Moving to Botswana

You may be inspired by images of the vast Kalahari Desert and the Big Five when moving to Botswana. While this semi-arid sandy savannah spans around 70 percent of the country, Botswana is far from entirely dry and dusty. 

The landlocked country in Southern Africa boasts myriad remarkable landscapes, great biodiversity, and plenty of natural wealth and resources. To top it off, the Batswana people are known for being friendly and welcoming, making for a fantastic expat experience. 

Living in Botswana as an expat

From the Okavango Delta, home to lions, hippos, elephants and much more, to the massive salt flats of the Makgadikgadi Pan, Botswana promises various unique and beautiful experiences.

Tourism, especially ecotourism, is a major contributor to the country’s economy. Botswana has emerged as an upper-middle-income country, boasting political stability and a competitive banking system. Alongside its thriving tourism industry, the country is rich in natural resources – particularly diamonds.

Indeed, diamonds have attracted foreigners from within the Southern African region and further afield. Several international mining corporations have established regional headquarters in Botswana, prospecting for diamonds, gold, uranium, and copper. The economy has also diversified considerably, with a growing job market and employment opportunities ranging from ICT to finances.

Accommodation in Botswana is plentiful, with houses, townhouses, and apartments available in bigger cities. Areas that are more popular and closer to city centres tend to be pricier, and the quality of housing also influences prices. Overall, housing is still reasonably affordable, especially for those from the UK, US, and Europe.

Transport options in the country are limited, and this is an additional cost to consider. Taxis and minibuses can be found in the city, but rail transport networks are not extensive and the BR Express is the only sizeable passenger train. To access remote areas or even get around in larger towns or cities, you'll likely need a private car and may have to hire a driver. Driving in Botswana can be tricky, with potholes common outside cities, limited signage in places and animals on the roads in rural areas.

Additionally, you are encouraged to explore the healthcare options available in the country before moving. Despite improvements in and expanding medical facilities, public healthcare remains under-resourced. Both public and private hospitals and clinics are available in the main cities and towns, but serious medical emergencies may require evacuation to South Africa. We advise you to ensure adequate medical insurance to cover healthcare costs.

Cost of living in Botswana

Most expats in Botswana earn decent salaries and have good employment packages, allowing them to live relatively luxuriously. Botswana consistently ranks as having a low cost of living, but we recommend that you factor in potential healthcare costs and school fees for families with children. 

Local produce is easily affordable, though imported items can be expensive. Accommodation, especially close to popular areas, will most likely be one of your biggest expenses as an expat.

Families and children in Botswana

The education system in Botswana has improved recently. As an expat, you can enrol your children in local schools, though the standards at public schools in rural areas can be low. Most expats send their children to a private or international school, where tuition and fees are high, but still much cheaper than their European counterparts.

There is plenty to see and do with your family during your downtime in Botswana. You can enjoy weekend breaks in Botswana's national parks, like Chobe National Park, and explore the country's abundant wildlife on safari. Adventurous tourists, expats, and locals alike can enjoy hiking and off-road trails and overland trips. The attractions in neighbouring Namibia and South Africa are also just a short flight away.

Climate in Botswana

You'll likely find the weather in Botswana as warm as the people. With a semi-arid climate, Botswana is hot and dry almost year-round. Occasional showers do happen, falling mainly during the summer months. Winters are dry and warm, with cold nights.

Whatever the reason for relocating, it's essential that you are aware that there are both pros and cons in Botswana. What cannot be denied is that moving to Botswana presents a new adventure filled with exciting new experiences and interesting people. Many expats fall in love with the country and decide to settle down permanently.

Fast facts

Population: Over 2.5 million 

Capital city: Gaborone

Neighbouring countries: Botswana is bordered by South Africa to the south, Namibia to the west, Zambia to the north and Zimbabwe to the east.

Geography: Botswana, the world's 48th-largest country, is predominantly flat and dominated by the Kalahari Desert, which covers about 70 percent of its land surface. The Okavango Delta, in the northwest of the country, is one of the world's largest inland deltas. The salt pans of Makgadikgadi also lie in the north.

Political system: Parliamentary republic

Major religion: Christianity

Main languages: English and Setswana

Money: The Pula (BWP) is divided into 100 thebes. ATMs and card facilities are widely available in all major urban centres.

Tipping: Tipping is not compulsory, but is appreciated.

Time: GMT+2

Electricity: 230V, 50Hz. Plugs with three round pins are used (type D), as well as three rectangular pins (type G)

Internet domain: .bw

International dialling code: +267

Emergency contacts: 997 (ambulance) and 999 (police)

Transport and driving: Vehicles drive on the left-hand side of the road.