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Frequently Asked Questions About Botswana 4x4 Camper Hire

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Answers to your travel and camping questions about Botswana

What is the best time of year to hire a 4x4 campervan in Botswana?

The best time to hire a 4x4 campervan in Botswana is during the dry season, which is from May to October. During this time, the roads are in good condition.

The best time of year to hire a 4x4 campervan in Botswana is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. During this time, the roads are in good condition and there is less chance of rain, making it easier to drive off-road. The weather is also pleasant during this time, with average temperatures ranging from 25 to 35 degrees Celsius.

Botswana is a popular tourist destination, so the dry season is also the peak season for campervan rentals. This means that prices tend to be higher during this time so try to book ahead to get the best rental rates.

If you are looking for a more affordable option, you may want to consider hiring a campervan during the wet season, which runs from October to April. During this time, the roads can be muddy and difficult to drive, but the prices for campervan rentals are much lower.

What are the most popular routes for 4x4 campervan hire in Botswana?

  • Chobe National Park circuit
  • The Okavango Delta
  • Central Kalahari Game Reserve
  • Makgadikgadi Pans
  • Tuli Block

Can I drive a 4x4 campervan in Botswana without any experience?

Driving a 4x4 campervan in Botswana without prior experience can be challenging, especially if you are not used to off-road driving or driving 4x4 vehicles. We strongly recommend you to have some level of experience before hiring a 4x4 camper on a self-drive adventure in Botswana. Try and get some 4x4 driving lessons before you start your rental.

  • Off-Road Driving: Many areas in Botswana, particularly in national parks and remote regions, require off-road driving on gravel, sandy or muddy tracks. These conditions can be quite different from driving on paved roads. Learning off-road driving techniques, such as correct gear selection, navigating uneven terrain, and managing vehicle recovery (if necessary), will make your holiday safer and more enjoyable.
  • Vehicle Handling: Driving a larger 4x4 campervan requires a different skill set compared to driving a regular car. The dimensions, weight, and height of the campervan may impact maneuverability, visibility, and braking distances. It's essential to understand the vehicle's capabilities and limitations, such as approach and departure angles, ground clearance, and weight distribution.
  • Navigation and Orientation: Navigating in remote areas of Botswana will require using maps, GPS devices, or guidebooks. Having a good sense of direction and understanding how to read and interpret maps or GPS coordinates can be crucial, as there may be limited signage or network coverage in remote regions.
  • Camping and Self-Sufficiency: Renting a campervan implies self-sufficiency in terms of camping and managing basic amenities. You should be comfortable with setting up and dismantling camping equipment, handling water and waste disposal, and understanding the vehicle's electrical and water systems.

Why do I need a compressor when I rent a campervan in Botswana?

When you are going off-road it is sometimes recommended that you reduce your tyre pressure especially on sandy roads. So pumping them back up is a lot easier with a compressor.


Can I rent from one city to another in Botswana?

Yes, you can generally hire from one city to another. There are sometimes additional costs.

You can also rent from one country to another but you will need cross-border documentation. There is an additional charge for this.

You need cross border documentation when travelling between Botswana, Lesotho, Mozambique, Namibia, Zambia, Zimbabwe and Swaziland.

There may also be a one-way fee or "drop fee".


Botswana RV hire

Where can we camp at night in Botswana?

Botswana offers a range of camping options for 4x4 campervans.

National Parks and Game Reserves: Botswana is known for its pristine national parks and game reserves, which provide excellent camping opportunities. Most national parks have designated campsites where you can park your campervan. Some popular parks include Chobe National Park, Moremi Game Reserve, Central Kalahari Game Reserve, and Makgadikgadi Pans National Park. These campsites often offer basic facilities such as ablution blocks (toilet and shower facilities), water supply, and sometimes even electricity. Some campsites need to be booked in advance, especially during peak season, while others operate on a first-come, first-served basis.


Community-run Campsites: In some areas, local communities operate campsites, providing a unique cultural experience. These campsites often offer basic facilities and are situated near community-owned lands or wildlife areas. Examples include Khwai Community Campsite and Mababe Community Campsite, located in the Khwai Community Area.


Private Campsites: There are private campsites and lodges scattered throughout Botswana. These campsites are often located in private concessions and offer more luxurious facilities, including hot showers, flushing toilets, and sometimes even swimming pools. They usually require advance booking and can provide additional services such as guided game drives or activities.


Wilderness Camping: Botswana allows wilderness camping in certain designated areas, especially in more remote regions. This gives you the opportunity to camp in the wild, away from designated campsites. However, wilderness camping requires careful planning and adherence to park regulations. It is important to be fully self-sufficient, carry sufficient water and supplies, and leave no trace of your presence when practicing wilderness camping.


It's worth noting that camping regulations and facilities can vary depending on the location and type of campsite. It is advisable to check with the relevant authorities, national park offices, or local tour operators for the most up-to-date information on camping options, permits, and facilities in the specific areas you plan to visit. They can provide guidance on suitable campsites based on your preferences, vehicle type, and the regions you wish to explore.


Here are some places where you can camp your 4x4 camper at night in Botswana:

  • Moremi Game Reserve: This is a great place to camp if you want to see wildlife. There are several designated campsites within the reserve, as well as some areas where you can camp off-road. Moremi Game Reserve, Botswana. Moremi Game Reserve
  • Chobe National Park: This is another great place to see wildlife. There are several campsites within the park that where you can camp and experience an unforgettable experience. Camping in Chobe National Park, Botswana
  • Central Kalahari Game Reserve: This is the remotest reserve in South Africa. There are a few designated campsites especially around Deception Valley in the reserve.There are more public campsites around Xade and Tsau. Central Kalahari Game Reserve, Botswana
  • Makgadikgadi Salt Pans: This is a salt pan. There are no designated campsites in the pans. There is the Njuca Hills Campsite south of the park and Kumaga Camp near Boteti. Try Kubu Island campsite near Sowa Pan. All are very basic. Travel during June or July and September as you can drive across the pans when it is dry. Makgadikgadi Pans, Botswana
  • Tuli Block: This is a wildlife corridor between Botswana and Zimbabwe. It is a private reserve.There is very limited camping in the block.

When camping in Botswana repect the wildlife.

It is important to be aware of the wildlife and to respect the environment. You are in a dangerous environment so take extra care and don't leave your vehicle until you are at a designated campsite. Take extra care at night. You should also make sure to obtain a permit from the Department of Wildlife and National Parks before camping in any national park or reserve in Botswana.

Camping in Botswana:

Obtain a permit: If you are planning to camp in a national park or reserve, you will need to obtain a permit from the Department of Wildlife and National Parks.

Pack for all weather conditions: Botswana can experience a wide range of weather conditions, from hot and dry to cold and wet. It is important to pack for all weather conditions so that you are prepared for anything.

Take plenty of water: Botswana is a dry country, so it is important to bring plenty of water with you at all times.

Pack a first-aid kit, a fire extinguisher, and a satellite phone.


Game Parks in Botswana to visit

Useful link: "Game Parks in Botswana

Botswana RV hire

Safety and Security in Botswana:

Up to date information about safety and security in Botswana can be found here: Botswana Safety and Security


What is the cost of fuel in Botswana?

Petrol and Diesel is sold in Botswana. Make sure you fill your tank at every opportunity. Also top up water supplies at the same time. Always carry water for your vehicle and extra fuel.

Useful link: Botswana petrol prices Botswana Diesel Prices


Are there toll roads in Botswana?

There are currently no toll roads in Botswana but this may change. Ask at the depot on collection of your campervan rental.

Tollroads in Africa You are responsible for paying toll fees, so it is important to be aware of these roads before you travel.


Are there discounts on campervan hire in Botswana?

If you Book early you may get a lower daily rental rate. Some companies put the prices up the nearer you get to pick up date. Book early and those prices are fixed.

Book for longer. Check out the over 21 day rate and the over 35 day rate. It is always worth having a look before you book as you may be able to go for longer for the same amount of money.

Older vehicles are cheaper than newer ones.

Avoid one-way hires that are less than 14 days in length.

We add special discounts into the booking engine as they happen. Discounts and Special Offers on 4x4 camper rentals in Botswana

Travel out of high season.

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