Gaborone

Botswana, Africa

Gaborone, the capital of Botswana, is a vibrant city that blends modernity with rich cultural heritage. It's known for attractions like the striking Three Dikgosi Monument, the lively Gaborone Game Reserve, and the impressive National Museum and Art Gallery. Visitors can delve into local traditions at the Botswana Craft market and explore scenic spots such as Kgale Hill for panoramic views. With burgeoning nightlife and delicious local cuisine, Gaborone appeals to young travelers seeking a mix of adventure and urban experiences.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

City

Vibe

Other

Airport

Sir Seretse Khama

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

10 Best Things to Do in Gaborone

1

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Gaborone Game Reserve

Discover wildlife in a serene urban game reserve.

No booking required
2

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the National Museum and Art Gallery

Learn about Botswana's history and vibrant culture.

No booking required
3

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Shop at the Gaborone Mall

Enjoy shopping and dining in a modern mall.

No booking required
4

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Hike at Kgale Hill

Take in stunning views from Gaborone's highest point.

No booking required
5

Est. < 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Three Dikgosi Monument

Celebrate Botswana's history with this iconic landmark.

No booking required
6

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Relax at the Botanic Garden

Enjoy tranquility in Gaborone's beautiful gardens.

No booking required
7

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Experience local cuisine at Gaborone restaurants

Taste traditional dishes in vibrant local eateries.

No booking required
8

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Discover the Botswana Craft

Shop for authentic crafts and support local artisans.

No booking required
9

Est. 3 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Attend a cultural festival

Immerse yourself in Botswana's rich traditions and celebrations.

Booking required
10

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Parliament of Botswana

Explore the political heart of the nation.

Booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~10%)

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

High

LGBTQ+ safety score

-4 (#84 globally)

Cost

Expensive

Currency

Pula

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Tswana

(50-80% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Seswaa

Shredded beef dish, slow-cooked. (National dish)

Pap

VE

Maize porridge, staple food in Botswana.

Morogo

VE

Wild spinach, often cooked with onions.

Vetkoek

Fried bread, often filled with meat or jam.

Ditloo

Traditional dish made from cow's intestines.

Phrases to learn

English

Tswana

Hello

Dumela

(Doo-meh-lah)

Yes/No

Ee / Nnyaa

(Eh / Nyaah)

Thank you

Ke a leboga

(Ke ah leh-boh-ha)

Excuse me

Ntshwarele

(N-tswah-reh-leh)

How much?

Ke bokae?

(Keh boh-kah-eh)