Good to know

October is the end of Botswana's dry season and the hottest month of the year. Expect daytime highs in Gaborone between 30 °C and 36 °C, dropping to a comfortable 16–20 °C after dark. Humidity is low and rain is unlikely, though the first thunderstorms of the season sometimes arrive late in the month.

Practical implications: pack light, breathable clothing and a hat, carry water, and plan outdoor activity for early morning or late afternoon. Bring a light layer for air-conditioned session rooms and for evenings.

The currency is the Botswana Pula (BWP). Card payment is normal in Gaborone hotels, restaurants, malls and supermarkets, and Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted. Carry some cash for smaller vendors, markets, tips and taxis.

ATMs are plentiful in the city and at the airport. Foreign exchange is available at banks, bureaux de change and the larger hotels. Tipping is customary but modest — around ten per cent in restaurants where service is not already included.

Mobile coverage in Gaborone and along the main routes is good. Local SIM cards and data bundles are inexpensive and available at the airport and in shopping centres; you will need your passport to register a SIM. eSIM options are available from the main operators.

Wi-Fi is standard in hotels and at the congress venue. Coverage thins considerably in the Kalahari and parts of the Delta — plan for that if you are travelling on after the congress.

Botswana is regarded as one of the safer countries in the region, and Gaborone is generally comfortable to move around during the day. Normal city precautions apply: keep valuables out of sight, use hotel safes, prefer arranged or app-based transport at night, and avoid walking alone in unlit areas after dark.

Emergency numbers: police 999, ambulance 997, fire 998.

Greetings matter in Botswana and are not rushed. “Dumela rra” (to a man) or “Dumela mma” (to a woman) followed by “le kae?” (how are you?) will be warmly received. A handshake, often with the left hand touching the right forearm, is the standard greeting.

Politeness, patience and a lowered voice are valued; direct confrontation is not. Ask before photographing people. Dress is generally conservative in government and rural settings — smart casual is right for the congress, business dress for the opening and official functions.