Passing through Francistown Airport? A layover in Francistown is more doable than you might think. The city is only about 40 minutes from the airport, and with a bit of planning you can stretch your legs, grab a real meal, and see something new before your next flight.
Before You Step Outside FRW
Three things to verify before you walk out of FRW:
- Can you legally enter Botswana? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 40-minute journey each way by Taxi, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the BWP. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some BWP in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Things to Do During Your Layover
If you head into Francistown, here are two things worth checking out:
Francistown Museum is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. You can see the highlights in about an hour without rushing.
Galleria Shopping Centre is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. It’s a good place to browse local goods and soak up the atmosphere.
If you’d rather stay inside FRW — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- FRW Terminal Waiting Area
- Local Crafts & Souvenirs Kiosk
The Best Way Into Francistown from FRW
From FRW, the Taxi gets you to Francistown in around 40 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 60 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Taxi offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Where to Eat
For food in Francistown, local travelers recommend Thapama Restaurant (at Thapama Hotel). If you have time for a second stop, Nando’s Francistown is another popular pick.
Back at FRW, FRW Airport Cafe is the go-to. Snack & Beverage Corner rounds out your in-terminal options.
How Much Money You’ll Need
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Francistown:
Transport to the city and back runs about $5 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $9 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $24 USD total.
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
Staying Connected
WiFi at FRW should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in Botswana and you’re good to go.
Storing Your Luggage at Francistown Airport
Luggage storage options at FRW can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in Francistown for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Taking a Break at FRW
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, FRW has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
Whether you spend your layover in Francistown exploring the streets or relaxing at FRW, the key is to make the time feel worthwhile. A quick city visit can turn a tedious wait into the highlight of a long travel day.
Just keep your boarding pass handy and leave plenty of time to get back. Happy travels.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.