Phakalane Golf Estate

Phakalane Golf Estate, Botswana - Complete Travel Guide

Phakalane Golf Estate is an upscale residential and resort community located approximately 20 kilometers northeast of Gaborone, Botswana's capital city. This prestigious development centers around an 18-hole championship golf course designed by Peter Matkovich, offering world-class golfing facilities amid the beautiful Botswana landscape. The estate combines luxury accommodation, fine dining, and recreational activities in a serene setting that attracts both local and international visitors seeking a premium experience in Southern Africa. The estate serves as an excellent base for exploring the greater Gaborone area while providing a tranquil retreat from urban life. With its blend of modern amenities and African hospitality, Phakalane offers visitors access to spa services, conference facilities, and various outdoor activities. The location provides easy access to Botswana's cultural attractions, wildlife experiences, and the busy city life of Gaborone, making it an ideal destination for both leisure and business travelers looking for sophisticated accommodations in Botswana.

Top Phakalane Golf Estate

Championship Golf Experience

Play on the 18-hole championship golf course designed by Peter Matkovich, featuring challenging fairways and impressive views of the African landscape. The course offers a par-72 layout with well-maintained greens and modern facilities including a pro shop and golf academy. Both beginners and experienced golfers can enjoy lessons with professional instructors and equipment rental services.

Booking Tip: Green fees range from $40-80 USD depending on the season and day of the week. Book tee times in advance, especially during weekends and dry season months. Look for golf packages that include accommodation and meals for better value.

Spa and Wellness Treatments

Indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments at the estate's wellness center, offering a range of massages, facials, and body treatments inspired by African traditions. The spa features modern facilities and skilled therapists who use locally sourced ingredients and traditional techniques. Treatments can be enjoyed in private rooms or outdoor pavilions overlooking the golf course.

Booking Tip: Spa treatments typically cost $50-150 USD per session. Book treatments in advance, especially during peak season. Consider spa packages that combine multiple treatments for better rates, and ask about couples' treatments if traveling with a partner.

Game Drive Excursions

start guided game drives to nearby Mokolodi Nature Reserve or other wildlife areas to experience Botswana's incredible biodiversity. These excursions offer opportunities to spot various antelope species, giraffes, zebras, and numerous bird species in their natural habitat. Professional guides provide insights into local ecosystems and conservation efforts while ensuring memorable wildlife encounters.

Booking Tip: Game drives cost $60-120 USD per person for half-day trips. Early morning and late afternoon drives offer the best wildlife viewing opportunities. Choose operators with experienced guides and well-maintained vehicles, and confirm what's included in the price.

Cultural Village Tours

Explore traditional Tswana culture through visits to local villages where you can learn about customs, crafts, and daily life in rural Botswana. These immersive experiences include demonstrations of traditional cooking, pottery making, and storytelling sessions with community elders. Visitors can purchase authentic handcrafted souvenirs directly from local artisans.

Booking Tip: Cultural tours range from $30-60 USD per person for half-day experiences. Book through reputable operators who work directly with communities to ensure real feels and fair compensation. Bring cash for purchasing crafts and small gifts for children.

Gaborone City Exploration

Take day trips to explore Botswana's capital city, visiting attractions like the Banjul, Three Dikgosi Monument, and bustling local markets. The city offers insights into modern Botswana's development alongside traditional culture, with opportunities to shop for diamonds, crafts, and local products. Experience the busy nightlife and restaurant scene that showcases both international and local cuisine.

Booking Tip: City tours cost $40-80 USD per person including transportation and guide. Combine multiple attractions in one day for efficiency. Look for tours that include market visits and cultural sites, and ensure your guide is knowledgeable about Botswana's history and culture.

Getting There

The most convenient way to reach Phakalane Golf Estate is by flying into Sir Seretse Khama International Airport in Gaborone, which is approximately 30 minutes away by car. The airport receives regular flights from major South African cities like Johannesburg and South Africa, as well as some regional African destinations. From the airport, visitors can arrange private transfers through the estate, rent a car, or take a taxi. Alternatively, those coming from South Africa can drive across the border, which takes about 4-5 hours from Johannesburg via the A1 highway.

Getting Around

The estate provides shuttle services to and from Gaborone for guests, making it easy to explore the capital city without needing personal transportation. For greater flexibility, car rental services are available at the airport and in Gaborone, with major international companies represented. Taxis and ride-sharing services operate between the estate and city, though advance booking is recommended. Within the estate itself, most facilities are within walking distance, and golf carts are available for transportation around the golf course and property.

Where to Stay

Phakalane Golf Estate Hotel

Gaborone City Center

Mokolodi Nature Reserve Area

Tlokweng Border Area

Phakalane Residential Area

Gaborone Game Reserve Vicinity

Food & Dining

Phakalane Golf Estate features several dining options including the main restaurant overlooking the golf course, which serves international cuisine with African influences and an extensive wine selection. The clubhouse offers casual dining with light meals, snacks, and beverages perfect for post-golf relaxation. For more diverse dining experiences, nearby Gaborone provides numerous restaurants ranging from traditional Tswana cuisine to Indian, Chinese, and Continental options. The estate can arrange special dining experiences such as traditional braai (barbecue) evenings and private chef services for special occasions.

When to Visit

The best time to visit Phakalane Golf Estate is during Botswana's dry season from May to September, when temperatures are mild, rainfall is minimal, and wildlife viewing is at its peak. This period offers ideal conditions for golf with comfortable temperatures and clear skies. The shoulder months of April and October also provide good weather with fewer crowds and potentially better rates. Summer months (November to March) can be hot and humid with afternoon thunderstorms, though this is also when the landscape is lush and green, offering a different but equally beautiful experience.

Insider Tips

Book golf tee times for early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and enjoy the best course conditions, plus you'll have better chances of spotting wildlife on the course

Take advantage of the estate's proximity to both urban amenities and natural attractions by planning day trips to Gaborone's markets and museums combined with wildlife excursions

Pack layers as temperatures can vary significantly between early morning, midday, and evening, especially during the dry season when desert conditions create temperature swings