Call Us
8:00am - 17:00PM
Gaborone
About Gaborone
Gaborone is the capital city of Botswana located 15 kilometers from the South African border in the country's southeast. Because of the pre-existing administrative offices, close proximity to the railway line, South Africa, and most importantly, proximity to the Ngotwana river and eventual construction of the Gaborone Dam, it was chosen as the Capital in the early 1960s.
Gaborone
We Think You’ll Love
Best time to visit
The best time for boating and mokoro safaris is during and immediately after the floods. That is, between July and September, although these activities are generally available from April through November (depending on water levels).
Wildlife
Protected in part by the Moremi Game Reserve and numerous private concessions, the Okavango Delta supports 164 mammal species, 157 species of reptiles, and 540 species of bird including sought-after species like Pel’s fishing owl, bee-eaters, and kingfishers.
Travel Guide For Gaborone
We Think You’ll Love
About Gaborone
The city today serves as the nation's commercial, administrative, and financial center and has one of Africa's most prosperous economies. Modern structures dominate the city's skyline, and it currently has a large number of five-star hotels, American-style shopping centers, and conference facilities. It was named after Chief Gaborone of the Tlokwa tribe and the locals refer to it as Gabs. The city has a population of about 421 000 people and is a medium city.
Gaborone Map
Gaborone is situated between Kgale and Oodi Hills. It is surrounded by Ramotswa to the southeast, Mogoditshane to the northwest, and Mochudi to the east.
The majority of people who travel on Safari In Botswana do not really consider Gaborone as it offers very little of a pristine wilderness feeling and more of a city life. Most people simply stop in Gaborone to take advantage of the fantastic shopping centers to stock up on supplies for a self-drive safari or to go to the Department of Wildlife and National Parks (DWNP) booking office to reserve and pay for campsites in the nation's various game sanctuaries.
The city however has some great opportunities and is waiting to be explored. Visitors will have a great opportunity to pique their desire for a safari before visiting one or more of the nation's top parks by taking a quick tour of the little Gaborone Game Reserve. The reserve is home to a variety of antelope, including eland, oryx, wildebeest, kudu and warthog which are such a delight to see.
Getting To Gaborone
There are many options for getting to Gaborone, either road, rail or by air
Road
The first way is by road, visitors can drive to Gaborone. Paved roads connect Francistown, Lobatse, and Johannesburg to Gaborone (about 400 km, depending on a route). The three main points of entry into Botswana are Mmabatho/Ramatlhabama, Zeerust/Lobatse Pioneer Gate and Tlokweng Border Post.
Flights
Additionally, flights from Johannesburg to Gaborone operate often. Air Botswana (BP), the country's flag carrier, exclusively flies within Africa. British Airways (BA) flies directly to Gaborone twice a week from London. One can take a taxi from the airport upon arrival from Sir Seretse Khama international airport to the city center which is about 14km. The taxi trip will take about 15 minutes.
Rail
There are also good railway connections between South Africa, Zimbabwe and Botswana. Options are either the Johannesburg, Mafikeng, Ramatlhabama and Gaborone line or the Gaborone, Plumtree, Bulawayo and Harare.
Cultural Attractions At Gaborone
The Three Dikgosi Monument
The three Dikgosi monument, which is located along a large plaza in front of Botswana's imposing high court on the northern edge of the CBD, was erected in 2005. It was to honor the three tribal chiefs, known locally as Dikgosi, who are widely regarded for having played a significant role in the nation's journey toward independence.
Interestingly, the 5meter sculpture of the three chiefs was created by the North Korean firm of Mansudae Overseas Projects that specializes on erecting national monuments all over the world, particularly in Africa. As you’ve probably guessed by now, the dubious collaboration sparked a nationwide controversy, as both North Korea’s global image and the outsourcing of labor that could otherwise be done by locals were deemed as offensive by critics.
Pula Arch
The rectangular Pula Arch is a small-scale monumental gate commemorating Botswana’s successful strife for independence. The arch has an elliptic roof, the country’s coat of arms which is famous for its two guardian zebras and a blue ribbon with the word “Pula”, on its meaning “rain” in the Setswana language.
Because the region has scarce rainfalls, the word “Pula” became a general term for blessing and good luck, and served as the national motto. It became the official name of the national currency and yes the name of the arch itself. The arch’s national significance makes it a worthy site to behold.
The National Assembly Building
Gaborone is separated into numerous different zones, each of which is designated for a particular purpose and is inspired by its garden-city design. The National Bank of Botswana, the State Archives, the U.S. and Japanese embassies, various ministries, and most notably, the national assembly building are all located in the crescent-shaped district in the centre of town known as the Government Enclave.
The building is situated next to a sizable and immaculate plaza that is home to a war memorial and a statue of Sir Seretse Khama, Botswana's first president. The National Assembly is open for visitors during the day, excluding session times.
Gaborone Game Reserve
While Botswana has an incredible abundance of wildlife, most of it is dispersed throughout the country's remote regions, necessitating lengthy travel times on roads full with potholes. However, one location—the Gaborone Game Reserve—offers a genuine sight of the nation's incredible wildlife without having to leave the conveniences of town.
The reserve, which can be reached in 10 minutes or 3 kilometers along Limpopo Drive, is home to a wide variety of African mammals and birds, including zebras, oryx, kudus, elands, duikers, ostriches, and warthogs. Rhinos live in this reserve as well, but due to their violent temperament, they are restricted to a well-fenced area. This natural enclave features a few of educational facilities in addition to its thickets, which are home to a variety of wildlife, and dirt roads. Guided tours are not offered, to explore the reserves you can either go by taxi or your own rented car.
Gaborone Dam Reservoir
The Gaborone Dam was constructed in the mid 1960’s and can hold more than 140 million cubic meters of water. The bulk of the water comes from the Taung and Ngotwane Rivers. The 25-meter tall and 3.6-kilometer-long dam and the surrounding reservoir is of much importance as it accounts for most of the capital’s water supply.
Over the years, the nearby reservoir has turned into a beautiful getaway, where Gaborone’s residents and tourists alike gather, enjoying an afternoon picnic in front of the artificial lake. Some of the attractions that popped up along the shoreline in recent years are a yacht club, a fishing club and Cityscapes recreational park. The water level is however very low due to evaporation and overuse, it’s not swimmable despite its shallow waters.
Mogonye Gorge
If the peaceful vibes of the city aren't enough to quench your insatiable thirst for more intense adventure, fortunately, the countryside surrounding Gaborone is full with intriguing places to discover. The Mmamotshwane Gorge, or Mogonye Gorge as it is known locally, is the largest chasm in the region, which is famed for its series of seven stunning gorges, and is located around 50 kilometers from the capital. Due to its relative quantity of water, Mogonye was once inhabited by an iron age farming society. Today, it is a naturopathy hotspot where traditional healers gather uncommon therapeutic herbs.
An excellent opportunity to explore the gorge's waterfalls and natural pools as well as the area's diverse flora, including an endemic type of fern known as Bofitlha, is during the hour-long stroll through the gorge's rocky terrain.
Where To Eat In Gaborone ?
There are so many places for you to eat in Gaborone and below are just a few of the best.
Primi Piatti
Primi Piatti aims to create a variety of energizing, calming, and healthful foods that are influenced by modern cuisine and the Italian tradition. The finest ingredients are used to create each meal from scratch. Everything from omelets, croissants, and sandwiches to fish, pizza, and curry may be found on the main menu. A wide variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages are offered on the drink menu. Even a three-course set meal and a special menu for attractive people are available.
Caravela Portuguese Restaurant
This is one of the restaurants in Gaborone that ensures a special dining experience. It is located centrally right in the heart of the city in a quiet residential area. The restaurant provides 3 different dining places to pick from, a sweet outdoor garden for summertime lunch and quiet evening dinners, a casual bar dining place with hot fire in the winter months. There is an inside, air-conditioning dining place suitable for business dinners or completely unique occasions. The home specialty that is served is seafood and Portuguese cuisine.
Dros Gaborone
This beautiful restaurants in Gaborone with an astounding view is a favorite among families and serves up delicious meals at affordable prices. There are many options on Dros' extensive menu, including delicious pizza, tender steaks, and specialty specialties like lamb shank. With their own menu and a fantastic play area equipped with jumping castles, games, kid-sized tables, play stations, and seats, children are well taken care of. birthday celebrations
Gaborone Accommodation
The Peermont Mondior
The center of the city's commercial core, there is a hotel called the Peermont Mondior in Gaborone, Botswana. It provides accommodations for visitors in 67 cozy suites that are well furnished and come with kitchenettes. The hotel is elegantly furnished in an African chic style and provides a posh atmosphere.
Avani Gaborone Hotel and Casino
In the center of the city, Avani Gaborone Hotel and Casino provides guests with an opulent haven. This hotel in Gaborone, Botswana, boasts outstanding meeting facilities and gives tourists a wonderful location to unwind. 196 exquisite rooms that are comfortably equipped and with a soft African motif are available for guests to stay in.
The National Stadium, the University of Botswana, and the core business sector are all conveniently close to the hotel. The hotel features a number of excellent restaurants where visitors may enjoy exquisite dining or just a quick meal before leaving to see Gaborone's attractions.
Activities, What To Do In Gaborone ?
There's so much to do in Gaborone, and the good thing is that some of the things do not require you to spend a single cent.
National Museum
No matter your age, the National Museum will pique your interest and inspire your imagination.
Gaborone Dam
Spend some time relaxing and recharging by the water.
Three Dikgosi Monument
Make time on your to-do list to visit the Three Dikgosi Monument and learn more about this area of local significance.
ISKCON Gaborone
Incorporate a little spirituality into your tour by stopping by this place of worship.
Gaborone is a beautiful city that complements Botswana very well, it has a warm feeling from the locals to the climate itself and it is one of those places that you will instantly fall in love with. It has nature as well and deserves its fair share of being explored.
Best Month to Visit Gaborone
We Think You’ll Love
Peak
Low
Mixed
Safari in January
January is the Okavango Delta’s wettest month, with regular spectacular thunderstorms that usually arrive in the late afternoon. Mornings in January often begin bright and clear, turn suddenly violent and then clear again overnight. It’s rare in the Okavango to see consecutive days of persistent rain, but in January and February there’s always that chance. In general, however, you can expect brief, heavy downpours with a few days of partly-cloudy weather mixed in between. The northern concessions and Panhandle tend to see the biggest storms, but it’s impossible to be precise except to say that some rain will fall. Daytime temperatures in January average over 30°C (86°F), and can climb above 36°C (97°F) when the sun comes out. Night-time minimums are seldom below 20°C (68°F) and humidity is high all across the Delta.
Safari in February
February is another wet month in the Okavango Delta, but like January, the rain and clouds are usually interspersed with a few fine, bright days. These summer months are always highly unpredictable however – there may be sunshine for over a week and then four or five days straight of cloud and afternoon storms. A thunderstorm over the Delta is one of Southern Africa’s most awe-inspiring sights: incredible towering clouds and sudden jagged lightning; reflections bouncing off the water towards the wild, distant horizon. It’s almost worth the risk of a rained-out safari, which is always a possibility, even though persistent rain is unusual. When the clouds do clear, the temperature can easily hit 36°C (97°F), though it’s typically closer to 30°C (86°F), and around 20°C (68°F) at night.
Safari in March
March is a transition period in the Okavango Delta and although it can still see some heavy rain, the change in seasons is usually apparent by the end of the month. This is most obvious in the gradual drop in night-time temperatures, down to 15°C (59°F) on the coldest mornings. Daily highs, however, are slower to move – 30°C (86°F) to 35°C (95°F) remains the norm until well into April. Although the chance of rain is still high, the risk of consecutive overcast days is much lower than in January and February. It’s still a risky period to visit the Okavango, but as the humidity drops so does the threat of a rained-out safari and late March can see some of the year’s clearest, most pleasant nights around the campfire.
Safari in April
Throughout April the autumn gradually sets in, and cooler, drier weather steadily creeps across the Delta. As with March it’s the nights that cool more rapidly than the days. The coldest evenings can drop to around 12°C (54°F), but daytime highs are usually still over 30°C (86°F). Although the first few weeks of April may see some scattered showers, clearer skies are more and more common and the clouds all but vanish by the end of the month. April is a wonderful time to be in the Okavango Delta, with moderate to warm temperatures, little chance of rain, and the opportunity to see the flood work its magic as the waters fan out into the central and northern regions.
Safari in May
As May unfolds, the Okavango Delta gets cooler and the bright, cloudless days begin to dip below 30°C (86°F). Along the rapidly filling waterways the nights tend to be milder, but on the open plains away from the channels it may drop as low as 5°C (50°F). It’s safe to say that no rain ever falls in May and you’ll seldom see more than the odd wisp of cloud. The deep blue sky remains crisp and clear, not yet as dusty as it can get later in the year.
Safari in June
June is mid-winter in the Okavango Delta and one of the coldest, driest months of the year. Daily average temperatures are around 25°C (77°F), although some hot days will still get up to 30°C (86°F). It’s the nights, however, that can get particularly cold – close to freezing at times, but more usually around 5°C (41°F). Early morning excursions can be very chilly in the wind, especially on motorboats and open game drive vehicles. June marks the start of the hard, dry winter season – after two months without rain, the Kalahari vegetation is thinning fast. There’s more pressure on the animals as they cluster closer to the waterways, which are now nearing maximum levels as the flood moves further east.
Safari in July
July is the coldest month in the Okavango Delta, with daytime highs around 25°C (77°F). Although the days are mild, the nights cool quickly, dropping close to freezing on a few mornings each year. By now the annual flood has percolated across the Delta, and water levels usually reach their peak around the end of the month. Even lodges quite far from the main central channels can now offer mokoro trips through the submerged floodplains. July is another clear, dry month in the northern Kalahari, the third straight month without a drop of rain. The Delta is therefore an increasingly important source of water and attracts thousands of animals from the surrounding plains.
Safari in August
Temperatures climb steadily through August and daytime highs once again top 30°C (86°F). At the beginning of the month the mornings can still be close to freezing, but lows of 10°C (50°F) are more common as September approaches. By August no rain has fallen in the northern Kalahari for at least four months and the only fresh grazing is along the Delta’s flooded waterways. Predator and prey alike are forced to gather along the fringes and wildlife viewing is excellent all over the Okavango.
Safari in September
The long, dry winter continues into September and by now there’s been no rain for about five straight months. The Okavango Delta is now an essential source of grazing and water, and as the annual flood gradually recedes, the pressure builds and competition increases along its drying waterways. Both night and daytime temperatures rapidly increase, averaging 15°C (59°F) to 35°C (95°F), with some hot days up to 40°C (104°F). The shallow pools and floodplains evaporate quickly in the heat and the surrounding vegetation thins out even further, with the only strips of greenery sitting tight against the channels.
Safari in October
January is the Okavango Delta’s wettest month, with regular spectacular thunderstorms that usually arrive in the late afternoon. Mornings in January often begin bright and clear, turn suddenly violent and then clear again overnight. It’s rare in the Okavango to see consecutive days of persistent rain, but in January and February there’s always that chance. In general, however, you can expect brief, heavy downpours with a few days of partly-cloudy weather mixed in between. The northern concessions and Panhandle tend to see the biggest storms, but it’s impossible to be precise except to say that some rain will fall. Daytime temperatures in January average over 30°C (86°F), and can climb above 36°C (97°F) when the sun comes out. Night-time minimums are seldom below 20°C (68°F) and humidity is high all across the Delta.
Safari in November
Early November is usually hot and stifling as the Okavango holds its breath for the coming of the rains. The exact start date varies considerably from year to year, but when the clouds do break the relief is palpable. Although daily highs of over 40°C (104°F) are the norm at the beginning of the month, the temperature gradually drops as the rains become more frequent. Localised showers evolve quickly into massive afternoon storms, with thunder and lightning flashing across the Delta.
Safari in December
December marks the start of the rainy season proper. It’s the second wettest month of the year and afternoon thunderstorms become increasingly regular and violent. As the rains intensify the dusty atmosphere clears and between the storms the skies are bright and fresh. The usual pattern is a few days of cloud and rain, followed by another few days of hot, sunny weather. This builds and builds until the next storm breaks and as the month progresses the gaps between storms lessen. It’s unusual to have more than two or three days without sunshine, but if two storm systems run into each other there may be persistent cloud cover for over week. When the sun does come out, temperatures can rise to 40°C (104°F), although the rains cool things somewhat and the December average across the Delta is around 33°C (91°F).
Frequently Asked Questions
We Think You’ll Love
Being the capital city of Botswana, Gaborone is also an economic capital, it is home to Botswana Stock Exchange. The name capital city Gaborone was the chief of the Tlokwa tribe, the city is named after him.
Yes, Gaborone is worth visiting. It is the largest city in Botswana and also an economic capital. If you traveling to Botswana, you should not miss this city.
In the capital city of Botswana, Gaborone, there are a lot of things that you can do for free-
- Visit the Three Chief’s Statues
- Explore the Riverwalk mall
- Visit the ISKCON temple of Gaborone
In the capital of Botswana, Gaborone, there are so many attractions to visit, here are its top attractions to explore-
- Gaborone Game Reserve
- Khutse Game Reserve
- Lion Park Resort
- Three Chief’s Statues
- Mokoldi Nature Reserve
Gaborone is the capital of Botswana. It is the largest city and the economic capital of Botswana. Gaborone is home to a lot of multi-national companies and the Botswana Stock Exchange (BSE).
September to October is the best time to visit Gaborone. This is the ideal time to visit the city as the climate remains ideal and the days become longer.
We are thrilled to help you plan your perfect safari holiday
We'd be delighted to help you with any questions you have about properties & safaris. Please fill in the form below so that we can help you create your perfect safari holiday.
Or
Contact Us
Feel free to give us a call or send us an e-mail:
Start Planning Your Tailored African Safari
Expert Safari Knowledge
The safari guide is arguably the most important part of the whole safari experience. Get a great guide and you’ll have an incredible time.
Tailor-made African Safaris
Falcon Safaris is a moderate-to-luxury safari operator dedicated to providing guests with the ultimate African experience. Get more ideas on what to do on the Victoria Falls Travel Guide
Long-term Relationships
We have intimate knowledge and superb long-term relationships with our partners, guides and exclusive connections across Africa.
Carefree Travel
Africa is an enticing destination, a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for some and a repeat trip for others. Book your flights to Victoria Falls today.
Our Travelers Say
We travelled with Falcon Safaris in Zimbabwe and Botswana for 16 days. Falcon designed a wonderful trip with private guide to the most interesting sites in both countries. The organization of the whole trip was excellent, flights within the country, accommodation and activites. The guides were very knowledgable and told us a lot about the countries, their history, people, economy and much more. Wevisited the Great Zimbabwe Ruins, the Victoria Falls and a number of national parks in both countries.
Rhino tracking was a real adventure! We had tremendous further game drives and saw very many animals - we did the Big Five. We had much more activities than planned and enjoyed very much.We strongly recommend Falcon Safaris to everyone planning a trip to Southern Africa and East Africa.
Wonderful trip to Zimbabwe and Botswana with excellent organization and very competent guides
Our Consultant Vimbai was very helpful and accommodating. We stayed at the Elephant hills hotel which was nothing short of amazing.Our activities included a helicopter flight, dinner cruise as well as a morning game drive. All the activities were absolutely amazing.
Exceptional!
We worked with Gertrude to schedule and organize everything and she did an excellent job. I asked a lot of questions via e-mail and she answered everyone in a timely helpful manner. Our guide at Victoria Falls was also great. He met us at the airport, provided a thoughtful tour of the Falls and got us to our next guide in Botswana. Our lodgings at River View Lodge were just as described- very comfortable and excellent food. All the staff were so pleasant and helpful. If I had to do it again I would arrange a morning boat ride as well. We only did the sunset boat rides and they were the high point of our entire trip- we saw so many animals and our guide was very knowledgeable. Just a great experience. Our lodgings at Oddball's Enclave was rustic and we loved it. So great to disconnect from the world for a bit. Leo, our guide, was the best - got us out and about, saw fantastic wildlife and got back to camp safely each time. Doc manages the camp so well. This whole trip was planned and organized by Falcon Safaris and we could not have been happier.
Fabulous, well planned trip
Falcon safaris have given my the correct advice with excellent service. The only suggestion will be to work closer with the lodges to confirm bookings as soon as possible. We have booked and pay our deposit a year in advance. We have only receive our final convermation from Chobe Safari lodge a week before departure. I do realize its not within your controle but with limit alternatives and a group of 14 people it becomes an issue to find alternative accomodation if the booking was cancelled.
Excellent and efficient service
Explore Our Africa With Customize Your Tour
Our passion for Africa and her rich diversity is what drives us to deliver superior itineraries for you. With over 30 years’ unrivalled experience, we believe your trip should be as unique as you are and so we tailor-make them for you as an individual.