Gaborone, the lively capital of Botswana, is a medium-sized city located in a lush valley between the Oodi and Kgale hills in the southwestern corner of the country. Visitors will find all the facilities they need to have a great African experience in this little-traveled part of the world. However, many of the real treasures lie just outside the city limits.
The center of Gaborone is where most of the city’s few cultural attractions can be found, such as the National Museum. The western edge of the capital is home to Kgale Hill, the best spot for scenic hikes and big views over the city and the Gaborone Dam.
The old part of the city, known as ‘the village’, is where you’ll find the remnants of Gaborone’s colonial legacy. Granted, the capital is somewhat short on attractions, but the friendly and colorful urban scene will reward any traveler who is willing to get out and mix with the locals at the great selection of bars, cafés and nightclubs.
Highlights
Gaborone Dam: not just the city’s main water source, this lake is a hot recreation and resort spot where visitors can get out on the water using non-motorized boats.
Gaborone Game Reserve: the third-largest wildlife reserve in Botswana contains a wealth of exotic African animals despite being so close to the capital, and is well worth a visit if you don’t plan an extensive safari.
Kgale Hill: the western edge of Gaborone is dominated by this wonderful nature preserve, full of hiking trails leading to vistas over the city and the dam.
Matisieng Footprints: a short drive from the city is this unique archeological site where extremely ancient footprints have been preserved in the earth, bringing the reality of our ancient ancestors closer to our understanding.
National Museum: right in the city center is this superb museum dedicated to the traditional art and handicrafts of southern Africa.
St Claire Lion Park: just minutes from Gaborone is an impressive lion park where these regal beasts can be viewed in their natural habitat up close and personal.