Botswana Car Rentals

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Kasane

Kasane

What you need to know for your Botswana car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in Botswana

Renting a car in Botswana offers the freedom to explore the country's stunning attractions at your own pace. With the convenience of a rental vehicle, you can manage your luggage easily and create flexible travel plans tailored to your interests. Whether you're seeking adventure in the Chobe National Park - Sedudu Gate or exploring the lush landscapes of the Okavango Delta, having a car allows you to reach these destinations without the constraints of public transportation. Additionally, you can visit popular cities like Kasane, home to the Chobe Crocodile Farm and the CARACAL Biodiversity Center, or Gaborone, where you can discover the Gaborone Game Reserve and the National Botanical Garden. For those interested in wildlife education, Maun is not to be missed, featuring the Maun Wildlife Educational Park and the Nhabe Museum. Renting a car is particularly appealing to both tourists and business travelers, as it enhances your experience by providing the flexibility to navigate Botswana's diverse landscapes and attractions on your own schedule.

Most popular car rentals in Botswana

  • Economy: This car type accommodates up to 5 travelers and can hold up to 2 medium suitcases, making it an excellent choice for solo travelers, couples, or small families. The Economy vehicle is perfect for navigating Botswana’s diverse landscapes while keeping rental costs low. Its compact size allows for easier maneuverability in urban areas, providing a hassle-free experience as you explore at your own pace.
  • Fullsize SUV: With a capacity for 6 travelers and the ability to carry up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases, the Fullsize SUV is ideal for families or groups planning to travel together. This vehicle offers spacious interiors and ample storage, ensuring comfort for all passengers during your journey. The Fullsize SUV is well-suited for longer trips, allowing you to explore Botswana's attractions without feeling cramped.
  • Compact SUV: Accommodating up to 5 travelers and with space for up to 3 medium suitcases, the Compact SUV strikes a balance between size and functionality. It is perfect for solo travelers, couples, or families looking for a vehicle that offers a bit more space than a standard compact car. The Compact SUV provides the versatility needed for both city driving and venturing into Botswana's natural beauty, making it a popular choice among tourists.

Where to stay in Botswana

  • Kasane: Kasane is an excellent choice for those seeking outdoor adventures and stunning scenery. Located near attractions like the Chobe National Park - Sedudu Gate, this area is ideal for exploring nature and wildlife. The Chobe Crocodile Farm and CARACAL Biodiversity Center also offer unique experiences. Visitors can enjoy recreational areas and golf courses, making it a versatile destination for various interests.
  • Gaborone: Gaborone serves as a vibrant city hub perfect for family outings and urban exploration. With nearby attractions like the Gaborone Game Reserve and the National Botanical Garden, families can enjoy outdoor activities and natural beauty. The Gaborone Natural History Museum adds a cultural touch, while shopping centers and cafes provide great options for leisure and dining.
  • Maun: Maun is a prime destination for those looking for outdoor adventures and scenic views. It offers access to the Maun Wildlife Educational Park and the Nhabe Museum, making it suitable for culture enthusiasts. The area's unique water features and wetlands create a picturesque backdrop for safari tours and nature exploration, appealing to adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.

10 tips to save on your car rental in Botswana

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly options, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal vehicle for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices vary based on demand, so it’s wise to secure your reservation well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you are likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy a wider selection, particularly during peak travel seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size vehicles offer a good compromise between price, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This also applies to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age restrictions before completing your booking.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional fees. This is typically the most advantageous option. Other rentals may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling choices, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the vehicle empty in this scenario.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the convenience may justify the extra cost.
  7. Know your payment options: Most car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind in case something unforeseen occurs during your trip. It's straightforward to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, search for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional charges.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in Botswana

The best value period to rent a car in Botswana is April, as prices and demand are both slightly low. March also sees lower demand, making it a decent option. Following April, May offers slightly low prices with average demand, providing another good window for rentals. However, August stands out as the most expensive month, with slightly high prices and moderately low demand. July is also a busy time, with average prices and moderately high demand, making it less ideal for budget-conscious travelers.

Find Botswana Car Rentals

Expedia.com makes it easy for you to book your next Botswana car rental. We work with the best car rental companies in Botswana, bringing you discount car rental rates and a wide variety of car rental classes including economy, compact, midsize, full-size, convertible, van, luxury and SUV rentals. Our partner car rental companies in Botswana offer different pick-up and drop-off options. If you are ready to book your Botswana car rental, follow the links on this page to view more information and details on your next short or long term car rental.

Expedia.com offers a wide selection of rental cars in Botswana to meet nearly every need. If you need any special equipment, like a child seat or ski rack, let us know and we will forward your request on to the rental car company. And what's more, when you choose to rent a car from one of our Botswana airport car rental partners you'll be dealing with a rental car company that has made a special commitment to provide Expedia customers with great customer service, a wide choice of top quality cars, and competitive total pricing.

Expedia.com offers many Botswana rental cars pick up locations

Find the best place to get your Botswana airport rental cars by searching tons of pickup locations with Expedia.com

Frequently asked questions

What are the cheapest car rentals in Botswana?
The most affordable car rentals in Botswana are typically the smaller classes, such as economy and compact cars, which are efficient and easy to maneuver for exploring the region. You'll find these budget-friendly options commonly available in major cities like Gaborone, Maun, and Kasane. Reputable suppliers such as Thrifty Car Rental, Avis, and Europcar offer these categories. Rates for car rental in Botswana can vary significantly by city, specific pickup location, and the time of year you plan to travel. To find great value for your trip, it's always a good idea to compare different cities and dates on Expedia.
What are the best car rentals in Botswana?
Car rentals across Botswana come in a full range of vehicle types from providers like Avis, Thrifty Car Rental, and Europcar, broadly available in major cities such as Gaborone, Maun, and Kasane. The most common car classes include:
  • Economy 4-5 door
  • Compact SUV
  • Fullsize pickup extended cab
  • Compact 2 or 4 door
  • Compact 4-5 door
When choosing, consider your travel group size, luggage needs, and whether you'll be primarily driving in cities or embarking on longer journeys between regions. For solo travelers or couples, an economy or compact car might be ideal, while families or groups might prefer an SUV or a fullsize vehicle for more space and comfort.

What are the best car rental companies in Botswana?
For car rentals across Botswana, well-rated providers like Avis, Thrifty Car Rental, and Europcar offer a strong mix of vehicles with wide availability in major cities such as Gaborone, Maun, and Kasane. These companies are known for their diverse fleets, catering to various travel needs from compact cars for city exploration to larger vehicles for road trips. To ensure you find the perfect vehicle and a great deal for your journey, compare suppliers and pickup points on Expedia before you book.
Can I rent a car one-way in Botswana?
Yes, one-way car rentals are a great way to see Botswana, allowing you to pick up your vehicle in one city and drop it off in another, which is ideal for a cross-country road trip. For example, you could pick up your car in Gaborone and drop it off in Maun. Providers like Thrifty Car Rental, Avis, and Europcar often offer flexible one-way options across the region. A one-way drop-off fee usually applies, and this fee can be higher over longer inter-city distances, so it's always wise to confirm any additional charges when booking on Expedia.
What are the best luxury car rental companies in Botswana?
For luxury car rentals across Botswana, providers like Avis, Thrifty Car Rental, Dollar Rent A Car, and Europcar offer premium categories – high-end vehicles with extra comfort and space for touring the country in style. You'll find options such as fullsize pickup extended cab vehicles and other premium car classes available in major cities like Gaborone, Maun, and Kasane. To explore these upscale options and compare what's available, use Expedia's car-class filters to browse premium selections before you book your trip.
What are the best car rentals in Botswana for families or groups?
For families or groups exploring Botswana, SUVs and minivans give you ample room for passengers, car seats, strollers, and luggage. These larger vehicles are available across major cities from Gaborone to Maun and Kasane. Consider these options for your trip:
  • Avis: compact SUV – seats up to 5 people with room for 4 large suitcases
  • Thrifty Car Rental: van – seats up to 8 people with room for 6 large suitcases
  • Europcar: fullsize pickup extended cab – seats up to 5 people with room for 3 large or 5 medium suitcases
These vehicles keep everyone comfortable for both city driving and longer trips between regions. It's advisable to book a few weeks ahead, as larger vehicles can have lower availability during busy travel periods.

Which airports in Botswana can I pick up a rental car?
Botswana has several international airports with car rental pick-up options, allowing you to start your journey conveniently close to wherever you land:
  • Sir Seretse Khama Airport (GBE) in Gaborone
  • Maun Airport (MUB) in Maun
  • Kasane Airport (BBK) in Kasane
Choosing the airport nearest your starting city can save you time and hassle. It's always a good idea to compare rental rates and vehicle availability across different airports on Expedia to find a great option for your travel plans.

What are the best road trips in Botswana by rental car?
With a rental car, Botswana opens up for multi-stop road trips between its major cities and regions, offering diverse landscapes and experiences. Consider these popular routes:
  • Gaborone to Maun – a journey connecting the capital to the gateway of the Okavango Delta.
  • Maun to Kasane – an essential route for wildlife enthusiasts, linking two major safari hubs.
  • Gaborone to Kasane – a longer adventure that allows you to traverse a significant portion of the country.
A one-way rental works particularly well for point-to-point routes, eliminating the need to double back to your starting location. Compare pickup cities and one-way options on Expedia to plan your ideal Botswana road trip.

Which side of the road do you drive on in Botswana?
In Botswana, you drive on the left-hand side of the road. This is consistent across the entire country, including in cities like Gaborone, Maun, and Kasane, and on the roads connecting them. If you're accustomed to driving on the right, give yourself a little extra time to adjust to the local traffic flow. Pay particular attention and take extra care at intersections and roundabouts, as they will operate in the opposite direction to what you might be used to. Keeping to local speed limits and traffic laws can help ensure a safe and enjoyable drive as you explore Botswana.
Are there any hidden fees when renting a car on Expedia?
Expedia aims to show the key price and important rental details clearly during booking, so you know what to expect before you reserve. In some cases, car rental companies may apply additional charges at pick-up or during the rental, such as security deposits, tolls, fuel charges, extra driver fees, or local requirements, so it's worth checking the supplier's rental terms before you book.
Are there any long-term car rentals in Botswana?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in Botswana. Whether you're planning an extended holiday with the family, relocating temporarily, or simply need a vehicle for several weeks or months, many car rental providers offer flexible long-term rental plans tailored to your needs. Click on our long-term car rental deals page, enter your trip information and then book a ride that suits.
Do you need insurance to rent a car in Botswana?
No, you don't need personal auto insurance to rent a car in most cases. You will, however, be required to purchase some insurance to cover the duration of the rental. Rental companies will offer this insurance when you rent the car. Certain personal car insurance policies can also be applied to rental cars, and travelers can even use non-owner car insurance if they rent cars often but don't have a car of their own. Additionally, some car rentals simply include rental car insurance within the price of the rental.
How much does it cost to rent a car in Botswana?
Budget car rental in Botswana can be easy to find, with prices based on rates seen within the past seven days . To find some of the cheapest options, sort your search results by price and use filters to match your budget and travel needs. For added flexibility, it's also worth exploring one-way car rentals.
What are the top car rental deals in Botswana?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in Botswana. The easiest way to get a good deal on a rental car is to use our filters. At the top of the filter list, you'll find a section featuring our best car rental offers. Check the filter for "Great Deal," and your search results will be filled with specials. Compare offers from trusted rental providers, choose the option that fits your trip, and book with confidence. For even more value, bundle your Botswana car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in Botswana?
To rent a car in Botswana, a current driver's license and a credit card in the same name are essential. If you're opting out of the company's insurance plan, then you may also need proof of other coverage. Rules may differ between rental companies, so read through your policy.
What happens if I need to cancel my Botswana car rental?
If you need to cancel your Botswana car rental, read over the policy to be sure, but almost all prepaid rentals are eligible for a complete refund if you notify us at least six hours prior to the pickup time, though there may be some exclusions so check your itinerary for more information, or just click through to our Customer Service Portal.

Car Rental Information

Popular car types:
SUV, Full Size, Economy
From the airport to your hotel:
Airport Transportation