Things To Do
in Francistown
Francistown is the second largest city in Botswana and serves as an important commercial and industrial hub in the country. The city has a rich history dating back to the 19th century when it was established as a gold mining town. Today, Francistown is a bustling urban center with a mix of modern amenities and traditional markets.
Visitors can explore the city's cultural sites, vibrant music scene, and nearby natural attractions such as the Tachila Nature Reserve.
- "Dumelang" - Hello
- "O kae?" - How are you?
- "Ke a leboga" - Thank you
- "Tsamaya sentle" - Goodbye
- "O eng?" - What is it?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the local markets to experience the vibrant culture of Francistown. Grab a traditional breakfast from a vendor to fuel your adventures.
Head to the Tati River and enjoy a leisurely picnic along its banks. This scenic spot is perfect for relaxation and enjoying the natural beauty.
Wrap up your day with dinner at a local restaurant that offers Botswana's traditional dishes. Enjoy the evening ambiance while mingling with locals.
Take a guided tour to the nearby Tswapong Hills for breathtaking views and diverse wildlife. The early morning is the best time to spot animals in their natural habitat.
Enjoy a packed lunch at the summit while soaking in the panoramic scenery. Capture stunning photographs of the landscape and wildlife.
Return to Francistown and treat yourself to a relaxing evening at a local lodge. Share stories of your day over a cozy dinner.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Francistown is the second-largest city in Botswana, offering a vibrant urban environment.
- It has a strategic location, serving as a trade hub between Botswana and neighboring countries.
- The city has a diverse culture, with various events and festivals celebrating local traditions.
- Francistown is surrounded by beautiful landscapes and is close to national parks, providing opportunities for outdoor activities.
- The cost of living can be lower compared to larger cities, making it an attractive option for residents.
- Job opportunities may be limited compared to larger metropolitan areas, leading to higher unemployment rates.
- The city experiences a hot semi-arid climate, which can be uncomfortable for some residents.
- Public transportation options are limited, making it more challenging to navigate the city without a personal vehicle.
- While there are amenities, they may not be as extensive as those found in larger cities, potentially limiting lifestyle options.
- Urban infrastructure may need further development, impacting quality of life in certain areas.
Best Activities in Francistown
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the Tachila Nature Reserve, known for its diverse wildlife and beautiful landscapes. Visitors can enjoy nature walks, birdwatching, and game drives.
Enjoy outdoor activities such as picnicking, fishing, and boating at Thapama Pleasure Island. It's a great place to relax and unwind in a natural setting.
Visit the Supa Ngwao Museum to learn about the cultural and historical heritage of Botswana. The museum features outdoor exhibits and activities that showcase traditional artifacts and practices.
Places to Visit in Francistown
Visit one of these nice places.
Home to a variety of wildlife and offering scenic viewpoints for photography.
Features exhibits on the cultural and natural history of Botswana, with potential photographic opportunities.
Food in Francistown
Francistown Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Seswaa is a quintessential Botswana dish made from slow-cooked, tender, and shredded beef or goat meat, typically served with pap (maize porridge) and a side of vegetables. Head to Nando's or Marang Hotel for an authentic taste of Seswaa.
Must-Try!
Bogobe is a thick porridge made from sorghum or maize meal and is often enjoyed with a flavorful stew. For a genuine taste of Bogobe, visit local eateries like Amantle Fast Foods or Food Paradise.
Dikgobe is a delectable dish featuring morogo (a type of wild spinach or greens), beans, and sometimes other vegetables or legumes. You can savor Dikgobe at Lizard Entertainment Restaurant or Thapong Visual Arts Centre's restaurant.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Experience the vibrant sights and aromas of Woodlane Market, where you'll find a wide array of fresh produce, local spices, and traditional food stalls offering dishes like seswaa, bogobe, and more. It's an excellent spot to immerse in the local food culture.
Take a stroll along Station Road, where numerous food stalls offer an assortment of tasty street foods such as grilled meats, vetkoek (deep-fried bread stuffed with savory fillings), and various snacks like fried fish and samosas. The lively atmosphere adds to the charm of trying authentic street food.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
It is important to greet people with a handshake, especially when meeting for the first time. Use the phrase 'dumela' to say hello in Setswana.
Showing respect for elders is highly valued in Francistown and Botswana in general. It is customary to use the title 'Rra' (for men) or 'Mma' (for women) when addressing someone older than you.
When visiting Francistown, it is important to dress modestly and conservatively, especially when visiting rural areas or attending traditional events. This shows respect for the local culture and traditions.
Safety
Tipping in Francistown
Ensure a smooth experience
In Francistown, Botswana, tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated in restaurants, hotels, and for good service. A 10-15% tip is customary for good service.
Cash is widely used in Francistown, Botswana for most transactions. Credit and debit cards are also accepted in many establishments, especially in larger hotels and restaurants. It's advisable to carry some cash for smaller vendors and businesses that may not accept cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Francistown is during the dry season, from April to October, when the weather is cooler and wildlife viewing is at its best. Expect clear skies, minimal rainfall, and comfortable temperatures during this period.
During the wet season, from November to March, Francistown experiences higher temperatures and occasional heavy rainfall. Expect lush green landscapes, increased bird activity, and the possibility of encountering newborn wildlife during this time.
Francistown at Night
Hiking in Francistown
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic area located a short drive from Francistown, featuring diverse trails with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
This area offers various nature walks and hiking trails that connect with local art installations, providing a unique blend of culture and nature.
Located a bit further away, it's a great spot for eco-tourism, where you can hike around the pan and enjoy bird watching.
A natural reserve with expansive trails that wind through Botswana’s diverse flora and fauna, ideal for hiking and exploring.
Aiports
How to reach Francistown by plane.
Located approximately 100 kilometers from Francistown, this is the main airport serving Gaborone, the capital city of Botswana.
Situated about 150 kilometers from Francistown, this airport serves the town of Kasane and is the gateway to the Chobe National Park.
Located around 250 kilometers from Francistown, this airport serves the town of Maun, which is the primary access point for the Okavango Delta.
Located around 150 kilometers from Francistown in Zimbabwe, this airport serves as a gateway to the Victoria Falls tourist area.
Situated approximately 500 kilometers from Francistown in South Africa, this is the busiest airport in Africa and a major international hub.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The indigenous people of Botswana, primarily Tswana-speaking, who make up a significant portion of the population in Francistown.
A sizable community due to proximity and historical migration patterns; many work in various sectors in Francistown.
Includes people from neighboring countries and other African nations engaged in trade, business, and employment.
Includes foreign nationals from Europe, Asia, and America, often working in professional and technical fields.
Individuals who move to Francistown from rural areas for employment opportunities, often in construction and agriculture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Francistown, with many local teams and a strong community following. Matches are played regularly, and tournaments are organized at various levels.
Cricket has a growing presence in Francistown, with several clubs promoting the sport among youth. Local competitions are held, fostering talents and skills in the game.
Rugby is also quite popular in Francistown, with a number of teams participating in regional leagues. The sport has a passionate supporter base that enjoys local matches.
Netball is widely played among women and girls in Francistown, with school and community competitions being a regular occurrence, promoting teamwork and athleticism.
Athletics, including track and field events, is popular in schools and among the youth, with various events organized throughout the year to encourage participation.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Francistown.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Setswana cuisine often features meat-centric dishes, some restaurants and cafes in Francistown, such as Capello and Café Fino, offer vegetarian options like salads, grilled vegetables, and meat-free pasta. Additionally, you can find seasonal vegan and vegetarian dishes at Nando's.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can opt for dishes like grilled meats, fresh fish, and gluten-free salads at various restaurants. It's advisable to communicate your dietary needs to the staff, who are generally accommodating and willing to assist in providing suitable options.