Travel Preparation Guide · Connectivity
Power & Connectivity (SIM)
Connectivity may vary by region and season.
Voltage & Plug Types
Electrical standards and outlet shapes
⚡230V / 50Hz
🔌Type D / G / M(South African large round 3-pin)
🔄South African (Type M) adapter recommended
💡Safari lodges may have limited outlets; bring a multi-port USB charger.
Buying a SIM Card
Where to buy, costs, and activation process
📱Mascom, Orange, beMobile
🏪Airport, carrier shops, shopping malls
📋Passport required
💰SIM from $5-15 for 7-30 days
💡Mascom has the best coverage in safari and remote areas.
eSIM & Mobile Wi-Fi
eSIM availability and portable Wi-Fi rental
📶Limited — International eSIM providers only
🏢Airalo, Holafly, Ubigi
💰$8-22 for 1-5GB / 7-30 days
💡Coverage in safari areas may be limited; download maps offline.
Wi-Fi Availability
Public Wi-Fi coverage and security
📡Moderate — available in hotels and lodges
🏨Available in most safari lodges and city hotels
☕Limited to malls and cafes in Gaborone
💡Safari lodges often have satellite WiFi—slow but functional.
Internet Restrictions & VPN
Blocked services and VPN recommendations
🔒None — unrestricted internet
🚫None — all services freely accessible
🛡️Not needed
💡Botswana has a free and open internet environment.
Useful Local Apps
Must-have apps for transport, translation, and maps
🚗Local taxis, combi minibuses
🗺️Google Maps, Maps.me for safari areas
💬WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger
💡Download offline maps for Okavango and Chobe areas before departure.
International Calls
How to make international calls and alternatives
📞+267 (Botswana)
🆘999 (Police), 997 (Ambulance), 998 (Fire)
📲Dial 00 + country code + number for international calls
💡Coverage limited in remote safari areas; satellite phone useful for wilderness.