Things to Do in Riverwalk Mall

People-watching from a cafe patio

Taking a moment to people-watch from one of the cafe patios facing the main boulevard gives you a real sense of the city's rhythm. You'll see the flow of life in Gaborone, from students laughing over milkshakes to hurried professionals. For the best seats, aim for mid-morning on a weekday when the pace is steady but not overwhelming.

Catching a film at the multiplex cinema

Catching a film at the multiplex cinema has a welcome escape, during the hotter afternoons. The cool, dark theater provides a respite, and the sound of popcorn crunching and the collective gasp at a thriller's jump scare are all part of the experience. Showtimes tend to fill up quickly on Friday and Saturday nights, so it's wise to secure your tickets earlier in the day if you have a specific movie in mind.

Browsing the large bookstore

Browsing the selections at the large bookstore can easily consume an hour. The smell of fresh paper and printed ink is strong here, and you can hear the soft rustle of pages being turned. They have a notable collection of works by Southern African authors. It's worth noting they occasionally host local author readings, which aren't widely advertised. Checking the store's notice board near the entrance can give you a heads-up.

Indulging in frozen yogurt or gelato

Indulging in a frozen yogurt or gelato from one of the sweet treat counters is a sensory highlight on a warm day. The taste of tart mango sorbet or rich chocolate gelato is an immediate refreshment, and you'll see the colorful swirls being crafted behind the glass. These spots tend to have a line right after the nearby schools let out, so timing your visit just before that rush can mean a much quicker queue.

Exploring craft and design stores

Exploring the variety of craft and design stores reveals a more local character. You might feel the rough texture of a hand-carved wooden bowl or see the intricate beadwork on a piece of jewelry. Some shops source directly from Batswana artisans. As a practical tip, larger purchases like sculptures can often be arranged for shipping home, which is a conversation to have directly with the shopkeeper.

The Financial District places you within a short walk of Riverwalk Mall, amid modern office towers and upscale apartment blocks.

Broadhurst has a more residential, local feel with guesthouses and quieter streets.

Gaborone West is a vast suburban area, generally budget-friendly but requiring transport to reach the mall.

The area around the Main Mall, the older city center, mixes government buildings with older hotels and a busier atmosphere.

Riverside leads out towards the Notwane River, with a handful of lodges offering more secluded settings.

Tlokweng, just across the river, is a separate village with its own character and a quick drive over the bridge.