative, they will be allowed to proceed into the country. If positive, they will be isolated in the district of the port of entry at their own cost and allowed to proceed into the country only after recovery.
Please note that these changes allow partially vaccinated or unvaccinated people to enter the country if they comply with the required testing requirements. It is only when one is not fully vaccinated and is also not willing to undergo COVID-19 testing at the port of entry, that they will be charged and fined or taken to a court of law.
The ministry wishes to emphasize that the removal of boosters from the equation, does not mean that boosters are no longer important. The ministry encourages all those eligible to take up boosters in order to keep their immunity against COVID-19 high. Members of the public are further encouraged to keep following all COVID-19 protocols since the pandemic is still with us. The ministry will from time to time advise on any new developments that may rise as the nation continues to battle with the pandemic.
Click here to download the press release on new changes at ports
Botswana’s has opened its air and land borders to travelers.
Can I travel to Botswana?
Botswana is open for travel without any quarantine or testing requirements.
Do I need to go into quarantine when arriving in Botswana?
Quarantine is not required when arriving in Botswana.
Are COVID-19 tests required to travel to Botswana?
There is no requirement for a COVID-19 test to enter Botswana.
Is public transportation open in Botswana?
Public transportation in Botswana is operating.
Are the restaurants and bars open in Botswana?
Restaurants in Botswana are open.
Are businesses and attractions open in Botswana?
- Non-essential businesses and attractions in Botswana are open.
Do I need to wear a face mask in Botswana?
It is required to wear a face mask in some public places.
Do you still need a Covid test to enter Botswana?
There is no requirement for a COVID-19 test to enter Botswana.
Do I need vaccinations for Botswana?
Courses or boosters usually advised: Hepatitis A; Tetanus. Other vaccines to consider: Hepatitis B; Rabies; Typhoid. Selectively advised vaccines – only for those individuals at highest risk: none.
Do I need a visa to Botswana?
Nationals of around 140 countries need a visa to enter Botswana for tourism, including many citizens of countries in Central and South America, Asia, and Africa. While most Commonwealth countries are exempt, citizens from Ghana, Nigeria, Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka do need a visa.