Gaborone: City History, Art and Nature

Gaborone can be explored through several distinct experiences: city history and art sit alongside trails at Kgale, activities at Gaborone Dam and wildlife watching in the surrounding area. You can tailor your stay to whether you prefer cultural discoveries, outdoor exercise or activities on the water.

The Botswana Society offers the Gaborone Bus Tour, a three-hour bus tour of sights in Gaborone. If you would like to visit several city destinations as part of a tour, it is a practical option. To book, contact the Society and ask about current availability.

City History, Art and Remembrance

The National Museum is near the centre of Gaborone’s old town. Its collections include traditional crafts and South African fine art. The museum therefore appeals both to travellers interested in craft traditions and to those who want to discover fine art.

The Three Chiefs’ Monument, a statue marking a significant turning point in Botswana’s history, stands in the Central Business District (CBD). The historical context dates back to 1885: Chief Khama III of the Bangwato, Chief Sebele I of the Bakwena and Chief Bathoen I of the Bangwaketse travelled to London to present a petition to Joseph Chamberlain, then Secretary of State for the Colonies. The journey took them to London; the monument in Gaborone commemorates an important chapter in Botswana’s history.

The National Botanical Garden also preserves a special piece of Gaborone’s history: a Moporota tree stands there, under which the first BDP meeting took place. A description from 2014 also reports that the Old Gaberones Hotel, built in 1890, was used as a natural history museum in the garden. The garden thus brings together botanical, political and architectural history.

Water and Outdoor Trails

The public City Scapes facility is located on the southern shore of Gaborone Dam. It includes picnic areas, a boat jetty and a children’s playground. Check the facility’s current operating status before your visit.

Non-motorised water sports are permitted at Gaborone Dam through the Gaborone Yacht Club. Check with the club about current availability before making firm plans for the activity. If you prefer to explore on foot, Kgale in Gaborone has clearly marked ascent and descent trails. Check current trail conditions before setting out.

Wildlife Watching and Creative Activities

Near Gaborone, visitors can watch birds and wildlife independently at Gaborone Game Reserve. These include zebras, giraffes, kudus, eland and ostriches. There is also a picnic area in the reserve; check its current condition before your visit.

Thapong Visual Arts Centre occasionally offers art classes for children. Unlike the children’s playground at City Scapes, this activity depends on the current class schedule, which you should check in advance.

Choose Accommodation to Suit Your Travel Plans

When searching for a holiday rental in Gaborone, your preferred experiences can help guide your choice: cultural sites, trails at Kgale or activities at the dam each offer a different focus. This lets you choose your base according to the itinerary you actually plan.

For the broader travel overview: Gaborone.