Adventure road trip along the highlights of Botswana
This is your 10-day road trip itinerary through Botswana. Our route takes you to the country’s highlights. Your overnight stops are already arranged, but during the day, you decide which sights to visit and how much time to spend at each one.
Choosing the 11-day road trip? You’ll stay at Elephant Sands on day 4.
This upcoming season, you'll be traveling through the national parks with Botswana Nomads in your own 4x4 with a rooftop tent!
You’ll cross Botswana in a Suzuki Jimny, a well-equipped 4×4 jeep that makes it easy to tackle all kinds of roads and national parks.
The car is automatic and comes with a rooftop tent and camping equipment. So you’ll have everything you need for a carefree trip!
You’ll find more specific information about the equipment and car insurance under practical information.
You’ll spend two nights in a lodge in Maun, at the start and end of your trip. In between, you’ll sleep in a rooftop tent at various campsites. In Nata, you can also upgrade to a lodge. All campsites have sanitary facilities, and many also have a pool and/or restaurant. Most have electricity, and for nights without it, your vehicle has a power outlet. We’ll reserve everything for you in advance, so you won’t have to worry about it once you’re there.
Some campsites are not fenced, so you’ll sleep right in the wild, surrounded by animals. Don’t worry, you’ll set off well prepared.
This section contains all the practical information you need for your trip to Botswana. Still have questions? Don't hesitate to get in touch!
You can take a Botswana Nomads road trip between May and October. Check all available dates in the calendar at the bottom of the website.
2026
Our current road trips take place between August and October.
2027
Pre-register for the next edition in 2027 to be notified personally when the trips go online on 16/09, get early access to bookings on 30/09, one day before registration officially opens on 01/10, and enjoy the lowest prices and free Superflex terms.
A fully equipped 4×4 with a rooftop tent
2 nights in lodges
7 out of 8 nights at unique campsites
Bedding: a double mattress (210 x 120 cm), sleeping bags, pillows, and sheets
Camping gear: towels, camping table and chairs, small fridge, shovel, water jerrycan, and USB charging system
Cooking gear: cutting board, pots, gas stove, plates, utensils, and cup
A detailed roadbook with the complete route, explanations of all the sights, and useful tips & tricks
Access to an exclusive app with all sorts of information and an interactive map
Mokoro excursion in the Okavango Delta
Cruise on the Chobe River
Support before and during issues on-site
You can book your Botswana adventure from just €1450 per person (excluding flights). This price is based on two people sharing a car.
Round-trip flight: from €1100 per person, including checked baggage
Carbon offset for your trip: €80 per person
We offer return flights from Brussels (Zaventem)
Includes 1 carry-on bag weighing 7 kg and 2 checked bags weighing 23 kg each
Please note: the flight departure date is the day before the official start of the trip
If you book your flights through Botswana Nomads, the transfer between the airport and your hotel in Maun is included too.
Please note that these prices may vary depending on the dates and availability. Flights are non-refundable.
Would you rather book your own flights? From your preferred airport, with flexible travel dates or to extend your trip? Be sure to take the weekly schedule and the two extra travel days before and after your road trip into account!
Damage waiver: €30 per rental day for the car
Standard – Minimal flexibility
Price: free.Deposit: 30% when booking.Cancellation: 50% refund up to 30 days before departure or 25% up to 14 days before departure.
Superflex – Moderate flexibility
Price: +3% on top of the total amount, free for anyone who books early.Deposit: 30% when booking.Cancellation: cancel without giving a reason or paying additional fees up to 90 days before departure. After that, the standard terms and conditions apply.
Ultimate Flex – Maximum flexibility
Price: +6% on top of the total amount.Deposit: 30% upon booking.Cancellation: free of charge and without giving a reason up to 60 days before departure. After that, you’ll receive a 100% refund with a valid reason, or 60% without giving a reason.
Please note: non-refundable options will never be refunded.
In Botswana, you won’t find many restaurants like those you’re used to in other tourist destinations. Some campsites and lodges have great restaurants, or you can cook for yourself.
In your jeep, you'll find supplies for cooking. Along the way, you can shop at various places. The supermarkets we recommend can be found in the app.
Passport: an international passport that remains valid for at least 6 months after your trip.
Driving licence: You need to have held your driving licence for at least 3 years to rent a car.
International driving permit: your national driving licence is enough to pick up the rental car. However, we strongly recommend carrying an international driving permit (or an official English translation): the Botswana police may cause problems if the document isn’t entirely in English. A certified translation is sufficient and can easily be obtained through your local council or via this website.
What should you bring? → Packing list
For your trip to Botswana, no vaccinations are required, but the following are recommended:
We also recommend taking malaria tablets. You’ll be in a malaria-risk area throughout the entire trip.
If you want to make sure you’re properly protected before you travel or you’re in a high-risk group, we recommend consulting a doctor or specialist travel clinic. Make an appointment well in advance for malaria advice or vaccinations.
Do you have a specific question or want more details about this adventure? Feel free to schedule a no-obligation call with Relinde, our Botswana expert. She’ll be happy to help and answer all your questions personally.
Looking to add something extra to your road trip? Complete your adventure with one or more activities tailored to your itinerary!
Day 2
€200
Day 2
€200
This really is a bucket-list experience. The scenic flight over the Okavango Delta departs from Maun. Early in the morning, you’ll take off in a small Cessna with a maximum of five passengers, so everyone gets a great view of the landscape below.
From the air, you’ll see the vast network of water channels, islands and lagoons that make up the Okavango Delta. The water glitters in the sun, contrasting beautifully with the green reeds and palm trees. You’ll see how the channels branch out and surround small islands, some no bigger than a few trees.
During the flight, you’ll often spot herds of elephants, buffalo grazing along the banks and giraffes standing among the trees. The pilot flies low enough for you to see the animals clearly and points out interesting spots along the way. You’ll get a real sense of how vast the delta is and how the water moves through the landscape.
The flight gives you a unique perspective of the delta that you simply can’t get from the ground. You’ll see the patterns created by the water, the different vegetation zones and the scale of this remarkable ecosystem. After 45 minutes, you’ll land back in Maun with a whole new view of the Okavango Delta.
Day 3
€42
Day 3
€42
The Nata Bird Sanctuary is located in the heart of the Makgadikgadi Pans National Park. Hop into the safari vehicle and drive towards the shimmering plains of Sua Pan, where many flamingos turn the water pink.
The Nata River feeds the pan, creating a fertile delta where pelicans, flamingos, and dozens of other waterbird species breed. When conditions are right, you can literally see thousands of flamingos at once. Their pink feathers stand out beautifully against the white salt and blue water.
Besides birds, you’ll also spot zebras, wildebeests, ostriches, and hyenas on the golden grasslands.
As the sun sets and the light grows warmer, the landscape takes on a magical glow. Your guide will make regular stops during the 3-hour tour so you can take photos and will share insights about the birds and the unique ecosystem.
Day 3
€80 / pp
Day 3
€80 / pp
Looking for something more comfortable? Upgrade to a chalet in Nata. The cabin comes with a private bathroom, a cozy double bed, and everything you need to relax. As a camper, you can use the same facilities like the restaurant and the pool, but the chalet offers you a bit more luxury.
Note: this option is subject to availability.
Day 4
Incl.
Day 4
Incl.
This excursion is included in your trip. Discover the Chobe River from the water as the sun slowly sets towards the horizon. From the boat, you have a perfect view of the banks where elephants come to drink, hippos poke their heads above the water, and crocodiles lie on the muddy shore.
The golden light of the setting sun colors the river orange and pink. Herds of buffalo cross, giraffes lean down to drink, and all around you, you can hear the calls of fish eagles and other birds. The boat glides slowly among the animals as the sky continues to change color. As the sun disappears behind the horizon, you head back with a drink in your hand.
Day 5
€43
Day 5
€43
Cross the border and visit the Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe. In just 20 minutes, you'll be over the border and driving through Zambezi National Park to the town of the same name.
The Victoria Falls is one of the largest waterfalls in the world. Over a width of nearly 1.7 kilometers, a massive amount of water plunges 108 meters down.
You can walk through the Victoria Falls National Park along various viewpoints, each offering a different perspective. Some spots get you so close that the mist sprays you. During the excursion, you'll have plenty of time to explore the park and can grab a drink or lunch at a restaurant overlooking a stunning gorge near the park.
Note: the price for your visa to Zimbabwe (around €25) and the national park fee (around €42) is not included.
Day 6
€30
Day 6
€30
Discover the wildlife around the Chobe River in Chobe National Park on an early-morning safari drive. From 06:00 to 09:00, as the day gets underway and the air is still pleasantly cool, you’ll head out in an open safari vehicle with a local guide.
The route follows the Chobe River for much of the way, where the largest numbers of animals gather. Along the way, you’ll have a good chance of seeing large herds of elephants, buffalo and various species of antelope making their way to the water. You may also spot hippos drinking and bathing by the river, as well as lions and leopards resting in the early morning.
Halfway through the drive, you’ll stop at a beautiful spot in the park for a short coffee break. Stretch your legs, enjoy a hot drink and take in the peace and quiet around you before your guide continues the drive and you return around 09:00.
Day 8
Incl.
Day 8
Incl.
During your stay in Khwai, you'll go on a mokoro excursion. You'll glide silently through the Okavango Delta in a mokoro, a traditional canoe that your guide propels with a long pole. The water is mirror-smooth, and you'll navigate between papyrus reeds and water lilies while your guide shares stories about the plants, animals, and life in the delta.
From the water, you might spot elephants coming to the shore, buffaloes grazing in the reeds, and hippos poking their heads above the surface. The silence is only broken by bird sounds and the gentle noise of the pole moving through the water.
Day 9
€100
Day 9
€100
Go on a safari in the Okavango Delta. The morning safari in the Khwai Conservation Area starts shortly after sunrise, when the temperatures are still pleasant and the animals are active. You'll depart in an open safari vehicle with an experienced guide who knows the area well.
The Khwai area is known for its diverse wildlife. During the three-hour ride, you'll often see giraffes feeding on leaves from acacia trees, herds of impalas and kudus grazing in the open plains, and elephant families making their way to the river to drink. Lions usually rest in the shade after a night of hunting, and with a bit of luck, you'll spot them along the route.
Your guide will stop regularly to observe animals and explain what you see. He knows the best spots and where recent animal sightings have been. The morning light is great for photography and gives the landscape beautiful colors. In addition to the larger animals, you'll also see various bird species and smaller mammals.
Botswana Nomads 2026 is completely sold out! Pre-register now for the new editions in 2027!
The Botswana road trips in 2027 will take place from May through October!
Here are some frequently asked questions about Botswana Nomads to get you started. If you have any other questions, don't hesitate to contact us.
To be able to drive during the tour in Botswana, you will need the following:
Traveling through a yellow fever area? Then you must show a yellow fever vaccination certificate at the border. See more information in the FAQ about vaccinations.
You must be at least 23 years old and have held a driver's license for 3 years to be allowed to drive the 4x4. Please note: there will be additional costs of 79 euros per person if you are 23 or 24 years old in order to drive the car.
If you are 25 years or older and have held your driver's license for 3 years, there are no additional costs involved.
During the trip, you’ll spend two nights in a lodge. Your first and last nights will be at the same lodge near Maun.
You’ll stay at unique campsites in nature along the route. All campsites have bathroom facilities, and almost all of them also have electricity. If there’s no power connection, you can use the power bank for the night.
Some campsites in Botswana are located right in the middle of national parks, so there’s a good chance you’ll come across large animals. We’ll make sure you know how to deal with them safely. Keep your food and belongings out of sight of smaller animals. Most campsites have great facilities, including a swimming pool and/or a restaurant. Occasionally, there are fewer facilities, but that means you’ll be staying right in nature. The pitches are spacious, although other vehicles may sometimes be parked nearby.
Along the way, you can also upgrade to a lodge instead of camping in Nata.
There are no mandatory vaccinations for Botswana, unless you have stayed in a high-risk yellow fever country during the seven days before entering Botswana or have been in transit (at an airport) for 12 hours. In that case, a vaccination against yellow fever is required. Are you flying through a yellow fever country like Ethiopia? Then you will need a yellow fever vaccination in case your flight is delayed.
Regardless of the length of stay, the following vaccinations are recommended for Botswana:
Malaria pills are also recommended. You will be staying in a malaria area for a total of 10 nights.
Make an appointment for malaria advice or vaccinations well in advance. You can check this website for more information or contact your doctor or the GGD (Public Health Service) in the Netherlands.
Botswana is one of the safest countries in Africa. The people are incredibly friendly and everyone looks out for each other along the road. During your trip with Travelbase, you’ll never be alone: a local partner is always available for help and advice, and you’ll be traveling with other adventurers, staying in the same place every night. This way, you’ll always have people around you.
You’ll receive a comprehensive roadbook filled with practical information. Inside, you’ll find not only the most beautiful routes and attractions but also important tips on safe driving on unpaved roads and how to safely interact with wildlife in and around your accommodations. It also includes which areas in cities like Maun you might want to avoid, especially in the evenings.
The majority of the lodges and camps where you’ll stay are well-secured and have experienced staff who know exactly how everything works. This way, you can fully relax and enjoy the spectacular nature, impressive wildlife, and authentic Botswana.
Botswana is a country made for adventure. If you’re new to road-tripping, you’re in good hands with Botswana Nomads, but this is an intense trip for adventurous travelers. Before you set off, you’ll receive clear instructions on driving a 4×4, using the rooftop tent and what to expect along the way. The route is well planned, and you’ll stay in touch with our team throughout the trip. We’re available 24/7 if you have any questions or need support. That way, you can enjoy the adventure with peace of mind.
It’s important to know that you’ll be staying at campsites that are sometimes unfenced. Wildlife may wander past your tent, and you’ll also need to protect yourself properly from the insects found in the country. For part of the route, you’ll need to take antimalarial tablets. Yes, this is Africa in its purest form. That means you might hear an elephant walking past at night, or find spiders and snakes nearby. We’ll show you exactly how to deal with this and which precautions to take. There’s no reason to panic, but it’s something to be aware of. For many travelers, it’s precisely what makes the experience so special.
You’ll receive plenty of information about the trip and how to prepare, and we’re always here to help, but the country itself remains adventurous!
We offer a fully planned road trip in Botswana, which means it’s not possible to adjust the duration and itinerary of the trip. Of course, you’re free to extend your travels on your own initiative by spending a few extra days in South Africa before or after, or by traveling to another country.
It is always possible to cancel your trip. You can find the general cancellation conditions here. You can also rely on the Superflex cancellation conditions. More info under the FAQ ‘What are the Superflex cancellation conditions?
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