Things to Do in Gaborone Dam

Gaborone Dam, Botswana - Complete Travel Guide

Gaborone Dam sits about 15 kilometers southeast of Botswana's capital city, creating one of the country's most accessible recreational water bodies. Built in the 1960s to supply water to the growing capital, the dam has evolved into a popular weekend retreat where locals and visitors come to escape the city's heat and dust. The surrounding area offers a mix of water activities, wildlife viewing, and peaceful landscapes that feel surprisingly remote despite being so close to urban Gaborone. You'll find families picnicking along the shoreline, anglers trying their luck with bass and bream, and bird watchers scanning the water for various species that call this area home. The dam's relatively calm waters and developed facilities make it an ideal introduction to Botswana's outdoor recreation scene, though it maintains enough wild character to remind you that you're in Africa.

Top Things to Do in Gaborone Dam

Boating and Water Sports

The dam's expansive waters provide excellent conditions for boating, jet skiing, and water skiing. Several operators around the shoreline rent equipment and offer guided excursions, with the early morning and late afternoon hours typically offering the calmest conditions and best wildlife viewing opportunities.

Booking Tip: Boat rentals typically cost 400-800 pula for half-day trips. Book directly with operators near the dam wall area for better rates than hotel concierges. Weekend availability fills up quickly during dry season, so reserve 2-3 days ahead.

Angling and Sport Fishing

The dam supports healthy populations of largemouth bass, bream, and catfish, making it one of Botswana's premier freshwater fishing destinations. Both bank and boat angling are popular, with the deeper waters near the dam wall and inlet areas typically producing the best catches.

Booking Tip: Daily fishing permits cost around 50 pula and can be purchased at the gate. Guided fishing trips run 600-1200 pula per person including equipment. Local guides near the parking areas often offer competitive rates and know the best seasonal spots.

Bird Watching and Wildlife Observation

The dam attracts over 200 bird species throughout the year, including fish eagles, kingfishers, herons, and various waterfowl. Small antelope like duiker and steenbok can often be spotted in the surrounding bushland, particularly during early morning and evening hours when they come to drink.

Booking Tip: Entry fees are minimal (around 20 pula per person). Bring binoculars and consider hiring a local guide for 200-300 pula who can identify species and know the best viewing spots. Dawn and dusk sessions offer the most activity.

Picnicking and Beach Recreation

Several developed areas around the dam offer picnic facilities, braai (barbecue) spots, and small beaches suitable for swimming and relaxation. The main recreation area near the dam wall has the best facilities, including shade structures and basic amenities.

Booking Tip: No advance booking required for day use. Arrive early on weekends to secure the best spots with shade. Braai stands are first-come-first-served. Entry costs about 20 pula per vehicle plus small per-person fees.

Hiking and Nature Walks

Several informal trails wind around portions of the dam's shoreline and into the surrounding bushland. These walks offer opportunities to see local flora, smaller wildlife, and enjoy different perspectives of the water body while getting some exercise in a natural setting.

Booking Tip: Trails are free and unmarked - stick to well-worn paths and inform someone of your route. Early morning walks (7-9 AM) offer the best wildlife viewing and comfortable temperatures. Carry water and wear sturdy shoes as paths can be rocky.

Getting There

Gaborone Dam lies about 15 kilometers southeast of central Gaborone via the A1 highway toward Lobatse. The turnoff is well-marked, and the final approach involves about 5 kilometers of decent gravel road suitable for most vehicles. Taxis from Gaborone typically charge 150-200 pula for the round trip including waiting time, though you'll need to arrange return transport in advance. Many visitors rent cars for the flexibility, as public transport options are limited. The drive from Gaborone's city center takes roughly 30-45 minutes depending on traffic and road conditions.

Getting Around

Once at the dam, most activities center around the main recreation area near the dam wall, which is easily walkable. A vehicle is helpful for accessing different points along the shoreline and reaching some of the better fishing spots. The main roads within the recreation area are suitable for regular cars, though some of the more remote fishing access points require higher clearance. Walking is perfectly feasible for most visitors, as the developed areas are compact and well-connected by paths and informal roads.

Where to Stay

Gaborone City Center

Phakalane Golf Estate

Mokolodi Nature Reserve

Tlokweng Area

Gaborone West

Airport Valley

Food & Dining

The dam area itself has limited dining options, with most visitors bringing their own food for braais and picnics. A small kiosk near the main entrance sells basic snacks and cold drinks, but selection is limited. Your best bet is to stock up in Gaborone before heading out - the city offers everything from local favorites like seswaa and pap to international cuisine at shopping centers like Riverwalk and Game City. Many visitors make a day of it by bringing coolers with braai meat and sides, which you can purchase at any of Gaborone's supermarkets like Choppies or Pick n Pay.

When to Visit

The dam is most enjoyable during Botswana's dry season from April through October, when temperatures are moderate and wildlife viewing is at its peak. Water levels tend to be highest just after the rainy season ends in April-May, offering the best conditions for water sports. Winter months (June-August) provide the most comfortable temperatures for hiking and outdoor activities, though early mornings can be quite chilly. The hot season from November through March can be challenging for extended outdoor activities, but early morning and late afternoon visits are still pleasant. Weekends tend to be busier year-round, so weekday visits offer more solitude if that's what you're after.

Insider Tips

Bring your own shade - trees are limited in the main recreation areas, and an umbrella or pop-up shelter makes a huge difference during warmer months

The best fishing spots are often away from the main recreation area; ask local anglers near the parking area for current hotspots and what bait is working

Water levels can vary significantly between seasons, so some boat launches and swimming areas that look good on maps might not be accessible during your visit

Things to Do in Gaborone Dam

Top Things to Do in Gaborone Dam

Boating and Water Sports

Angling and Sport Fishing

Bird Watching and Wildlife Observation

Picnicking and Beach Recreation

Hiking and Nature Walks

Getting There

Getting Around

Where to Stay

Food & Dining

When to Visit

Insider Tips

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