Zimbabwe Travel Forum

I am planning a road trip to Lokuthula Lodge near the falls. I will be leaving from Gauteng and wondered whether I need insurance, and what papers I will need at the border posts.What time do the borders open and close? I am also looking for suitable accomodation in Botswana to break up the journey. Must I take US dollars or can I use SA rand? Also should I take additional fuel?
Thanks

Mate, you'll probably cross from South Africa into Botswana at Stockpoort/Parr's Halt (which is open from 8am to 4pm, I think).

From there you'll drive on the A1 via Mahalapye, Palapye and Tonotha to Francistown. At this juncture the road splits, going north/north-east on the A5 towards Bulawayo (Zimbabwe) or north-west towards the Botswana/Zambian border.

You'll find fuel in Francistown, and heading north-west towards the border with Zambia, you should also find fuel at Dukwi Village and Nata (I'd fill up in Francistown and Nata).

From Francistown, you'll go along the A3 via Mathangwane to Nata from where you'll travel north on the A33. Next fuel may be at Pandamatenga and then again at Kasane, which is on the border with Zambia. At this juncture, you'll get the ferry (operates from 6am to 6pm and costs US$25) across to the Kazungula border control in Zambia.

From here it is not far to Livingstone and you'll be near your destination!

I think you'll find an ATM in Mahalapye where you can get some Pula. Best bet would be to get Pula from a bank in South Africa before arriving in Botswana.

Got no idea from where you hail, so cannot advise on visas etc. Contact your local Botswana embassy or high commission to make sure you know what the requirements are. Won't be fun having to turn back at the border post!

You need to find a car rental company that will even let you go into Zim. Many will not and have not done for 3 years. I have a transport tip on my South Africa page with a company that will. As just described, you need to take the long way round. You can get fuel in Botswana ONLY. DO NOT carry extra fuel. I almost hit a mother elephant on the road. The taxis will beg you to do this. Being a fireball is not my idea of a safe travel option. Botswana uses Pula, which is a sound currency. What is your native currency?

By the way DO NOT change currency at the border - I have a warning tip on that somewhere.

Your car rental company does the paperwork for you. You pay a small fee for the car entry into Botswana, Zim and Botswana again at each border.

Don't leave South Africa without the paperwork. You will not be allowed entry without it. Again, the car rental company will insure you.

Have a great time!

Border opening hours are here:

http://www.botswana-travel-guide.com/bradt_guide.asp?bradt=1180