Things To Do
in Ramotswa
Ramotswa is a growing town in Botswana's South-East District, located just southeast of Gaborone along the road to the South Africa border. It blends rural Tswana culture with easy access to the capital's services. The town is known for friendly communities, bustling markets, and traditional crafts.
Visitors can enjoy local food, scenic countryside, and peaceful evenings on the edge of the plains.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Kgotla, the traditional meeting place in Ramotswa. Here, you can observe local leaders and community members engage in discussions, giving you insight into the governance and culture of the Bakwena people. Enjoy a warm cup of traditional tea as you interact with locals and learn about their customs.
After lunch, explore the nearby Ramotswa Museum to delve deeper into the history and heritage of the area. The museum showcases artifacts and exhibits that reflect the rich traditions and significant events that have shaped this community. Engage with museum staff who can share stories and answer any questions you may have.
For dinner, savor traditional Botswana cuisine at a local eatery, trying dishes like seswaa and pap. As the sun sets, take a leisurely walk through the village, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere and the sound of evening chatter among neighbors. Conclude your day by watching the stars light up the sky, a perfect end to a culturally enriching experience.
Embark on a guided nature walk in the nearby wetlands, where you can observe a variety of bird species that inhabit the area. The early morning is ideal for bird watching, as you will catch sight of herons, kingfishers, and many more. Your guide will share knowledge about the local flora and fauna, enriching your appreciation of the ecosystem.
After a picnic lunch in the serene surroundings, continue your exploration by visiting the nearby Ramotswa Nature Reserve. Here, you can take a leisurely hike through scenic trails, enjoying the tranquility and beauty of the natural landscape. Keep your camera ready as you may encounter wildlife such as antelopes and various bird species.
Return to your accommodation to freshen up before heading out for dinner at a local restaurant. Indulge in a delicious meal featuring traditional dishes made with local ingredients. Spend the evening reflecting on your day’s adventures, perhaps sharing stories with fellow travelers.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🥗Local lunch or snack | $4-8 |
| 🛏️Mid-range hotel bed per night | $60-120 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride | $3-8 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm hospitality and rich Tswana culture
- Close to Gaborone with easy day trips from Ramotswa
- Limited nightlife and shopping options within the town
- Rural transport can be slower or less reliable
- "Dumela" - Hello
- "O kae?" - How are you?
- "Ke a leboga" - Thank you
- "Ee" - Yes
- "Ga ke na go itse" - I don't know
Places to Visit in Ramotswa
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful storefronts, traditional huts, and people at market stalls bathed in warm sunset light.
Elevated spots on the outskirts offer wide views of the town and surrounding plains.
Quiet river bends and clay-walled homesteads provide textures for portraits and landscape shots.
Open savanna-like fields with acacia silhouettes at dusk make for wide dramatic skies.
Food in Ramotswa
Ramotswa Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Shredded beef slow-cooked with salt, typically served with pap or morogo.
Must-Try!
Maize porridge that accompanies most meals, perfect with meat stews and morogo.
Wild spinach greens sautéed with onions and spices, a staple side dish.
Dried caterpillars prepared as a snack or part of a meal, a traditional Botswana delicacy.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Fresh produce, maize meal, roasted corn, and handmade crafts; great for authentic street snacks.
Small vendors offering grilled meats, corn on the cob, and heap ed salads.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a handshake and a warm "Dumela" when addressing people; maintain eye contact and show respect to elders.
Dress modestly in public spaces; avoid revealing attire in rural areas and sacred sites.
Ask permission when photographing people or private homes; avoid taking photos of ceremonies without consent.
Safety
Tipping in Ramotswa
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not obligatory; 5-10% in restaurants if service is good; small tips to guides or hotel staff are appreciated.
Cash is widely accepted; many shops in town also accept cards, and mobile money or bank transfers may be used at larger venues.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot days (often in the 30s C) with scattered afternoon thunderstorms; carry water and sunscreen, and plan outdoor activities for early mornings or late afternoons.
Cooler nights and mild daytime temperatures; light layers are enough, though mornings can be chilly.
Pleasant weather with blooming vegetation and fresh air; excellent for city walks and photography.
Warm days decreasing towards cooler evenings; comfortable for exploration and outdoor dining.
Ramotswa at Night
Hiking in Ramotswa
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A short hike to a hilltop viewpoint offering panoramas of the town and surrounding fields.
Flat, easy trails ideal for birdwatching and photography; best in dry season.
Airports
How to reach Ramotswa by plane.
Major gateway to Botswana near Gaborone; reachable by road from Ramotswa in about 1-1.5 hours depending on traffic.
Regional hub for international connections; often used for long-haul flights into Botswana via GBE.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant ethnic group, with a strong cultural presence in daily life and local traditions.
Migrant workers and residents from surrounding villages and neighboring countries contribute to a diverse but cohesive community.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport, widely played in schools and communities.
A growing sport with local clubs and school teams.
Common in schools and community leagues.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ramotswa.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Ask for morogo with pap, morogo and beans, or vegetable stews; many places will accommodate with greens and maize-based dishes.
Most dishes are gluten-free; request vegetables or beans with pap made without dairy; verify with staff.