How to travel around Gaborone

The beautiful city of Gaborone which serves as the capital of Botswana paves the way for travellers to pick and choose a preferred form of commuting to their favourite tourist destinations. From public buses to self-driving options, the city affords outstanding value and variety for those keen on exploring all that the city has to offer.

Public transportation

Although, you will not be found burning holes in your pockets owing to the ridiculously affordable fares that are associated with relying on the city’s public transportation system, this form of travel isn’t commonly utilised, especially by travellers and business personnel alike. However, if you do harbour thoughts of not just exploring the ‘ins and outs’ of Gaborone but all those neighbouring cities which are equally as charming and appealing, then waste no time in hopping onto the next available bus. In fact, a good way to get around this need would be to first check into Avani Gaborone Resort & Casino which is arguably, one of the best hotels in Botswana from where you can make inquiries on contacting reputed bus companies. In this regard, Seabelo and its services can be made excellent use of to journey within the city limits as well as reach areas including Maun and Kasane. Furthermore, the local trains can be hailed which more or less mirror travelling by bus from a cost point of view. In turn, the train can be utilised if one also wishes to move towards the towns of Lobatse and Francistown from the nation’s capital. In terms of perks, as a whole, public transportation does present foreign nationals like yourself with a chance to meet, and greet and perhaps, exchange pleasantries with beaming locals.

Minibus

Fondly referred to as ‘combis,’ the minibuses which operate in the city cover the same routes as the bus. Though one will have to contend with more stops and a slower pace of travel coupled with a tendency to not stick to timetables which is a far cry from what you will experience if you rely on the bus to get you to and from Gaborone's most visited landmarks. Thus, if it does boil down to a toss-up between the minibus and the bus or train, always opt for one of the two latter options if you desire a more hassle-free means of commuting. However, the minibus is an easy find given that they pass through local stations and malls.

Licensed taxis

For a higher price tag that brings with it luxurious rides, never look beyond the prospect of hailing a licensed taxi. Easily distinguished by their number plates, these vehicles can accommodate up to 5 passengers but do carry a caveat that ought to be factored in long before you decide to get in. This is because the rides are usually shared amongst passengers which may not be all too enticing if you value and appreciate personal comfort and space for the duration of your trip.    

Self-driving

For those that cannot be bothered with timetables and standard routines & routes, then choosing to drive along the streets of the nation’s capital in a favourable vehicle would serve one’s interests better. Based on the fact that the city affords numerous car rental services to make use of, this means of travel will place you in the driver’s seat so to speak at all times. Thus, one will need to adhere to the regulations and protocols followed not just in the city but in Botswana. In the event you are a holder of a driver’s license that is valid in your country of origin and where it is found that you weren’t a resident in Botswana at the time and date of its issuance, then you can easily seek the services of the closest car rental. Moreover, if you intend on getting a driver’s license from Botswana, then before making an application you will need to have a Permanent Resident Permit as well as an international driver’s license. In terms of traffic rules, you will always have to drive on the left side of the road and will be required to give way to traffic approaching from the right.