A long layover in Gaberone is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Sir Seretse Khama International Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 75 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
Before heading into Gaberone, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Botswana vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Gaberone is roughly 75 minutes from GBE via local transport. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in local currency. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some the local currency in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Getting to Gaberone from the Airport
The most straightforward way into Gaberone is the local transport, which takes about 75 minutes. This is generally the best option for layover travelers — it’s reliable and you won’t get stuck in traffic.
A taxi or ride-share will also get you there, typically in 95 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the local transport is usually the smarter call.
Luggage Storage Options
Dedicated luggage storage at GBE may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Gaberone’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Money & Budget Tips
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Gaberone might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$10 USD
- A meal: ~$20 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$40 USD
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Gaberone.
Things to Do During Your Layover
If you head into Gaberone, here are two things worth checking out:
Gaborone Game Reserve is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Gaberone.
Three Dikgosi Monument is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. You can see the main features in a short visit.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside GBE, you can spend time at Executive Lounge GBE or try Sir Seretse Khama Duty-Free. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Food & Dining Options
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Gaberone: Sanitas Tea Garden and Rhapsody’s Gaborone. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Airport Terminal Restaurant or Airport Coffee Shop. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Staying Connected
WiFi at GBE 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.
Resting at the Airport
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at GBE.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in Gaberone count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave GBE. Once you do, you’ll be glad you did.
Keep your flight info handy, budget a buffer for the return, and enjoy the ride.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.