Things To Do
in Tshabong
Tshabong, also spelled Tsabong, is a small desert town in Botswana's Kgalagadi District near the western border with South Africa. It sits on the edge of the Kalahari with red sand dunes, open savannah, and sparse greenery that comes alive after rare rains. The town serves as a quiet gateway to desert landscapes, wildlife viewing, and Khoisan cultural heritage, all set inside a friendly, tight-knit community.
Expect a slower pace, clear night skies, and a chance to experience authentic rural Botswana life away from major tourist crowds.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Tshabong and settle into your accommodation, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere of this remote town. Visit the local markets to experience the vibrant culture and engage with friendly locals. Sample some traditional Tswana cuisine as you immerse yourself in the surroundings.
Head to the local museum to learn about the rich history and heritage of the Kalahari region. You can also explore the stunning landscapes that surround Tshabong by taking a leisurely walk or enjoying a short drive. Don't forget to capture the breathtaking scenery with your camera.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot to enjoy a meal at a local restaurant. Listen to traditional music as you relax under the starry night sky, possibly accompanied by locals who share stories of their culture. Wind down with a nightcap, reflecting on the day's experiences.
Embark on an early morning adventure in the Kalahari Desert, where the golden sands and unique wildlife await. Join a guided tour to learn about the indigenous flora and fauna, spotting animals that thrive in this arid landscape. Engage with the local San people to understand their ancient ways of life.
After lunch, continue your exploration with activities such as dune bashing and sandboarding, perfect for thrill-seekers. Find a shaded spot to relax and enjoy a packed picnic while gazing at the endless desert views. Experience a breathtaking panoramic view of the desert as the sun dances across the dunes.
Return to Tshabong and fill your evening with stories around a campfire, enjoying the warmth and camaraderie. If you're lucky, you might encounter evening wildlife activities, like spotting nocturnal animals. Sample some more local dishes as you enjoy an evening of laughter and connection.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🍽️Meal for 2 in mid-range restaurant | $40-60 |
| 🚗Taxi ride within town | $3-6 |
| 🏨One night in budget hotel | $25-60 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week | $35-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning desert landscapes with clear night skies
- Warm, welcoming local communities and authentic rural Botswana experience
- Affordable lodging and food relative to major tourist hubs
- Accessible wildlife viewing and cultural learning opportunities
- Compact town size makes it easy to navigate on foot or by short drives
- Limited nightlife and dining options compared to cities
- Remote location with basic services and slower internet
- Long travel times to larger airports and major attractions
- Seasonal road conditions can affect travel during the wet season
- Fewer organized tours or guided activities than in larger parks
- "Dumela" - Hello
- "O kae?" - How are you?
- "Ke a leboga" - Thank you
- "Ee" - Yes
- "Ga ke utlwane" - I don’t understand
Places to Visit in Tshabong
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden light over red desert dunes just after dawn; clean horizons and long shadows create dramatic silhouettes.
Soft light illuminating store fronts, market stalls, and bicycles; great for candid street photography.
Silhouettes of birds and distant wildlife around a temporary water source as the light fades.
Clear desert skies ideal for star trails and astrophotography when there’s little light pollution.
Food in Tshabong
Tshabong Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Slow‑shredded beef cooked in salted water, usually served with pap or morogo. A Botswana staple, widely available in most eateries.
Must-Try!
Cornmeal porridge (pap) served with morogo (wild spinach) or other greens, a common everyday dish in rural Botswana.
A traditional protein source, often fried or dried and eaten as a snack or part of a meal; try if you’re curious about local flavors.
A hearty dish of mixed beans with maize, sometimes served with vegetables or meat; a nourishing option in the dry inland regions.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market with fresh produce, maize products, roasted peanuts, and street snacks; great for sampling local flavors and meeting residents.
Temporary stalls offering roasted maize, fried dough, and simple meat skewers; easy to try while exploring town.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet people with a smile and a handshake; use Setswana phrases where possible. Address elders with respect and a polite tone.
Dress modestly in public spaces and when visiting homes or community areas; remove hats and gift items when offered during visits.
Ask before photographing people, especially in markets or at home; some communities appreciate being asked first.
Safety
Tipping in Tshabong
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always expected in small towns. Consider 5–10% at restaurants if service is good; modest tips for guides and lodge staff are common.
Cash is widely accepted in smaller venues; some shops and lodges accept cards. ATMs are available in town, but carry cash for remote visits and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot days (often well above 30°C/86°F) with potential afternoon thunderstorms. Hydration and sun protection are essential; plan outdoor activity for early mornings or late afternoons.
Cool to chilly mornings and evenings with mild daytime temperatures. Layers are important; nights can be quite cold, especially in open desert areas.
Pleasant temperatures and lower humidity; ideal for outdoor activities, wildlife viewing, and photography without the peak heat.
Occasional heavy rains can affect road conditions and visibility. Be prepared for sudden weather changes and check local advisories before travel.
Tshabong at Night
Hiking in Tshabong
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Self-guided or guided walks along dune systems, offering expansive views and opportunities to observe desert flora and tracks.
Short strolls around seasonal waterholes where birds and small mammals gather; ideal for daylight photography.
Ridge climbs with panoramic desert vistas; moderate elevation gain and excellent sunset photography.
Airports
How to reach Tshabong by plane.
Small regional airstrip serving light charter flights; schedules are limited and connections may require travel to larger hubs.
Major gateway to northern Botswana; farther from Tsabong but a key transport option for longer trips and connections to national parks.
Smaller regional airstrip serving occasional flights; useful for quick trips within Botswana when available.
Across the border in South Africa; international flights and a common access point for cross-border travel to the Kalahari region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant ethnic group in the region, with strong cattle-herding and farming traditions and a rich culture reflected in daily life and cuisine.
Indigenous groups with unique traditions and languages present in parts of the Kalahari; interaction offers cultural insight and storytelling.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local matches and informal play are common in communities and schools.
Bystander interest and youth participation exist; some local clubs organize practice and small matches.
Occasionally played in schools or community centers; casual games can be found in town.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tshabong.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available in town, typically maize-based dishes, Morogo, bean stews, and vegetable sides. Communicate clearly with staff, as meat-centric dishes are common; request salads, legumes, or greens as substitutes when possible.