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Botswana is one of Africa’s top safari destinations, offering pristine wilderness areas and abundant wildlife. If you’re planning a safari, knowing how to get there by air is essential. Here’s a guide on flying to Botswana from around the world and an overview of its main airports.
International Flights to Botswana
Most international travellers reach Botswana by flying into Sir Seretse Khama International Airport (GBE) in Gaborone, the country’s capital, or Maun International Airport (MUB), the gateway to the Okavango Delta. There are no direct flights from outside Africa, so travellers typically connect via major regional hubs.
Flights from Europe
Travellers from Europe usually fly to Botswana via Johannesburg’s OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in South Africa. Airlines such as British Airways, Lufthansa, and Air France operate regular flights to Johannesburg, where connections to Botswana are available through Air Botswana and South African Airways.
Flights from North America
There are no direct flights from North America to Botswana. Most travellers fly to Johannesburg from major U.S. and Canadian cities like New York, Washington, Atlanta, or Toronto before taking a connecting flight to Botswana.
Flights from Asia and the Middle East
Travellers from Asia and the Middle East can reach Botswana via connections in Doha, Dubai, or Addis Ababa. Qatar Airways, Emirates, and Ethiopian Airlines provide flights to Johannesburg or Addis Ababa, from where passengers can take regional flights to Botswana.
Flights from Australia
Flights from Australia typically route through Johannesburg via Sydney or Perth with airlines such as Qantas and Emirates. A connecting flight from Johannesburg to Botswana is then required.
Botswana’s Major Airports
Sir Seretse Khama International Airport (GBE) – Gaborone
Botswana’s main international gateway, GBE is best suited for business travellers or those starting their journey in the south. It offers flights to Johannesburg, Cape Town, Harare, and Addis Ababa.
Maun International Airport (MUB) – The Okavango Delta
MUB is the busiest airport for safari travellers. It serves as the main entry point to the Okavango Delta, Chobe National Park, and Moremi Game Reserve, with flights from Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Kasane.
Kasane International Airport (BBK) – Chobe National Park
BBK is ideal for those visiting Chobe National Park and Victoria Falls. There are direct flights from Johannesburg and charter services to various safari lodges.
Charter Flights and Light Aircraft Transfers
Many safari lodges in Botswana’s remote areas are accessible only by light aircraft flights. Operators like Mack Air, Wilderness Air, and Safari Air provide charter flights from Maun, Kasane, and other airports to private airstrips in the Okavango Delta, Chobe, and the Kalahari.
Tips for Flying to Botswana
- Book flights early, especially during the peak safari season (July – October).
- Check visa requirements based on your nationality.
- Pack light, as charter flights often have strict baggage limits.
- Consider travel insurance, covering medical emergencies and cancellations.
