Southern Africa > Botswana > Travel Safety and Security

Security Snippets of Interest for Botswana :

Safety and Security: Civil unrest and disorder are rare. U.S. citizens should avoid crowds, political rallies, and street demonstrations and maintain security awareness at all times. For the latest security information, Americans traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department of State, Bureau of Consular Affairs’ web site at ... Read this Article

Crime: Crime is a serious concern in Botswana. Visitors must be vigilant and take common-sense security precautions. The criminal threat is very similar to that of any large urban area. Petty street Crime and Crimes of opportunity, primarily the theft of money and personal property, are ... Read this Article

Special Circumstances: Since February 2008, rolling electric power outages have left many areas without power for several hours each week. This situation is likely to continue. Visitors are urged to carry flashlights. American citizens are also urged to be aware of how power outages might affect home ... Read this Article

Criminal Penalties: While in a foreign country, a U.S. citizen is subject to that country's laws and regulations, which sometimes differ significantly from those in the United States and may not afford the protections available to the individual under U.S. law. Penalties for breaking the law ... Read this Article

...robbery, do not resist. Give up your valuables and do not make any sudden unexpected movements. Cell phone thefts are common. Visitors should keep their cell phone out of sight and only use them in safe locations. Visitors are encouraged to walk with someone during the day. Visitors should not ... Read this Article

...Overall Crime and Safety Situation As is the case throughout southern Africa, crime is a serious concern in Gaborone and Botswana as a whole. The U.S. Department of State rates Botswana as high for crime. The criminal threat is very similar to that of any large urban area. Non-confrontational, non-violent crimes such as pick-pocketing, petty theft, and smash-and-grabs from vehicles are not uncommon. Home invasions and burglaries of unoccupied or vacant residences are commonplace. Burglars occasionally use ruses to gain unlawful access to residential compounds/homes. Visitors should use extreme care when talking on a cell phone in public. ... Read this Article

		Current Travel Warnings: