Gaborone is one of Africa's quietest and most orderly capital cities, a modern, well-planned metropolis that reflects Botswana's remarkable economic success story. Built from almost nothing after independence in 1966, Gaborone has grown into a city of around 230,000 people (with a greater metro area of 420,000), yet retains a relaxed, unhurried character that sets it apart from the bustling capitals of its neighbors. The city sits on the southeastern edge of the country near the South African border, at an elevation of 1,014 meters. Most safari visitors bypass Gaborone entirely, flying directly to Maun for the Okavango Delta or Kasane for Chobe. But the capital has its own quiet appeal: the Three Dikgosi Monument honoring Botswana's founding chiefs, a solid national museum, the leafy Government Enclave, and the nearby Mokolodi Nature Reserve where you can see white rhinos just 15 minutes from downtown. Gaborone also serves as the gateway for Kalahari adventures heading west.
Things to Do in Gaborone
Three Dikgosi Monument
CultureImpressive bronze statues honoring three Botswana chiefs who traveled to London in 1895 to protect their land from Cecil Rhodes' British South Africa Company.
Duration: ~0.5 hours
Botswana National Museum and Art Gallery
CultureCovers Botswana's natural history, archaeology, and contemporary art. The San Bushman exhibits are particularly worthwhile.
Duration: ~1.5 hours
Mokolodi Nature Reserve
NatureSmall private reserve 15 minutes from downtown with white rhinos, giraffes, and various antelope. Guided walks and drives available.
Duration: ~3 hours
Gaborone Neighborhoods
Where to stay and explore
CBD (Central Business District)
Good during daytimeBusiness-oriented, functional
Government buildings, banks, and the Main Mall pedestrian area. The commercial heart of the city.
Price level: Mid
Gaborone West / The Village
GoodLocal, residential
Traditional village area now absorbed into the city. More local character and affordable dining.
Price level: Budget
Phakalane
Very goodSuburban, affluent
Upscale suburb with the Phakalane Golf Estate and modern housing developments.
Price level: High
Food & Restaurants
Gaborone's dining scene is modest but growing, with a mix of local Botswana cuisine, South African chains, and a handful of international restaurants. The city's food is heavily influenced by South African and Tswana traditions.
Must-Try Dishes
Seswaa
Slow-cooked, pounded beef or goat; Botswana's national dish
Bogobe
Thick sorghum or maize porridge, served as a side with stews
Morogo
Wild spinach or leafy greens cooked with tomatoes and onions
Vetkoek
Deep-fried dough balls, a South African influence
Top Restaurants
Bull & Bush
$$Pub/Grill • CBD
Long-running pub with good steaks and a social atmosphere
Caravela
$$$Portuguese • Broadhurst
Excellent Portuguese-style grilled chicken and seafood
Gaborone Nightlife
Gaborone's nightlife is low-key compared to other African capitals. The city has a handful of bars and lounges, with most activity concentrated around the Main Mall and Riverwalk areas. Things pick up on Friday and Saturday nights.
Best areas: Riverwalk Mall area, Main Mall, Phakalane
Bull & Bush Pub
PubCBD
Long-running pub and social hub with live sport screenings and a lively weekend crowd
Lizard Lounge
Bar/ClubBroadhurst
Popular nightlife spot with music and dancing on weekends
Shopping in Gaborone
Gaborone has several modern malls with South African retail chains, local craft shops, and a handful of markets. The shopping experience is functional rather than destination-worthy, but you can find everything you need.
Malls
- Riverwalk Mall (CBD)
- Airport Junction Mall (Airport Road)
- Game City Mall (Gaborone West)
Markets
- Broadhurst Craft Market - Craft market
- Main Mall Open Market - Daily market
What to Buy
Safety in Gaborone
Gaborone is one of Africa's safest capital cities. Violent crime against tourists is extremely rare. Petty theft is possible but uncommon. The city is well-policed and orderly.
Safe Areas
- ✓ CBD (daytime)
- ✓ Phakalane
- ✓ Riverwalk area
Avoid
- ✗ Isolated areas at night
Safety Tips
- • Standard travel precautions are sufficient
- • Avoid walking alone in deserted areas after dark
- • Keep valuables out of sight in your vehicle
Getting Around Gaborone
Taxi
RecommendedHotel-arranged taxis are the easiest option. Negotiate fares before getting in.
$5-15 for most trips
Car Rental
RecommendedAvailable at the airport and in town. Useful if continuing to safari.
$40-80/day
Combi (Minibus)
Local shared minibuses running fixed routes. Very cheap but confusing for visitors.
$0.30-0.50 per trip
Gaborone Weather
Semi-arid with hot summers and mild winters
| Month | High | Low | Rain | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| january | 33°C | 20°C | 80mm | Hot, summer rains |
| february | 32°C | 19°C | 70mm | Hot, summer rains |
| march | 31°C | 18°C | 55mm | Warm, rains easing |
| april | 28°C | 14°C | 25mm | Cooling, drying |
| may | 25°C | 8°C | 5mm | Cool, dry |
| june | 22°C | 5°C | 2mm | Cold mornings, dry |
| july | 22°C | 4°C | 0mm | Coldest month, dry |
| august | 25°C | 7°C | 1mm | Warming, dry |
| september | 29°C | 12°C | 5mm | Warm, dry |
| october | 32°C | 16°C | 30mm | Hot, rains begin |
| november | 33°C | 18°C | 55mm | Hot, summer rains |
| december | 33°C | 19°C | 70mm | Hot, summer rains |
How Many Days in Gaborone?
0
Minimum
1
Recommended
1
Ideal