Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Shakawe. Shakawe Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 30 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at SWX:
First, verify that you can enter Botswana — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the local transport takes about 30 minutes into Shakawe, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — BWP is the currency here. ATMs near the arrivals area typically offer better rates than the exchange counters.
Getting to Shakawe from the Airport
From SWX, the local transport gets you to Shakawe in around 30 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 50 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the local transport offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Shakawe, budget roughly $24 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $9 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $5 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
Storing Your Luggage at Shakawe Airport
Luggage storage options at SWX 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 Shakawe for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Exploring Shakawe on a Layover
Two recommendations for your time in Shakawe:
Start with City Center Walk. No tickets or reservations needed — just explore at your own pace. Then, if time allows, make your way to Local Market. The atmosphere alone makes it worth a visit, even if you don’t buy anything.
If you’d rather stay inside SWX — 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:
- Airport Lounge
- Duty Free Shopping
Food Worth Trying
- In the city: Local Restaurant and Popular Eatery are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Shakawe.
- At the airport: Airport Cafe and Terminal Restaurant will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Taking a Break at SWX
Long overnight layover? Your options at SWX include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Botswana also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and SWX is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Shakawe and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Final Thoughts
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Shakawe genuinely does. There’s enough to fill a few hours with good food, interesting sights, and the kind of experience that makes a journey feel like more than just getting from A to B.
Make the most of it. You’ve got this.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.