The capital of Botswana and was named after Chief Gaborone the chief of the Batlokwa people who settled in the Tlokwent area around 1881. The town is on the Ngotwane River and officially the building started in 1964 with the movement of the administrative headquarters of the country to Gaborone which were previously in Mafeking. It was declared a city officially in 1986 and has a population of approximately 150,000 people.
Sometimes flight connections necesitate an overnight in Gaborone, or you may want to experience some of the bustle of the business world of Botswana or explore the history and culture of the area.
Accommodation - There are several good hotels in and around town, such as The Metcourt Inn, Walmont Ambassador or The President Hotel, please ask us for details.
Things to see and do around Gaborone
No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency Tours - following the great popularity of the popular series of books by Alexander McCall Smith about Botswana's top female sleuth, Precious Ramotswe, you can now take part in guided tours of the areas that are found in the stories. Visit the Tlokweng Road Speedy Motors, Zebra Drive, the Orphan Farm and other locations frequented by Mma Ramotswe. See link to our trips for details.
National Museum and Art Gallery - located near the central mall and has lovely exhibitions of the culture and natural history of Botswana, the museum library is in the same building and worth a visit.
Mokolodi Nature Reserve - 15km south west of Gaborone this small reserve offers game drives day and night, walks and educational activities including the cheetah enclosure and rhino tracking.
Manyana Rock Paintings about 40km south of the town. These paintings of giraffe, gemsbok and people are culturally significant as there are not many rock paintings in this region. In the same area is 'Livingstone's Tree' which according to tradition was planted during the famous explorers time here.
Local crafts - you will find locally made souvenirs in Gaborone's shops and markets or take a trip to Odi (25km north) where there is a co-operative producing unique Botswana tapestries at Odi Weavers.
