Destination guide
Travel vaccines for Botswana
The Okavango Delta, Chobe and the Kalahari — here's what UK travellers are usually advised before visiting Botswana, including malaria in the north and the Yellow Fever certificate rule.
Overview
What vaccinations do I need for Botswana?
Botswana is one of Africa's premier safari destinations. A few travel vaccinations are recommended, malaria matters in the north (the Okavango and Chobe), and there's a Yellow Fever certificate rule for travellers arriving from a risk country.
The recommendations below are a general guide based on UK travel health advice. We'll confirm exactly what you need at a short consultation.
Plan ahead
Book 4–6 weeks before you fly
Some vaccines need more than one dose, and malaria tablets may need starting before you travel, so aim for 4–6 weeks ahead. Travelling sooner? Come in anyway — there's almost always something we can do.
Recommended vaccinations
Vaccines commonly advised for Botswana
Grouped by how often they're recommended. Your personal list is confirmed at consultation. Vaccine guidance is based on public health information from TravelHealthPro (UKHSA/NaTHNaC).
Hepatitis A
Most travellers
Spread through contaminated food and water — advised for most trips.
Tetanus, Diphtheria & Polio
Most travellers
A combined booster is recommended if you're not up to date.
Typhoid
Some travellers
Advised for many travellers, especially outside main lodges and towns.
Yellow Fever (+ certificate)
Certificate rule
No yellow fever in Botswana, but a certificate is required if you arrive from a risk country — common on multi-country safaris. We issue it if needed.
Hepatitis B
Some travellers
Advised for longer stays, healthcare work, or possible medical/dental treatment.
Rabies
Some travellers
Considered for longer or remote trips where help is far away.
Malaria & mosquitoes
Malaria in Botswana
Malaria risk in Botswana is mainly in the north — the Okavango Delta, Chobe and the Caprivi-bordering areas — and is highest in the warmer, wetter months (roughly November to June). Antimalarial tablets are usually advised for those areas. The far south and Gaborone are low or no risk.
- Okavango & Chobe: antimalarial tablets usually advised, especially Nov–June
- Southern Botswana & Gaborone: low or no risk
- Use repellent, cover up at dawn and dusk, and use nets where needed
FAQ
Botswana travel vaccines — FAQs
Only if you're arriving from, or have passed through, a country with yellow fever risk — common on multi-country safaris (e.g. via Zambia or Kenya). Direct from the UK it isn't required. We can provide the vaccine and certificate if your trip needs it.
For the northern safari areas — the Okavango Delta and Chobe — usually yes, especially in the wetter months. The far south is low risk. We'll check your itinerary and timing.
Hepatitis A and keeping Tetanus/Diphtheria/Polio up to date, with Typhoid, Rabies and Hepatitis B added depending on your plans, plus malaria tablets for the north.
Ideally 4–6 weeks before travel, but we can help at shorter notice too.
Getting ready for Botswana?
Book a quick consultation at our Timperley clinic near Manchester and we'll sort your vaccinations, certificate and malaria advice for your trip.