South African Airways (SAA) is adding a new stamp to its route map.
Starting Tuesday, 4 November 2025, the national carrier will launch a new twice-daily international service between Johannesburg and Gaborone, Botswana.
And bookings are already open on the airline’s website.
SAA to launch new route
The addition of this new route strengthens SAA’s regional reach and provides a faster link between two cities separated by less than an hour in the air.
Flights will operate on the following schedule:
- Morning service departs Johannesburg at 06:35, arriving in Gaborone at 07:35. The return flight will depart Gaborone at 08:25, arriving back in Johannesburg at 09:25.
- Afternoon service will depart Johannesburg at 16:40, arriving in Gaborone at 17:40. The return flight will depart Gaborone at 18:30, arriving in Johannesburg at 19:30.
SAA says the new service is about more than convenience.
“The launch of this route not only strengthens the cultural and economic ties between Botswana and South Africa but also reinforces SAA’s position as a premium network carrier,” CEO John Lamola said in a statement.
Competition for Air Botswana and Airlink
SAA won’t be alone on the Johannesburg–Gaborone corridor. The route is already well-served, primarily by Air Botswana and Airlink.
Air Botswana often comes out as the most affordable choice for travellers, with one-way fares starting around R1 988 to R2 100.
Airlink, by contrast, tends to price slightly higher, with one-way tickets averaging R2 000 to R2 100.
With its entry in November, SAA is expected to compete in the same fare range, potentially matching Air Botswana’s affordability.
Have you travelled to Botswana or would you like to?
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