Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a visa to enter Botswana?
Citizens of the EU, US, Canada, Australia and New Zealand do not need a visa to enter Botswana.
Do I need to worry about Malaria?
There is no Malaria in Gaborone, however if you wish to travel to other parts of Botswana and surrounding countries, it is advisable to take Malaria prophylactics.
Do I need to bring bottled water?
The tap water at Mokolodi Backpackers is safe to drink. However, we also sell bottled water at the bar.
How can I stay in touch?
We offer free Wi-Fi access for your laptop and smart device. Kindly note that power outages and storms (rain and wind) has an impact on our Internet connectivity. We also sell local SIM cards and credit that will allow internet access on your phone. Make sure your phone is unlocked before you leave home.
Where can I buy food locally?
There is a selection of restaurants and a supermarket at Game City, which is about 10 km from Mokolodi Backpackers and on the local bus route. Mokolodi Nature Reserve has a good restaurant that is about 15 minutes’ walk from the backpackers. We also provide meals on request and can supply Sadza, a local corn-based staple, for braai (barbecue).
Can I exchange foreign currency?
We are unable to exchange currency at the backpackers, but have negotiated a commission-free deal on currency exchange at CSS Bureau de Change, located at Game City and Riverwalk shopping centres. Just mention that you are staying with us. There are also plenty of ATMs at Game City, 10 km from US en route to Gaborone. Note that MasterCard is only accepted by one bank: Stanbic. However, visa is widely accepted.
Will I be lonely?
Our backpackers is a hub of activity. If you can’t find a fellow backpacker to talk to then you can make friends with our two dogs, five cats, chickens, ducks, peacock and our pot-bellied pig, New Year.
Can I pay by credit card?
We do accept visa or MasterCard. We also accept payment in BWP, ZAR, GBP, USD and Euro.
Is it safe to travel alone in Botswana?
Botswana is considered to be relatively safe, but as with everywhere else, you should take reasonable precautions. Don’t walk alone at night, don’t carry large amounts of cash, keep valuables hidden from sight. Mokolodi Backpackers is a secure environment and is staffed 24 hours a day. The staff is always approachable and very efficient.
Contact Mokolodi Backpackers
Gaborone Botswana: Booking office:
+267 74 11 1165 (Local 74 11 1165)
South Africa: Booking office:
+27 72 043 6255 (Local 072 043 6255)
Gaborone: Backpackers office:
+267 74 11 1164 (Local 74 11 1164)
Email: admin@backpackers.co.bw
Skype: mokolodi.backpackers.admin
Address: Plot 86, Mokolodi, Gaborone, Botswana
GPS co-ordinates:
Latitude D M S: -24° 44’ 26.13” Longitude D M S: 25° 49’ 41.41”
Reception is open 7 am – 9:30 pm (07:00-21:30).
Check In Time: From 2 pm & Check Out Time: Before 11 am
(a late check-in can be arranged)
Connect via WhatsApp
