Gaborone is a manageable city, and Sir Seretse Khama Airport is a manageable airport. Traveling with children through GBE is straightforward — the main consideration is making sure you have the right vehicle and, if needed, appropriate child restraints.
Child car seats
Botswana does not have strict enforcement of child seat laws, and most taxis do not carry them. If your children require car seats, you have two options: bring your own travel seat (lightweight, foldable models are made for this), or request one from your transfer provider well in advance.
Pre-booked transfer services are more likely to accommodate this request than random taxi drivers, but even so, confirm availability a day or two before your flight. If a seat is not available, the drive to central Gaborone is short (15-25 minutes) on well-maintained roads with moderate traffic.
Vehicle size
A standard sedan works for a couple with one or two small children and moderate luggage. If you are traveling with three or more children, have a stroller, or are carrying significant luggage, book a minivan or SUV. Specify your needs when arranging the transfer — showing up with four kids, six bags, and a stroller to find a compact sedan waiting is not a great start to a trip.
The airport experience with kids
GBE is a single-terminal airport with a relaxed atmosphere. Immigration lines can be slow, but they are orderly. Once through, luggage collection is in one hall. There are restrooms available but no dedicated family or baby-changing facilities beyond basic options. A small cafe and shops are available if you need snacks or water after landing.
The walk from arrivals to the car park is short and the route is paved. You will not struggle with a stroller or small children.
Connecting to safari destinations
Many families visiting Botswana are ultimately heading to safari destinations like Maun (Okavango Delta) or Kasane (Chobe). These require a domestic flight from GBE. If you are transiting through Gaborone to a safari, confirm whether your domestic flight departs from the same terminal and allow adequate connection time. If you need to overnight in Gaborone between flights, a hotel with airport shuttle service makes the logistics much simpler.
Practical tips
Bring sun protection — Gaborone is hot and sunny most of the year. Keep water bottles filled. Have snacks accessible for the drive. And if your children are old enough to understand, let them know the airport is small and calm — there is nothing to be anxious about.