A layover in Khwai River is one of those happy accidents of air travel. Khwai River Lodge Airport sits just 30 minutes from the city center by local transport, and even a short visit can be surprisingly rewarding. This guide covers everything you need to get out of the terminal and back in time for your next boarding call.
Important Details Before You Go
A few things to sort out before you leave KHW:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Botswana. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Khwai River takes about 30 minutes by local transport. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is BWP. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
Getting to Khwai River from the Airport
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| local transport | ~30 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~50 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the local transport is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
How to Spend Your Time in Khwai River
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Khwai River, two standouts are:
- Short Game Drive in Khwai Concession — It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Khwai River.
- Mokoro Excursion on Khwai River — Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at KHW, check out &Beyond Khwai River Lodge Main Lounge or &Beyond Khwai River Lodge Curio Shop to keep yourself occupied.
Where to Eat
For food in Khwai River, local travelers recommend Machaba Camp Restaurant. If you have time for a second stop, Belmond Savute Elephant Lodge Restaurant is another popular pick.
Back at KHW, &Beyond Khwai River Lodge Main Restaurant is the go-to. &Beyond Khwai River Lodge Bush Boma Dinner rounds out your in-terminal options.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Quick budget math for your Khwai River layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$10 |
| Meal | ~$20 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$40 |
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Bag Storage Near KHW
Specific locker facilities at KHW aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Khwai River itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at KHW for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Khwai River or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Rest Areas & Lounges
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, KHW 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 Khwai River exploring the streets or relaxing at KHW, 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.