Things To Do
in Shoshong
Shoshong is a small, rural village in Botswana's Central District known for its traditional Setswana culture and open savannah. The landscape features flat plains, acacia trees, and seasonal rivers that shape daily life and travel. Visitors should expect warm hospitality and a slower pace, with most amenities concentrated in nearby towns rather than within the village itself.
This guides you through practical, authentic experiences while respecting the local way of life.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Sir Seretse Khama International Airport in Gaborone and take a scenic drive to Shoshong. Upon reaching the town, settle into your cozy accommodation and get familiarized with the surroundings. Enjoy a traditional Botswana breakfast to energize yourself for the day's activities.
Explore the local market, where you’ll find handcrafted goods and indulge in the vibrant culture of Shoshong. Interact with local artisans and perhaps pick up a unique souvenir to take home. Refuel with a lunch of traditional dishes, enjoying flavors that characterize Botswana cuisine.
As the sun begins to set, head to a local eatery for dinner under the open sky. Engage with locals over delicious meals and discover their stories. Wind down with a stroll around the town, absorbing the serene ambiance.
Start your day with a visit to the historical Shoshong ruins, where you can learn about the rich history of this ancient village. Enjoy an engaging guided tour and appreciate the architecture and artifacts that tell stories of the past. Capture photographs of the stunning landscapes surrounding the ruins.
Visit the nearby community centers to learn about local crafts and traditions, participating in workshops led by skilled artisans. Experience firsthand how traditional baskets or pottery are made, gaining insight into the craftsmanship. Have a leisurely lunch with fresh local produce gathered from the area.
Attend a traditional dance performance in the town, showcasing the colorful clothes and rhythms that make Botswana unique. Interact with performers, learning steps and perhaps sharing your own dance moves. Relish in the joyous atmosphere and conclude your night with a light local meal.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| 🥤Soft drink or bottled water | $0.50-1.50 |
| 🍢Street food/snack | $1-4 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel/guesthouse (1 night) | $25-45 |
| 🚖Short taxi/minibus ride | $2-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm hospitality and strong sense of community
- Rich rural culture and history
- Lower crowds and authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences
- Relatively low costs compared to major cities
- Limited tourist infrastructure and dining options
- Fewer nightlife venues and activities
- Long travel times to major airports
- Variable internet and mobile connectivity in remote areas
- "Dumela" - Hello
- "Le kae?" - How are you?
- "Ke kopa?" - Please / May I have?
- "Ke leboga" - Thank you
- "Nna ke tswa" - I'm from here / I am local.
Places to Visit in Shoshong
Visit one of these nice places.
A vantage point offering panoramic views over the village and surrounding savannah; best during sunrise or sunset.
Weathered walls and historic remains framed by local flora, capturing a sense of the area’s past.
Soft light along seasonal streams with palm trees and open skies; ideal for wide landscape shots.
Food in Shoshong
Shoshong Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Slow-cooked, shredded beef served with pap or morogo; a staple at gatherings and in everyday meals.
Must-Try!
Sautéed wild spinach or cowpea greens, often cooked with peanut or peanut butter for depth.
Cornmeal porridge (pap) served with sesamea (seswaa) or other stews for a shared plate.
Dried or fried caterpillars enjoyed as a protein-rich snack or accompaniment in some households.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Local morning market where you can sample morogo, pap, roasted meats, and traditional snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a handshake and a warm tone; use the right hand; address elders with respect and inquire about family.
Always ask for permission before taking photos of people or homes; some residents may prefer not to be photographed.
Dress modestly, especially in villages or religious sites; shoulders and knees should be covered when possible.
Safety
Tipping in Shoshong
Ensure a smooth experience
Small tips (about 5-10%) are appreciated for good service in eateries or when guides assist with activities; in rural areas, cash tips are common.
Cash is widely accepted in markets and eateries; mobile money and local currency (pula) are common. Cards may be limited in rural spots.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot days with afternoon showers; stay hydrated, wear sun protection, and plan outdoor activities for early mornings or late afternoons.
Cool to mild days with dry conditions; pack a light jacket for mornings and evenings; clearer skies for photography.
Shoshong at Night
Hiking in Shoshong
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A modest, half-day hike offering views across the plains and village surroundings.
Airports
How to reach Shoshong by plane.
Botswana's main international gateway; access to central towns via road or domestic flights; approximately 300-350 km from Shoshong.
Small domestic airstrip serving regional flights; closer to central Botswana and convenient for short connections.
Major airport for northern Botswana safaris; listed here for travelers combining northern itineraries, though it is distant from Shoshong.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Setswana-speaking people with strong Setswana cultural traditions; rural communities with family-centered lifestyles and diverse smaller groups.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in Botswana; local leagues and informal games are common in towns and villages.
Played in schools and clubs; occasional matches occur in rural areas.
Widely played, especially among women and girls, in community settings.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Shoshong.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can find morogo, beans, maize porridge, and vegetable dishes; ask for vegetable morogo or bean stews.