Exploring the Landscape: Transportation in Botswana

Botswana is set to ensure your African safari is an exhilarating experience from beginning to end. As one of the most secure African safari destinations, traveling by car is straightforward. However, due to the vast distances, rain that can make certain areas unreachable by land, and frequently challenging off-road conditions, it may be beneficial to consider flying or journeying with knowledgeable guides and drivers.

Botswana Expedition Journey

Driving through Botswana offers a seamless and accessible way to uncover its wonders. Rental cars are easily accessible and quite budget-friendly. Key travel centers in Botswana are linked by outstanding highways and paved roads. Beyond the usual paths, the roads range from smooth, fast gravel to challenging, rutted sand, ideal for those who love to explore with their 4×4 vehicles.

Taxis can be found throughout Botswana, with their blue number plates making them easily recognizable for passengers seeking a ride. Taxis have the capacity to carry as many as five passengers simultaneously.

Bus services are provided across the country by companies like AT&T Monnakgotla, JNG, Mahube, and Seabelo Express. They offer daily routes from Gaborone, Francistown, Maun, and Kasane, to name a few. Moreover, Intercape buses link Johannesburg in South Africa to Botswana.

Botswana from Above

Flying, although pricier, is undoubtedly the quickest way to reach the far-flung corners of Botswana. Botswana’s primary airport is Sir Seretse Khama International Airport (GBE) situated in Gaborone, making it an excellent starting point for your journey to the Central Kalahari National Park. For those venturing into Chobe National Park, the Okavango Delta, or even the majestic Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, Maun Airport (MUB) and Kasane Airport (BBK) stand out as the ideal gateways.

Keep in mind that charter flights connecting various reserves are typically arranged through your safari tour company and will be part of the total safari package cost.

Vehicles for Safari in Botswana

In Botswana, safari vehicles are usually open-sided 4x4s, providing an unimpeded view of the breathtaking wilderness around you. These vehicles are crafted to comfortably hold up to 6 passengers, accompanied by an experienced guide ready to navigate the wild landscapes of Botswana. Equipped with impressive ground clearance and robust engines, safari vehicles effortlessly traverse rugged, unpaved roads and rocky landscapes, leading adventurers to some of the most secluded and untamed regions of the country, such as national parks and game reserves. These vehicles are a vital part of any Botswana safari, offering travelers a secure, cozy, and exhilarating means to immerse themselves in the country’s stunning wildlife and breathtaking landscapes.

*Despite having a 4×4 safari vehicle, certain regions in Botswana can only be reached by air, particularly during the rainy season or when the Delta is experiencing flooding.

Exploring Botswana: Travel Times & Distances

Journey from Johannesburg to Gaborone: 495 km (308 miles)

The journey by car from Johannesburg to Gaborone typically spans about 4-5 hours, influenced by traffic conditions and the time spent at the border crossing. Direct flights from O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg to Sir Seretse Khama International Airport in Gaborone last approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes.

Gaborone to the Central Kalahari Game Reserve: 450 km (280 miles)

The drive can stretch over 6-7 hours, influenced by the state of the roads and the flow of traffic. The path is primarily paved, yet certain sections might be unpaved or gravelly, making a 4×4 vehicle advisable. Taking a flight from Gaborone to the Central Kalahari Game Reserve lasts about 1 hour. Some tour operators provide the option of chartered flights to the park, which can be organized ahead of time. The bus ride spans approximately 12 hours.

Gaborone to Maun: 851 km (530 miles)

Embarking on a car journey from Gaborone to Maun will span approximately 10 to 12 hours, influenced by the chosen route and the state of the roads. Regular flights from Gaborone to Maun last about 1 hour. The journey by bus from Gaborone to Maun usually spans about 12 to 14 hours.

Gabarone to Kasane: 925 km (575 miles)

The journey takes about 10-11 hours, varying with the chosen path and any breaks along the way. Direct flights from Gaborone to Kasane last around an hour and 20 minutes, offered by various carriers, making this the fastest and most convenient way to travel.

Gaborone to Victoria Falls: 933 km (580 miles)

The drive can stretch anywhere from 10 to 12 hours, influenced by traffic conditions and the time it takes to cross borders. Alternatively, a direct flight from Sir Seretse Khama International Airport in Gaborone to Victoria Falls Airport can whisk you away in about 1.5 hours.

Maun to Victoria Falls: 616 km (383 miles)

The journey from Maun, Botswana, to Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe spans 616 km by road. The drive will span around 8 to 9 hours. The distance covered in a straight line is approximately 341 km, with the flight typically taking about 1 hour.

Kasane to Victoria Falls: 80 km (50 miles)

Embarking on a car journey, the adventure should unfold over the course of 1 to 2 hours, influenced by the whims of border crossing times. Shuttle services are also available to connect the two locations. Flying from Kasane to Victoria Falls takes about 20 minutes.

Kasane to Maun: 300 km (186 miles)

The journey by car takes around 3 to 4 hours, influenced by road conditions and traffic along the way. Charter flights are ready for takeoff, with a flight time ranging from 30 to 45 minutes.