BotswanavsSouth Africa
Nationwide public holidays in 2026. Regional days are left out — they only apply in some areas.
6
Days you're both off
5
Only Botswana
7
Only South Africa
What the numbers say
In 2026, Botswana has 11 nationwide public holidays and South Africa has 13, so South Africa gets 2 more days off. They line up on 6 dates, including New Year's Day, Good Friday, Easter Monday and Labour Day.
What matters for time off is how many land on weekdays: Botswana has 10 on working days (1 fall on a weekend), against 11 for South Africa (2 on a weekend).
For short breaks, Botswana offers 5 long weekends (a Monday or Friday holiday) and 3 possible bridge days (a Tuesday or Thursday holiday); South Africa offers 6 and 3. They're level on bridge days. The busiest month is April in Botswana and April in South Africa.
Shared days
Both countries close. Nothing gets done either side.
Only Botswana
South Africa is working — expect one-sided quiet.
Only South Africa
Botswana is working these days.
Full calendars: Botswana · South Africa