Self-drive safaris in Botswana can be anything from a great wildlife experience to a complete disaster if you are not well prepared. Getting your vehicle stuck in a Big 5 territory or smashing into stray livestock will be more of an adventure than you bargained for. Read this post to avoid Botswana’s major pitfalls …

On the Road: General Traffic Rules in Botswana

Driving in Botswana is on the left based on the UK model. But many Europeans are driving on the right. In our experiences it takes some time to get used to the car’s dimensions (especially taking the corners could be a problem). But soon you will drive relaxed and automatically.

Abiding by the speed limits is highly recommended. The standard speed limits are:

• 120 km/h outside the towns
• 100 km/h on approach to towns/villages
• 60 km/h passing towns/villages
• 30 km/h in built up areas
• Furthermore, remember most accidents are results of speeding! So take your time and relax. It’s your vacation.

Police are very vigilant and strict about speeding. So, if you are caught you have to pay the fine immediately. Otherwise they will escort you to the next ATM or even arrest you until the spot fine is paid.

Be Aware of Animals 

Botswana Speed Bumps

If you drive in Botswana you have to be aware of animals crossing the roads. Botswana is rich in wildlife. Not just indigenous animals like elephants, lions or antelopes, but also stray livestock like cows, goats and chicken can appear on the roads. Consider there are no fences that could avoid unwanted encounters. Hence,

• Drive slowly
• Be attentive especially at dawn and dusk
• It’s advisable not to drive at night!!!

Driving at night could be very dangerous!!! Animals could cross the roads or even sleep on it and you won’t see them from far. So make sure you will arrive to your daily destinations before dusk.

General Road Conditions in Botswana

The road conditions differ all over the country. You will find tarmac roads (on major routes connecting the big cities), gravel or even sand tracks. When you leave the roads and start your safari adventure off road you will mainly find sand tracks of varying quality. Hence, it’s always a good decision to rent a 4×4 vehicle with enough clearance from the ground.

Driving Off Road in Moremi

After entering Moremi you will face sand, clay, woodland or swamp tracks. This also depends on the season. During the rainy season (from October until April) many roads are flooded and it is impossible to pass them. So first of all a 4×4 vehicle is highly recommended for self-drive safaris and secondly don’t drive alone. Always visit Moremi in a group of at least 2 vehicles, so that in case of breakdowns you can help each other.

Driving Off Road in Chobe

The road conditions in Chobe are similar to Moremi, but here you have to be especially aware of fallen trees (due to elephants) blocking the roads. In the wet season the clayey soil can easily bog down vehicles. In the dry season (from May until September) deep sand can cause equally difficult conditions.

If you have done a self-drive safari in Botswana (Moremi, Chobe or somewhere else) recently or crossed the country by car let us know about your driving experiences in the comment section.

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