Rent a Car and Explore Botswana: Your African Adventure Awaits!

Botswana, a land of stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and diverse wildlife, is best discovered by car. Renting a vehicle lets you navigate scenic routes, explore historic sites, and savor sosaties at roadside campsites. Whether you land at Sir Seretse Khama International Airport or Maun Airport, here’s your guide to Botswana’s key airports and unforgettable road trips.

Main Airports in Botswana

Botswana’s airports connect you to its diverse regions:

• Sir Seretse Khama International Airport (GBE): Located in Gaborone, this is Botswana’s primary international hub. It serves as a major gateway to southern Botswana and offers flights to major African destinations.
• Maun Airport (MUB): Situated in Maun, this airport is a key entry point for the Okavango Delta and northern Botswana. It handles both domestic and international flights, providing access to safari destinations.
• Kasane Airport (BBK): Located in Kasane, this airport serves the Chobe National Park area with international flights.
• Francistown International Airport (FRW): In Francistown, this airport handles domestic and limited international flights.

Other Airports in Botswana

• Ghanzi Airport (GNZ): Located in Ghanzi, this airport provides access to western Botswana with limited domestic flights.
• Gumare Airport: Situated in Gumare, it serves the North-West District with limited domestic flights.
• Hukuntsi Airport: Located in Hukuntsi, this airport handles limited domestic flights.
• Jwaneng Airport (JWA): In Jwaneng, this airport serves the diamond mining town with limited domestic flights.
• Kang Airport: Situated in Kang, it provides access to southern Botswana with limited domestic flights.
• Kanye Airport: Located in Kanye, this airport handles limited domestic flights.
• Khwai River Airport (KHW): Situated in Khwai, it serves the Okavango Delta region with limited domestic flights.
• Nata Airport: Located in Nata, this airport provides access to central Botswana with limited domestic flights.
• Orapa Airport (ORP): In Orapa, this airport serves the diamond mining town with limited domestic flights.
• Palapye Airport (QPH): Situated in Palapye, it handles limited domestic flights.
• Selebi-Phikwe Airport (PKW): Located in Selebi-Phikwe, this airport provides access to eastern Botswana with limited domestic flights.
• Shakawe Airport (SWX): Situated in Shakawe, it serves the North-West District with limited domestic flights.
• Tshabong Airport (TBY): Located in Tshabong, this airport handles limited domestic flights.

Top 3 Road Trips in Botswana

1. Okavango Delta to Chobe National Park

• Route: Maun → Okavango Delta → Kasane → Chobe National Park (400 km)
• Highlights: Explore the Okavango Delta by boat, visit the Makgadikgadi Pans, and enjoy game drives in Chobe National Park. This route offers stunning wildlife experiences and diverse landscapes.

2. Gaborone to Makgadikgadi Pans

• Route: Gaborone → Francistown → Makgadikgadi Pans (550 km)
• Highlights: Visit Gaborone’s historic sites, explore Francistown’s markets, and witness the zebra migration at Makgadikgadi Pans. This route offers a mix of urban culture and natural wonders.

3. Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park Circuit

• Route: Tshabong → Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park → Twee Rivieren (300 km)
• Highlights: Explore the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, visit the scenic viewpoints of the Kalahari Desert, and enjoy game drives in the park. This route is known for its breathtaking desert landscapes and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Driving Essentials

• License: International Driving Permit (IDP) required alongside a valid home license.
• Traffic: Drive on the left. Be cautious of aggressive driving and pedestrians in urban areas.
• Hazards: Watch for potholes, especially during the rainy season, and occasional wildlife on rural roads. A 4WD vehicle is recommended for off-the-beaten-path destinations like the Okavango Delta.
• Fuel: Available in major towns; stations accept cash (Botswana Pula) and credit cards.

Packing Tips

• Clothing: Lightweight, breathable fabrics for desert heat; layers for cooler evenings. Include modest attire for cultural sites.
• Gear: Reusable water bottle, sunscreen, and a portable charger.
• Extras: Cash (BWP), offline maps (cellular coverage is limited), and a basic Setswana phrasebook. Consider purchasing a local SIM card for better connectivity.

Why Choose a Road Trip?

Driving in Botswana lets you pause at hidden waterholes like Khwai, detour to scenic viewpoints like the Makgadikgadi Pans, and explore vibrant cities like Gaborone. With routes like the Okavango Delta to Chobe or Gaborone to Makgadikgadi Pans, every journey blends natural beauty, cultural richness, and African hospitality.

Book your car rental today at GBE Airport—deserts, deltas, and wildlife await!