Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
stations are open 24 hours in Gaborone, Francistown, Maun, Mahalapye and Palapye;
elsewhere, they open from about 7am to 7pm daily.
HIRE
If you're looking to hire a car for exploring Botswana, consider hiring a vehicle in South
Africa. Otherwise, we recommend booking through companies who offer specialist rental
of fully equipped 4WDs with all camping equipment.
Mainstream international car rental agencies have offices in Botswana. That said, most
have only a handful of 4WDs and you should always read the fine print of any rental con-
tracts - some such agencies are known for including a clause that forbids off-road driving!
As such, renting through these companies is more likely to be of interest if you'll only be
travelling between major population centres along sealed roads.
To hire a car you must be aged at least 21 (some companies require drivers to be over
25) and have been a licensed driver in your home country for at least two years (some-
times five).
Drive Botswana
( in Palapye 492 3416;
www.drivebotswana.com
)
Arranges 4WDs through Explorer
Safaris in South Africa, but also organises a complete package itinerary including maps,
trip notes and bookings for campsites, all at no extra cost. We found the owner, Andy
Raggett, to be outstanding and unfailingly professional.
CAR HIRE
Self Drive Adventures
( in Maun 686 3755;
www.selfdriveadventures.com
)
CAR HIRE
Travel Adventures Botswana
( in Maun 686 1211;
www.traveladventuresbotswana.com
)
CAR HIRE
INSURANCE
Insurance is
strongly
recommended. No matter who you hire your car from, make sure
you understand what is included in the price (such as unlimited kilometres, tax and so on)
and what your liabilities are. Most local insurance policies do not include cover for dam-
age to windshields and tyres.
Third-party motor insurance is a minimum requirement in Botswana. However, it is
also advisable to take a Damage (Collision) Waiver, which costs around P150 extra per
day for a 2WD and about P300 per day for a 4WD. Loss (Theft) Waiver is also an extra
