Gaborone - Discovering Botswana

Travelling to Gaborone

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Gaborone, 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 Gaborone 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 Gaborone, 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 Gaborone for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Gaborone

Sure, here's some general information about Gaborone: - Gaborone is the capital city of Botswana, located in Southern Africa.
- It has a population of approximately 250,000 people.
- The currency used in Gaborone is the Botswana Pula.
- The official languages are English and Setswana.
- Gaborone has a semi-arid climate with hot summers and mild winters.
- The city is known for its shopping malls, cultural museums, and wildlife sanctuaries.
- Some popular tourist attractions in Gaborone include the Gaborone Game Reserve, Mokolodi Nature Reserve, and the National Museum and Art Gallery.

What to visit in Gaborone

Here are some tourist attractions in Gaborone, Botswana along with some useful information about each of them: 1. Kgale Hill: This is a popular hiking and picnic spot that offers stunning views of the city. The hill is 1,287 meters high and takes around 45 minutes to climb. It is a great place to watch the sunset and enjoy the scenic beauty.
2. Three Chiefs' Statues: The statues of three Batswana chiefs - Khama III, Sebele I, and Bathoen I, are located at the center of the city. The statues are a symbol of Botswana's historical and cultural heritage and are worth a visit.
3. Gaborone Game Reserve: This reserve is located on the outskirts of the city and is home to many species of wildlife such as giraffes, zebras, and ostriches. It is a great place to go for a game drive, bird-watching, or a picnic.
4. National Museum and Art Gallery: This museum showcases Botswana's history, culture, and art. There are displays of traditional artifacts, contemporary art, and exhibitions that focus on the country's struggles and achievements.
5. Mokolodi Nature Reserve: This is a massive reserve that is located just outside Gaborone. It is one of the largest reserves in Botswana and is home to elephants, rhinos, cheetahs, and many other animals. Visitors can go on game drives, bird-watching, and walking trails.
6. Botanical Gardens: This is a beautiful garden that showcases Botswana's native flora. The gardens have a variety of plant species, including succulents and cacti, and offer a peaceful and serene environment for visitors to enjoy.
7. St. Claire Lion Park: This is a small park located just outside of the city that is home to lions, cheetahs, hyenas, and more. Visitors can watch these majestic animals up close and personal and can even take a walk with a lion cub.
These are some of the top tourist attractions in Gaborone, Botswana. There are many other places to see and things to do in the city, so make sure to do some more research and planning before your trip!
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 Gaborone.

When to go on holiday to Gaborone

The best time to visit Gaborone, Botswana is during the dry winter months, from May to September. During this time, the weather is mild with clear skies, and the humidity is low, making it comfortable for tourists to explore the city and go on safaris. Additionally, this is also the peak season for wildlife viewing.
It is important to note that temperatures can drop dramatically at night, so visitors should bring warm clothing for the evenings. The summer months, from October to April, are usually hot with occasional rain, but still a good time to visit if you don't mind the heat and humidity.

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

How to get to Gaborone

There are several ways to get to Gaborone, Botswana: 1. By Air: Gaborone has an international airport, Sir Seretse Khama International Airport, which is served by several major airlines such as South African Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, Emirates, Qatar Airways and more. You can take a direct flight from major cities like Johannesburg or Cape Town.
2. By Road: If you are traveling from neighboring countries, you can take a bus or drive to Gaborone from South Africa, Zimbabwe or Namibia.
3. By Train: Gaborone has a train station, which is connected to major cities in South Africa such as Johannesburg and Cape Town. It is recommended to check the visa requirements and travel restrictions before planning a trip to Botswana. It's always advisable to book your travel ticket in advance to avoid last minute hassle.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Gaborone, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Gaborone

Sure, here are some typical foods of Gaborone, Botswana: 1. Seswaa: A traditional meat dish made with beef, goat, or lamb that is slow-cooked and shredded. It is usually served with stiff porridge or pap.
2. Morogo: A leafy green vegetable stew that is a staple in Botswana. It is typically made with spinach and can be mixed with other vegetables such as tomatoes, onions, and beans.
3. Pap: A stiff maize porridge that is a staple food in Botswana. It is usually eaten with meat or vegetable stews and is similar to South African pap.
4. Vetkoek: A deep-fried dough bread that is similar to a doughnut but without the sugar. It is often stuffed with meat, cheese or jam.
5. Diphaphata: A type of bread made with whole wheat flour, often served with beef or chicken stew.
6. Chotlho: A traditional Botswana beef and bean stew with a spicy curry flavor, often eaten with pap.
7. Mopane worms: A popular delicacy in Botswana, mopane worms are the caterpillar of the emperor moth and are often dried and seasoned before being eaten.
8. Bogobe jwa lerotse: A sorghum-based porridge that is a traditional food of the Kalanga people in Botswana. It is often served with a vegetable relish.
9. Mageu: A fermented drink made from maize that is commonly consumed in Botswana. It has a slightly sour flavor and is often served as a refreshing drink on a hot day.
I hope this helps!
You can find general info about typical foods in Botswana here.

Is Gaborone an expensive destination for tourists?

Gaborone is considered a relatively expensive destination for tourists compared to some other African cities. However, the cost of traveling to Gaborone will depend on a number of factors such as your travel style, the time of year you visit and the activities you plan to do. Accommodation and transportation are generally the most expensive aspects of travel to Gaborone. You should also take into account the cost of dining out, entrance fees to tourist attractions and other activities. It's always a good idea to do some research and budget planning before your trip in order to ensure that you can afford the costs associated with your visit.

Where to find accomodation in Gaborone

The best areas to find accommodation in Gaborone include: 1. Central Business District (CBD): This area is located in the heart of the city and is home to various hotels, restaurants, and shops. It offers easy access to major tourist attractions such as the National Museum and Art Gallery and Gaborone Dam.
2. Kgale Hill: This area offers stunning views of the city and has a range of accommodation options, from hotels to guesthouses.
3. Tlokweng: Located on the outskirts of Gaborone, Tlokweng is a quiet and peaceful area with several lodges and guesthouses. It is close to attractions such as the Mokolodi Nature Reserve.
4. Gaborone West: This residential area is popular with visitors due to its proximity to the airport and the University of Botswana. It offers a range of affordable accommodation options.
You can check hotel prices at Gaborone here:
Booking.com

Is Gaborone a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Gaborone is generally considered a safe place for tourists. The crime rate is relatively low compared to other major cities in Africa, and the government takes security measures seriously. However, it is always important to take common sense precautions while traveling, such as being aware of your surroundings, avoiding walking alone at night, and keeping your valuables secure. It is also recommended to check with your embassy or consulate for any travel advisories or safety concerns before your trip.
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 Gaborone.

What type of travelers will enjoy Gaborone the most?

Gaborone is a great destination for all types of travelers. Here are the types of travelers who will enjoy the city the most: 1. Couples: Couples will love Gaborone for its romantic atmosphere, with plenty of scenic spots to visit like the Three Dikgosi Monument and the Gaborone Dam. Nightlife options like the Bull & Bush pub offer a great way for couples to unwind and enjoy a night out.
2. Young people looking for fun: Gaborone is a great destination for young people looking for fun, with a range of entertainment options like the Game City Mall, where you can go shopping, watch movies, or hit the arcade. There are also plenty of restaurants and bars around the city where you can enjoy the vibrant nightlife.
3. Families: Families will enjoy Gaborone for its family-friendly attractions like the National Botanical Garden and the Lion Park Resort. Kids will love seeing the animals, riding horses, and playing at the playgrounds. Families can also enjoy day trips to nearby game reserves and wildlife parks like Mokolodi Nature Reserve.
Overall, Gaborone is a great destination for all types of travelers, and there is something to suit everyone's preferences.

How to get around Gaborone

There are several modes of transportation that you can use to move around Gaborone, Botswana, including: 1. Taxis - Taxis are readily available and convenient for short trips around the city.
2. Buses - There is a public bus system in Gaborone, which is affordable but can be crowded and infrequent.
3. Car rentals - Renting a car is a good option if you want more flexibility and independence.
4. Private taxis - Private taxis can be arranged through hotels or car rental companies and provide a more personalized service.
5. Bicycle rentals - Some hotels and businesses offer bicycle rentals, which are a great way to explore the city and stay active. However, cycling in Gaborone can be challenging due to the lack of bike paths and high traffic volumes.

What to see around Gaborone

Sure, here are some nice places to visit on a day trip from Gaborone: 1. Mokolodi Nature Reserve: This reserve is located just 10 kilometers south of Gaborone and offers a variety of activities such as game drives, nature walks, and bird watching.
2. Oodi Weavers: Located 30 kilometers from Gaborone, this cultural village offers an opportunity to learn about the traditional weaving techniques of the Bakgatla people.
3. Lentswe-la-Oodi Weavers: Another weaving village located about 40 kilometers from Gaborone, this place offers traditional sheared wool products such as carpets, wall-hangings and other crafts.
4. Kgale Hill: This hill is a popular hiking spot for fitness enthusiasts and offers a great view of Gaborone and its surroundings.
5. Gaborone Dam: This is an ideal spot for fishing and picnicking and is located less than 10 kilometers from Gaborone.
6. Phuthadikobo Museum: This museum is located in Mochudi, about 40 kilometers from Gaborone, and provides an insight into the history and culture of the BaTswana people.
7. Manyana Rock Paintings: Located 80 kilometers from Gaborone, these ancient rock paintings provide an insight into the history and culture of the San people.
I hope this helps!
For every travel information about Botswana you can click here.

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