Last updated: 23 December 2025
The Botswana Unified Revenue Service (BURS) has confirmed extended operating hours at selected border posts during the 2025/26 festive travel season, a move aimed at easing congestion and supporting increased cross-border traffic.
Travellers driving between Botswana, South Africa, and Zimbabwe during peak holiday periods are advised to take note of the revised schedules to plan smoother crossings and reduce waiting times.
Below is a breakdown of the affected Botswana border posts and their temporary festive operating hours.
Ramokgwebana / Plumtree Border Post (Botswana – Zimbabwe)
This busy northern crossing will operate 24 hours a day on the following dates:
- 21 December 2025: 00:00 – 24:00
- 22 December 2025: 00:00 – 24:00
- 23 December 2025: 00:00 – 24:00
- 24 December 2025: 00:00 – 24:00
- 03 January 2026: 00:00 – 24:00
- 04 January 2026: 00:00 – 24:00
- 05 January 2026: 00:00 – 24:00
This extension is particularly beneficial for travellers heading toward Hwange, Victoria Falls, and northern Botswana routes.
Martin’s Drift / Groblersbrug Border Post (Botswana – South Africa)
One of the most popular crossings between Botswana and South Africa will operate with extended evening hours on the following dates:
- 19 December 2025: 06:00 – 24:00
- 20 December 2025: 06:00 – 24:00
- 21 December 2025: 06:00 – 24:00
- 22 December 2025: 06:00 – 24:00
- 23 December 2025: 06:00 – 24:00
- 24 December 2025: 06:00 – 24:00
This border is frequently used by travellers heading to Makgadikgadi, Nxai Pan, Chobe, and central Botswana destinations.
Ramotswa / Swartkopfontein Border Post (Botswana – South Africa)
Extended daytime hours apply at this southern crossing on the following dates:
- 22 December 2025: 06:00 – 20:00
- 23 December 2025: 06:00 – 20:00
- 24 December 2025: 06:00 – 20:00
- 30 December 2025: 06:00 – 20:00
- 31 December 2025: 06:00 – 20:00
This border serves travellers between Gaborone and Gauteng, especially during holiday return traffic.
Travel Tips for Festive Border Crossings
- Carry valid passports, vehicle registration papers, and cross-border insurance.
- Expect peak congestion between 06:00 and 10:00 despite extended hours.
- Fuel up before arrival, especially when travelling through remote regions.
- Monitor official BURS and immigration updates for last-minute changes.
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