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4x4 rooftent, van, and campervan rental in Botswana

Information, tips, offers, and customer reviews on campervan rental in Botswana with CoolDrive Nomad

Botswana, a true jewel of Southern Africa, is a popular destination for its wild nature and breathtaking landscapes. Renting a 4x4 in Botswana is ideal for exploring its vast national parks, such as the famous Chobe National Park, where abundant wildlife reveals itself along the trails. The vast expanses of the Kalahari Desert and the lush landscapes of the Okavango make the country a must-visit for adventurers seeking unique experiences. Whether you are on a safari or seeking immersion in local culture, a 4x4 rental will allow you to live an unforgettable adventure in the heart of Botswana's preserved nature.

Botswana, with its vast wild expanses and iconic national parks, is an ideal destination for a campervan trip. Whether you have a week or three, you can explore diverse landscapes, observe exceptional wildlife, and experience an adventure in total autonomy. Here are three iconic itineraries adapted to different durations for an unforgettable road trip in Botswana.

Discovery of the Okavango Delta and Chobe (7-10 days)

This short circuit immerses you in the heart of Botswana's most famous reserves. Depart from Maun, the gateway to the Okavango Delta, where you will spend several nights exploring its channels and islands on a self-drive safari. Next, head to Moremi National Park, renowned for its biodiversity, before reaching Chobe, famous for its concentrations of elephants along the Chobe River. You will alternate nights in equipped campsites and in the wild, enjoying a complete immersion in the savannah. This route is ideal for a first contact with Botswana's natural wealth in complete freedom.

Loop between Makgadikgadi, Central Kalahari, and Chobe (14 days)

With two weeks, you can combine several major ecosystems. After Maun, head to the Makgadikgadi pans, a unique lunar landscape where you can observe flamingos and migratory zebras. Then, continue to the Central Kalahari Reserve, a vast semi-arid desert offering an authentic wild camping experience away from the crowds. Finally, finish at Chobe National Park for rich wildlife safaris, including elephants and predators. This circuit allows you to alternate sandy tracks and paved roads, with well-equipped campsites and more isolated sites, perfect for a well-organized campervan trip.

Grand self-drive safari from Maun to Victoria Falls (21 days)

For a three-week trip, depart from Maun for a complete loop including Okavango, Moremi, Nxai Pan, Makgadikgadi, and Central Kalahari, with several nights camping in very diverse sites. You can then reach Kasane and Chobe Park before crossing the border into Zimbabwe to admire the spectacular Victoria Falls, a must-see stop that perfectly completes this safari. This long itinerary offers total immersion, combining self-drive safaris, diverse landscapes, and the opportunity to discover wildlife in very different areas, all while enjoying the comfort provided by a well-equipped campervan.


All the towns where you can rent a motorhome in Botswana

Discover on this map all the cities in Botswana where you can rent your motorhome or campervan.
Use the search engine to find out exactly which departure and return towns you can use to organise your road trip.
To do this, enter the first letters of the country in the corresponding field and discover all the cities in Botswana or elsewhere.

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Explore Botswana by campervan or van: season, weather, and rates

Botswana, a wild and preserved land, offers unique landscapes to discover by campervan or van, from the expanses of the Okavango Delta to the vast plains of the Kalahari.

When to go to Botswana

The best time to travel by campervan in Botswana is from May to early October, during the dry season. At this time, temperatures are pleasant, ranging from 25°C to 30°C during the day and 10°C to 15°C at night, especially around Chobe National Park and Moremi Reserve. The roads are passable and the vegetation less dense, making it easier to access remote sites like the Okavango Delta or the Kalahari Desert.

Weather and travel conditions

The dry season, from May to October, offers a stable and sunny climate, ideal for safaris and boat excursions in the Okavango Delta. Nights can be cool, especially in June and July, while October marks the peak of temperatures, which can reach 40°C in the northern part of the country. The rainy season, from November to March, makes some tracks muddy and difficult to access, particularly in the Kalahari, but offers lush nature and more attractive rates.

Seasonality of rates

Rental rates for campervans and accommodations are higher during the high season, from June to September, which is the ideal time to observe wildlife around the water points of Chobe Park or the Okavango Delta. In the green season, from November to March, prices drop and the landscapes transform, offering a different experience, especially in the Kalahari, where the vegetation revives and attracts many migratory birds.


Practical tips for traveling by campervan or van in Botswana

Botswana, with its vast national parks like Chobe and Moremi, offers a unique campervan and van experience, blending wild nature and freedom of movement.

Driving and regulations

Driving is on the left in Botswana, and it is mandatory to have an international driving permit to rent a vehicle. Drivers must have held their license for at least a year, and those under 25 may be subject to additional fees. On the roads, speed is limited to 80-120 km/h, and to 30 km/h in national parks like Chobe or Moremi. It is prohibited to drive off marked tracks, and it is essential to respect park opening hours, generally from 06:00 to 18:30 or 19:00 depending on the season.

Sleeping and connecting

Campsites in Botswana's parks, such as those in Chobe or Moremi, are vast and accommodate up to three vehicles per site. Reservations for sites are open up to 12 months in advance, especially for the high season. Campsites generally do not offer electrical hookups, so it is advisable to be self-sufficient with solar power or batteries. Sanitary facilities are basic but functional, and it is recommended to bring everything necessary for the night.

Local tips & safety

It is strictly forbidden to feed animals or leave food or waste outside the vehicle, especially in parks like Moremi or Chobe, where predators may roam at night. It is advisable to securely close your tent and extinguish any fire before going to bed, particularly during the dry season in the Kalahari. For added safety, keep the hood of your vehicle open at night, which deters lions from climbing on it. Finally, it is highly recommended to travel in convoy and never drive at night due to wildlife on the roads.


Frequently Asked Questions in Botswana

Is it mandatory to rent a 4x4 for a self-drive camping safari in Botswana?

Yes, a 4x4 vehicle is essential for a rental in Botswana, especially to access wild areas and national parks. The roads are often unpaved and rugged, and an equipped 4x4 (rooftop tent, recovery gear) ensures safety and comfort during your campervan or 4x4 van adventure.

Can you camp freely in nature in Botswana with a converted 4x4?

No, wild camping is prohibited in Botswana. You must reserve a site in a designated campsite. Camping outside these areas can result in fines and endanger your safety as well as that of wildlife.

How to book a camping spot in Botswana for a 4x4 road trip?

It is recommended to book your camping spots well in advance, ideally several months or even a year before the high season (May to October). Campsites are limited and highly sought after, especially in parks like Chobe or Moremi. Booking guarantees your access and facilitates obtaining the necessary permits.

What documents are required to rent a converted 4x4 in Botswana?

To rent a 4x4 in Botswana, you must present a valid international driving permit, a passport with sufficient validity, and vehicle documents. To enter the parks, an access permit and confirmation of campsite reservation are also required.

What equipment is generally included in a rental of a converted 4x4 in Botswana?

4x4s rented for camping in Botswana are often equipped with a rooftop tent, auxiliary battery, fridge/freezer, high-lift jack, and recovery kit. This equipment is essential for tackling difficult terrains and ensuring comfortable autonomy.

Is it safe to drive a 4x4 in self-drive mode in Botswana's national parks?

Driving a 4x4 in self-drive mode is possible and popular, but strict rules must be followed: drive only on marked tracks, do not drive at night, and remain vigilant regarding wildlife. It is advisable to have prior off-road driving experience and to follow the advice of local authorities.

What are the best months to rent a 4x4 and camp in Botswana?

The best time to rent a 4x4 and camp is during the dry season, from May to October. The roads are in better condition, wildlife is easier to observe around water points, and the climate is more pleasant for camping.

Can camping fees and permits be paid by credit card when renting a 4x4 in Botswana?

In most parks, entrance and camping fees must be paid in cash (pulas). Card payments are rarely accepted at park counters, so it is advisable to have enough cash before entering the reserves.

What tips for waste management during a 4x4 camping trip in Botswana?

It is imperative to respect the environment: leave no waste in nature, use the campsites' bins or take your waste with you!


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Motorhome and campervan rental companies in Botswana

Below you’ll find all the motorhome and campervan rental companies we work with in Botswana.
These are exclusively professional rental companies in Botswana, renowned for the quality, reliability and maintenance of their fleet of vehicles.
Renting a motorhome with CoolDrive from one of these companies gives you the guarantees and insurance you need to make sure your trip goes smoothly in Botswana.
Click on the logo to access the rental company’s details.


Special offers on motorhome rentals in Botswana

Here are the promotional offers currently available for each motorhome and campervan rental company in Botswana.
The conditions for applying these discounts are managed individually for each rental offer and depend mainly on the dates of your trip in Botswana.
To find out exactly what promotions are available in Botswana, the easiest way is to carry out a search and look at the offers on offer.
You can then save these offers in your customer area or make your booking request directly.
Most promotions are limited in time, so make the most of them before they’re gone!

5%
long-term discount

Season Special

Season Special

Season Special

Saison Spezialangebot

Season Special

Offre spéciale saison

Season Special

5%
long-term discount

5%
long-term discount


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