Francistown - Discovering Botswana

Travelling to Francistown

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Francistown, a pretty good destination in Botswana (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Francistown and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Francistown, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Botswana, here's everything to know about Francistown for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Francistown

Francistown is the second largest city in Botswana, located in the eastern region of the country. It is an important commercial and transportation hub, and serves as a gateway to several popular destinations in the region. The city has a rich history and cultural heritage, with several landmarks and attractions including historical buildings, museums, and game reserves. Francistown is also known for its vibrant street markets, where visitors can find a variety of traditional crafts, clothing, and food. The climate in Francistown is generally dry with hot summers and mild winters.

What to visit in Francistown

Here are some top tourist attractions in Francistown, Botswana: 1. Supa Ngwao Museum - This museum showcases the history and culture of Botswana with a focus on the Tswana people. It houses a significant collection of traditional artifacts, crafts, and photographs. Admission is free.
2. Tachila Nature Reserve - Tachila is a wildlife sanctuary located just outside Francistown. Visitors can enjoy game drives, hiking trails, and birdwatching in the reserve. The reserve boasts a variety of bird species and animals such as wildebeest, giraffes, and zebras.
3. Somarelang Tikologo (Keep Francistown Clean and Green) - Somarelang Tikologo is a community-based organization in Francistown that focuses on environmental conservation and education. Visitors can participate in various activities such as recycling and composting workshops.
4. Domboshaba Ruins - The Domboshaba Ruins are ancient ruins located about 60km outside of Francistown. The ruins are believed to have been constructed in the 14th century and were used as a trading center. Visitors can explore the ruins and learn about their history.
5. Galo Mall - Galo Mall is a popular shopping center in Francistown that offers a range of stores and restaurants. Visitors can shop for souvenirs, clothing, and electronics, or enjoy a meal at one of the many eateries.
6. Thapama Lodge - Thapama Lodge is a resort located in Francistown that offers luxurious accommodations, a restaurant, and a pool. Visitors can relax and enjoy the amenities or explore nearby attractions such as the Supa Ngwao Museum or the Tachila Nature Reserve.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Botswana, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Francistown.

When to go on holiday to Francistown

The best time to visit Francistown, Botswana is during the dry season, which typically runs from May to September. During this time, the weather is cooler and you can enjoy clearer skies and easier wildlife sightings. The wet season, which runs from October to April, can bring heavy rains and high humidity, which can make outdoor activities more challenging. Additionally, some parks and game reserves may be closed during the wet season for safety reasons. Overall, if you are looking to go on a safari, then it is recommended to visit Francistown during the dry season.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Francistown

There are different ways to get to Francistown, Botswana. By Air: You can fly into Francistown via Francistown International Airport. There are different airlines that offer flights to Francistown, including Air Botswana, Ethiopian Airlines, South African Airways, and others.
By Land: You can also get to Francistown by bus or car from neighboring countries such as Zambia, Zimbabwe, and South Africa. There are different bus companies that offer trips to Francistown, such as Intercape and Greyhound.
By Rail: You can take a train from Gaborone, Botswana's capital city, to Francistown. Botswana railways offers several services, including the "Pioneer" and "Molopo" trains.
When planning your trip, it is important to consider visa requirements, travel insurance, and other necessary documents and vaccinations.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Francistown, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Francistown

Francistown is one of the largest cities in Botswana and is known for its rich and diverse cuisine. Below are some of the typical foods you can try in Francistown: 1. Seswaa - A popular traditional dish made from slow-cooked beef or goat meat, usually served with pap (a type of porridge made from maize meal) or boiled rice.
2. Bogobe - A thick porridge made from sorghum or maize meal, often served with meat or vegetables.
3. Dumplings - Similar to traditional Australian dumplings, these are made from maize meal and served with tomato relish or meat.
4. Morogo - A type of spinach-like vegetable that is found in Botswana, it can be boiled or sauteed with onions and served as a side dish.
5. Mopane Worms - A unique delicacy in Botswana, mopane worms are actually caterpillars that are dried and fried before being served. They have a nutty flavor and are usually eaten with pap.
6. Sesata - A spiced beef or goat meat snack that is often enjoyed with a cold drink.
7. Mageu - A traditional drink made from fermented maize meal, which has a slightly sour flavor and is usually served cold.
You can find general info about typical foods in Botswana here.

Is Francistown an expensive destination for tourists?

Francistown is not considered an expensive destination for tourists compared to some other destinations in Botswana. However, the cost of living and traveling in Francistown may still be higher than some other places in the region. Prices for accommodation, food, and activities will vary depending on the quality and location. It is generally recommended to research and compare prices before planning a trip to Francistown.

Where to find accomodation in Francistown

The best areas to find accommodation in Francistown, Botswana are the central business district (CBD), Selepa, Somerset, and Monarch. These areas are close to popular attractions such as the Supa Ngwao Museum, the Tachila Nature Reserve, and the Gerald Estates Game Reserve. The CBD offers a wide range of accommodation options, including hotels, guesthouses, and apartments. Selepa and Somerset are residential areas with guesthouses and bed and breakfasts. Monarch is a new suburb with modern guesthouses and lodges.
You can check hotel prices at Francistown here:
Booking.com

Is Francistown a safe destination for tourists?

Francistown is a safe place for tourists, generally. However, like any other city, it's always wise to use common sense and take precautions to ensure your safety. It's recommended to stay alert and aware of your surroundings, avoid walking alone at night, keep your valuables secure, and follow the local laws and customs. It's also a good idea to do some research and explore the city with a trusted guide or group. Additionally, you can contact your embassy or consulate for any safety updates or advice.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Botswana here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Francistown.

What type of travelers will enjoy Francistown the most?

Francistown, the second-largest city in Botswana, has a variety of attractions that can cater to different types of travelers. Here are some suggestions: 1. Couples: Couples may enjoy the historical and cultural landmarks in the city, such as the Supa Ngwao Museum or the Donga Nature Reserve. A romantic stroll through the city's parks, such as the Tachila Nature Reserve, might also be a good option.
2. Young people looking for fun: Francistown has several nightclubs and bars, such as Paddy's Bar and Club, which offer a vibrant party scene. The city also has a range of sporting activities to offer, from football matches to motor racing, which might appeal to young travelers.
3. Families: Francistown is also a great place for families, as there are fun activities for all ages, such as the Kalahari Fresh Produce Market or the Tachila Nature Reserve. Families can explore the cultural and heritage sites together, such as Supa Ngwao Museum or the Matsiloje Village.
Overall, Francistown offers a variety of experiences for different types of travelers, and it depends on the travelers' interests and preferences.

How to get around Francistown

The most common transportation options in Francistown, Botswana are taxis, buses, and private cars. Taxis are widely available and can be hailed on the street or arranged through a taxi company. Buses are also a popular option for getting around town and connecting to other destinations. Private cars can be rented from various car rental agencies in town for those who prefer to drive themselves. Additionally, walking and cycling can also be viable options for short distances.

What to see around Francistown

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Francistown, Botswana: 1. Tswapong Hills: A scenic mountain range located approximately 70 km north of Francistown. It's an ideal place for hiking or enjoying a picnic.
2. Matsiloje: A small village located approximately 50 km north of Francistown. It's famous for its traditional crafts such as basket weaving, pottery, and beadwork.
3. Moremi Gorge: A stunning gorge located approximately 30 km west of Francistown. It offers beautiful views and hiking trails.
4. Shashe Dam: An artificial lake located approximately 25 km southeast of Francistown. It offers opportunities for fishing, boating, and picnicking.
5. Taung: An archaeological site located approximately 140 km southeast of Francistown. It's famous for being the site of the discovery of the Taung Child, a three-million-year-old fossilized hominid skull.
For every travel information about Botswana you can click here.

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