Public transport includes taxis, local minibuses (Combis) and scheduled buses. A taxi usually travels from door to door without a fixed schedule. A Combi is a local minibus; buses operate locally or over longer distances. Central interchange points (bus ranks) serve as transfer hubs. The Department of Road Transport Services (DRTS) authorizes and regulates local routes, long-distance buses, taxis, on-demand taxis (call cabs), cross-border services, tour buses, school buses, employee shuttles and rental vehicles, among other services. In June 2024, there were 6,536 taxi permits, 3,369 permits for local minibuses, 2,316 for scheduled buses, 169 for call cabs and 591 for school buses. Unlicensed providers and gaps in accessibility continue to exist. To obtain a permit, a locally registered company or an approved person needs a suitable vehicle; a hearing and vehicle inspection then follow. A taxi permit takes approximately 39 working days to process, and the application costs BWP 130 plus the prescribed permit fee.
Transport in Botswana
Botswana relies heavily on roads for passenger and freight transport. For regular or frequent daily journeys, 61.72% of the population uses public transport, 25.48% uses a family or personal vehicle, and 7.50% walks. Taxis, minibuses, scheduled buses, private vehicles, aircraft and local ferries complement one another depending on the region.
Tip
Plan journeys in Botswana first according to distance, road conditions and the available connection. For short everyday journeys, minibuses and taxis are often more suitable, while for remote areas, cross-border travel or tight schedules you should consider a personal, rented or regional transport option. Confirm prices, journey times, documents and safety conditions immediately before travelling.