Things To Do
in Francistown
Francistown is Botswana's second-largest city, located in the northeast near the Zimbabwe border. It began as a mining and trading outpost and today blends old colonial architecture with a bustling market scene. The city serves as a gateway to northern Botswana and the greater river systems, offering access to wildlife areas and cross-border culture.
The climate is warm and sunny for much of the year, with a hot, wet season typically from December to March.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the historic Francistown Railway Station, where you can admire its colonial architecture and learn about the city’s rich railway history. Stroll through the nearby markets to engage with local vendors selling crafts and fresh produce. A visit to the nearby Francistown Museum will provide insight into the cultural heritage of the region.
After lunch at a local eatery, head to the Khame Monument, a tribute to Botswana's first president, where you can reflect on the nation’s history. Enjoy a leisurely walk in the nearby park, soaking in the natural beauty and perhaps spotting local wildlife. Then, visit the Botswana Craft Centre to browse unique handmade goods and support local artisans.
As dusk falls, enjoy a traditional dinner at a local restaurant, where you can savor Botswana's cuisine. After dinner, take a stroll along the streets of Francistown, experiencing the vibrant nightlife and perhaps stopping by a local bar for a refreshing drink. End your evening by relaxing at your accommodation, reflecting on the day's experiences.
Set off early for a thrilling wildlife safari at the nearby Tuli Block, known for its diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes. Keep your eyes peeled for elephants, lions, and an array of bird species as you traverse the bush in a guided vehicle. The crisp morning air adds to the excitement as you capture the beauty of nature on your camera.
After a packed morning, enjoy a picnic lunch in the bush, surrounded by the sounds of nature. Continue your safari adventure, visiting different habitats to observe animals in their natural environment, and learn about conservation efforts in the area. The knowledgeable guide will share fascinating stories about wildlife behaviors and local ecosystems.
Return to Francistown in the evening and unwind after an exhilarating day. Enjoy dinner at a popular local restaurant, sampling traditional dishes and possibly some game meat. Spend your evening relaxing, perhaps sharing stories from the day's adventures with fellow travelers.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $1-3 |
| 🥗Mid-range restaurant meal | $8-20 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $40-90 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short trip) | $2-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Friendly, welcoming people
- Gateway to northern Botswana and wildlife experiences
- Hot summers can be uncomfortable without shade and water
- Public transportation outside the city center is limited
- "Dumela" - Hello
- "Ke kopa …" - Please / I would like …
- "Ke a leboga" - Thank you
- "Pula" - Currency name (Botswana currency)
Places to Visit in Francistown
Visit one of these nice places.
A vantage point to capture the blend of colonial architecture and modern storefronts as the sun lowers.
Waterfront scenes with birds, locals, and reflections—great for wide-angle and lifestyle shots.
Candid street photography opportunities amid market stalls, colors, and everyday interactions.
Food in Francistown
Francistown Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Shredded beef or lamb slow-cooked until tender, typically served with bogobe (pap) or morogo on the side.
Must-Try!
Maize or sorghum porridge (pap), a staple accompaniment to many stews and meats.
Sautéed wild spinach greens, often served with pap and meat for a nutritious balance.
Dried or fried Mopane worms, a protein-rich nibble or side dish found in markets and street stalls.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant market area offering fresh produce, grilled meats, and quick snacks from nearby stalls.
Portable kiosks and street-side stalls where you can sample meats, stews, and local bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet people with a smile and a friendly 'Dumela' (hello). Handshakes are common; use the right hand for most interactions.
Dress modestly in public spaces; show respect to elders; avoid loud confrontations in shared spaces.
Politeness and patience are valued; modesty in religious and cultural sites is appreciated.
Safety
Tipping in Francistown
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of around 10–15% is common if service is good. Taxis may appreciate a small tip for luggage or late-night rides.
Cash (Pula) is widely accepted in markets and smaller shops; many urban restaurants and hotels take cards (Visa/MMastercard). ATMs are common in the city center.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent afternoon thunderstorms; stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and seek shade during peak heat.
Generally mild days with cooler nights; light layers recommended, occasional chilly evenings.
Dry transition period; pleasant days transitioning to cooler evenings.
Warm and sunny with increasing wildlife activity; ideal for outdoor activities and photography.
Francistown at Night
Hiking in Francistown
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy to moderate river-side walk offering birdlife viewing, rural scenery, and a chance to see local wildlife.
Short hikes on the city’s outskirts with viewpoints over plains and farmlands.
Airports
How to reach Francistown by plane.
Small regional airport serving domestic and limited regional flights; easiest to connect via Johannesburg or Gaborone for longer trips.
Main international gateway to Botswana; major connections via Johannesburg, with onward domestic flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Botswana; widely represented in Francistown with strong cultural traditions.
Significant minority with its own language and cultural practices; contributes to local markets and cuisine.
Smaller expatriate and migrant communities involved in trade, mining, and services.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local leagues and matches are common in and around Francistown.
Active local and regional participation with practice facilities and club games.
Track and field activities available through schools and community clubs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Francistown.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most dishes can be adapted by omitting meat; look for morogo and pap-based meals or veggie stews; ask for vegetable-based options when ordering.