Tourism on the rise: Botswana targets global travelers in 2025
- Paul Aage Hegvik
- Apr 2
- 3 min read
Botswana's tourism sector is experiencing a significant resurgence, marked by increased international arrivals and enhanced accessibility.
A notable development is according to Nomad Africa Airlink's introduction of direct flights between Cape Town and Gaborone, positioning Botswana as a premier African destination for 2025.
With strategic initiatives like enhanced flight connectivity and a focus on sustainable tourism, Botswana is well-positioned to solidify its status as a leading African destination. The continued growth in tourist arrivals reflects the country's appeal and the effectiveness of its tourism strategies.
Tourism growth in 2023 and early 2024
In 2023, Botswana welcomed a total of 1,183,432 international visitors, underscoring the country's growing appeal as a top travel destination in southern Africa. The Southern African Development Community (SADC) region was the leading source of visitors, contributing a substantial 77.2 percent of the total arrivals. South Africa emerged as the top contributor, with 33.3 percent of the total, amounting to 394,090 tourists. Zimbabwe followed with 22.3 percent, or 263,697 visitors, while Zambia accounted for 10.8 percent, or 128,346.
In the first quarter of 2024, Botswana received 267,805 visitors. March was the busiest month, recording 38.8 percent (101,774 visitors) of the total arrivals. January and February saw 34.4 percent (92,136 visitors) and 27.6 percent (73,895 visitors) respectively.
Enhanced eccessibility
The launch of Airlink's direct flights between Cape Town and Gaborone in April 2025 has significantly improved accessibility to Botswana. This development is expected to boost tourist arrivals further, making Botswana's diverse wildlife and natural beauty more accessible to international travelers.
International airlines - Botswana
Botswana is served by around 6 to 8 international airlines, mainly through Sir Seretse Khama International Airport in Gaborone and Maun Airport, which is a major gateway to safari destinations like the Okavango Delta.
International airlines flying to Botswana typically include:
Airlink (South Africa) – with routes from Johannesburg and Cape Town to Gaborone and Maun
Ethiopian Airlines – connects Gaborone to Addis Ababa and beyond
Qatar Airways (via codeshare with Air Botswana or South African Airways) – indirect access
South African Airways – connects via Johannesburg
Kenya Airways – offers connections via Nairobi, often with codeshare agreements
TAAG Angola Airlines – occasional regional connections
LAM Mozambique Airlines – limited regional routes
Most international routes involve a transfer via Johannesburg, Cape Town, or Addis Ababa. Gaborone, Maun, and Kasane are the main international gateways, but Maun is most used by safari tourists heading into Botswana’s top wilderness areas.
International airports in Botswana
Botswana's air travel infrastructure is supported by several key international airports, each facilitating both domestic and international flights. Below is an overview of the major airports and their international connections:
Sir Seretse Khama International Airport (GBE) – Gaborone:
International Airlines and Destinations
Air Botswana: Offers flights to Johannesburg (South Africa), Cape Town (South Africa), Lusaka (Zambia), and Harare (Zimbabwe).
Airlink (South Africa): Provides services to Johannesburg and Cape Town.
Ethiopian Airlines: Operates flights connecting Gaborone to Addis Ababa (Ethiopia), with onward connections to various international destinations.
Maun Airport (MUB):
International Airlines and Destinations:
Airlink (South Africa): Offers flights from Johannesburg and Cape Town directly to Maun, serving as a gateway to the Okavango Delta.
Air Botswana: Provides regional flights, including routes to Gaborone and other domestic destinations.
Kasane Airport (BBK):
International Airlines and Destinations:
Airlink (South Africa): Operates flights from Johannesburg to Kasane, facilitating access to the Chobe National Park.
CemAir: Provides services connecting Kasane with other regional destinations.
Air Botswana: Offers flights to Gaborone and other domestic locations.
Francistown Airport (FRW):
International Airlines and Destinations:
Air Botswana: Conducts flights primarily to Gaborone, with limited international services.
These airports play a crucial role in connecting Botswana to neighboring countries and major cities, supporting both tourism and business travel. Travelers are advised to check with airlines for the most current flight schedules and routes, as services may vary.
