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