Botswana Road Trip

Embark on an unforgettable Botswana Road Trip, starting in the vibrant city of Gaborone. Along the way, you will explore a variety of stunning landscapes, including lush grasslands, deserts, and wetlands. The total distance of the route is approximately 3112km and it is recommended to complete the trip in 16 days. The best time of the year to drive is during the dry season, from May to October. Along the route, you will pass through the towns of Jwaneng, Kang, Ukwi, Ghanzi, Maun, Pandamatenga, and Kasane. These towns offer a variety of attractions, from wildlife parks to ancient ruins and UNESCO World Heritage Sites. You will also experience the unique culture of the region, including its diverse cuisine and vibrant music. Although the roads are not in perfect condition, they are generally accessible with a four-wheel drive vehicle. Some roads may be impassable for motorhomes, so it is best to check with local authorities before embarking on your journey. This road trip is a great way to experience the beauty of Botswana while keeping to a moderate budget. The unforgettable sights, sounds, and experiences you will have along the way will provide you with memories that will last a lifetime.

Gaborone is the perfect starting point for the Botswana Road Trip. As the capital and largest city in Botswana, Gaborone offers a unique blend of modern amenities and traditional African culture. The city is full of interesting sights and attractions, from the bustling local markets to the iconic Three Chiefs Monument. The city is also home to several national parks and reserves, making it an ideal destination for those looking to explore the natural beauty of Botswana. For those traveling by air, Gaborone International Airport (GBE) is the closest international airport, located just 16 kilometers from the city center. At the airport, you can find several car rental companies, making it easy to start your road trip. Additionally, Gaborone is well-connected to other cities in Botswana and the surrounding countries, making it a great starting point for a multi-city journey. No matter how long you plan to stay in Gaborone, be sure to visit some of its most popular attractions. Take a stroll through the Gaborone Game Reserve, explore the National Museum and Art Gallery, or visit the Mokolodi Nature Reserve. After a day of sightseeing, relax in one of the city's many restaurants, bars, and nightclubs. Gaborone is the perfect destination for those looking to explore the beauty and culture of Botswana. With its convenient location, modern amenities, and plenty of attractions, Gaborone is the perfect base for the Botswana Road Trip.

Take the road from Gaborone, Botswana to Jwaneng, on a 181 km drive that will take you fewer than 3 hours. This is a great stage of a road trip and you will be surrounded by picturesque landscapes. Keep in mind that there might be a lack of gas stations during this stage, so make sure you have enough fuel before you start the drive. Along the way, you can visit the Gaborone Game Reserve, the Gaborone Dam, and the Jwaneng Diamond Mine. Make sure to take plenty of pictures and enjoy the journey! For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, you can check the Itinerary of this stage.

Embark on an exciting road trip from Jwaneng to Kang! This 243km journey will take you a little under three hours to complete, and you'll be able to explore some of the most interesting places in Botswana. Start your journey in Jwaneng, a small town located in the southern part of the country, known for its diamond mining. Here you can visit the Jwaneng Mine, the largest diamond mine in the world, and the Jwaneng Game Reserve, with its diverse array of wildlife. Continue your journey to Kang, a small village in the Kalahari Desert. Here, you can explore the Kalahari Desert and its wildlife, and visit the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, a vast wildlife sanctuary that is home to a variety of animals, including cheetahs and lions. Please note that there may be a lack of gas stations along this route, so make sure you fill up your tank before you set off. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

Embark on a thrilling 310km road trip from Kang, Botswana, through the Kalahari Desert, to Ukwi! This is a journey that will take you fewer than 9 hours, making it the perfect day trip for those who love to explore. To ensure a safe and comfortable journey, we recommend that you take a 4WD car. Be aware that there are limited gas stations along the route, so it is wise to fill up your tank before you start your trip. The Kalahari Desert is a vast expanse of sand, home to many unique species of wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for interesting animal sightings, as you make your way through the desert. Once you reach Ukwi, you will find a variety of attractions to explore. Visit the Ukwi National Park and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. For a more cultural experience, visit the local villages and learn more about the history and culture of the area. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the “Itinerary” of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Get ready for the adventure of a lifetime!

Embark on an adventurous road trip from Ukwi, Botswana, to Charles Hill on the other side of the Kalahari Desert. The 161km journey will take less than three hours, so make sure to take in the spectacular views and drive safely. A 4WD car is recommended for this stage of the tour, as there may be a lack of gas stations in the area. Take the opportunity to explore the fascinating Kalahari Desert, with its vast red sand dunes, sparse vegetation, and wildlife. As you drive, keep an eye out for the stunning scenery and unique wildlife. Once you reach Charles Hill, you will have the chance to visit the nearby villages and learn about the culture and history of the area. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check the itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

Embark on an exciting road trip from Charles Hill, Botswana to Ghanzi! This 202 km journey will take you less than 3 hours and is best done in a 4WD. As you drive along you will be amazed by the scenic views and the vast African landscape. Be aware that some sections of the route may not be suitable for cars with camper trailers and caution should be taken when navigating these areas. Gas stations may be sparse along the route, so make sure you fill up when you can. This is just one of the stages of a larger tour, and more information on attractions, accommodation, restaurants, and campsites is available in the ‘Itinerary’. So, what are you waiting for? Get ready for an unforgettable adventure from Charles Hill to Ghanzi!

Are you ready for an amazing road trip from Ghanzi to Maun? This 292km journey will take you through the Okavango Delta, one of the most beautiful places in Botswana. To make the most out of your trip, you should explore some of the most interesting places along the way. In Ghanzi, you can visit the Ghanzi Trail, a great spot for bird watching and game viewing. The Okavango Delta is a great place to experience the unique beauty of the region. You can explore the delta by boat and take in the stunning views of the lagoons and islands. In Maun, you can visit the Khwai River, where you can spot wildlife and take in the stunning sunsets. It is advisable to take a 4WD car for this journey, as it can be a bit bumpy at times. To make the most out of your trip, it is recommended to check the itinerary of this stage for more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable road trip from Ghanzi to Maun!

Begin your road trip in Maun, Botswana and enjoy the scenic 146 km drive to Xhumaga. Along the way, you'll pass through Makgadikgadi Pans National Park, a stunning expanse of salt pans, grasslands, and islands. Keep your eyes peeled for the region's diverse wildlife, including zebras, wildebeest, and meerkats. You'll also find some of the most beautiful sunsets in the world here. With fewer than two hours of driving time, you'll have plenty of time to explore the park and take in its unique beauty. Be sure to bring a camera to capture the stunning views of the pans and the rolling grasslands. After your visit to Makgadikgadi Pans National Park, your journey will take you to Xhumaga. Here, you'll find a range of attractions, from historical sites to outdoor activities. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the Itinerary of this stage. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore the wonders of Botswana!

Embark on a thrilling road trip from Xhumaga, Botswana to Pandamatenga, a 456km journey that will take you less than 6 hours. Along the way, you will be mesmerized by the picturesque landscapes and UNESCO Heritage sites. Make sure to take plenty of pictures and enjoy the sights! On your way, be sure to visit the Tsodilo Hills, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is home to over 4,500 rock paintings. You may also want to visit the Tswapong Hills, a range of hills that are home to a variety of wildlife. Lastly, be sure to explore the Central Kalahari Game Reserve, the second largest game reserve in the world. It is home to a variety of wildlife and is the perfect spot for a safari. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Get ready for an unforgettable journey!

Embark on an amazing road trip from Pandamatenga to Kasane, Botswana! This journey of 113 km will take you less than two hours, and you'll be treated to some of the most stunning scenery in the Chobe National Park. Along the way, you'll be able to take in the majestic beauty of the Chobe River, the lush vegetation and the abundance of wildlife. You'll also have the opportunity to spot elephants, lions, and other animals in their natural habitats. As you drive along the scenic road, be sure to take in the picturesque landscapes and stunning views. When you reach Kasane, you'll be able to explore the town and its many attractions. There are a variety of activities to choose from, including game drives, boat cruises, and bush walks. You can also visit the nearby Chobe Riverfront, where you can take in the stunning views and spot some of the local wildlife. This is just one of the stages of your larger tour, and more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, get ready for an amazing road trip from Pandamatenga to Kasane!

Are you ready for a thrilling 310 km road trip from Kasane to Nata? This journey will take you less than 4 hours and you'll be able to enjoy the beautiful landscapes of Botswana. Start your journey in Kasane and make sure to take some pictures of the Chobe River. Afterwards, drive through the Chobe National Park and don't forget to look out for the wildlife. As you continue your journey, you'll be able to enjoy the scenic road and the picturesque views. Once you reach Nata, you'll be able to explore the Nata Bird Sanctuary and the Makgadikgadi Pans National Park. Don't forget to take a few pictures of the diverse wildlife and the unique landscapes. This is one of the stages of a larger tour, so don't forget to check the "Itinerary" of this stage for more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. Enjoy your road trip from Kasane to Nata!

Are you ready to take the road trip of a lifetime? Start your journey in the small town of Nata, Botswana, located 190 km away from Francistown. This stage of the tour will take you less than 3 hours to complete, so you can take your time to explore some of the most interesting places along the way. In Nata, don't miss out on the Makgadikgadi Pans National Park, where you can see some of the most amazing wildlife in Botswana. Visit the Nata Bird Sanctuary and enjoy the view of thousands of flamingos, pelicans and other species. You can also take a boat tour on the Boteti River, where you can observe hippos, crocodiles and other animals. On your way to Francistown, make sure to stop at the Orapa Diamond Mine, the largest diamond mine in the world. You can also visit the Bakgatla-Ba-Kgafela Cultural Village, where you can learn about the culture and traditions of the local people. Finally, you'll reach Francistown, the second largest city in Botswana. Here, you can visit the Tati River, the Francistown Museum, and the Tati River Gorge. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!

Are you ready for an unforgettable road trip? Start your journey in Francistown, Botswana and make your way down to Serowe, 211 km away, in less than 3 hours. Along the way, you can visit the ancient ruins of the Thamaga Hill, the Tati River, and the Tati Siding, a former railway station. As you drive through the African savannah, you can take in the stunning views of the countryside. Don't forget to fill up your tank before you start your journey, as there are few gas stations along this route. This is just one of the many stages of an amazing road trip, so be sure to check out the itinerary for more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. Bon voyage!

Are you ready for an exciting road trip from Serowe to Gaborone? This 318km journey will take you fewer than 4 hours to complete and will take you through some of the most beautiful landscapes in Botswana. Start your journey in Serowe, the birthplace of the first president of Botswana, Sir Seretse Khama. Here, you can visit the National Museum and the Khama III Memorial Museum to learn about the history of the region. Continue your journey to Gaborone, the capital of Botswana. Here, you can visit the Three Chiefs Monument to honor the three leaders who helped unify the country. You can also explore the Gaborone Dam Nature Reserve, which is home to a variety of wildlife. Along the way, make sure to take in the picturesque landscapes of Botswana. Be sure to keep an eye out for wildlife, such as elephants, zebras, and antelopes. This is just one of the stages of your road trip, and more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, buckle up and enjoy the ride!

Gaborone – the final destination of the Botswana Road Trip – is the capital and largest city of Botswana. Located in the south-eastern part of the country, it is an important administrative, financial and commercial centre. The city is home to a diverse range of attractions which make it a great destination to explore. Gaborone is a great place to visit for its wildlife, cultural heritage, and stunning landscapes. The Gaborone Game Reserve is the perfect place to watch a variety of wildlife, including giraffe, zebra, and wildebeest. There are also several cultural sites to explore, such as the National Museum and Art Gallery, with its displays of traditional paintings, clothing, and sculptures. The city is also a great destination for outdoor activities. There are several parks, lakes, and trails to explore, including the Mokolodi Nature Reserve, which offers fantastic views of the surrounding landscape. You can also go on a boat trip on the Gaborone Dam, which is surrounded by several islands and is home to a variety of bird species. For those travelling by air, the closest international airport is Sir Seretse Khama International Airport, with IATA code BWA. Gaborone is well connected with the rest of the country, making it the perfect end point for the Botswana Road Trip. With its diverse range of attractions, Gaborone is the perfect place to explore and experience Botswana’s culture and natural beauty.

We believe that the presented journey idea has become an ideal inspiration for your future travels.
The plan we’ve prepared can be used as a base that can be recreated in its entirety or only partially and that can be enriched with interesting beauty spots.
If car travel is a means of travel that you prefer, there are a number of vital traffic regulations to follow and a bunch of things to keep in mind to ensure safety. These tips will surely become useful for tourists who opt for renting a vehicle or camper rental.
There are a number of traffic rules to be mindful of while travelling around Botswana. When moving around Botswana in a car, it is best to avoid alcohol at any cost. Holidayers should remember that the allowed level of alcohol in blood is low and equals only 0.5‰. Exceeding the maximum speed limit, which is 40km/h, when travelling around the build-up areas may result in a speeding fine. When it comes to undeveloped areas, you should keep in mind that the maximum allowed speed is 100km/h. Avoid exceeding the maximum speed of 120km/h when travelling on highways. In order to stay safe, it is best to drive with your headlights on at daytime and equip your car with a fire extinguisher and first aid kit.
One of the decisive factors when scheduling an itinerary is costs. The budget option of your choice determines the total cost of the whole itinerary. Let’s have a look at the budget options.
We estimate that the budget option when it comes to fuel to cover the planned 3,132km across Botswana will cost roughly 425 EUR. Within the economy offer, accommodation options will cost approximately 638 EUR. Tourists should also take into consideration the fact that they will spend about 1,152 EUR for food and restaurants in this option. Travellers will have to pay around 1,296 EUR if they are interested in the budget car hire option as well. Thus, going for car rental will increase the expenses of the road trip from more or less 2,215 EUR to around 3,511 EUR.
Travellers who seek greater comfort and the standard option will pay approximately 563 EUR for the fuel needed to cover the itinerary. Those who are searching for standard hotels should be ready to pay more or less 1,474 EUR. When choosing this option, take into consideration that the food and restaurants within this range will cost roughly 1,728 EUR. Travellers who want to cover the trip in a standard rental vehicle should expect a cost of roughly 2,160 EUR. Drivers who would like to rent a car will pay around 5,925 EUR for the whole itinerary, whereas those who are not interested in car rental will spend more or less 3,765 EUR.
Drivers who would like to take advantage of the highest level of comfort will be pleased with the premium option. The whole estimated cost of the tour in this versions of services is 10,137 EUR with car rental and 3,765 EUR without a rental car. Travellers who would like to cover the itinerary in a premium hire car should expect a cost of roughly 4,320 EUR. In the premium version of the adventure, the cost of the gasoline needed to cover all stages around Botswana is more or less 763 EUR. Holidayers should expect to pay about 2,304 EUR for restaurants and food and approximately 2,750 EUR for hotels if they are searching for the exclusive standard of services.
Botswana Road Trip is also ideal for camper fans. You have to pay around 3,600 EUR for camper rental service. Camper fans will spend around 850 EUR on gasoline allowing to cover all stages of the Botswana Road Trip. Holidaymakers who opt for camper rental should expect to pay more or less 880 EUR for overnight stays and more or less 1,152 EUR for expenses connected with food.
The section Road Trip Costs presents all the above-mentioned costs in detail.
The period between May and November is perfect to visit the part of Botswana mentioned in our itinerary idea. There are countless picturesque road trips that are available on our website if you’d like to see other of our road trip opportunities. Hopefully, the great versatility of ideas will surely come up to the expectations of the most demanding holidayers.