Discover the Best Travel Insurance for Botswana in 2025
- The best travel insurance plans for Botswana
- Is it currently safe to travel to Botswana?
- Is Travel Insurance Required by Law to Enter Botswana?
- The Importance of Travel Insurance for Botswana
- What Travel Insurance for Botswana Should Cover
- The cost of travel insurance for Botswana
- How to Pay Less for Your Travel Insurance to Botswana
- Relying on your current insurance to cover you in Botswana
- FAQ
Travel insurance for Botswana: key takeaways
1. Definition: Travel insurance for Botswana covers medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and potential medical evacuation costs.
2. Key protection: Insurance is not mandatory for US citizens but is vital for accessing private healthcare.
3. Healthcare cost: Private clinics in cities are costly, potentially over $500 per night for foreign visitors.
4. Price: A one-week travel insurance policy for Botswana typically costs between $30 and $60.
5. Good to know: Ensure your policy includes high coverage for medical evacuation from remote safari locations.
Why trust HelloSafe?
HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travelers every month. After analyzing 41 travel insurance policies available in the US, our experts share here everything you need to know to choose the best travel insurance for Botswana.
The best travel insurance plans for Botswana
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement limit | Our view |
|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | $1.1M | Strong choice for travel to Botswana. - high reimbursement limit - evacuation and repatriation included - wide benefits |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | $1.1M | Reliable cover for trips in Botswana. - 24/7 medical helpline - cancellation included - no deductible |
| Tourist Card | $550k | Solid option for tourism in Botswana. - good ceiling - emergency support - attractive price |
| Travel Pass Monde | $770k | Versatile policy for longer stays. - covers evacuation - hospital care included - broad acceptance |
| Globe Partner | $330k | Basic cover ideal for simple trips. - medical abroad - repatriation - liability included |
| Globe Traveller | $550k | Entry-level plan for short visits. - essential medical - quick reimbursement - capped cover |
- high reimbursement limit
- evacuation and repatriation included
- wide benefits
- 24/7 medical helpline
- cancellation included
- no deductible
- good ceiling
- emergency support
- attractive price
- covers evacuation
- hospital care included
- broad acceptance
- medical abroad
- repatriation
- liability included
- essential medical
- quick reimbursement
- capped cover
Is it currently safe to travel to Botswana?
As of June 2025, the US Department of State advises travelers to exercise increased caution in Botswana, mainly due to the risk of crime and limited local healthcare in rural areas.
Here are their four main recommendations.
- Security risks: petty theft, muggings, and vehicle break-ins are common, especially in urban areas and near Kgale Hill in Gaborone. Avoid displaying valuables and never physically resist during a robbery.
- Health risks: malaria is present in the north, and rates of HIV and tuberculosis are high. Medical services are adequate in Gaborone but limited elsewhere; avoid tap water and ice due to contamination risk.
- Legal constraints: strict laws regulate trade in animal products, and hunting is prohibited without permits. Carry documentation for animal trophies and avoid buying ivory or other restricted items.
- Environmental norms: tourism regulations are uneven, and some safari providers may not meet international standards. Botswana’s wildlife areas, such as the Okavango Delta, may lack emergency resources in case of accident or injury.
Although not required, travel insurance is strongly recommended by the US Department of State, particularly to cover medical expenses and emergency repatriation, which can be extremely costly in Botswana.
Is Travel Insurance Required by Law to Enter Botswana?
No, travel insurance is not mandatory for US travelers entering Botswana for stays of up to 90 days.
However, travel insurance is strongly recommended because healthcare outside of Gaborone is limited, and emergency evacuations or advanced treatment can be expensive. Insurance can also provide support for theft, trip interruptions, or illnesses such as malaria or hepatitis, which are present in some regions.
According to our data, 80% of travelers purchase travel insurance before going to Botswana. This high percentage is explained by the combination of health risks, uneven healthcare quality, and the financial risks associated with medical evacuation or loss of personal belongings.
The Importance of Travel Insurance for Botswana
It is an essential financial and medical protection for anyone going to Botswana.
In Botswana, private medical facilities like Bokamoso Private Hospital in Gaborone offer good care but at high cost, while public hospitals outside the capital often lack advanced services. Serious medical conditions may require evacuation to South Africa at significant expense. For visitors, unexpected emergencies or accidents can result in substantial bills for treatment and transportation.
Travel insurance covers medical fees, hospitalization, medication, ambulance transport, and emergency repatriation to the United States in case of a serious incident.
Here are some examples of healthcare costs in Botswana.
| Example of medical treatment | Cost at Bokamoso Private Hospital | Covered by travel insurance |
|---|---|---|
| I have to be hospitalized 48 hours after contracting an infection | 20,000 BWP (about $1,470) | up to 100% |
| I broke my tibia (X-ray, cast, and crutch rental) | 13,000 BWP (about $950) | up to 100% |
| I need to be repatriated | 180,000 BWP (about $13,200) | up to 100% |
| I have appendicitis (consultation and surgery) | 55,000 BWP (about $4,000) | up to 100% |
These prices are given as an indication and may vary depending on the facilities and regions.
It is therefore essential to take out appropriate travel insurance to avoid unexpected and potentially high expenses.
What Travel Insurance for Botswana Should Cover
| Main coverages | Explanations and recommendations |
|---|---|
| 🏥 Medical expenses | Covers hospital stays, doctor visits, medications, and treatment for sudden illness or accident. We recommend a minimum reimbursement limit of $100,000. |
| 🚑 Medical evacuation | Pays for airlift or ground ambulance to the nearest suitable hospital, including evacuation to South Africa if necessary. We recommend at least $250,000. |
| 💼 Baggage loss or theft | Compensates for lost, stolen, or damaged luggage and personal effects. Recommended minimum limit: $2,000 per traveler. |
| ✈️ Trip cancellation/interruption | Reimburses non-refundable trip costs if your journey is canceled or cut short by illness, accident, or other covered reasons. Limit should match your trip cost, typically $5,000–$10,000. |
| 🏄♂️ Adventure activities | Pays for accidents or illness arising from safaris, hiking, boating, or nature tours. Confirm inclusion and match limits to medical coverage above. |
| 🛡️ Personal liability | Protects you if you accidentally injure another person or damage property. Minimum recommended limit: $100,000. |
| 🦷 Emergency dental care | Includes treatment for sudden dental pain or injury during travel. Minimum recommended limit: $1,000. |
| 🤒 Infectious disease coverage | Pays for medical expenses if you contract malaria, hepatitis, or other local diseases. Limit should meet your medical insurance: $100,000. |
We recommend a minimum reimbursement limit of $100,000.
We recommend at least $250,000.
Recommended minimum limit: $2,000 per traveler.
Limit should match your trip cost, typically $5,000–$10,000.
Confirm inclusion and match limits to medical coverage above.
Minimum recommended limit: $100,000.
Minimum recommended limit: $1,000.
Limit should meet your medical insurance: $100,000.
Travel insurance supplied by local companies or credit cards usually has low limits or major exclusions. Travelers are safer with a trusted insurer that offers comprehensive coverage. Compare the most reliable plans on HelloSafe and subscribe online for quick proof of coverage.
The cost of travel insurance for Botswana
| Trip duration | Traveler’s age | Indicative price per person |
|---|---|---|
| 1 week | 25 years old | $28 |
| 2 weeks | 45 years old | $48 |
| 1 month | 35 years old | $78 |
| 1 month | 70 years old | $149 |
These prices are indicative and may vary depending on the coverage chosen and the specifics of each insurer.
Good to know
The price of your travel insurance policy is influenced by several key elements: your age, the duration of your trip, your destination, the amount of coverage, and any optional add-ons like trip cancellation. It's important to consider these factors to find the right plan that fits your needs and budget for your travels.
💡 It is always recommended to compare multiple offers to find the best value-for-money plan for you. You can use HelloSafe.
👉 Compare the best travel insurance for freeI compareHow to Pay Less for Your Travel Insurance to Botswana
Here are some suggestions to optimize the cost of your travel insurance to Botswana while keeping good coverage:
| Criteria | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| 🧑💼 Traveler’s age | Older travelers may pay more for coverage. Some insurers use age brackets affecting costs. | Compare across several insurers and note that Heymondo does not increase prices for people over 62. |
| 🛫 Trip duration | Longer stays can increase premiums due to longer risk periods in Botswana. | Insure only the exact dates of your trip. Avoid open-ended or longer than necessary policy periods. |
| 🏥 Level of medical coverage | Botswana’s rural healthcare is limited, evacuation may be needed during emergencies. | Choose a policy with at least $100,000 medical coverage and compare policies, as higher coverage often costs less than expected. |
| 🧳 Baggage and belongings cover | Petty theft and baggage loss are possible, especially in high-crime areas. | Opt for lower baggage limits if you’re traveling light and avoid insuring electronics separately if not needed. |
| 💳 Deductible choice | A higher deductible can lower your premium but may increase your out-of-pocket expenses. | Increase the deductible only if you are comfortable paying more in case of a claim. |
| 👨👩👧👦 Number of travelers | Family/group policies can be more cost-effective than individual coverage. | Look for family or group packages instead of buying multiple single policies. |
| 🚶♂️ Planned activities | Activities like safaris can carry added risks that increase premium costs. | Only select coverage for the activities you plan to do. Exclude adventure sports if not participating. |
Important
Travel insurance is not required by law for travelers from the US to enter Botswana, but access to adequate care is limited in rural areas. Consider medical evacuation coverage and check yellow fever vaccination requirements if entering from infected regions.
Relying on your current insurance to cover you in Botswana
It is completely legitimate to wonder whether your existing coverage—such as credit card insurance or public health insurance—can protect you during a trip to Botswana. Unfortunately, these solutions are often limited or insufficient, especially for medical emergencies or evacuation abroad.
Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.
| Type of Insurance | Valid in Botswana? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public health insurance | No, never | Not valid overseas, no coverage for medical expenses or evacuation outside US. | Travel insurance covers $100,000+ in medical expenses and emergency evacuation abroad. |
| Private health insurance | Yes, partly | Possible overseas coverage, often with limits below $20,000; excludes trip interruption, baggage, and evacuation. | Travel insurance includes $100,000+ for emergencies, repatriation, and 24/7 assistance. |
| Classic credit card (Visa Classic, Mastercard Standard, Discover) | Yes, partly | Emergency medical below $5,000, almost never covers repatriation, missed trip, or baggage loss. | Travel insurance reimburses over $100,000 for emergencies and lost or delayed baggage. |
| Premium credit card (Chase Sapphire Preferred, Amex Platinum, Citi Prestige) | Yes, partly | Medical costs below $25,000, some trip delay or baggage loss, but strict conditions apply. | Travel insurance provides $100,000+ for care, trip cancellation, baggage, and on-site support. |
Example
While on safari in Botswana’s Okavango Delta, a severe bout of malaria required Tom's emergency air evacuation to South Africa, costing $30,000. His Visa Signature card’s travel insurance capped medical at $2,500, and his US health plan didn’t cover foreign evacuations, leaving him with a crippling $27,500 bill.
Expert advice
Always check the terms, exclusions, and limits of your existing insurance. Essential situations, like trip interruption due to a relative’s illness or death, might be excluded. Read the conditions carefully to avoid unpleasant surprises abroad. In all cases, it is safer and more reassuring to subscribe a dedicated travel insurance tailored to the trip.
FAQ
Do I need a visa to travel to Botswana?
U.S. citizens do not need a visa for tourist or business visits to Botswana of up to 90 days within a 12-month period. Your passport must be valid for at least six months after your planned entry. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required if you arrive from a country where yellow fever is present.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Botswana?
To purchase travel insurance for Botswana, begin by using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool to compare available plans. Review coverage and exclusions that specifically apply to travel in Botswana, such as evacuation and medical care. Once you've selected the right plan, purchase it online and you will receive your insurance certificate by email.
What kind of health risks should travelers to Botswana consider?
Malaria is present in the northern regions, so preventative medication is advised for those areas. Rural healthcare facilities are limited, with the best hospitals located in Gaborone. Travelers should also avoid drinking tap water and ice. Travel insurance that includes medical evacuation is highly recommended due to the remote nature of many sites.
Are there specific crime concerns travelers should be aware of in Botswana?
Crimes of opportunity including theft, "smash and grabs" from vehicles, and muggings occur, especially in urban areas and near places like Kgale Hill. Travelers are advised to avoid displaying valuables, stay alert in public, and use hotel safes. If confronted during a robbery, do not physically resist.
Does travel insurance cover delays or cancellations related to wildlife safaris in Botswana?
Most travel insurance plans offer optional coverage for trip delays or cancellations, including those affecting pre-booked safaris. These policies may reimburse nonrefundable tour expenses if delays are caused by unexpected weather, illness, or airline disruption. Standard benefit limits are between $500 and $5,000 depending on the chosen policy.
Do I need a visa to travel to Botswana?
U.S. citizens do not need a visa for tourist or business visits to Botswana of up to 90 days within a 12-month period. Your passport must be valid for at least six months after your planned entry. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required if you arrive from a country where yellow fever is present.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Botswana?
To purchase travel insurance for Botswana, begin by using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool to compare available plans. Review coverage and exclusions that specifically apply to travel in Botswana, such as evacuation and medical care. Once you've selected the right plan, purchase it online and you will receive your insurance certificate by email.
What kind of health risks should travelers to Botswana consider?
Malaria is present in the northern regions, so preventative medication is advised for those areas. Rural healthcare facilities are limited, with the best hospitals located in Gaborone. Travelers should also avoid drinking tap water and ice. Travel insurance that includes medical evacuation is highly recommended due to the remote nature of many sites.
Are there specific crime concerns travelers should be aware of in Botswana?
Crimes of opportunity including theft, "smash and grabs" from vehicles, and muggings occur, especially in urban areas and near places like Kgale Hill. Travelers are advised to avoid displaying valuables, stay alert in public, and use hotel safes. If confronted during a robbery, do not physically resist.
Does travel insurance cover delays or cancellations related to wildlife safaris in Botswana?
Most travel insurance plans offer optional coverage for trip delays or cancellations, including those affecting pre-booked safaris. These policies may reimburse nonrefundable tour expenses if delays are caused by unexpected weather, illness, or airline disruption. Standard benefit limits are between $500 and $5,000 depending on the chosen policy.
