Experience Gaborone

The beautiful parks and gardens in Gaborone make it a relaxing and peaceful city

Overview

Nestled in the heart of Southern Africa, Gaborone is the capital city of Botswana and a hub of commerce, politics, and culture. The city boasts a unique blend of modernity and tradition, where skyscrapers and shopping malls coexist alongside traditional villages and markets. Visitors are drawn to Gaborone’s rich history, vibrant nightlife, and stunning natural scenery, including the nearby Gaborone Dam and Mokolodi Nature Reserve. With a population of just over 230,000 people, Gaborone is a diverse and welcoming city that offers a truly authentic African experience.

City History

Named after Chief Gaborone of the Tlokwa tribe, the city was established in 1964, shortly before Botswana gained independence from Britain in 1966. Its strategic location, near the Notwane River and the South African border, was selected for administrative convenience and to foster economic growth.

Initially a small town, Gaborone experienced rapid development after becoming the capital. The discovery of diamonds in Botswana brought substantial wealth, which fueled the city’s growth. The government invested heavily in infrastructure, education, and healthcare, transforming Gaborone into a modern metropolis.

Culturally, Gaborone is a melting pot. It hosts various ethnic groups, including the Tlokwa, Kalanga, and Bakgatla, each contributing to the city’s vibrant cultural landscape. The city is also known for its educational institutions, notably the University of Botswana, which plays a crucial role in the country’s intellectual and cultural life.

Gaborone’s architecture reflects its diverse influences, blending traditional African designs with modern elements. Key landmarks include the National Assembly Building, the National Museum, and the Three Dikgosi Monument, which honors three tribal chiefs who played pivotal roles in Botswana’s history.

Economically, Gaborone is a hub for trade and industry. The city’s economy is bolstered by the diamond trade, finance, and information technology sectors. The Botswana Stock Exchange, headquartered in Gaborone, further cements the city’s status as an economic powerhouse in the region.

Despite its rapid growth, Gaborone has maintained a commitment to sustainability and green spaces. Parks like Gaborone Game Reserve and Kgale Hill offer residents and visitors a respite from urban life and a chance to connect with nature.

Things to See

National Museum and Art Gallery – This museum showcases the history and culture of Botswana through its exhibits on traditional crafts, tribal customs, and contemporary art.

Kgale Hill – This hill provides a scenic view of the city and is a popular spot for hiking and picnicking.

Mokolodi Nature Reserve – This reserve is home to a variety of wildlife including zebras, giraffes, and rhinos, and offers guided tours and game drives.

Three Chiefs’ Statues – These statues honor the three chiefs who signed the treaty that established Gaborone as the capital of Botswana.

Gaborone Game Reserve – This reserve is located within the city limits and offers a chance to see a variety of animals such as impalas, ostriches, and warthogs.

Botanical Gardens – These gardens feature a variety of plants and flowers native to Botswana, as well as a bird sanctuary and a picnic area.

The National Assembly – This building is an architectural marvel and houses the parliament of Botswana.

Getting In

By Air: Sir Seretse Khama International Airport, located about 15km north of the city center, is the main airport serving Gaborone. The airport is well-connected to major cities in Africa, including Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Nairobi. Several airlines, including South African Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, and British Airways, operate regular flights to Gaborone.

By Road: Gaborone is well-connected to neighboring countries such as South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia by a network of well-maintained roads. Several international bus services, including Greyhound and Intercape, operate regular services to and from Gaborone. If you’re driving, be sure to check the visa requirements for your destination country before embarking on your journey.

By Rail: Gaborone is connected to Johannesburg and other major cities in South Africa by rail. The train journey from Johannesburg to Gaborone takes about 4 hours and offers stunning views of the countryside. Once you arrive in Gaborone, you can easily get around the city by taxi, bus, or car rental. Taxis are readily available and are a convenient way to get around the city. Buses, operated by the government-owned company, are also available and are a cheaper option if you’re traveling on a budget. Car rentals are available at the airport and in the city center.

Currency

The currency used in Gaborone, the capital city of Botswana, is the Botswana pula (BWP). The pula, which means “rain” in Setswana, is divided into 100 thebe. The pula was introduced in 1976, replacing the South African rand as the official currency of Botswana. The pula is a relatively stable currency and its value is influenced by various factors such as the country’s economic performance, inflation, and global market trends. The Bank of Botswana is responsible for issuing and regulating the country’s currency. As a tourist or visitor to Gaborone, it is advisable to exchange your currency for pula at authorized exchange bureaus or banks to get the best rates.