gaborone botswana tourist attractions

• See & Do
• Film & TV
• Health & Wellness
• Fashion & Style
• Recipes & Tips
• Bars & Cafes
• Restaurants
• Burkina Faso
• Central African Republic
• Côte d’Ivoire
• Democratic Republic of the Congo
• Guinea-Bissau
• Sierra Leone
• South Africa
• Where To Stay
• City Breaks
• Food Lovers

11 Best Things to Do in Gaborone

Botswana is one of the  most-visited  countries in African, and there are many things to do in its Capital city of Gaborone, for both tourists and locals. This travel guide  give  you the insights to discover what are best things to do in Gaborone. Whether you’re a local of  Botswana , a new resident of Gaborone, or just visiting for a few days, explore Gaborone fully by following our list of the best things to do in the capital city. Best things to do in  Gaborone  it is a lovely trip that will take you to Gaborone Game Reserve to spot wildlife and National Museum in the city center to see displays of art and cultural artifacts.

If you’re looking to take your significant other on a date or the kids out for some family fun, we have your guide to some of the best free things to do in the area.

1. Explore original Botswanan food

Capital city of Botswana is a perfect destination for African gourmets. There are dozens of foods on offer to taste the best Botswanan specialties, discover typical  restaurants  and sip some local drinks, but also global cuisine. When on holiday in Gaborone, take your time and have fun, because you are in one of the best  food   destinations  in Africa.  

2. Botswana Craft

This is the best place in Gaborone for l ocal and African crafts  products, most often sold by local producers. The Botswana Craft is a  market  with art shop, courtyard restaurant and conference and public event spaces. What makes it unique? The  Botswanacraft  market give a unique touch to  all the famous craft products of Botswana , but also live  music and other public events.

Opening hours:

• From Monday to Saturday: 7am – 5pm
• Sunday: Closed

Location:   Plot  20716  Magochanyama  Road, Gaborone, Botswana  

3. Christ the King Cathedral  

Consecrated in 1968, this magnificent cathedral of Roman Catholic  architecture  is the principal church in Gaborone. This A tranquil place for prayer and meditation is open to worshipers from all walks of life. The cathedral is also one of the beautiful buildings in  Botswana , just awesome!  

Location:   161 Queens Rd, Gaborone, Botswana  

4. Mokolodi Nature Reserve

Mokolodi Nature Reserve is an amazing, captivating and mesmerizing game reserve, an ideal romantic destination for  safari-goer  couples. For lovers and couples looking romantic things to do in Gaborone, this nature reserve is a must see. Game drive  here  offer visitors opportunity to spot of African wildlife including giraffe, impala, hippo, zebra,  nile  crocodile, leopard, and birdlife.  

5. Explore the museum 

Looking for things to do? Located in the Botswana capital of Gaborone, the Botswana National Museum, also known as the National Museum and Art Gallery, is one of the best places that reflect the   arts and Batswana culture.  You will discover beautiful  traditional Botswana crafts and paintings, the work of local artists.  

Location:   National Museum and Art Gallery  

6. Gaborone Dam 

The idyllic Gaborone Dam on the  Notwane  River is a top waterfront experience in the Botswana capital of Gaborone. Gaborone Dam is a popular spot for walking, picnics and admiring the nature, a stunning tranquil waterway to explore at your own pace. Here, you can just watch the sunset and enjoy a breeze with lovers and friends, there is  Insta-worthy  sunsets nearly almost every night.

7. Three Dikgosi Monument

Located  in the heart of the city, t he Three  Dikgosi  Monument is Botswana’s most striking monument attracting hundreds of daily visitors to explore its grand architecture and  knowledable  details of the three  tribal chiefs .  

Location:   4th Commercial, Gaborone, Botswana  

8. Gaborone Game Reserve 

Capital of Botswana  is one of the unique capital cities in the world with wildlife. If you have the opportunity to be in Gaborone, take the time to explore this wildlife reserve in Gaborone. The Gaborone Game Reserve, is among the top-rated tourist attractions in Gaborone, with African wildlife including wildebeest, elands, gemsboks, kudus, ostriches, warthogs, and more. The game park is also a popular spot for bird-watching and a rich and abundant nature .

Location:   Game Reserve Road, Gaborone, Botswana  

9. Kgale Hill Public Park

Regarded as one of the most beautiful natural urban  parks  in Botswana, the Kgale Hill Public Park is where locals and  tourists  gather for nice walks, picnic, hiking or climbing. The Park is highest peak of the Gaborone City, offering beautiful perspectives and panoramic views of the entire city, including the idyllic Gaborone Dam. We recommend a trip to the hill top, the views from the top, especially at sunrise are spectacular. An  Insta-worthy  spot in Botswana that you will never forget.  

Location:   Kgale Hill  

10. Balaji Temple 

The Balaji Temple is important part Gaborone’s landscape and a must-do cultural and spiritual experience for tourists to Botswana’s capital city. This Hindu  temple  in Gaborone, is an architectural marvel, with many religious rituals and festive activities on offer.  Beyond exploring the beautiful  architecture , a visit to the Balaji is very calming, and a valuable life experience that you are sure to take something from.  

Location:   Block 8 Kgogwe, Gaborone, Botswana  

11. Visit Riverwalk Mall 

The Riverwalk Mall is a very large  shopping centre  with more than 80, it is the largest shopping  centre  in town. For movie lovers, the Riverwalk Mall has a large  cinema  complex with many restaurants. This place is ideal for shopping lovers, for drinks or dining out. Here, you will find everything, from the most expensive to the cheapest shops. Riverwalk Mall is really a must during your trip to Gaborone.

Opening hours:   

• From Monday to Friday: 9am – 7pm
• Saturday: 9am – 5pm
• Sunday: 9am – 2pm  

Location:   7279 Jersey, Gaborone, Botswana  

Explore the  Best Hotels in Gaborone .

• Explore tags ⟶
• sightseeing
• Things to do
• travel guide

10 Best Places to Visit in Rwanda

22 best things to do in cote d’ivoire, 15 most romantic destinations in madagascar, 22 best things to do in botswana.

Create a website from scratch

Just drag and drop elements in a page to get started with Newspaper Theme .

20 Afrobeats Love Songs Valentine’s Day 2024

Victony “everything” lyrics, best new afrobeats music this week: victony, portable, khaid, & more, best new afrobeats music this week: ayra starr, usher, tyla, & more.

Continue reading

Enjoy exclusive access to all of our content

Get an online subscription and you can unlock any article you come across.

Enjoy the benefits of exclusive reading

Gaborone City Tour (Half Day tour)

Madikwe Game Reserve Day Tour (Minimum per booking: 5 People)

Guided Pony Riding in the Tranquil Surroundings of the Notwane Dam

Johannesburg or Gaborone to Maun: 5 Day Rhinos, Diamonds & Okavango Delta Tour

Half Day Tour from Gaborone (Manyana Village Visit)

Around Gaborone Adventure

No.1 Ladies Detective Agency Literary Tour (Mma Ramotswe Tour)

Johannesburg or Gaborone to Victoria Falls 10 Day ACROSS BOTSWANA SmallGroupTour

1 Night Madikwe Game Reserve

Day visit to a village near Gaborone (Molepolole Village Visit)

Cultural tours.

Top Attractions in Gaborone

Other Top Attractions around Gaborone

Historical Tours

Nature and wildlife tours.

Private Sightseeing Tours

Multi-day tours, what travellers are saying.

Top Things to Do in Gaborone - Gaborone Must-See Attractions

Things to do in gaborone, explore popular experiences, ways to tour gaborone.

Gaborone City Tour (Half Day tour)

Madikwe Game Reserve Day Tour (Minimum per booking: 5 People)

Guided Pony Riding in the Tranquil Surroundings of the Notwane Dam

Johannesburg or Gaborone to Maun: 5 Day Rhinos, Diamonds & Okavango Delta Tour

Half Day Tour from Gaborone (Manyana Village Visit)

Around Gaborone Adventure

No.1 Ladies Detective Agency Literary Tour (Mma Ramotswe Tour)

Johannesburg or Gaborone to Victoria Falls 10 Day ACROSS BOTSWANA SmallGroupTour

1 Night Madikwe Game Reserve

Day visit to a village near Gaborone (Molepolole Village Visit)

Cultural tours.

Top Attractions in Gaborone

Other Top Attractions around Gaborone

Historical Tours

Nature and wildlife tours.

Private Sightseeing Tours

Multi-day tours, what travellers are saying.

• Entertainment

• Privacy Policy
• Terms and Conditions of Use

15 Cool Tours and Unusual Things to Do in Gaborone, Botswana

15 Cool Tours and Unusual Things to Do in Gaborone, Botswana.

This post has some of the best advice for upcoming trips to Africa, focused mainly on Gaborone, and provides information about what to do, where to stay, and how much it will cost.

Visiting Gaborone for various tours will assure you plenty of opportunities to see many of the city’s incredible sights.

Gaborone, Botswana’s capital city, offers its visitors a range of abundant possessions, such as museums and nature reserves. 

Consequently, the country has become an increasingly popular destination for unique tours. In turn, the city has gained a lot of popularity worldwide.

Looking for things to do in Gaborone? Check out this list of free and inexpensive activities that will get your creativity flowing.

1. Explore the Three Dikgosi Monuments

One of the most appealing aspects for visitors in Gaborone, Botswana, is to take some time out of your day to explore the Three Dikgosi Monuments in the Gaborone Central Business District.

Visitors can see a large bronze sculpture of tribal chiefs from the road; this is a perfect place to visit during vacations.

The  monuments represent three past dikgosi; Bathoen 1 of the Bangwaketse, Sebele 1 of the Bakwena, and Khama III  of the Bangwato. They are all a significant part of Gaborone’s independence.

Gaborone has many exciting attractions, and the Dikgosi monument is the most visited.

Activities at the monument 

This iconic statue is a must-see for anyone passing through Gaborone. It was a spot for notable events such as the 2008 Miss Independence Botswana.

Opening hours 

The spot is closed on both Saturday and Sunday but open Monday to Friday from 8 am to 5 pm.

2. Visit the Mokolodi Nature Reserve 

Plan your trip to the captivating game reserve in Gaborone, Mokolodi Nature Reserve, situated at Plot 10/KO/01 Mokolodi 2, Botswana.

The wildlife park is excellent for nature lovers, couples looking for a romantic activity in the capital city, and everyone in between. It has top-class facilities and unique experiences to offer.

Spend a whole day at this spot and explore Gaborone to its fullest. Here you can take pony rides in the serene surroundings.

African Wildlife at the Spot

The game drive allows tourists to see animals like hippos, giraffes, and zebras. You’ll also have a chance to spot birds, leopards, crocodiles, and more.

Top Tourist Activities

Mokolodi Nature Reserve offers a range of activities for tourists to enjoy, such as:

· Game drives

· Conferencing and facilities 

· Rhino tracking 

· Bush braais and champagne brunch 

· Reptile park/sanctuary visit 

· Giraffe tracking 

Available Facilities for Lodging 

The game reserve offers guests self-catering chalets, private camping sites, and a conference venue. They have a tea garden, restaurant, and curio shop as well.

3. Experience the Gaborone Dam

The rolling hills, lovely views, and tranquil environment surrounding Gaborone Dam will make you want to spend more days at the spot.

Gaborone Dam is located near the top of a mountain and offers an idyllic waterfront experience and tourist attraction in Gaborone – The capital city of Botswana.

Located on the Notwane River, with 141.4 Million Cubic Meters (MCM) capacity, the dam makes an ideal spot to sit and watch beautiful sunsets over the artificial lake.

Gaborone Dam is an earth core fill dam providing tourists with recreational activities. It’s also a focal point for many of the city’s water-based fun things.

Attractions at the Gaborone Dam  

With a fishing club spot and an avid yachting scene on the northern side of the lake, visitors can participate in a range of water sports, including

· Picnic and nature admiration 

· Bird watching 

· Windsurfing 

· Fishing with hook and line  

· Sunset watching with friends 

· Playground and boating facilities 

Social Events to Explore

Gaborone Dam hosts social events such as;

· Themed parties

· Art exhibitions

· Annual raft races and club outings to different parts of the dam.

4. Discover the National Museum and Art Gallery 

National Museum and Art Gallery hold many traditional Botswana paintings and crafts with memorabilia. 

It’s a multi-disciplinary educational tourist destination that houses the octagon gallery, the national botanical garden, and many other attractions.

The Museum of Southern Africa hosts various artifacts from Botswana. The museum brings more recognition to the country’s artistic heritage.

Top Sights at the Museum 

· African crafts

· Thatched house

· Queen’s Park Savannah 

· Courtyard Restaurant 

· Royal Botanic Gardens

Besides the many benefits to society, tens of thousands of people embrace the museum, which has changed their lives. They have created a greater appreciation for life’s opportunities and lessons learned about human history through art.

Location:  161 Queens Road, Gaborone, Botswana

5. Witness The Sri Balaji Temple of Gaborone

The Balaji Temple is an iconic Hindu temple in the city; it attracts thousands of visitors annually, and its architecture has intricate designs and beautiful shapes.

It is a beautiful Hindu temple on the outskirts of Gaborone, in Botswana. This temple has ancient architectural designs, festive cultural activities, and religious rituals.

Beyond exploring the architecture, visiting the temple gives visitors a calm, valuable, and lifetime experience.

Top Attractions to Explore

· Ornately carved doors depicting the Hindu mythology

· Lord Balaji greets visitors and devotees with two consorts: Sridevi and Bhudevi. 

· The temple has two lords (lord Murugan and lord Ayyapan) standing, adding to its ambiance.  

· Other stunning deities at the temple include Hanuman and Ganesha 

· With its traditional Indian architecture, the temple has an impressive scenic interior for tourists. 

6. Shop and Tour Around the Riverwalk Mall  

The Riverwalk Mall has more than 80 specialty stores with a lot of shopping around the Gaborone area.

Gaborone, the capital of Botswana, is known for its beautiful scenery and rich culture. A few blocks from the city center, Riverwalk Mall is a unique cultural and shopping destination with multiple theaters and restaurants.

Don’t miss out on the Riverwalk Mall -a premier shopping destination! Some of your favorite activities, like shopping, watching movies, eating at restaurants, and taking a stroll, can be all right here! You always want to visit fun places, and the locals say it is where it’s at.

The Gaborone Mall has top-notch entertainment and services that are constantly changing. They’re worth a visit on any trip.

Tenant Mix of the Mall

The list of tenant mix at  Riverwalk Mall  includes;

· Bureau de Change

· Liquor stores, 

· Entertainment, 

· Jewelry store, etc. 

Address:  7279 Jersey, Tlokweng Road, South East Gaborone.

Opening hours

The Riverwalk mall, perhaps the best of the city’s western-style malls, opens on these days:

Sunday: 9:00 am to 2:00 pm. 

Monday – Friday: 9 in the morning to 7 in the evening.

Saturday: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. 

7. Lion Park Resort 

Experience the thrill of riding the newest in the tallest roller coasters at Gaborone’s Lion Park Resort. They are for various family-friendly adventures for kids, teens, and adults.

The Lion Park Resort is excellent for quality family time and has a fantastic variety of activities to explore. It’s often a tourist spot, so it’s a historical landmark and landmark for folks to visit or explore.

The Lion Park Resort is a resort that combines animals and water fun. They’ve also created events for corporate events and parties for kids, teens, and adults.

Activities obtainable at the resort 

· Birthday parties 

· Lion viewing 

· Amusement park 

· Rides and swimming

· Campsite 

· Guided walks

· Tours and excursions 

Attraction at the resort 

The best attraction at this spot is watching the big, well-fed lions and taking advantage of the affordable wave pool activities.

Working hours 

Families can visit the park with their kids and teens within the following hours;

Tuesday: to Friday, 11 am – 6 pm

Saturday: 10 am – 6:30 pm 

Sunday: 12 pm – 6:30 pm

Monday: closed 

Location : Plot No. 15-KO Lion Park Portion, 184 of Portion 12 Crocodile Pools, Gaborone.

8. ISKCON Temple Gaborone (Krishna Balaram Palace)

The Sri Radha Krishna movement, the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), is an orange and maroon façade in Gaborone.

ISKCON is a 6500 square foot three-story temple standing bright against the blue Botswanan sky while portraying Hinduism. 

Each of the three floors in the temple has intricate designs and beauty that tourists will find difficult to resist.

The temple is beautiful and has highly detailed fittings that capture the essence of traditional Indian architecture. Its central area includes a fully fitted kitchen and sleeping quarters for visiting devotees and priests.

Top Attractions at the Temple 

ISKCON Gaborone, the holy abode of the Hindu Lord Krishna and Balaram, hosts top attractions such as;

· The Tulasi garden 

· The intricately designed stone wall, and a 

· Pagoda for peaceful chanting

· Flora and elephant carvings 

· Sculptures snuggled among ornaments and flowers.

· Golden altar   

9. Take a Wildlife Safari Tour

Enjoy a wildlife safari tour with “ Maroon Tours and Safaris ” throughout Gaborone and its surrounding environments.

Explore wide-ranging tours with curated experiences in Botswana, taking in the natural beauty that sets it apart from other African countries.

Anyone looking to visit Botswana’s capital city and explore the beautiful environments, water, and wildlife would find an 8-hour tour at “Maroon Tours” a great way to spend a day.

Available Itineraries/Services 

· Accommodation 

· Transfer to and from airports

· Cultural tours 

· Cross-border tours tailored for individuals or groups 

· The hiring of Chauffer driven vehicles 

What to expect at the tour 

· The tour operators pick vacationers from a designated point to Oodi to view the assortment of woven crafts. 

· The traveler will tour the leatherworks to see products created through a Setswana touch. 

· Moving forward, the traveler stops at Phuthadikobo Hill to see artifacts, a collection of Botswana photographs, and Bakgatha history. 

· Lunch and local tales about the giant footprint on sedimentary rock and returns to Gaborone.  

10. Christ the King Cathedral 

Take a walking tour to Christ, the King Cathedral, and the mother church of the Catholic Diocese of Gaborone. The cathedral is at  161 Queens Road, Gaborone.

The cathedral is a site of religious worship and a historical place and landmark for tours. It is also an essential part of architectural history.

Gaborone boasts of the captivating Cathedral Church, a church of the highest order open for public worship.

Attraction at the church

· Viewing the church’s magnificent architecture is part of Gaborone tourism. 

· The church draws several travelers using its exhibition hall to host arts and photographs.

· It also features the exposition of cars of the first president. 

Opening Hours:  The Christ the King cathedral works from Monday to Friday, 6:45 am to 5:00 pm.

11. Gaborone Game Reserve 

Gaborone Game Reserve is one of Gaborone, Botswana’s most popular tourist attractions, with unique thrill and suspense.

Vacationers choose to visit the game reserve because they have easy access to wildlife that they might not be able to find anywhere else.

The Gaborone Game Reserve, founded in 1988, offers travelers access to a wide variety of wildlife.

Wildlife at the reserve 

· Wildebeest

· Ostriches 

Activities at the park 

The park has abundant nature 

It’s ideal for bird watching

Picnic sites 

Visitor education center 

Services obtainable at the reserve  

· Wildlife 

· Education  

12. Hike Kgale Hill Public Park 

For quite some time, people have appreciated the Kgale Hill Public Park, a natural urban park in Gaborone. It is lovely for walks, and everybody takes full advantage of its various outdoor attractions.

Kgale Hill is one of the many beautiful sights in Johannesburg and offers excellent city views.

Hilltop views are Insta-worthy, especially at sunrise. They provide a unique perspective on the beauty surrounding you and a memory you can not forget.

The park that gives 360 views of Gaborone works every Monday to Sunday from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm. 

Fun activities at the park 

· Nice walks 

· Viewing baboons and squirrels 

13. Swim in the Olympic-sized Pool  

Take a half-day trip to the Olympic-sized Pool at the University of Botswana and burn lots of calories. Swimming there allows you to build muscular strength, endurance, and confidence while swimming.

Although the pool is on the university campus in Gaborone, it is still open to the public and tourist visitors to drop by and enjoy swimming.

The pool, one of the attractions in Gaborone, is a spacious place for amateurs and pros. 

Opening Hours 

The Olympic-sized swimming pool with a multi-million Pula heating system opens on the following days: 

Monday – Thursday: 7:45 am to 11 pm

Friday: 7:45 am to 5 pm 

Saturday: 10 am to 4 pm 

Sunday: 2 pm to 10 pm 

Activities at the pool 

· Recreation and leisure

· Water therapy and training 

· Swimming lessons 

· Academic aquatic programs 

· Local and international swimming galas 

14. Thapong Visual Arts Center 

Thapong is an active art center in Botswana’s capital, featuring artists of all levels. Artworks are a passion of the owners who want to offer their creations to people around them and see the blossoming success they create.

The Thapong visual arts center is a paradise boasting an art gallery of art pieces created by local artists. 

In addition to displaying the art gallery, it hosts a workshop where local and international artists can sample their skills.

Attractions at the center 

The major attraction to travelers at the Thapong center is its visual arts, exhibition, and gallery program.

15. Cultural Food Tour 

Another appealing thing tourists should do in Gaborone is to satiate hunger with original Botswanan food.  

Explore outstanding meals  on offer to taste while touring Gaborone, as the city counts as among the best food destinations in the country. 

When on holiday in Gaborone, have fun and take your time to discover typical restaurants and taste Botswanan specialties. 

Meals on offer

Gaborone offers quality meals that include Indian cuisine, Portuguese meals, global cuisine, local drinks, delectable seafood, and African gourmets. 

Conclusion  

If you seek unique things to do in Gaborone, the capital city of Botswana, check out these quirky attractions and activities and get a memorable experience when you next visit the city.

You can find unique experiences in Gaborone and witness first-hand experiences in the city.

The Gaborone Bucket List is the ultimate list of tours and things to do in Gaborone.

Related Articles

Post covid-19: 10 africa best travel vacation spots you should consider, 20 distinct animals that resides in east africa, 13 reasons why obudu mountain resort is nigeria’s best vacation hotspot.

LEAVE A REPLY Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Stay Connected

Latest articles, explore the most spectacular natural wonders in africa – a guide to the continent’s natural beauty, google equiano sub-sea cable network finally lands in lagos, nigeria, top 10 employment agencies in africa, top 10 confectioneries companies in africa, top 10 beauty salons and spas in africa.

Our Afridingo.com site list interesting articles about Africa with emphasis on its people, beauty, richness, and diversity of the African continent. You can get here daily write-ups or blogs regarding informative content to broaden the horizons you may have about Sub-saharan and Northern African countries or even black people living in other parts of the world. We cover major to most minor issues on travel, lifestyle, fashion, business, health, and other vital guides concerning the African continent.

Contact us: [email protected]

Afridingo © 2021. All Rights Reserved.

Home » Travel Guides » Botswana » 15 Best Places to Visit in Botswana

15 Best Places to Visit in Botswana

Botswana has a huge advantage over the rest of the world when it comes to attracting tourists: the wildlife. The array of animals that reside in or pass through the country is phenomenal. Ranging from endangered animals such as wild dogs and rhinos to the numerous and thriving bird life that inhabits the area.

The natural landscapes are impressive too from the vast and imposing Kalahari Desert to the sublime serenity of the Okavango Delta. The terrain here can feel vast and empty in some areas or dense and teeming with life in others but it is always a thing of beauty. The landscape is at once recognizable as African and will live up to all of your pre-trip expectations.

All of these natural attractions come at a cost however and Botswana is currently one of the most pricey destinations for tourism in Africa. Some of the luxury accommodations here is priced so high that it is often the super-rich that travel here or once in a lifetime trips such as honeymoons. However, for the travel savvy, self drive tours are an affordable and often more rewarding way to explore the stunning country of Botswana. Let’s have a look at the 15 best places to visit in Botswana !

1. Okavango Delta

The Okavango Delta is one of the most inspiring and awe-inspiring wilderness locations in Africa, if not the entire planet. The Delta is a truely unspoiled wilderness with terrain ranging from dry grasslands to swamps.

Safaris and game watching are the most popular activities in the park and possible animals to be sighted include cheetahs, zebra, giraffes, elephants, crocodiles and rhinos to name only a few.

Trips should be properly planned because, although the terrain here is always stunning, the seasons can dramatically effect your chances of seeing certain animals.

2. Moremi Game Reserve

Voted the best game reserve in the African continent in 2008, this park has a lot going for it. It is the first reserve that was solely founded by local residents who were growing ever more concerened about natural and man-made threats to the local enviroment and wildlife.

Situated on the east side of the Okavango Delta, the reserve offers some of the most stunning scenery in the country and boasts an equally impressive ecosystem.

Many tourists choose to visit the park by self-drive campervan but the park also has a number of great campsites.

This village is not far from Gaborone and is a great location for exploring the hills on foot. The village is surprisingly industrious and houses a number of small manufacturers such as glassworks, metal and pottery on the aptly named Pelegano Village Industry.

The pottery factory in Gabane is particularly worth a visit due to its shop selling wares such as crockery, vases and other handcrafted decorative items.

The most popular reason for visiting the village however is the great location for hiking.

Kasane is situated between the Four Corners of Africa; where Botswana, Zimbabwe, Namibia and Zamibia meet. It is a great spot to stay for visits to the Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe or Botswana’s own Chobe National Park.

The town’s own attractions include a huge Baobab tree that was once used as a prison due to its trunk that is so large a human can enter. There is also a snake park that houses around 50 snakes from 17 different species.

Kasane is also wonderfully situated for exploring the Chobe River.

Maun is often used by tourists as a stepping stone for the Okavango Delta but it has enough about it to merit a few nights stay. The hotels, restaurants and tourist amenities here are some of the best in the country, largely due to the fact that the city is the main tourist stop in the country.

Whilst the town itself does not have much going for it, it still attracts a wide range of people from luxury safari travelers to volounteers.

There are some great campsites that are located by the river, providing a great place to stay for a few nights.

6. Gaborone

The city of Gaborone is the largest in Botswana and also its capital. The modern buildings of Gaborone set against the tropical backdrops of this African nation are an unusual sight and despite its size, there are not too many reasons to visit the city.

The large residential areas are supplemented by a few decent hotels and restaurants. The modern feel of the city is reinforced by its lack of history but it is certainly paving the way for the countries future and for this reason it is a good place to experience the vibe of 21st Century Botswana.

7. Chobe National Park

This game reserve is the third largest in Botswana but it has one of the largest concentrations of rare game animals in the continent of Africa.

The national park takes its name from the Chobe River which, at first glance is guaranteed to take your breathe away. As well as being a beautiful sight, the river supports an ecosystem of rare and exotic creatures including birds, elephants, lions, giraffes, baboons and buffalo.

During the winter season it is possible to see a herd of hundreds of elephants at a time; a truly once in a lifetime experience.

8. Francistown

The oldest town in Botswana is the second largest in the country. Francistown was built on gold mining before Europeans came and looked to prosper from it themselves. In fact the town takes its name from a British man; Daniel Francis.

The main sights in the town include the Supa Ngwao Museum which documents the life and culture of the Kalanga people through various exhibits. There is also a refuge for orphaned wild animals called Birds and Game Botswana.

The town is currently experiencing an economic boom due to the recent resurgence of gold mining.

9. Central Kalahari Game Reserve

Wild, mysterious and amazingly vast, the Central Kalahari Game Reserve is a true wilderness that will give you the impression that you are exploring Africa alone. Incredible grasslands engulf you by day whilst the skies at night are as clear as the clearest in the world.

The rain in summer brings about countless wild beasts of all shapes and sizes including massive herds of animals like wildebeast and springbok.

In the harsher winter months, the main reason to visit the Central Kalahari Game Reserve is the unfathomable open terrain and true African wilderness.

10. Jwaneng

Built on the richest diamond mine in the world, the name Jwaneng literally means the place of small stones; these small stones are far more valuable than your average pebble however.

In just one year the mine produced over 13 million carats from a whopping 10.5 million tons worth of ore. The town has amenities such as guest houses and restaurants.

The mine here also supports the nearby Jwana Game Park which recently introduced two white rhinos.

11. Tsodilo Hills

The Tsodilo Hills appear almost suddenly out of the ground in the northwest Kalahari. These imposing rock formations of varying shapes and sizes are made to love even more impressive by the relative flatness of the surrounding land in the Kalahari.

The Tsodillo Hills are a Unesco World Heritage site and are home to an amazing 4000 cave paintings spread out over 200 locations. The cave paintings, along with other evidence, suggests that the hills were first inhabited over 30,000 years ago.

The best time to visit is in the winter months as summer can be blisteringly hot.

12. Makgadikgadi Pans National Park

The name may be a mouthful but the reasons to visit Makgadikgadi Pans National Park are simple.

The park stretches from the Boteti River and for this reason supports a vast and diverse ecosystem.

The wildlife is particularly varied in the dry season when animals come from miles around to the river which is the only source of water for a long way.

Although mainly used as a stop off for tourists on the way to Muan or Kasane, Gweta is worth visiting for its namesake, the species of bullfrog that live in the area.

The frogs hide themselves in the sand until it rains and they can emerge from their sandy slumber.

Other than these amazing creatures, there is little to see in Gweta, although the fuel station here is handy for pass through and will probably see you call in at some point during your time here.

Kang has a real travel vibe due to its location between Namibia, South Africa and Botswana.

It is certainly not the most attractive place in Botswana, neither does it pack in the most attractions or sights but the town has amenities such as restaurants and guest houses which can be used as bases or as part of an onward journey in Botswana.

The restaurants in Kang are unlikely to be the most memorable meals during your time in the country but they are affordable and hearty.

Savuti is one of the most popular safari destinations in Botswana due to its prime location in the very corner of the Chobe National Park. Throughout the year, all of the most popular and impressive animals (with the exception of rhinos) visit the region due to the river here.

The landscape here is large and somewhat barren but was once a superlake that filled a void in Northern Botswana.

The area has a wealth of luxury lodges for travellers looking to spend money for the best of the best. There are also great campsites for drivers through the area.

15 Best Places to Visit in Botswana:

• Okavango Delta
• Moremi Game Reserve
• Chobe National Park
• Francistown
• Central Kalahari Game Reserve
• Tsodilo Hills
• Makgadikgadi Pans National Park

Getty Images/iStockphoto

Depending on your perspective, low-key Gaborone (or Gabs to its friends) is either terribly unexciting or one of Africa's more tranquil capital cities. There aren’t that many concrete reasons to come here – it’s a world of government ministries, shopping malls and a seemingly endless urban sprawl – and most travellers can fly to Maun or cross overland elsewhere. Yet, it can be an interesting place to take the pulse of the nation.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Gaborone Game Reserve

This reserve was established in 1988 by the Kalahari Conservation Society to give the Gaborone public an opportunity to view Botswana’s wildlife in a…

Three Dikgosi Monument

It’s an interesting kind of history when your nationalist heroes are three guys who argued your country should continue to be a protectorate of Africa’s…

National Museum & Art Gallery

Botswana's National Museum closed in mid-2016 for a much-needed overhaul. Prior to the closure, the collection itself was fairly modest, with plenty of…

Botswana's parliament building sits at the western end of the Mall in an area dominated by government ministries.

Botswana National Reference Library

Next to Debswana House, this library is ideal for anyone doing any research about Botswana and the region.

One of the focal points for Botswana's Muslim community, this mosque is an important local landmark.

Debswana House

The home of Botswana's diamond industry, Debswana House is an important local landmark.

University of Botswana

Botswana's biggest university sits on the city's eastern outskirts.

Plan with a local

Experience the real Botswana

Let a local expert craft your dream trip.

in partnership with getyourguide

Book popular activities in Gaborone

Purchase our award-winning guidebooks.

Get to the heart of Gaborone with one of our in-depth, award-winning guidebooks, covering maps, itineraries, and expert guidance.

Expedia Rewards is now One Key™

Things to do in gaborone, visit gaborone.

Gaborone Attractions

The nation's beating heart, Gaborone has loads to offer every sort of traveler. From adventure to relaxation and everything that lies in between, you'll never be bored. Start planning your ideal travel itinerary today and hit the ground running.

Discover the sights of Gaborone with some popular tours & day trips , or try out our list of {13 fun activities in Gaborone fun activities in Gaborone }. We have no booking fees and free cancellation, so you can rest easy and channel your energy into planning your perfect vacation.

Explore thousands of experiences from activities and attractions to day tours and transfer.

Skip the line- book tickets online in minutes to top attractions with free cancellation on many activities.

One Key members save 10% or more on select activities, hotels, cars and vacation rentals.

Recommended things to do in Gaborone

What to do in gaborone, free things to do in gaborone.

There's no need to give your credit card a workout in Gaborone. The following won't even cost a penny.

National Museum - Whether you're old or young, this place will stimulate your imagination and capture your attention.

University of Botswana - If you enjoy modern-style design and architecture, add this landmark to your must-see list.

Gaborone Dam - Take some time out by the water to rest and recharge your batteries.

Three Dikgosi Monument - Make room in your to-do list to explore this place of local significance.

ISKCON Gaborone - Mix a bit of spirituality into your trip with a stop at this religious attraction.

Things to Do in Gaborone with Kids

Gaborone is an excellent destination for a family getaway. Take the youngsters along and have a go at these family friendly experiences together:

• Madikwe Game Reserve Day Tour
• Gaborone City Tour & Gaborone Game Reserve
• Guided Pony Riding in the Tranquil Surroundings of the Notwane Dam
• 12 Days Botswana With Victoria Falls

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Gaborone? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

Frequently asked questions

• University of Botswana
• Game City Mall
• Botswanacraft
• Gaborone Dam

Discover the most popular places to visit in Gaborone

Take a campus tour or just explore the area of University of Botswana, during your trip to Gaborone. While in the area, you can find time to visit its casinos.

• Mokolodi Nature Reserve

Explore the great outdoors at Mokolodi Nature Reserve, a lovely green space in Gaborone. While in the area, you can find time to visit its shops.

• Botswana National Stadium

Catch an event at Botswana National Stadium during your trip to Gaborone. While in the area, you can find time to visit its casinos.

• Gaborone Game Reserve

Explore the great outdoors at Gaborone Game Reserve, a lovely green space in Gaborone. While in the area, you can find time to visit its casinos.

• River Walk Mall

You can browse for the perfect souvenirs at River Walk Mall during your stay in Gaborone. While in the area, you can find time to visit its casinos.

You can browse for the perfect souvenirs at Game City Mall during your stay in Gaborone. While in the area, you can find time to visit its casinos.

Enjoy an outing to Botswanacraft during your stay in Gaborone. While in the area, you can find time to visit its casinos.

• Gaborone Natural History Museum

You can spend an afternoon browsing the exhibits at Gaborone Natural History Museum in Gaborone. While in the area, you can find time to visit its casinos.

• Gaborone Government Enclave

After visiting Gaborone Government Enclave, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Gaborone. Take in the entertainment venues while you're in the area.

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Gaborone

When in Tlokweng, you can plan a visit to National Botanical Garden and Gaborone Game Reserve, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Naledi and surrounding area, you can visit Game City Mall and Botswana National Stadium.

• Places to visit
• Hotels near popular Gaborone Attractions
• Nearby cities for things to do
• Expedia's Latest Trends
• National Botanical Garden
• Serondela Reserve
• National Museum
• ISKCON Gaborone
• Three Dikgosi Monument
• Nogatsaa and Tchinga
• Hotels near University of Botswana
• Hotels near Mokolodi Nature Reserve
• Hotels near Botswana National Stadium
• Hotels near Gaborone Game Reserve
• Hotels near River Walk Mall
• Hotels near Game City Mall
• Hotels near Botswanacraft
• Hotels near Gaborone Natural History Museum
• Hotels near Gaborone Government Enclave
• Hotels near National Botanical Garden
• Hotels near Gaborone Dam
• Hotels near National Museum
• Hotels near ISKCON Gaborone
• Hotels near Nogatsaa and Tchinga
• Johannesburg Activities
• Pretoria Activities
• Pilanesberg National Park Activities
• Hartbeespoort Activities
• Bela-Bela Activities
• Vaalwater Activities
• Broederstroom Activities
• Rustenburg Activities
• Centurion Activities
• Magaliesberg Activities
• Muldersdrift Activities
• Krugersdorp Activities

Top Things to Do in Gaborone, Botswana - Gaborone Must-See Attractions

Things to do in gaborone, explore popular experiences, ways to tour gaborone.

Gaborone City Tour (Half Day tour)

Madikwe Game Reserve Day Tour (Minimum per booking: 5 People)

Guided Pony Riding in the Tranquil Surroundings of the Notwane Dam

Johannesburg or Gaborone to Maun: 5 Day Rhinos, Diamonds & Okavango Delta Tour

Half Day Tour from Gaborone (Manyana Village Visit)

Around Gaborone Adventure

No.1 Ladies Detective Agency Literary Tour (Mma Ramotswe Tour)

Johannesburg or Gaborone to Victoria Falls 10 Day ACROSS BOTSWANA SmallGroupTour

1 Night Madikwe Game Reserve

Day visit to a village near Gaborone (Molepolole Village Visit)

Cultural tours.

Top Attractions in Gaborone

Other Top Attractions around Gaborone

Historical Tours

Nature and wildlife tours.

Private Sightseeing Tours

Multi-day tours, what travellers are saying.

• Community Projects
• Tourism Offices
• Star Grading System
• Eco - Tourism Certification Application Process
• At A Glance
• Arts and Crafts
• Local Events
• International Events
• Publications

The Mokoro is a common type of canoe used to move around in the Okavango Delta's shallow waters. Oarsmen stand in the stern and push with a pole. Traditionally, Mokoros are dug-out from trunks of a large straight tree, like ebony or kigelia.

Old Palapye is a significant multicultural historical site containing artefacts from the Middle Stone Age, the Late Stone Age, and the Early Iron Age. In contemporary times, the village became the 19th century capital of the Bangwato (led by Khama III), who occupied the area from 1889-1902.

There are groups of people and organizations promoting indigenous crafts, newly introduced crafts or western art forms. Their products can be purchased in curio, craft, gift shops and malls in Gaborone, Francistown, Maun and Kasane and at safari camps in the Okavango and Chobe regions.

As more and more cultural tourism options are offered, you will be charmed by the people of Botswana, visiting their villages and experiencing first-hand their rich cultural heritage. But perhaps most of all, Botswana’s greatest gift is its ability to put us in touch with our natural selves.

The gateway to Chobe National Park, Kasane is an essential point of debarkation for the nearby Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe and Livingstone in Zambia and Namibia's Caprivi Strip.

One of the most sought after wilderness destinations in the world, the Okavango Delta gives entrance to the spectacle of wild Africa such as dreams are made of – the heart-stopping excitement of big game viewing, the supreme tranquility and serenity of an untouched delta, and evocative scenes of extraordinary natural beauty.

SCROLL DOWN

Welcome to Botswana Live virtual tour experience. The Live tour is aimed at promoting Tourism in Botswana.

Watch Virtual Tour

Explore Our Wilderness

Experience the stunning beauty, the unimaginable vastness, the isolation and worldliness, the astoundingly prolific wildlife of the best kept African secret - Botswana.

Immerse In Our Thrilling Experiences

Whether your thing is safaris, mokoro rides, quad biking, fishing, 4x4 off-road adventures you are sure to make the best of your stay in Botswana.

Stay with Us, Feel at Home

Botswana offers the traveller a choice of accommodation options from top class hotels, luxury lodges and safari camps, to budget guesthouses and camping grounds.

Travel Information

Tourist Reviews

Our Partners

• Travel Info

Botswana Tourist Attractions

Botswana holidays.

One of those rare African countries that, despite its incredible tourism infrastructure, Botswana has managed to remain mostly untouched. Botswana tourist attractions include incredible wildlife encounters and the world-famous Okavango Delta. Tourists flock to Botswana to discover Africa in its truest form. Book your stay at one of the top hotels in Gaborone, and get exploring. From the capital city, to the famous herds of Chobe elephants, you’ll feel like you’re visiting Africa’s best kept secret. 

One of the most interesting facts about Botswana is that over 17 percent of the country has been set-aside as national parks and game reserves. Explore the lush green of the Okavango Delta in the north and the red desert dunes of the Kalahari Desert in the south to experience nature at its very best.

If you’re visiting the country and looking for hotels in Gaborone, AVANI Gaborone Hotel & Casino will give you the perfect base from which to explore Botswana’s many attractions.

Botswana tourist attractions

Botswana tourist attractions near AVANI Gaborone Hotel & Casino.

• Explore the Town Centre to discover the city's oldest architectural gems, and peruse craftwork and curios at the outdoor stalls.
• Visit the leafy gardens of Gaborone's Government Enclave. Here you'll find parliamentary buildings as well as several important historical monuments, including the Sir Seretse Khama Statue.
• View the Three Chiefs Monument in Gaborone's newly developed Central Business District. This impressive historical statue marks an important turning point in the history of Botswana.
• The National Museum and Art Gallery is a vibrant focal point of artistic and cultural activity, and displays Botswana's natural and cultural heritage. You'll also find many artefacts here from sub-Saharan Africa.
• For more modern art, the Thapong Visual Arts Centre is home to the works of the country's most gifted artists, and is an underrated Botswana tourist attraction.
• Close to most hotels in Gaborone, the recently opened National Museum Botanical Gardens features walking trails, exhibitions on the flora of Botswana, a library of botanical books and historical buildings, and a colonial guesthouse.
• Visit the Ecological Park to find out more about simple but effective technologies, for resource conservation and waste management. The park has been developed to inspire people to live an environmentally friendly life.
• The Gaborone Game Reserve is a small but well stocked park that is home to a number of Botswana's indigenous species, including zebra, eland, gemsbok, red hartebeest, blue wildebeest, impala, kudu, steenbok, vervet monkeys, warthog and rock dassies, as well as numerous resident and migrant bird species, best viewed from the small dam in the park.
• To enjoy some outdoor activities in Gaborone, try canoeing, yachting, picnics, and bushwalks at the Gaborone Dam.
• Climb Kgale Hill for panoramic views and incredible sunsets. One of the city's major landmarks, it overlooks both the Gaborone Dam as well as its largest mall, Game City. Kgale is popular for climbers and picnickers, with well-marked routes.

MORE BOTSWANA TOURIST ATTRACTIONS

• Without a doubt, Botswana’s wildlife is its biggest draw card. Get out of your hotel in Gaborone, and go on safari. Or enjoy a leisurely river cruise at the Chobe National Park , famous for its abundant elephant herds.
• Explore the Okavango Delta on a mokoro (small canoe). This is the biggest inland delta in the world , and a World Heritage Site.
• Experience a scenic flight over the Moremi Game Reserve, which borders the Okavango Delta.

Sun International's Partner Hotel and Casino in Botswana 

AVANI Gaborone Hotel & Casino     Find that just right blend of hospitality, business, and leisure at AVANI Gaborone Hotel & Casino. Set in the vibrant city centre of Botswana’s capital, Gaborone, it’s never been easier work, rest, and play in style in the heart of Africa. Visit AVANI Gaborone Hotel & Casino Website .

THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Gaborone

Things to do in gaborone, explore popular experiences, ways to tour gaborone.

Gaborone City Tour (Half Day tour)

Madikwe Game Reserve Day Tour (Minimum per booking: 5 People)

Guided Pony Riding in the Tranquil Surroundings of the Notwane Dam

Johannesburg or Gaborone to Maun: 5 Day Rhinos, Diamonds & Okavango Delta Tour

Half Day Tour from Gaborone (Manyana Village Visit)

Around Gaborone Adventure

No.1 Ladies Detective Agency Literary Tour (Mma Ramotswe Tour)

Johannesburg or Gaborone to Victoria Falls 10 Day ACROSS BOTSWANA SmallGroupTour

1 Night Madikwe Game Reserve

Day visit to a village near Gaborone (Molepolole Village Visit)

Cultural tours.

Top Attractions in Gaborone

Other Top Attractions around Gaborone

Historical Tours

Nature and wildlife tours.

Private Sightseeing Tours

Multi-day tours, what travellers are saying.

THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Gaborone

Things to do in gaborone, explore popular experiences, ways to tour gaborone.

Gaborone City Tour (Half Day tour)

Madikwe Game Reserve Day Tour (Minimum per booking: 5 People)

Guided Pony Riding in the Tranquil Surroundings of the Notwane Dam

Johannesburg or Gaborone to Maun: 5 Day Rhinos, Diamonds & Okavango Delta Tour

Half Day Tour from Gaborone (Manyana Village Visit)

Around Gaborone Adventure

No.1 Ladies Detective Agency Literary Tour (Mma Ramotswe Tour)

Johannesburg or Gaborone to Victoria Falls 10 Day ACROSS BOTSWANA SmallGroupTour

1 Night Madikwe Game Reserve

Day visit to a village near Gaborone (Molepolole Village Visit)

Cultural tours.

Top Attractions in Gaborone

Other Top Attractions around Gaborone

Historical Tours

Nature and wildlife tours.

Private Sightseeing Tours

Multi-day tours, what travellers are saying.