Travelling to Botswana from Zimbabwe
Complete guide for Zimbabwean travellers to Botswana
Visa-Free - 90 DaysEntry Requirements
Visa-free: Zimbabweans can enter Botswana without a visa for up to 90 days per year.
Required Documents
- Valid Zimbabwe passport (6+ months validity, 2+ blank pages)
- Proof of accommodation in Botswana
- Proof of sufficient funds
- Return/onward transport proof
- Yellow Fever certificate (if from endemic area)
90 days per year: Unlike South Africa's 90 days per visit, Botswana's 90-day allowance is cumulative per calendar year. Track your days carefully.
Border Crossings
| Border Post | Location | Hours | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plumtree/Ramokgwebana | Near Bulawayo | 6am-10pm | Busiest crossing, connects to Gaborone/Francistown |
| Kazungula | Near Victoria Falls | 6am-6pm | New bridge, connects to Kasane |
| Pandamatenga | Matabeleland North | 8am-4pm | Less busy, rural crossing |
Transport Options
- Bus: Regular services from Bulawayo to Francistown and Gaborone. Journey: 3-4 hours to Francistown, 7-8 hours to Gaborone.
- Flights: Air Botswana and other carriers operate Harare-Gaborone routes. Approximately 1.5 hours.
- Driving: Good tarred roads. Bulawayo to Francistown ~200km via Plumtree.
- Shared transport: Kombis available from Bulawayo rank to Plumtree border.
Popular Destinations
Gaborone
Capital city, shopping malls, business hub, Game City.
Francistown
Second city, close to Zimbabwe border, shopping destination.
Chobe National Park
World-famous wildlife, elephants, boat safaris on Chobe River.
Okavango Delta
UNESCO World Heritage, mokoro safaris, unique inland delta ecosystem.
Maun
Gateway to the Okavango Delta and Moremi Game Reserve.
Kasane
Near Victoria Falls, Chobe access, Kazungula border crossing.
Practical Tips
- Currency: Botswana Pula (BWP). USD and ZAR also accepted in some areas. ATMs widely available.
- Economy: Botswana is one of Africa's wealthiest countries. Expect higher prices than Zimbabwe.
- Safety: Generally very safe. Low crime rates compared to the region.
- Employment: Many Zimbabweans work in Botswana. A work permit is required for legal employment.
- Foot and mouth: Veterinary checks at borders. Do not carry meat or dairy products across.
- Driving: Drive on the left. Watch for wildlife on roads, especially at night.
FAQ
No, Zimbabwean citizens can enter Botswana visa-free for up to 90 days per calendar year under the SADC protocol.
The main crossings are Plumtree/Ramokgwebana (busiest, near Bulawayo, 6am-10pm), Kazungula (near Victoria Falls, 6am-6pm), and Pandamatenga (rural, 8am-4pm).
Quick Info
- Visa: Not required
- Stay: 90 days/year
- Currency: BWP (Pula)
- Language: English, Setswana
- Drive: Left side