The Ability to Swim
The ability to swim is necessary in order for you to be safe during the water based activities on this trip. This will enable you to avoid any hazardous situations and enjoy your time during the activity.
Tipping – Local Crew
Although entirely voluntary, tipping is a recognised practise in this region of the world if you
are satisfied with the service and preparation you have received. In order to make things
easier for you the tour leader may organise a group kitty. Again, this is voluntary.
Foreign Exchange
ATM Availability: Cash can be drawn out on credit cards from ATM’s in Maun
Credit Card Acceptance: Limited
Travellers Cheques: Not recommended
Local Currency: Botswana Pula
Recommended Currency for Exchange: US Dollars / US Dollars for tips
Important Information
Travel Insurance
It is a condition of joining any of our tours that you must have valid travel insurance. It must indicate that you have cover for (at least) medical expenses and emergency repatriation in the event of illness or injury. We also strongly recommend your policy includes curtailment, personal effects and cancellation protection as all deposits paid are non-refundable. You will also need to ensure your travel policy covers you for all activities, outside of STS, that you intend to do whilst on your tour. Your insurer may charge an additional premium for certain activities.

Visa Information

Botswana and Namibia: visas are not required by UK, Australian, New Zealand, US and Canadian passport holders. All other nationalities please consult your nearest Embassy for up to date advice on necessary visa requirements. Zambia: Visas are required by UK, Canadian, US, Australian and New Zealand passport holders. Please note it is possible for UK passport holders to obtain their visa on arrival at all ports of entry. All other nationalities, please consult your nearest Embassy for up to date advice on necessary visa requirements. All passports must have a minimum of 6 months’ validity from date of return to your home country. Please note: Be aware that visa information is subject to change and that you must not rely on STS to be fully aware of all visa requirements for all countries. Please ensure you inform yourself on this matter. Lone Parents In Botswana single parents or other adults travelling alone with children should be aware that some countries require documentation confirming that the individual has authority to travel with the minor. You should contact the Botswana Embassy for further information and details.


Vaccinations and Protection

Botswana: Nothing compulsory, but we do recommend protection against malaria, hepatitis A, tetanus, typhoid and polio. Consult your travel clinic for the latest advice on different prophylaxis available against malaria. Travellers may wish to immune themselves against meningitis. The above is not an exhaustive list. Further information regarding vaccinations and travel health advice can be found by following the NHS and NaTHNaC and from your local healthcare provider in your country. Visa vaccination requirements are subject to change and should be confirmed before departure. Please ensure you inform yourself on this matter.
Zambia: We strongly recommend protection against malaria, hepatitis A, tetanus, diphtheria, typhoid and polio. Malaria is present in the region so consult your travel clinic for the latest advice on different prophylaxis available against malaria. Yellow fever is compulsory for all travel into Zambia if transiting via South Africa or any other Yellow Fever Zone. Please ensure that you inform yourself of all requirements.

Preparing for your Tour Climate Botswana

Botswana has many regional characteristics that differ – from fertile areas in the East to vast desert in the centre and South and a vast delta in the North-West. This creates extremes of temperatures and highly variable rainfall.
Zambia: The main rainy season is from January to March. The rain is widespread and generally falls in the form of thunderstorms; grass tends to be long and there is more water about which makes game viewing more dispersed.
Clothing
Clothing should be lightweight. However, a wind/waterproof jacket, a warm fleece or sweater
and thermal underwear for night time is strongly advised. Night temperatures and early
morning game drives can be very cold, especially in the winter (April to August). Brightly
coloured and white clothing is not suitable for game viewing.
Equipment
Bring a head/hand torch, a water bottle, a sunhat, sunglasses, insect repellent and sunscreen.
Binoculars are essential for game viewing and a 300mm lens is recommended for
photography.
Footwear
Lightweight trail and/or steal cap boots are vital and sandals for relaxing in.
General Information
Food The prices for meals and drinks can vary greatly depending upon location. In general, you would expect that drinks purchased in a supermarket or a local bar to be less expensive. Whilst drinks in an upmarket bar, lodge or restaurant may be more expensive.
Electricity Supply and Plugs
Botswana: 3 Pin Round

Zambia: 3 Pin Flat
Country Details
Botswana:
Population: 2 182 719
Size of Country: 581 730 sq. km
Major Languages: English, Setswana
Religion: Christians, Anglicans, Methodists
Time Difference to GMT: +2
Zambia:
Population: 15 066 266
Size of Country: 752 600 sq. km
Major Language: English, Bemba
Religion: Christian and Indigenous
Time Difference to GMT: +2

We are a dedicated team with all the energy and enthusiasm that goes with the territory. We will do our utmost to give you an experience that will have you wanting to come back to Botswana and recommend STS to your friends. We are a team with great passion for conservation and for adventurous experiences that do not involve unnecessary risks. Our aim is to grow and be around for the long term. We hope to bring our dream to fruition with you along for the ride.

100% No Surcharge Guarantee

The price you paid for your holiday is not subject to change. Once booked and confirmed we will guarantee the price you pay will not increase, whatever the circumstances. You will not be approached to pay fuel surcharges. The price guarantee applies to all new bookings and tours.