Manners in Botswana

Learn about cultural etiquette and manners of this country

Africa / Southern Africa

Greetings

  • Handshake
  • Light bow
  • Dumelang

Etiquette

  • Use titles and full names for elders
  • A handshake with both hands is polite when greeting
  • Wait for elders to start eating before beginning a meal
  • Avoid loud voices or overt displays of affection in public places
  • Do not hand objects with only your left hand
  • Present gifts with both hands as a courtesy
  • Obtain permission from subjects before taking photographs
  • In national parks, keep hands inside the vehicle and maintain quiet
  • Tipping 5-10% is common for good service
  • Sharing water is considered a social obligation
  • Remove hats when visiting religious facilities or chiefs' homes
  • Gifts to civil servants are prohibited by anti-corruption laws
  • Carrying a scarf for dust protection during the dry season is convenient

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