Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
tances and these basic rules of camping life aside, a self-driving camping safari is
something your kids will remember forever.
The best piece of advice we can give to make the most out of Botswana's abundant at-
tractions is to not be too ambitious. Instead of trying to cover the whole country, concen-
trate on really getting to know just one or two places over the course of a week or 10 days,
thereby cutting travel times.
There are lodges and safari operators that do offer family packages that can be worth
checking out. Some offer specialist children's guides and imaginative activity programs,
which might include things such as making paper from elephant dung! Most lodges and
tented camps also have swimming pools, which provide a fine reward for long hours spent
in the car.
PRACTICALITIES
Unless you're planning to be in Botswana for the long haul, we advise you to bring
everything with you that you think you'll need. For invaluable general advice on taking
the family abroad, see Lonely Planet's
Travel with Children
by Brigitte Barta et al.
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Babysitting
Many lodges make a point of saying they are not babysitting agencies (in
other words, your kids are your responsibility), and such agencies are otherwise extremely
rare.
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Car seats
These may be available from car-hire firms, but you'd be better off bringing
your own; no car seats in safari vehicles.
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Changing facilities
Almost unheard-of.
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Cots
Rarely available in hotels or lodges.
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Health
A check-up with your doctor back home is a good idea before setting out for
Botswana, but this is a comparatively safe country and medical facilities are good.
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High chairs
Almost nonexistent in restaurants.
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Mosquito repellent
Check with your doctor before setting out, as most mosquito repel-
lents with high levels of DEET may be unsuitable for young children. Some lodges have
mosquito nets; if you're camping, bring your own.
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Nappies and baby food
These are available from supermarkets in larger towns, but
they may not be the brands you're used to and you don't want to find yourself in trouble if
you're in town on a Sunday or public holiday.
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National park entry fees
Free for children under eight and half-price for those aged
from eight to 17 years old.
