Botswana
The practical basics before you go: plugs, emergency numbers, money, tipping and the time.
The country in brief
About 2.56 million people live in Botswana, on 581,737 km². The capital is Gaborone.
- Capital
- Gaborone
- Population
- 2,562,122
- Area
- 581,737 km²
- Official languages
- English
Facts change, so check the important things before you travel.
Population: World Bank, 2025 (CC BY 4.0). Capital, area and languages: Wikidata. Facts fetched October 30, 2026.
Before you go
Which plugs are used in Botswana?
Sockets take plug type D/G, at 230 V and 50 Hz.
What is the emergency number in Botswana?
Call 999 for the police, 997 for an ambulance and 998 for the fire brigade.
Do you tip in Botswana?
About 10 %.
Which side of the road do they drive on in Botswana?
Traffic drives on the left, so look right first when you cross the street.
What currency is used in Botswana?
Prices are in Botswanan Pula (BWP).
What language do they speak in Botswana?
Official languages: English.
How do I call a number in Botswana from abroad?
To call a number there from abroad, start with +267.
Entry rules and travel advice
Visa rules depend on your passport and can change at short notice. Your own government keeps them up to date, so check its advice before you book.
Links checked October 30, 2026.
