• An elephant herd as seen in Botswana. Botswana has the biggest population of elephants in the world.

Botswana's borders re-open to international travellers

Posted on Mon November 16, 2020.

One of the most breathtaking and remarkable tourism destinations, Botswana has announced that some airports and limited land border crossings with neighbouring countries, including South Africa, will be open to tourists from November 2020 in time for self-drive safaris and festive season travel.

On 6 November 2020, Botswana announced that its borders would be opening to tourists, once again providing access to some of the most remarkable safari destinations available.

Serowe Hotel, situated in the Central District, is ready to welcome anyone traveling through our exquisite country to overnight with us en route to their final destination, or when heading home.

The phased reopening of the country’s borders began on Monday 9th November, with air travel resuming at Sir Seretse Khama International Airport in Gaborone, Kasane International Airport and Maun International Airport, according to a government issued press-release.

On 1 December 2020, Botswana plans to reopen its land borders with neighbouring countries, including South Africa, Namibia, and Zimbabwe, and once again allow international air travel via Francistown.

The limited number of land borders that will be open, include:

  • Kazungula road and ferry (Botswana / Zambia)
  • Ngoma (Botswana / Namibia)
  • Ramokgwebana (Botswana / Zimbabwe)
  • Martins Drift (Botswana / South Africa)
  • Ramatlabama (Botswana / South Africa)
  • Tlokweng (Botswana / South Africa)
  • Mamuno (Botswana / Namibia)
  • Pioneer Gate (Botswana / South Africa)
  • Mohembo (Botswana / Namibia)

Travel requirements

According to the press release, travellers will be required to show a negative COVID-19 Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test taken within 72 hours of their departure.

In addition to the requirement to present their test results, incoming travellers will also be screened for COVID-19 symptoms upon entry. If symptomatic, they will be required to undertake mandatory testing and possible isolation and or quarantine. They may also be required to remain in contact with the local health authority for a period of 14 days while self-monitoring.

Travellers exiting Botswana will be expected to comply with travel regulations of the destination country.

Botswana is one of the last countries in Southern Africa to re-open its borders to international tourism, and based on the Johns Hopkins global COVID-19 dashboard, has to date reported just over 8200 cases of the virus.

Distances for Self-Drivers:

  • Serowe - Maun: 546km
  • Serowe - Kasane: 700km
  • Serowe - Martin's Drift border post: 248km
  • Serowe - Tlokweng border post: 330km
  • Serowe - Khama Rhino Sanctuary: 30km

 

* Please note this information was correct at the time of publishing. Please check with the government of your country of origin and the government of the destination country to update yourself on all COVID-19 travel protocols and requirements before booking and departure. 

**Photo by Birger Strahl on Unsplash