self drive tours Botswana 

Go on a self-drive holiday in Botswana!

Discover Botswana’s hidden gems!

>You don’t need a 4×4 to explore the country

>The roads are good

>There’s a wide range of affordable accommodation

>Batswana are very friendly, peaceful people 

>Lots to see and plenty to do in Botswana!

The Okavango Delta is a wonderful destination, but there is so much more to this very diverse country. Check out our destination guides for a self-drive tour in Botswana. For general information including weather and best time to come, see FAQs and read our introduction to Botswana below.

Are you looking for a budget friendly self-drive holiday in Botswana?


Take a look at some…

Driving yourself gives freedom to follow your own interests. We highlight some interests you can follow in Botswana below. For a wider range of topics click on the ‘ special interests’ tab above.

Our print-on-demand guidebook is unique. We print the sections on the places and activities that match your itinerary and interests and give you a copy on arrival. Scroll down to see some sample sections.

WILDLIFE

Wildlife viewing is a key tourist activity in Botswana, from the guided safari or boat trip to a cycling, horseback or self drive experience where you seek out the wildlife yourself. You will not be disappointed.

Birdwatching

There are about 500 species of birds regularly found in Botswana and 12 ‘Important Bird and Biodiversity Areas’ covering 25% of the land area. A self drive tour over 3 weeks could cover all the ecoregions and with our knowledge get you to some superb birdwatching sites.

Fishing

A range of methods are used for fishing in Botswana which occurs in dams, rivers and lakes. If you are keen to include fishing in your activities this can be arranged so that you join local fishers.

History

Botswana has an interesting culture that sets it apart from other African country in its transition to independence in 1966. Our guide notes bring to life this history with particular places to visit that have a story to tell.

Local culture

Often the most memorable aspect of an overseas trip is the people you meet, learning a little of their culture, how they live, what they eat, what they do. Self driving provides many opportunities to interact with the locals who are friendly and very proud of their country. They will be very willing to share their knowledge of their culture from tribal customs to traditional medicine. You just need to take the time to talk.

agriculture

Most Tswana families traditionally have three pieces of land; a home in a village, a ploughing field and a cattlepost with farming of crops and livestock key activities. We have a range of guide notes covering a range of interests.

railways

If you are interested in railway history, as you travel you can see and explore old railway housing, visit abandoned stations, take a boat cruise on a large dam originally built to water steam trains, see old railcars and steam locomotives or ride an existing service.

archaelogy

It seems clear that our species originated in Africa. Archaeological sites that have been developed for tourism in Botswana virtually all belong to the iron age.  There are also many examples of stone age rock art, but most sites are not advertised at all.  

If you have a genuine interest in the Stone Age /Iron Age we will have some suggestions to include in your itinerary.


Sample Itineraries

Our team of friendly and experienced agents work with you to create a unique itinerary tailored to your own interests, preferences and available time. There is no need to follow one of the three below, but if you want to follow one of them we will be pleased to organise this for you. Prices include a car rental suited to each itinerary however you are encouraged to organise a rental car of your choice. Activities that require pre-booking are also included in the price for a self-drive holiday in Botswana. 
Happy browsing!

Makgadikgadi Pans Circuit

Accommodation: Camping

Cost From USD 2620 per couple

Tour the Pans and experience them for yourself. Itinerary based on touring with a 4×4 vehicle. Click to see full itinerary.

Wildlife and Water Northern Circuit

Accommodation: Guest Houses and Lodges

Cost From USD 5800 per couple 

This circuit will take you to four of the best wildlife sites in Botswana. Itinerary starts and ends in Maun. Click for full itinerary. 



Hike and Bike the Hills of Eastern Botswana

Accommodation: Mixed

Cost From USD 4000 per couple

This self drive circuit is aimed at the fit and active. Starts and ends in Gaborone. Click for itinerary.


Self Drive Tours Botswana
P.O. Box 11765
Palapye, Botswana