Gaborone Travel Guide - Visiting Botswana's Diamond Capital
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Travel Notes: Destinations: Africa: Botswana - Gaborone Travel Guide.
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Travel Guide For Visitors to Gaborone
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Capital of Botswana, Gaborone is a modern city where urban sophistication meets authentic African culture, all within reach of world-class wildlife experiences. Share on Facebook
Modern Metropolis
Gaborone isn't your typical dusty frontier town; it's a gleaming modern metropolis that's managed to keep its soul intact.
Visiting Gaborone, Botswana
Founded in 1966 as Botswana's new capital, Gaborone has grown from a small administrative outpost into one of Africa's most liveable urban centres, all thanks to those sparkly diamonds lying beneath the Kalahari.
But here's the thing about Gaborone, or 'Gabs' as locals call it, it's not trying to be the next Cape Town or Nairobi.
Instead, it's carved out its own identity as a gateway to authentic Botswana experiences, where you can sip craft beer in trendy bars one moment and be tracking elephants in the wild the next.
Getting to Gaborone
By Air
Sir Seretse Khama International Airport (GBE) sits 15km north of the city centre and handles flights from major African hubs including Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Nairobi.
British Airways operates direct flights from London, making it surprisingly accessible for UK travellers.
The airport taxi fare to downtown runs around 150-200 pula (roughly £10-15).
Overland from South Africa
The most popular route for budget-conscious travellers is the comfortable bus journey from Johannesburg (5-6 hours) or the scenic drive via the Ramatlabama border post.
Car hire is straightforward, and the roads are excellent by African standards.
What to Do in Gaborone
City Centre Exploration
Start your Gaborone adventure at the Main Mall, a pedestrian-friendly shopping area that's perfect for people-watching and picking up local crafts.
The Three Dikgosi Monument pays tribute to Botswana's founding fathers and offers insight into the country's peaceful transition to independence.
Cultural Experiences
The National Museum and Art Gallery (161 Queens Rd) might be small, but it packs a punch with excellent displays on Botswana's cultural heritage and contemporary art scene.
Don't miss the traditional pottery demonstrations on weekends.
Markets and Shopping
Broadhurst Industrial is where locals shop for everything from electronics to traditional fabrics.
The Gaborone Game Reserve weekend craft market is brilliant for authentic souvenirs without the tourist mark-up.
Where to Stay in Gaborone
Luxury Options
The Peermont Walmont Grand Palm Hotel (Bonnington Farm and Molepolole Road) remains the city's flagship accommodation, offering international standards without the international price tag.
The Avani Gaborone Resort & Casino (Chuma Drive) provides modern rooms with great facilities, including Botswana's largest casino if you fancy a flutter.
Mid-Range Gems
Cresta Lodge Gaborone (Samora Machel Drive) offers excellent value with clean, comfortable rooms and helpful staff who actually know the city.
Located in the heart of the Central Business District, the Marriott Masa Square Hotel (Khama Crescent & Western Avenue) is perfect for business travellers.
Budget-Friendly Stays
Backpackers will find decent digs at Mokolodi Backpackers, which also organises wildlife trips to nearby game reserves.
Guesthouses also offer authentic local hospitality at reasonable rates.
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