Legal status in Botswana
Per-substance legal status for Botswana, from sourced statutes where available. Legal information, not legal advice; drug laws change, so confirm with the destination’s embassy or drug authority before you travel.
Confirmed legal status
2C-B
- Legal status
- Controlled under the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018, trafficking (s.5) carries up to 25 years plus a fine of up to P500,000; cultivation (s.6) up to 20 years; the precise quantity bands are left to confirmation against the current statute; the maximum penalty is imprisonment
- Consequences if caught
- 2C-B is controlled in Botswana under the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018. In Botswana, drugs fall under the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018. Trafficking (s.5) carries imprisonment of up to 25 years together with a fine of up to P500,000, and cultivation (s.6) up to 20 years; the precise quantity bands are left to confirmation against the current statute. The maximum penalty for a drug offence is imprisonment. Botswana retains and uses the death penalty for the gravest non-drug crimes (murder, treason, piracy under the Penal Code); it does NOT extend to drug offences, the maximum penalty for a drug offence is imprisonment. A 2024 government white paper reportedly recommended introducing a death penalty for drug trafficking; this was a recommendation only and has NOT been enacted; verify against the current statute. botswanalaws.com is a lead for the consolidated text only, never a cited source.
- If prescribed / medical
- Not a prescribed traveller medicine in this form.
- Documentation
- In Botswana, drugs fall under the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018. Trafficking (s.5) carries imprisonment of up to 25 years together with a fine of up to P500,000, and cultivation (s.6) up to 20 years; the precise quantity bands are left to confirmation against the current statute. The maximum penalty for a drug offence is imprisonment. Botswana retains and uses the death penalty for the gravest non-drug crimes (murder, treason, piracy under the Penal Code); it does NOT extend to drug offences, the maximum penalty for a drug offence is imprisonment. A 2024 government white paper reportedly recommended introducing a death penalty for drug trafficking; this was a recommendation only and has NOT been enacted; verify against the current statute. botswanalaws.com is a lead for the consolidated text only, never a cited source. Cannabis is a controlled drug under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018, ss.5-6 · sherloc.unodc.org · Updated June 28, 2026
Benzodiazepines
- Legal status
- Controlled under the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018, trafficking (s.5) carries up to 25 years plus a fine of up to P500,000; cultivation (s.6) up to 20 years; the precise quantity bands are left to confirmation against the current statute; the maximum penalty is imprisonment
- Consequences if caught
- Benzodiazepines is controlled in Botswana under the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018. In Botswana, drugs fall under the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018. Trafficking (s.5) carries imprisonment of up to 25 years together with a fine of up to P500,000, and cultivation (s.6) up to 20 years; the precise quantity bands are left to confirmation against the current statute. The maximum penalty for a drug offence is imprisonment. Botswana retains and uses the death penalty for the gravest non-drug crimes (murder, treason, piracy under the Penal Code); it does NOT extend to drug offences, the maximum penalty for a drug offence is imprisonment. A 2024 government white paper reportedly recommended introducing a death penalty for drug trafficking; this was a recommendation only and has NOT been enacted; verify against the current statute. botswanalaws.com is a lead for the consolidated text only, never a cited source.
- If prescribed / medical
- Not a prescribed traveller medicine in this form.
- Documentation
- In Botswana, drugs fall under the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018. Trafficking (s.5) carries imprisonment of up to 25 years together with a fine of up to P500,000, and cultivation (s.6) up to 20 years; the precise quantity bands are left to confirmation against the current statute. The maximum penalty for a drug offence is imprisonment. Botswana retains and uses the death penalty for the gravest non-drug crimes (murder, treason, piracy under the Penal Code); it does NOT extend to drug offences, the maximum penalty for a drug offence is imprisonment. A 2024 government white paper reportedly recommended introducing a death penalty for drug trafficking; this was a recommendation only and has NOT been enacted; verify against the current statute. botswanalaws.com is a lead for the consolidated text only, never a cited source. Cannabis is a controlled drug under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018, ss.5-6 · sherloc.unodc.org · Updated June 28, 2026
Cannabis / THC
- Legal status
- Cannabis is a controlled drug under the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018, trafficking (s.5) up to 25 years plus a fine of up to P500,000; cultivation (s.6) up to 20 years; no legal recreational or medical regime; the maximum penalty is imprisonment
- Consequences if caught
- Cannabis is a controlled drug in Botswana under the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018, with no legal recreational regime. In Botswana, drugs fall under the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018. Trafficking (s.5) carries imprisonment of up to 25 years together with a fine of up to P500,000, and cultivation (s.6) up to 20 years; the precise quantity bands are left to confirmation against the current statute. The maximum penalty for a drug offence is imprisonment. Botswana retains and uses the death penalty for the gravest non-drug crimes (murder, treason, piracy under the Penal Code); it does NOT extend to drug offences, the maximum penalty for a drug offence is imprisonment. A 2024 government white paper reportedly recommended introducing a death penalty for drug trafficking; this was a recommendation only and has NOT been enacted; verify against the current statute. botswanalaws.com is a lead for the consolidated text only, never a cited source.
- If prescribed / medical
- Not a prescribed traveller medicine in this form.
- Documentation
- In Botswana, drugs fall under the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018. Trafficking (s.5) carries imprisonment of up to 25 years together with a fine of up to P500,000, and cultivation (s.6) up to 20 years; the precise quantity bands are left to confirmation against the current statute. The maximum penalty for a drug offence is imprisonment. Botswana retains and uses the death penalty for the gravest non-drug crimes (murder, treason, piracy under the Penal Code); it does NOT extend to drug offences, the maximum penalty for a drug offence is imprisonment. A 2024 government white paper reportedly recommended introducing a death penalty for drug trafficking; this was a recommendation only and has NOT been enacted; verify against the current statute. botswanalaws.com is a lead for the consolidated text only, never a cited source. Cannabis is a controlled drug under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018, ss.5-6 · sherloc.unodc.org · Updated June 28, 2026
Cocaine
- Legal status
- Controlled under the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018, trafficking (s.5) carries up to 25 years plus a fine of up to P500,000; cultivation (s.6) up to 20 years; the precise quantity bands are left to confirmation against the current statute; the maximum penalty is imprisonment
- Consequences if caught
- Cocaine is controlled in Botswana under the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018. In Botswana, drugs fall under the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018. Trafficking (s.5) carries imprisonment of up to 25 years together with a fine of up to P500,000, and cultivation (s.6) up to 20 years; the precise quantity bands are left to confirmation against the current statute. The maximum penalty for a drug offence is imprisonment. Botswana retains and uses the death penalty for the gravest non-drug crimes (murder, treason, piracy under the Penal Code); it does NOT extend to drug offences, the maximum penalty for a drug offence is imprisonment. A 2024 government white paper reportedly recommended introducing a death penalty for drug trafficking; this was a recommendation only and has NOT been enacted; verify against the current statute. botswanalaws.com is a lead for the consolidated text only, never a cited source.
- If prescribed / medical
- Not a prescribed traveller medicine in this form.
- Documentation
- In Botswana, drugs fall under the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018. Trafficking (s.5) carries imprisonment of up to 25 years together with a fine of up to P500,000, and cultivation (s.6) up to 20 years; the precise quantity bands are left to confirmation against the current statute. The maximum penalty for a drug offence is imprisonment. Botswana retains and uses the death penalty for the gravest non-drug crimes (murder, treason, piracy under the Penal Code); it does NOT extend to drug offences, the maximum penalty for a drug offence is imprisonment. A 2024 government white paper reportedly recommended introducing a death penalty for drug trafficking; this was a recommendation only and has NOT been enacted; verify against the current statute. botswanalaws.com is a lead for the consolidated text only, never a cited source. Cannabis is a controlled drug under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018, ss.5-6 · sherloc.unodc.org · Updated June 28, 2026
DMT
- Legal status
- Controlled under the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018, trafficking (s.5) carries up to 25 years plus a fine of up to P500,000; cultivation (s.6) up to 20 years; the precise quantity bands are left to confirmation against the current statute; the maximum penalty is imprisonment
- Consequences if caught
- DMT is controlled in Botswana under the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018. In Botswana, drugs fall under the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018. Trafficking (s.5) carries imprisonment of up to 25 years together with a fine of up to P500,000, and cultivation (s.6) up to 20 years; the precise quantity bands are left to confirmation against the current statute. The maximum penalty for a drug offence is imprisonment. Botswana retains and uses the death penalty for the gravest non-drug crimes (murder, treason, piracy under the Penal Code); it does NOT extend to drug offences, the maximum penalty for a drug offence is imprisonment. A 2024 government white paper reportedly recommended introducing a death penalty for drug trafficking; this was a recommendation only and has NOT been enacted; verify against the current statute. botswanalaws.com is a lead for the consolidated text only, never a cited source.
- If prescribed / medical
- Not a prescribed traveller medicine in this form.
- Documentation
- In Botswana, drugs fall under the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018. Trafficking (s.5) carries imprisonment of up to 25 years together with a fine of up to P500,000, and cultivation (s.6) up to 20 years; the precise quantity bands are left to confirmation against the current statute. The maximum penalty for a drug offence is imprisonment. Botswana retains and uses the death penalty for the gravest non-drug crimes (murder, treason, piracy under the Penal Code); it does NOT extend to drug offences, the maximum penalty for a drug offence is imprisonment. A 2024 government white paper reportedly recommended introducing a death penalty for drug trafficking; this was a recommendation only and has NOT been enacted; verify against the current statute. botswanalaws.com is a lead for the consolidated text only, never a cited source. Cannabis is a controlled drug under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018, ss.5-6 · sherloc.unodc.org · Updated June 28, 2026
Fentanyl
- Legal status
- Controlled under the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018, trafficking (s.5) carries up to 25 years plus a fine of up to P500,000; cultivation (s.6) up to 20 years; the precise quantity bands are left to confirmation against the current statute; the maximum penalty is imprisonment
- Consequences if caught
- Fentanyl is controlled in Botswana under the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018. In Botswana, drugs fall under the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018. Trafficking (s.5) carries imprisonment of up to 25 years together with a fine of up to P500,000, and cultivation (s.6) up to 20 years; the precise quantity bands are left to confirmation against the current statute. The maximum penalty for a drug offence is imprisonment. Botswana retains and uses the death penalty for the gravest non-drug crimes (murder, treason, piracy under the Penal Code); it does NOT extend to drug offences, the maximum penalty for a drug offence is imprisonment. A 2024 government white paper reportedly recommended introducing a death penalty for drug trafficking; this was a recommendation only and has NOT been enacted; verify against the current statute. botswanalaws.com is a lead for the consolidated text only, never a cited source.
- If prescribed / medical
- Not a prescribed traveller medicine in this form.
- Documentation
- In Botswana, drugs fall under the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018. Trafficking (s.5) carries imprisonment of up to 25 years together with a fine of up to P500,000, and cultivation (s.6) up to 20 years; the precise quantity bands are left to confirmation against the current statute. The maximum penalty for a drug offence is imprisonment. Botswana retains and uses the death penalty for the gravest non-drug crimes (murder, treason, piracy under the Penal Code); it does NOT extend to drug offences, the maximum penalty for a drug offence is imprisonment. A 2024 government white paper reportedly recommended introducing a death penalty for drug trafficking; this was a recommendation only and has NOT been enacted; verify against the current statute. botswanalaws.com is a lead for the consolidated text only, never a cited source. Cannabis is a controlled drug under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018, ss.5-6 · sherloc.unodc.org · Updated June 28, 2026
GHB
- Legal status
- Controlled under the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018, trafficking (s.5) carries up to 25 years plus a fine of up to P500,000; cultivation (s.6) up to 20 years; the precise quantity bands are left to confirmation against the current statute; the maximum penalty is imprisonment
- Consequences if caught
- GHB is controlled in Botswana under the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018. In Botswana, drugs fall under the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018. Trafficking (s.5) carries imprisonment of up to 25 years together with a fine of up to P500,000, and cultivation (s.6) up to 20 years; the precise quantity bands are left to confirmation against the current statute. The maximum penalty for a drug offence is imprisonment. Botswana retains and uses the death penalty for the gravest non-drug crimes (murder, treason, piracy under the Penal Code); it does NOT extend to drug offences, the maximum penalty for a drug offence is imprisonment. A 2024 government white paper reportedly recommended introducing a death penalty for drug trafficking; this was a recommendation only and has NOT been enacted; verify against the current statute. botswanalaws.com is a lead for the consolidated text only, never a cited source.
- If prescribed / medical
- Not a prescribed traveller medicine in this form.
- Documentation
- In Botswana, drugs fall under the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018. Trafficking (s.5) carries imprisonment of up to 25 years together with a fine of up to P500,000, and cultivation (s.6) up to 20 years; the precise quantity bands are left to confirmation against the current statute. The maximum penalty for a drug offence is imprisonment. Botswana retains and uses the death penalty for the gravest non-drug crimes (murder, treason, piracy under the Penal Code); it does NOT extend to drug offences, the maximum penalty for a drug offence is imprisonment. A 2024 government white paper reportedly recommended introducing a death penalty for drug trafficking; this was a recommendation only and has NOT been enacted; verify against the current statute. botswanalaws.com is a lead for the consolidated text only, never a cited source. Cannabis is a controlled drug under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018, ss.5-6 · sherloc.unodc.org · Updated June 28, 2026
Heroin
- Legal status
- Controlled under the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018, trafficking (s.5) carries up to 25 years plus a fine of up to P500,000; cultivation (s.6) up to 20 years; the precise quantity bands are left to confirmation against the current statute; the maximum penalty is imprisonment
- Consequences if caught
- Heroin is controlled in Botswana under the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018. In Botswana, drugs fall under the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018. Trafficking (s.5) carries imprisonment of up to 25 years together with a fine of up to P500,000, and cultivation (s.6) up to 20 years; the precise quantity bands are left to confirmation against the current statute. The maximum penalty for a drug offence is imprisonment. Botswana retains and uses the death penalty for the gravest non-drug crimes (murder, treason, piracy under the Penal Code); it does NOT extend to drug offences, the maximum penalty for a drug offence is imprisonment. A 2024 government white paper reportedly recommended introducing a death penalty for drug trafficking; this was a recommendation only and has NOT been enacted; verify against the current statute. botswanalaws.com is a lead for the consolidated text only, never a cited source.
- If prescribed / medical
- Not a prescribed traveller medicine in this form.
- Documentation
- In Botswana, drugs fall under the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018. Trafficking (s.5) carries imprisonment of up to 25 years together with a fine of up to P500,000, and cultivation (s.6) up to 20 years; the precise quantity bands are left to confirmation against the current statute. The maximum penalty for a drug offence is imprisonment. Botswana retains and uses the death penalty for the gravest non-drug crimes (murder, treason, piracy under the Penal Code); it does NOT extend to drug offences, the maximum penalty for a drug offence is imprisonment. A 2024 government white paper reportedly recommended introducing a death penalty for drug trafficking; this was a recommendation only and has NOT been enacted; verify against the current statute. botswanalaws.com is a lead for the consolidated text only, never a cited source. Cannabis is a controlled drug under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018, ss.5-6 · sherloc.unodc.org · Updated June 28, 2026
LSD
- Legal status
- Controlled under the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018, trafficking (s.5) carries up to 25 years plus a fine of up to P500,000; cultivation (s.6) up to 20 years; the precise quantity bands are left to confirmation against the current statute; the maximum penalty is imprisonment
- Consequences if caught
- LSD is controlled in Botswana under the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018. In Botswana, drugs fall under the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018. Trafficking (s.5) carries imprisonment of up to 25 years together with a fine of up to P500,000, and cultivation (s.6) up to 20 years; the precise quantity bands are left to confirmation against the current statute. The maximum penalty for a drug offence is imprisonment. Botswana retains and uses the death penalty for the gravest non-drug crimes (murder, treason, piracy under the Penal Code); it does NOT extend to drug offences, the maximum penalty for a drug offence is imprisonment. A 2024 government white paper reportedly recommended introducing a death penalty for drug trafficking; this was a recommendation only and has NOT been enacted; verify against the current statute. botswanalaws.com is a lead for the consolidated text only, never a cited source.
- If prescribed / medical
- Not a prescribed traveller medicine in this form.
- Documentation
- In Botswana, drugs fall under the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018. Trafficking (s.5) carries imprisonment of up to 25 years together with a fine of up to P500,000, and cultivation (s.6) up to 20 years; the precise quantity bands are left to confirmation against the current statute. The maximum penalty for a drug offence is imprisonment. Botswana retains and uses the death penalty for the gravest non-drug crimes (murder, treason, piracy under the Penal Code); it does NOT extend to drug offences, the maximum penalty for a drug offence is imprisonment. A 2024 government white paper reportedly recommended introducing a death penalty for drug trafficking; this was a recommendation only and has NOT been enacted; verify against the current statute. botswanalaws.com is a lead for the consolidated text only, never a cited source. Cannabis is a controlled drug under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018, ss.5-6 · sherloc.unodc.org · Updated June 28, 2026
MDMA
- Legal status
- Controlled under the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018, trafficking (s.5) carries up to 25 years plus a fine of up to P500,000; cultivation (s.6) up to 20 years; the precise quantity bands are left to confirmation against the current statute; the maximum penalty is imprisonment
- Consequences if caught
- MDMA is controlled in Botswana under the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018. In Botswana, drugs fall under the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018. Trafficking (s.5) carries imprisonment of up to 25 years together with a fine of up to P500,000, and cultivation (s.6) up to 20 years; the precise quantity bands are left to confirmation against the current statute. The maximum penalty for a drug offence is imprisonment. Botswana retains and uses the death penalty for the gravest non-drug crimes (murder, treason, piracy under the Penal Code); it does NOT extend to drug offences, the maximum penalty for a drug offence is imprisonment. A 2024 government white paper reportedly recommended introducing a death penalty for drug trafficking; this was a recommendation only and has NOT been enacted; verify against the current statute. botswanalaws.com is a lead for the consolidated text only, never a cited source.
- If prescribed / medical
- Not a prescribed traveller medicine in this form.
- Documentation
- In Botswana, drugs fall under the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018. Trafficking (s.5) carries imprisonment of up to 25 years together with a fine of up to P500,000, and cultivation (s.6) up to 20 years; the precise quantity bands are left to confirmation against the current statute. The maximum penalty for a drug offence is imprisonment. Botswana retains and uses the death penalty for the gravest non-drug crimes (murder, treason, piracy under the Penal Code); it does NOT extend to drug offences, the maximum penalty for a drug offence is imprisonment. A 2024 government white paper reportedly recommended introducing a death penalty for drug trafficking; this was a recommendation only and has NOT been enacted; verify against the current statute. botswanalaws.com is a lead for the consolidated text only, never a cited source. Cannabis is a controlled drug under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018, ss.5-6 · sherloc.unodc.org · Updated June 28, 2026
Mescaline
- Legal status
- Controlled under the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018, trafficking (s.5) carries up to 25 years plus a fine of up to P500,000; cultivation (s.6) up to 20 years; the precise quantity bands are left to confirmation against the current statute; the maximum penalty is imprisonment
- Consequences if caught
- Mescaline is controlled in Botswana under the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018. In Botswana, drugs fall under the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018. Trafficking (s.5) carries imprisonment of up to 25 years together with a fine of up to P500,000, and cultivation (s.6) up to 20 years; the precise quantity bands are left to confirmation against the current statute. The maximum penalty for a drug offence is imprisonment. Botswana retains and uses the death penalty for the gravest non-drug crimes (murder, treason, piracy under the Penal Code); it does NOT extend to drug offences, the maximum penalty for a drug offence is imprisonment. A 2024 government white paper reportedly recommended introducing a death penalty for drug trafficking; this was a recommendation only and has NOT been enacted; verify against the current statute. botswanalaws.com is a lead for the consolidated text only, never a cited source.
- If prescribed / medical
- Not a prescribed traveller medicine in this form.
- Documentation
- In Botswana, drugs fall under the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018. Trafficking (s.5) carries imprisonment of up to 25 years together with a fine of up to P500,000, and cultivation (s.6) up to 20 years; the precise quantity bands are left to confirmation against the current statute. The maximum penalty for a drug offence is imprisonment. Botswana retains and uses the death penalty for the gravest non-drug crimes (murder, treason, piracy under the Penal Code); it does NOT extend to drug offences, the maximum penalty for a drug offence is imprisonment. A 2024 government white paper reportedly recommended introducing a death penalty for drug trafficking; this was a recommendation only and has NOT been enacted; verify against the current statute. botswanalaws.com is a lead for the consolidated text only, never a cited source. Cannabis is a controlled drug under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018, ss.5-6 · sherloc.unodc.org · Updated June 28, 2026
Methamphetamine
- Legal status
- Controlled under the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018, trafficking (s.5) carries up to 25 years plus a fine of up to P500,000; cultivation (s.6) up to 20 years; the precise quantity bands are left to confirmation against the current statute; the maximum penalty is imprisonment
- Consequences if caught
- Methamphetamine is controlled in Botswana under the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018. In Botswana, drugs fall under the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018. Trafficking (s.5) carries imprisonment of up to 25 years together with a fine of up to P500,000, and cultivation (s.6) up to 20 years; the precise quantity bands are left to confirmation against the current statute. The maximum penalty for a drug offence is imprisonment. Botswana retains and uses the death penalty for the gravest non-drug crimes (murder, treason, piracy under the Penal Code); it does NOT extend to drug offences, the maximum penalty for a drug offence is imprisonment. A 2024 government white paper reportedly recommended introducing a death penalty for drug trafficking; this was a recommendation only and has NOT been enacted; verify against the current statute. botswanalaws.com is a lead for the consolidated text only, never a cited source.
- If prescribed / medical
- Not a prescribed traveller medicine in this form.
- Documentation
- In Botswana, drugs fall under the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018. Trafficking (s.5) carries imprisonment of up to 25 years together with a fine of up to P500,000, and cultivation (s.6) up to 20 years; the precise quantity bands are left to confirmation against the current statute. The maximum penalty for a drug offence is imprisonment. Botswana retains and uses the death penalty for the gravest non-drug crimes (murder, treason, piracy under the Penal Code); it does NOT extend to drug offences, the maximum penalty for a drug offence is imprisonment. A 2024 government white paper reportedly recommended introducing a death penalty for drug trafficking; this was a recommendation only and has NOT been enacted; verify against the current statute. botswanalaws.com is a lead for the consolidated text only, never a cited source. Cannabis is a controlled drug under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018, ss.5-6 · sherloc.unodc.org · Updated June 28, 2026
PCP
- Legal status
- Controlled under the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018, trafficking (s.5) carries up to 25 years plus a fine of up to P500,000; cultivation (s.6) up to 20 years; the precise quantity bands are left to confirmation against the current statute; the maximum penalty is imprisonment
- Consequences if caught
- PCP is controlled in Botswana under the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018. In Botswana, drugs fall under the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018. Trafficking (s.5) carries imprisonment of up to 25 years together with a fine of up to P500,000, and cultivation (s.6) up to 20 years; the precise quantity bands are left to confirmation against the current statute. The maximum penalty for a drug offence is imprisonment. Botswana retains and uses the death penalty for the gravest non-drug crimes (murder, treason, piracy under the Penal Code); it does NOT extend to drug offences, the maximum penalty for a drug offence is imprisonment. A 2024 government white paper reportedly recommended introducing a death penalty for drug trafficking; this was a recommendation only and has NOT been enacted; verify against the current statute. botswanalaws.com is a lead for the consolidated text only, never a cited source.
- If prescribed / medical
- Not a prescribed traveller medicine in this form.
- Documentation
- In Botswana, drugs fall under the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018. Trafficking (s.5) carries imprisonment of up to 25 years together with a fine of up to P500,000, and cultivation (s.6) up to 20 years; the precise quantity bands are left to confirmation against the current statute. The maximum penalty for a drug offence is imprisonment. Botswana retains and uses the death penalty for the gravest non-drug crimes (murder, treason, piracy under the Penal Code); it does NOT extend to drug offences, the maximum penalty for a drug offence is imprisonment. A 2024 government white paper reportedly recommended introducing a death penalty for drug trafficking; this was a recommendation only and has NOT been enacted; verify against the current statute. botswanalaws.com is a lead for the consolidated text only, never a cited source. Cannabis is a controlled drug under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018, ss.5-6 · sherloc.unodc.org · Updated June 28, 2026
Psilocybin
- Legal status
- Controlled under the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018, trafficking (s.5) carries up to 25 years plus a fine of up to P500,000; cultivation (s.6) up to 20 years; the precise quantity bands are left to confirmation against the current statute; the maximum penalty is imprisonment
- Consequences if caught
- Psilocybin is controlled in Botswana under the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018. In Botswana, drugs fall under the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018. Trafficking (s.5) carries imprisonment of up to 25 years together with a fine of up to P500,000, and cultivation (s.6) up to 20 years; the precise quantity bands are left to confirmation against the current statute. The maximum penalty for a drug offence is imprisonment. Botswana retains and uses the death penalty for the gravest non-drug crimes (murder, treason, piracy under the Penal Code); it does NOT extend to drug offences, the maximum penalty for a drug offence is imprisonment. A 2024 government white paper reportedly recommended introducing a death penalty for drug trafficking; this was a recommendation only and has NOT been enacted; verify against the current statute. botswanalaws.com is a lead for the consolidated text only, never a cited source.
- If prescribed / medical
- Not a prescribed traveller medicine in this form.
- Documentation
- In Botswana, drugs fall under the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018. Trafficking (s.5) carries imprisonment of up to 25 years together with a fine of up to P500,000, and cultivation (s.6) up to 20 years; the precise quantity bands are left to confirmation against the current statute. The maximum penalty for a drug offence is imprisonment. Botswana retains and uses the death penalty for the gravest non-drug crimes (murder, treason, piracy under the Penal Code); it does NOT extend to drug offences, the maximum penalty for a drug offence is imprisonment. A 2024 government white paper reportedly recommended introducing a death penalty for drug trafficking; this was a recommendation only and has NOT been enacted; verify against the current statute. botswanalaws.com is a lead for the consolidated text only, never a cited source. Cannabis is a controlled drug under the same Act, with no legal recreational or medical regime. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018, ss.5-6 · sherloc.unodc.org · Updated June 28, 2026
Want an alert if Botswana changes its drug laws?
Drug-law changes, court decisions and research, once a month.
Free. We email you once to confirm. Unsubscribe with one click.
Not individually verified
74 substances are not individually verified for Botswana
For these the governing national drug law is cited, but we have not verified that the substance specifically is scheduled under it. Treat them as unanswered, not as legal. Confirm with Botswana’s drug authority or your embassy.
| Substance | What we found |
|---|---|
| 1P-LSD | Not confirmed, the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018 is the governing drug... |
| 2-FDCK | Not confirmed, the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018 is the governing drug... |
| 25I-NBOMe | Not confirmed, the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018 is the governing drug... |
| 2C-E | Not confirmed, the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018 is the governing drug... |
| 2C-I | Not confirmed, the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018 is the governing drug... |
| 2C-T-7 | Not confirmed, the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018 is the governing drug... |
| 3-MMC | Not confirmed, the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018 is the governing drug... |
| 4-AcO-DMT | Not confirmed, the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018 is the governing drug... |
| 4-HO-MET | Not confirmed, the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018 is the governing drug... |
| 5-MeO-DMT (Bufo / Toad) | Not confirmed, the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018 is the governing drug... |
| 6-APB | Not confirmed, the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018 is the governing drug... |
| 7-Hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) | Not confirmed, the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018 is the governing drug... |
| Adderall | Not confirmed, the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018 is the governing drug... |
| Alcohol | Not confirmed, the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018 is the governing drug... |
| Amanita muscaria | Not confirmed, the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018 is the governing drug... |
| Amphetamine | Not confirmed, the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018 is the governing drug... |
| Amyl Nitrite | Not confirmed, the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018 is the governing drug... |
| Ayahuasca | Not confirmed, the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018 is the governing drug... |
| Barbiturates | Not confirmed, the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018 is the governing drug... |
| Buprenorphine | Not confirmed, the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018 is the governing drug... |
| Caffeine | Not confirmed, the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018 is the governing drug... |
| Cannabinol | Not confirmed, the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018 is the governing drug... |
| Cathinone | Not confirmed, the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018 is the governing drug... |
| CBD | Not confirmed, the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018 is the governing drug... |
| Clonazepam | Not confirmed, the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018 is the governing drug... |
| Codeine | Not confirmed, the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018 is the governing drug... |
| Crack Cocaine | Not confirmed, the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018 is the governing drug... |
| Delta-8-THC | Not confirmed, the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018 is the governing drug... |
| Diazepam | Not confirmed, the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018 is the governing drug... |
| DOM | Not confirmed, the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018 is the governing drug... |
| DXM | Not confirmed, the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018 is the governing drug... |
| Ephedrine | Not confirmed, the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018 is the governing drug... |
| Etizolam | Not confirmed, the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018 is the governing drug... |
| Gabapentin | Not confirmed, the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018 is the governing drug... |
| GBL | Not confirmed, the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018 is the governing drug... |
| HHC | Not confirmed, the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018 is the governing drug... |
| Hydrocodone | Not confirmed, the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018 is the governing drug... |
| Ketamine | Not confirmed, the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018 is the governing drug... |
| Khat | Not confirmed, the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018 is the governing drug... |
| Kratom | Not confirmed, the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018 is the governing drug... |
| Lorazepam | Not confirmed, the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018 is the governing drug... |
| LSA (Morning Glory) | Not confirmed, the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018 is the governing drug... |
| MDA | Not confirmed, the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018 is the governing drug... |
| MDPV | Not confirmed, the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018 is the governing drug... |
| Memantine | Not confirmed, the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018 is the governing drug... |
| Mephedrone (4-MMC) | Not confirmed, the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018 is the governing drug... |
| Methadone | Not confirmed, the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018 is the governing drug... |
| Methaqualone (Quaaludes) | Not confirmed, the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018 is the governing drug... |
| Methylone | Not confirmed, the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018 is the governing drug... |
| Methylphenidate | Not confirmed, the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018 is the governing drug... |
| Mitragynine | Not confirmed, the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018 is the governing drug... |
| Modafinil | Not confirmed, the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018 is the governing drug... |
| Morphine | Not confirmed, the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018 is the governing drug... |
| MXE | Not confirmed, the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018 is the governing drug... |
| Nicotine | Not confirmed, the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018 is the governing drug... |
| Nimetazepam | Not confirmed, the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018 is the governing drug... |
| Nitrous Oxide | Not confirmed, the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018 is the governing drug... |
| Opium | Not confirmed, the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018 is the governing drug... |
| Oxycodone | Not confirmed, the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018 is the governing drug... |
| Peyote | Not confirmed, the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018 is the governing drug... |
| Phenibut | Not confirmed, the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018 is the governing drug... |
| Pink Cocaine / Tusi | Not confirmed, the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018 is the governing drug... |
| Poppers | Not confirmed, the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018 is the governing drug... |
| Pregabalin | Not confirmed, the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018 is the governing drug... |
| Quetiapine | Not confirmed, the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018 is the governing drug... |
| Salvia divinorum | Not confirmed, the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018 is the governing drug... |
| Scopolamine (Devil's Breath) | Not confirmed, the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018 is the governing drug... |
| Synthetic Cannabinoids (K2 / Spice) | Not confirmed, the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018 is the governing drug... |
| THC-P | Not confirmed, the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018 is the governing drug... |
| Tobacco | Not confirmed, the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018 is the governing drug... |
| Tramadol | Not confirmed, the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018 is the governing drug... |
| Xanax (Alprazolam) | Not confirmed, the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018 is the governing drug... |
| Xylazine | Not confirmed, the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018 is the governing drug... |
| Zolpidem | Not confirmed, the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018 is the governing drug... |
Drug laws and enforcement change and vary by country. This is not legal advice. Always confirm with the destination’s embassy or official drug authority before traveling; penalties can be severe, including imprisonment.
Before you travel
Verify current rules with the destination country’s official drug authority and your own country’s embassy before traveling. Find the destination’s U.S. embassy & official country guidance →
Non-U.S. travelers: check your own government’s travel advisory and embassy.
If you’re detained or arrested abroad
Contact your own country’s embassy or consulate in the destination immediately, not the destination’s authorities. U.S. citizens: contact the nearest U.S. embassy/consulate and the U.S. State Department at +1-202-501-4444 (from abroad). If a U.S. citizen is arrested or detained abroad →
