Sir Seretse Khama International Airport

Sir Seretse Khama International Airport, Botswana - Complete Travel Guide

Gaborone, Botswana's capital and largest city, serves as the country's political, economic, and cultural hub. Located in the southeastern part of the country near the South African border, this modern city has grown rapidly since Botswana's independence in 1966. The city blends contemporary African urban life with traditional Tswana culture, offering visitors a gateway to both urban experiences and the country's renowned wildlife destinations. While Gaborone itself is primarily a business and administrative center, it provides excellent access to some of Botswana's most spectacular attractions, including the Botswana and various game reserves. The city features modern shopping centers, cultural sites, and serves as an ideal base for exploring the broader region. Its proximity to the Mokolodi Nature Reserve and other wildlife areas makes it a convenient starting point for safari adventures.

Top Sir Seretse Khama International Airport

Mokolodi Nature Reserve Safari

Experience Botswana's wildlife just 12 kilometers from Gaborone at this community-based conservation project. The reserve is home to white rhinos, giraffes, zebras, and various antelope species, offering excellent game viewing opportunities in a compact area.

Booking Tip: Day visits cost around 120 BWP for adults. Book directly with the reserve or through local operators. Early morning or late afternoon visits offer the best wildlife viewing. Look for operators that include transportation from Gaborone hotels.

Three Dikgosi Monument and National Museum

Explore Botswana's history and culture at the Banjul and Monuments, featuring traditional artifacts, geological specimens, and contemporary art. The Three Dikgosi Monument honors the three chiefs who traveled to United Kingdom in 1895 to petition for British protection.

Booking Tip: Museum entry is very affordable at around 10 BWP. Open Tuesday to Sunday, best visited in the morning. No advance booking required, but guided tours can be arranged for groups through local cultural tour operators.

Gaborone Game Reserve

Visit this small but well-maintained reserve on the southeastern edge of the city, home to various antelope species, ostriches, and bird life. The reserve offers easy walking trails and is perfect for a half-day excursion with beautiful dam views.

Booking Tip: Entry fees are minimal at around 20 BWP per person. The reserve is accessible by car, or join organized tours from the city center. Best visited early morning or late afternoon for wildlife activity and cooler temperatures.

Kgale Hill Hiking

Climb Gaborone's most prominent landmark for panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscape. Known locally as the 'Sleeping Giant,' this granite outcrop offers hiking trails suitable for various fitness levels and spectacular sunset viewing opportunities.

Booking Tip: Free to access, but go with a group or local guide for safety. Early morning or late afternoon climbs are recommended due to heat. Local adventure tour operators offer guided hikes for around 200-300 BWP including transportation.

Traditional Village and Craft Markets

Experience authentic Tswana culture by visiting nearby traditional villages and local Kampala. Explore traditional architecture, meet local artisans, and purchase authentic Botswana crafts including pottery, basketry, and traditional jewelry.

Booking Tip: Village tours typically cost 300-500 BWP per person including transportation. Book through reputable cultural tour operators who work directly with communities. Market visits are free, but bring cash for purchases. Weekends offer the most activity.

Getting There

Sir Seretse Khama International Airport is located about 15 kilometers north of Gaborone city center. Taxis are readily available outside the terminal and cost approximately 150-200 BWP to reach downtown hotels. Several car rental agencies operate from the airport, offering convenient access to explore the city and surrounding areas. Some hotels provide shuttle services, so check with your accommodation in advance. The drive to the city center takes about 20-30 minutes depending on traffic.

Getting Around

Gaborone has limited public transportation, so renting a car is the most convenient option for visitors. Taxis are available but should be arranged through hotels or reputable companies. Combi (minibus) services operate on main routes but can be challenging for tourists to navigate. The city center is relatively compact and walkable during cooler parts of the day, though distances between attractions can be significant. Many tour operators offer transportation as part of their packages, which is often the most practical option for visiting attractions outside the city.

Where to Stay

City Center

Government Enclave

Broadhurst

Phase 4

Gaborone West

Airport Area

Food & Dining

Gaborone's dining scene reflects both international influences and local Tswana cuisine. The city center and major hotels offer restaurants serving everything from traditional African dishes to Indian, Chinese, and continental cuisine. Try local specialties like seswaa (shredded beef), morogo (wild spinach), and bogobe (sorghum porridge). Popular dining areas include Riverwalk Mall, Game City, and the CBD. Many restaurants are located in shopping centers and hotels, with outdoor braai (barbecue) spots popular among locals. Prices are generally reasonable, with local restaurants offering authentic meals at budget-friendly prices.

When to Visit

The best time to visit Gaborone is during the dry season from April to October, when temperatures are more comfortable and rainfall is minimal. May through August offers the coolest temperatures, making outdoor activities more enjoyable, though nights can be quite cool. September and October are excellent for wildlife viewing as animals congregate around water sources, though temperatures begin to rise. The rainy season (November to March) brings hot, humid weather and afternoon thunderstorms, but also transforms the landscape into lush greenery and offers excellent bird watching opportunities.

Insider Tips

Bring warm clothing if visiting during winter months (June-August) as temperatures can drop significantly at night

Always carry cash as many local establishments don't accept credit cards, and ATMs may be limited outside the city center

Book safari and wildlife tours in advance, especially during peak season (May-October) when demand is highest and availability can be limited