Things To Do
in Gaborone
Gaborone is the capital and largest city of Botswana, set along the Notwane River with a backdrop of gentle hills. It blends modern buildings and broad avenues with green spaces and a calm, welcoming pace. The city serves as Botswana’s administrative and commercial hub, offering museums, markets, and parks that showcase local culture.
Within easy reach of wildlife escapes, Gaborone makes a comfortable base for exploring both urban life and the surrounding wilderness.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the National Museum and Art Gallery, where you can immerse yourself in Botswana's rich cultural heritage. Enjoy a guided tour that highlights the country's history through its captivating artifacts and contemporary art pieces. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the nearby Botanical Gardens to appreciate the local flora and unwind in the serene environment.
For lunch, treat yourself to traditional Botswana cuisine at a local eatery, where you can savor dishes like seswaa and bogobe. Post-lunch, head to the Three Dikgosi Monument, an iconic symbol of Botswana's democratic history, and learn about the chiefs who played a pivotal role in the country's independence. Spend some time at the nearby Gaborone City Hall, where you can admire the architecture and take photos.
As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a rooftop restaurant with panoramic views of the city skyline. Savor a mix of local and international dishes while enjoying live music that showcases Botswana's vibrant culture. After dinner, take a leisurely walk through the city center to soak in the evening ambiance and perhaps find a cozy café for a nightcap.
Begin your day with an early morning safari at the Gaborone Game Reserve to witness the beauty of Botswana's wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for zebras, impalas, and various bird species as you traverse the park in a guided vehicle. Enjoy the refreshing morning air while taking photographs of the scenic landscapes.
After your safari, have a picnic lunch in the reserve amidst nature, enjoying the tranquility of your surroundings. In the afternoon, explore the walking trails, where you can take a closer look at the diverse flora and fauna. Spot some of the smaller wildlife, such as tortoises and various insects, while enjoying the serenity of the reserve.
Return to Gaborone and unwind at a local restaurant that specializes in game meat for a unique dining experience. Relish dishes like kudu or ostrich steak, paired with traditional sides, while sharing stories of your day's adventures. After dinner, consider catching a local cultural performance to immerse yourself further in Botswana's artistic scene.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-10 |
| 🍽️Meal for 2 at a mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| ☕Coffee or tea at a cafe | $2-4 |
| 🚖Taxi starting fare | $2-4 |
| 🏠Monthly rent (1-bedroom in city center) | $700-1000 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Friendly locals and a relaxed, safe city vibe
- Easy access to wildlife reserves and day trips
- Strong urban amenities with growing cultural and dining options
- Good infrastructure and English widely spoken
- Limited nightlife compared with larger regional capitals
- Public transport outside the city center can be sparse
- Heat in the summer and occasional heavy rainfall in the wet season
- Higher costs for imported goods relative to some regional cities
- "Dumela" - Hello
- "O kae?" - How are you?
- "Kea leboga" - Thank you
- "Ee" - Yes
- "Joale ka sekgwe?" - Please/Now what?
Places to Visit in Gaborone
Visit one of these nice places.
A monumental bronze sculpture near the Parliament complex, framed by cityscape views and a sense of national pride.
A popular vantage point offering sweeping views of Gaborone; sunrise and sunset provide dramatic lighting.
A peaceful water body with hills in the distance; ideal for sunset silhouettes and bird photography.
Distinctive red-brick architecture and flag-lit facades; best photographed from surrounding streets or during tours when allowed.
Architecturally interesting building and galleries that provide cultural backdrops for photographs.
Scenic riverfront walks and green spaces near the city center, excellent for casual portraits and nature shots.
Food in Gaborone
Gaborone Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Slow-cooked shredded beef or goat, typically served with pap (maize porridge) and morogo (greens); a Botswana staple found in homes and many restaurants.
Must-Try!
Creamy maize porridge paired with seasoned greens; a classic combination often served with stews.
Wild spinach greens often cooked with onions and peanut sauce; a common side dish.
A hearty mix of beans and sorghum or millet, sometimes served as a stew or side dish.
Fried bread that can be filled with savory fillings or served with condiments; a popular street-food option.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant market with produce, bread, snacks, and prepared foods; great for trying local flavors and grabbing a quick bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A warm handshake is standard; maintain friendly eye contact. Address elders with respect and greet people in Setswana when possible, though English is widely understood.
Dress modestly in public spaces and when visiting religious sites. Ask before taking photos of people, especially in private settings.
Safety
Tipping in Gaborone
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always expected. In restaurants, 5–10% is common if service isn’t included. Round up taxi fares or give a small extra for good service.
Cash (Botswana Pula) and major cards (Visa/MMastercard) are widely accepted in the city. ATMs are common, and many shops and restaurants also accept mobile payment options in urban areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with cooling evenings; occasional showers begin to appear. Pack light layers and a hat.
Hot, often humid days with scattered thunderstorms; stay hydrated and use sun protection. Seek shade during peak sun hours.
Warm to mild days with a gradual rise in humidity; continue to carry water on outings.
Mild days and cool nights; layers are essential. Good time for outdoor activities without the heat.
Gaborone at Night
Hiking in Gaborone
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular, relatively short hike offering panoramic views of Gaborone from the summit.
Nature trails adjacent to the reserve offering scenic walks and opportunities to observe wildlife in a managed reserve setting.
Airports
How to reach Gaborone by plane.
The primary international gateway to Botswana, located a short drive from central Gaborone, with connections to regional hubs and major global hubs via airlines operating in the region.
Major hub in Johannesburg, South Africa; many international and regional connections. Travelers to Botswana often connect here before domestic flights or overland trips.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of long-term Botswanan residents and expatriates living in the city’s growing suburbs, with diverse languages and backgrounds.
A dynamic segment concentrated around universities, tech hubs, and business districts.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region, with local clubs and matches drawing community support.
A growing presence with local teams and regional competitions.
Common at community and school levels, with events held periodically around the city.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Gaborone.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available in urban restaurants; look for morogo, beans, salads, and vegetable stews. When in rural areas, confirm ingredients and avoid meat-based broths if needed.