Car Rental in Botswana - Driving Guide & Best Rates

Renting a car in Botswana is highly recommended for tourists, particularly for exploring the country's renowned wildlife areas and remote regions where public transportation is limited or non-existent. Self-drive safaris through destinations like the Okavango Delta, Chobe National Park, and the Central Kalahari Game Reserve offer unparalleled flexibility and adventure. Botswana drives on the LEFT side of the road, which may require adjustment for visitors from right-hand driving countries. Car rental is ideal for countryside exploration, multi-day road trips, and accessing lodges and campsites outside major towns. However, it's less necessary in cities like Gaborone or Maun, where taxis and local transport are available for short distances. Road conditions vary significantly: main highways connecting major towns are generally well-maintained tar roads, but many tourist destinations require 4x4 vehicles due to sandy tracks, seasonal flooding, and rough terrain. Driving can be challenging for inexperienced tourists, especially on bush roads where navigation skills, self-sufficiency, and understanding of wildlife behavior are essential. Remote areas have limited fuel stations and services, requiring careful trip planning. Consider your off-road driving experience before attempting self-drive safaris in Botswana's wilderness areas.

International Driving Permit

An IDP is typically required for foreign visitors driving in Botswana. Obtain this from your home country's automobile association before departure.

Valid Home Country License

You must carry your valid driver's license from your home country along with your IDP. Both documents are generally required when renting and driving.

Minimum Age

Most rental agencies require drivers to be at least 21-25 years old. Some may have higher age requirements for certain vehicle categories.

Credit Card for Deposit

A valid credit card in the driver's name is typically required for the security deposit. Debit cards are often not accepted for this purpose.

Comprehensive Insurance

Basic insurance is usually included, but comprehensive coverage with reduced excess is strongly recommended due to road conditions and wildlife hazards.

Cross-Border Permit

If planning to drive into neighboring countries, you'll need specific authorization and documentation from the rental company. This must be arranged in advance.

Rent from established agencies at Gaborone's Sir Seretse Khama International Airport or Maun Airport for better vehicle selection and support - 4x4 vehicles are highly recommended for Botswana's terrain, especially if visiting national parks or remote areas.

Before driving off, thoroughly inspect the vehicle for existing damage, verify the spare tire and jack are present, and confirm you have emergency contact numbers - road conditions can be challenging and assistance may take time in remote areas.

Download offline GPS maps before your trip as mobile coverage is limited outside major towns - consider renting a GPS unit with the vehicle or using apps like Maps.me that work without internet connection.

Plan fuel stops carefully as petrol stations are sparse outside cities - fill up whenever possible and carry extra fuel if traveling to remote areas like the Okavango Delta or Central Kalahari Game Reserve.

Allow extra time for vehicle return inspection and confirm the drop-off location's operating hours in advance - some locations may have limited hours, especially at smaller airports or in rural areas.

Wildlife on roads is a serious hazard in Botswana, particularly at dawn and dusk - animals including elephants, cattle, and antelope frequently cross highways, requiring constant vigilance and reduced speeds outside urban areas.

Many roads outside major cities are unpaved and conditions vary greatly by season - during rainy season (November-March), dirt roads can become impassable, and a 4WD vehicle is essential for most rural travel.

Police checkpoints are common throughout Botswana for vehicle inspections and license verification - always carry your driver's license, vehicle registration, and insurance documents, and be prepared to stop when signaled.

Botswana drives on the left side of the road, and speed limits are strictly enforced with on-the-spot fines - typical limits are 120 km/h on highways, 60 km/h in villages, and radar enforcement is common on major routes.