Things To Do
in Serowe
Serowe is a historic royal town in Botswana's Central District and the traditional heartland of the Bangwato people. It sits in the warm plains of central Botswana and is renowned for its cultural heritage and welcoming communities. Notably, it is the birthplace of Botswana's first president, Sir Seretse Khama, and is home to important royal sites and museums.
A relaxed base for exploring rural Botswana, Serowe offers markets, cultural tours, and easy access to nearby nature reserves.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day early with a guided tour of the Khama Rhino Sanctuary, where you can witness the majestic rhinos in their natural habitat. As the sun rises, listen to the sounds of the African bush while enjoying a light breakfast at the sanctuary's picnic area. Capture stunning photographs of these incredible creatures and the breathtaking landscape that surrounds them.
After a morning of wildlife observation, enjoy a hearty lunch at the sanctuary's lodge, featuring local dishes. Spend the afternoon exploring the various walking trails within the sanctuary, keeping an eye out for other wildlife such as zebras and various bird species. Engage with the local guides, who share stories about conservation efforts and the importance of protecting this unique ecosystem.
As the sun sets over the horizon, take a moment to reflect on the day’s experiences while enjoying a traditional Botswana dinner. Gather around a campfire with fellow travelers and share stories under a sky full of stars. Conclude the evening with a night walk to spot nocturnal wildlife, guided by an expert who will shed light on the secrets of the night.
Immerse yourself in the rich culture of Botswana by visiting the local Serowe village. Begin your morning with a guided tour that showcases traditional Tswana architecture and customs, while learning about the history of the village. Engage with locals as they go about their daily routines, offering a glimpse into their vibrant way of life.
After exploring the village, enjoy a traditional lunch prepared by the villagers, featuring local ingredients and flavors. Participate in a cultural workshop where you can learn traditional crafts such as basket weaving or pottery, guided by skilled artisans. This hands-on experience will deepen your appreciation for the artistry and cultural heritage of the Tswana people.
As the day winds down, join a community gathering where traditional music and dance performances take center stage. Experience the lively atmosphere and feel the rhythm of the drums as you are invited to join in the festivities. Savor a delicious dinner made from locally sourced ingredients, rounding off a day filled with cultural enrichment.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🚕Taxi or short town ride | $3-8 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel / hostel (per night) | $25-50 |
| 🛒Groceries for a day | $5-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Genuine cultural experiences with Bangwato traditions
- Safe and welcoming small-town feel
- Close to nature with day trips to wildlife reserves
- Limited nightlife and nightlife options
- Fewer large-scale restaurants and hotels compared to major cities
- Long drives to reach additional attractions and international flights
- "Dumela" - Hello
- "Dumela rra / mme" - Hello sir/madam
- "Le kae?" - How are you?
- "Ke a leboga" - Thank you
- "Tsoga" - Please / Excuse me
Places to Visit in Serowe
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic complex with statues, memorials, and traditional architecture ideal for portraits and wide shots.
Ancient court buildings and the soft early light create atmospheric street photography opportunities.
Scenic viewpoints around the Bangwato royal area offer expansive plains and traditional settings.
Dramatic outcrops and sweeping panoramas—great for landscape photography at golden hour.
Food in Serowe
Serowe Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Slow-cooked shredded beef (or goat) served with maize porridge or pap; a quintessential Botswana dish.
Must-Try!
Traditional maize porridge served with sautéed greens (morogo) or vegetables.
Sautéed wild spinach or leafy greens often served as a side with meat and pap.
Grilled meats (beef, goat, or chicken) and boerewors, commonly enjoyed at local eateries and lodges.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling market with fresh produce, braai ingredients, and quick snacks; a great place to observe daily life and taste immediate bites.
Small roadside stalls offering grilled meats and maize-based snacks, ideal for informal lunch breaks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Begin with a warm greeting; say 'Dumela' and address elders with respect (rra/mma).
Modest dress is appreciated in villages and religious sites; remove hats indoors in formal spaces; avoid loud public displays of anger.
Ask for consent when photographing people, especially in intimate or sacred spaces; be respectful during ceremonies.
Safety
Tipping in Serowe
Ensure a smooth experience
In many places, rounding up or leaving 5–10% for good service is appreciated; small tips for drivers, guides, and lodge staff are common.
Cash (Botswana pula) is widely accepted; cards are increasingly used in larger establishments; ATMs are common in towns.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot days with occasional heavy afternoon showers; carry water, wear light, breathable clothing, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Pleasant warmth during the day with cooler evenings; a comfortable time for city walks and outdoor photography.
Dry and cool; mornings can be chilly, but daytime temperatures are comfortable for exploration and outdoor activities.
Warm days with possible rain; vegetation begins to flourish, and wildlife activity increases.
Serowe at Night
Hiking in Serowe
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic mountain range with trails, viewpoints, and natural features suitable for day hikes.
Accessible walking routes near the wildlife reserve, ideal for easy hikes and wildlife photography.
Airports
How to reach Serowe by plane.
Botswana’s main international gateway; typically accessed by road from Serowe with transfers available via car services or bus.
Not neighboring Serowe but listed for context; serves as a gateway to northern Botswana and wildlife regions farther afield.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant ethnic group in Serowe and the surrounding area; part of Botswana's national population.
Smaller communities living in the town and nearby areas.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in Botswana; local clubs and informal games are common across towns.
Other growing sports with school and community programs; several clubs operate regionally.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Serowe.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose Morogo, beans, maize-based dishes, and clearly request no meat; check for bone-in preparations and cross-contamination.