EXPLORING BOTSWANA AS A DIGITAL NOMAD?
We have successfully cemented the misconception that adventure especially African Safari is extremely expensive and near impossible to embark on and that it is something we should push to the back burner until after retirement from our rigid 9 to 5 jobs.
The current COVID 19 pandemic has proven that most jobs can be carried out remotely from anywhere in the world. As long as you have reliable internet and a laptop. I mean, what’s better than exploring your bucket list of countries and making money while at it?
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Botswana is not really a popular Digital Nomad spot yet. We are is still at an infancy stage with remote work exploration. But thinking of it, what’s stopping us from exploring Botswana and working remotely all at the same time? Firstly the cost of living is relatively low and secondly, it will definitely come in handy for Budget travelers. Botswana should be your go-to place if you need to escape the hustle and bustle of your city life.
Below are important guidelines to consider if you’d like to explore Botswana on Budget while working remotely.
· VISA REQUIREMENTS
First things first, check what your Visa Requirements to enter Botswana are and take it from there. The Tourist Visa will be valid for 30 days to 90 days which is not bad at all. Since Botswana is not really a popular Digital Nomad destination, you might want to combine it with other African countries that already offer Digital Nomad Visas, like Mauritius. Even though South Africa does not have Digital Nomad Visas yet, it will make a great combination with Botswana as well. This will afford you a chance to have a longer stay in Africa. For travelers who already reside in Botswana, all you need is to grab your laptop, wifi router, and a backpack!
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· LOCALITY
Since you will probably be here for only 1 month, it’s best you choose a good central location. In Botswana, I’d definitely suggest Maun, Gateway to the Okavango Delta. Your central location will also depend on your interests. In Maun, you will be in the vicinity of the Okavango Delta, Tsodilo Hills, Makgadikgadi pans, Chobe National Park, Moremi Game Reserve, etc. You can explore all those on budget, particularly day trips and short stays. The best places to work from in Maun would be Dusty Donkey, Crocodile Camp, Kwa Ga Nicci, etc. To explore more suggestions visit our Botswana Guide.
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· COST OF LIVING
The cost of living in Botswana is relatively low compared to most countries. In terms of accommodation, you can find a self-contained “bachelor pad” for about USD 150.00 a month. For a ‘good’ neighborhood you will need a local Travel Designer to assist. Getting groceries and other necessities won’t be a train smash as we have a number of local supermarkets that will meet your needs at affordable prices. Botswana is the Capital of Slow Living. Almost everything you need will be easily accessible.
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· HEALTH CARE
Botswana has the most affordable Healthcare. As a Foreigner, you will be required to pay a service fee not exceeding USD 20.00 to access basic health services at a Public/Government facility. Other than that we have amazing Private clinics and hospitals around the country. Local pharmacies will definitely come through for over-the-counter and prescription medications as well. We strongly advise that you sort out your Health insurance or medical aid before traveling as your policies and schemes may be providing international coverage.
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· WORK HARD, PLAY HARD!
Since you will actually need to get some work done, you will need reliable and affordable internet. One of the cheapest you can get is around USD 40.00 per month. Depending on your exact village or town, you will need to find out which internet service provider works perfectly for the particular area. For times when you need to catch a breather, you may work from a local restaurant or coffee café, where you will have access to good internet as well. Internet cafés are also an option. You may want to add a short boat cruise in between as well! Check out our Maun article to get insights on which activities to incorporate into your work schedule.
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· REMOTE JOBS
If you work in a more flexible field/industry that does not require you to remain stationary, you definitely stand a good chance to work remotely (obviously). For starters, below are professionals who stand an incredible chance to work from anywhere in the world. Remote work requires a lot of self-discipline and excellent time management skills as there is minimal to no supervision at all.
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