Botswana, a landlocked country in Southern Africa, is topographically flat and consists mainly of the Kalahari Desert in which the world’s largest inland delta, the Okavango Delta, sinks. The summers are long, hot, and partly cloudy while the winters are short, cool, dry, and clear. Over the course of the year, the temperature typically varies from 41°F to 89°F (5°C to 32°C) and is rarely below 34°F (1°C) or above 104°F (40°C). It is one of the least densely populated countries in the world leading to its flourishing natural wildlife. There are two major hunting areas in Botswana, the Okavango Delta and the central region of Kalahari. The hunting season in Botswana runs from the beginning of April through the end of September.

Each hunter requires a hunting licence. No trophy may be shot without a valid license. Licenses are issued in accordance with available quota in the specific hunting area and it is important to clarify which species of animals are required. Additional CITES and/or TOPS permits are required for certain species such as elephant, leopard etc. We obtain this on our client’s behalf.

Skinning of trophies and field preparation is included in our services, however all dipping, collecting, taxidermy work and shipping of trophies are not included. Trophies are field prepared in camp and shipped to a designated shipping agent in Maun, Botswana, who will then dip, pack, and freight your trophies to your local shipping agent. An associate of the shipping agent will discuss your requirements with you either by phone or e-mail.

You may import a maximum of three (3) firearms into Botswana: either two rifles and one shotgun; or two shotguns and one rifle. Rifles must be of different calibres. A maximum of 100 rounds of ammunition per firearm is allowed to be imported. Ammunition must be the same calibre(s) as the firearms being imported. Semi-automatic, automatic and military-style firearms, and handguns are prohibited. Bowhunting is legal for plains game, however, for dangerous game, it is illegal. No import permit is required for bows into Botswana. Should a hunter wish not to bring his/her own firearm on the safari, there are camp rifles and ammunition available for their use at an additional cost.

It is advisable to take out full insurance for all firearms before travelling anywhere in Africa. Ensure that your ammunition is in a separate lockable container from your rifle. No more than two rifles per case per passenger. 

A temporary import/export permit is required to bring any firearms into Botswana. We will obtain these permits on your behalf at an additional fee and we request to submit your information and application to us at least two months in advance of your arrival. The import permit is only valid for 30 days maximum. 14% VAT and an import duty are charged on ammunition upon entry into Botswana. This must normally be paid in Botswana Pula (no other currency) or with a credit/debit card at airport customs.

Clients visiting or travelling through South Africa (depending on the airline in-transit regulations) will also need to complete a South African Firearms Permit Application Form (SAPS520) and obtain the permit prior to their arrival. Please check with your travel agent or airline, the transit procedure when travelling through South Africa. For more information please see our South Africa firearm permit application section.

We assist with the application thereof and every hunter must provide us at least 8 weeks before the commencement of the safari, the following documentation:

• A colour copy of the passport;
• A colour copy of the US Customs form 4457 (for US residents) or Firearm License from your home country;
• A copy of the export permit for the firearm from country of origin (for all countries) or a letter from police from country of origin (must be stamped);
• A formal letter from the gun owner giving permission to obtain the permit;
• The flight itinerary; and
• The completed Client Information Sheet and Indemnity form.

The main ports of entry for international flights to Botswana is Maun airport (MUB), Gaborone Airport (GBE) and Kasane Airport (BBK). Most major international airlines from Europe, the United States, Asia and Australia fly to Johannesburg, South Africa, where connecting flights can be booked to either Maun, Gaborone or Kasane.

Most international airlines fly to Johannesburg and sometimes your flight schedule will require you to overnight in Johannesburg before flying to Botswana the following morning. We recommend overnighting at either Afton Guest House or The Intercontinental Hotel OR Tambo.

Every visitor to Botswana must be in possession of a passport that is valid until six months after the initial date of travel and has at least one blank page for endorsements, a valid visa (if required), a return or onward ticket and a yellow fever certificate if the journey starts or entails passing through the yellow fever belt of Africa or South America. US, UK, Russian and Mexican citizens (to name a few) do not require a visa to enter Botswana. However, requirements for visitor’s visas are subject to change and all visitors must check with their nearest consulate about entry regulations and obtaining a visa.

There exists a risk of malaria in the North-Eastern part of the country that includes the provinces of Central, Chobe, Ghanzi, Okavango Delta and Ngamiland. It is recommended to take malaria prophylactics and other precautions. Adequate clothing as well as mosquito repellent are important to minimize mosquito bites. Each hunter is advised to also bring a small personal medical kit with necessary preferred medication for headaches, colds, burns, allergies etc.

It is important to note that all hunting safaris are potentially dangerous and it is each client’s own responsibility to arrange his/her medical, evacuation or personal insurance. We recommend Ripcord Comprehensive Travel Protection or Global Rescue as preferred travel insurers.

The official currency of Botswana is Pula (BWP), literally means “rain” in Setswana. Visa and MasterCard credit cards can be used in towns although they are not accepted everywhere. It is always best to have US Dollar cash in smaller denominations on hand. A gratuity is a gift of appreciation for services provided. They can be given to staff members at the hunter’s own discretion. We can provide a proposed gratuity list as guideline should it be required.

Our continent is known for rich and colourful cultures, friendly people, exhilarating adventures and breath-taking natural beauty. Chapungu-Kambako Safaris can assist in arranging some additional sightseeing, interesting excursions or alternative activities for our travellers and observers.

There is daily laundry done in camp. Below is a packing list to get you prepared for your Botswana safari:

• • 3 x t-shirts
  • 2 x long sleeve shirts (khaki or olive green)
  • 1 x sweatshirt / fleece
  • 1 x warm jacket (khaki or olive green)
  • 2 x pairs of comfortable shorts
  • 2 x pairs of cotton trousers / pants (Khaki or olive green)
  • 4 x pairs of socks and underwear
  • 1 x belt
  • 1 x hat / cap
  • Swimsuit
  • Lightweight, durable, waterproof hiking shoes / boots
  • Flip flops, sandals or Teva’s for around camp

1 x Warm padded jacket (Camo, khaki or olive green), 1x pair of gloves, 1x Beanie, 1x buff and long underwear.

Passport, airline tickets, rifle import documentation, invitation letters, emergency contact list and copies of all documents.

Cash, toiletries, sunglasses, reading glasses, any prescribed medication (if applicable), sunscreen, mobile phone and iPad charger, power adapter (Local power 220V) and leisure reading books.

Camera, knife, ammo belt, binoculars, telescope, hunting backpack, flashlight, hunting gaiters or leggings and insect repellent (Skin so Soft by Avon is recommended).

All safaris booked through and conducted by Chapungu-Kambako Safaris in Botswana are based on the following terms and conditions: (Please see the current Safari Pricelist and Safari Contract for the detailed Terms and Conditions)

Bookings are confirmed on receipt of the signed Safari Contract and deposit as stated on the contract. The balance of the safari rate / package is payable 90 days prior to the commencement of the safari. Additional trophy fees of all animals killed/wounded and any additional expenses incurred during the trip, are payable at the conclusion of the safari and can be paid in cash at the camp (US dollar notes, clean and unmarked, not older than 2009 series) or by electronic bank transfer. Any unused credits will be refunded within 14 days of the safari end date. Any other payment arrangement must be authorized in writing. Prices are subject to change without prior notice.

There will be no refund of any deposit paid within six (6) months prior to commencement of the safari. If cancelled longer than 6 months prior to this date, 50% of the deposit will be refunded. Chapungu-Kambako Safaris will be open to accept postponements of safaris should there be a valid reason for a client not able to attend his/her safari, providing that there are acceptable available dates and quota.

No juvenile leopards may be shot. The PH’s decision on age is final. It is hereby agreed that any leopard or lion shot, regardless of its age, without the consent of the professional hunter accrues and immediate fine of US$ 30,000.00. The hunt will not continue until payment has been received.

It must be noted that hunting is a dangerous vocation and although Chapungu-Kambako safaris are committed to your safety, comfort and enjoyment, we cannot be held responsible for any accidents, illness or death that may occur whilst on the safari. Each client will be required to sign an Indemnity / General release of all claims form before the commencement of the safari.