Things To Do
in Tlokweng
Tlokweng is a friendly, leafy village just across the Notwane River from Gaborone, Botswana, offering a relaxed base with easy access to the capital’s amenities. Its quiet streets and open spaces invite strolls and braais, while being a short drive from shopping, museums, and markets. The community welcomes visitors with warm hospitality and a strong sense of local culture.
From here, you can explore nature on day trips or mingle with locals in informal gatherings that showcase Botswana’s warmth.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Tlokweng and get settled in your accommodation, where you will be welcomed with traditional Tswana hospitality. Take some time to refresh and adjust to the local time zone. After settling in, enjoy a leisurely lunch featuring local dishes at a nearby restaurant.
Explore the vibrant local market, where you can find handmade crafts, clothing, and fresh produce. Engage with the friendly vendors, who will share stories about their goods and the culture of Tlokweng. Enjoy sampling local snacks as you wander through the colorful stalls.
As the sun sets, enjoy a traditional dinner at a local restaurant that features live music. Experience the rhythmic sounds of Tswana music that fill the air while savoring authentic dishes like boerewors and pap. Afterward, take a peaceful walk to soak in the cool evening air.
Begin your day with a visit to a local village where you can participate in traditional crafting workshops. Try your hand at basket weaving or pottery, guided by local artisans who share their skills and heritage. Experience the intricate techniques that have been passed down through generations.
After lunch, go on a guided tour to learn about the traditional customs and historical significance of Tlokweng. Visit significant landmarks, such as the Kgosi’s palace, while a local guide narrates fascinating stories. This educational experience provides a deeper understanding of the area’s cultural landscape.
Spend your evening at a village gathering, where you'll be welcomed with open arms. Engage in communal dances and partake in traditional storytelling. This lively atmosphere enhances your connection with the community and offers a genuine insight into their way of life.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🥤Bottle of water (1.5 L) | $0.50-1 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $1-3 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (3-5 km) | $4-8 |
| 📶Mobile data plan (1 GB) | $5-10 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close proximity to Gaborone with easy access to urban services
- Warm hospitality and genuine cultural experiences
- Abundant nature options for easy day trips
- Relaxed, safe environment for travelers
- Limited nightlife directly in Tlokweng; more options in Gaborone
- Market prices can be higher than rural areas, especially for imported goods
- Some roads can be busy or winding; plan transport in advance
- "Dumela" - Hello (greeting to one person)
- "O nile gore molemo jang?" - How are you? / How is it going?
- "Ke leboga" - Thank you
- "Ke tsala le wena" - Nice to meet you
- "Ke kopa peli ya setswana" - I would like to order food in Setswana
- "A o kgatlhile?" - Are you enjoying yourself?
- "Ke batla metsi" - I want water
- "Tsogo" - Goodbye (to someone leaving)
Places to Visit in Tlokweng
Visit one of these nice places.
An iconic overlook offering panoramic views of Gaborone’s skyline and surrounding plains, ideal for sunrise or sunset shots.
Water reflections, birds, and wide horizons provide classic landscape photography opportunities near the capital.
Rural and semi-urban river scenery with small bridges and local activity; good for golden-hour photography.
Wildlife and savanna backdrops with occasional close-up wildlife photography during guided tours.
Food in Tlokweng
Tlokweng Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Slow-cooked shredded beef (or goat) served with pap and morogo; a quintessential Botswana braai staple.
Must-Try!
Soft maize porridge served with sautéed greens; a common, comforting combination.
Beans and maize (or sorghum) mixture often eaten as a hearty side or main dish.
Sautéed wild spinach, typically prepared with peanut sauce or onions; pairs well with pap or beans.
A traditional snack/protein option for the adventurous; usually fried or boiled and served with maize or pap.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant market offering fresh produce, maize meal, spices, and ready-to-eat street foods; great place to sample local snacks.
Market with crafts, fresh produce, and casual eateries; ideal for light meals and malotlo (snacks).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet everyone with a warm 'Dumela' (hello). Handshakes are common; maintain friendly eye contact and a respectful tone.
Dress modestly in public, especially in villages and at religious sites. Address elders with respect and avoid loud behavior in public spaces.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially children; be discreet and respectful of local customs.
Safety
Tipping in Tlokweng
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of 10–15% is customary if service is not included. For casual spots or markets, round up or leave a small tip in cash for service staff.
Cash (Botswana Pula) is widely accepted, with card payments common in hotels, larger shops, and some restaurants. Carry a small amount of cash for markets and taxis; be aware that some smaller vendors may not accept cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with afternoon thunderstorms. Stay hydrated, use sunscreen, and carry a light rain jacket for sudden showers.
Cool to mild days and chilly nights. Light layers are useful; mornings can be frosty, with clear skies ideal for photography.
Heavy rainfall can lead to slick roads and lush greenery; mosquito precautions are advised, and expect occasional flooding in low-lying areas.
Tlokweng at Night
Hiking in Tlokweng
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular city-edge trail offering sweeping views of Gaborone; best enjoyed in cooler mornings or late afternoons.
Gentle to moderate trails through savanna with wildlife viewing opportunities; ideal for daytime hiking with a guide.
Airports
How to reach Tlokweng by plane.
Main international airport serving Gaborone, located a short drive from Tlokweng; easy access by road with frequent domestic and regional flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in the region, with strong cultural traditions and Setswana language at the core of daily life.
A growing, diverse community contributing to business, education, and services in the Gaborone area.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in Botswana, with local leagues and school programs throughout the region.
Growing interest at club and school levels; games and social matches are common in the capital area.
Significant participation in schools and community clubs; matches occur on weekends.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tlokweng.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Botswana offers morogo, beans, maize dishes, and fresh vegetables as robust vegetarian options; request plant-based sides or salads, and ask about stock in stews.
Many dishes center on maize-based staples; ask for pap or porridge without added flour or cross-contamination; choose grilled vegetables and beans.
Opt for grilled meats, beans, and vegetable dishes; request no butter or cream in sauces and ask about cooking fats.