Three Chiefs Monument
Three Chiefs Monument, Botswana - Complete Travel Guide
Three Chiefs Monument stands as a significant historical landmark in Serowe, Botswana, commemorating the three paramount chiefs who played crucial roles in the country's independence and development. Located in the Central District of Botswana, this monument honors Chiefs Khama III, Sebele I, and Bathoen I, who traveled to United Kingdom in 1895 to successfully petition Queen Victoria to maintain their territories' autonomy under British protection rather than being incorporated into Cecil Rhodes' British South Africa Company.
The monument serves as both a cultural heritage site and an educational center, offering visitors insight into Botswana's rich history and the pivotal role these leaders played in shaping the nation's future. Serowe, where the monument is located, is also known as the birthplace of Sir Seretse Khama, Botswana's first president, making it a significant destination for understanding the country's political and cultural evolution.
Top Three Chiefs Monument
the Three Chiefs Monument and Museum
Explore the monument dedicated to the three paramount chiefs and learn about their historic journey to United Kingdom in 1895. The accompanying museum provides detailed exhibits about Botswana's pre-independence history and the chiefs' successful petition to maintain tribal autonomy.
Booking Tip: Entry is typically free or requires a small donation. Visit during weekday mornings for the best chance of finding a knowledgeable guide. Allow 1-2 hours for a thorough visit.
Tour Khama III Memorial Museum
Located nearby in Serowe, this museum celebrates the life and legacy of Khama III, one of the three chiefs. The museum houses artifacts, photographs, and documents that chronicle his reign and modernization efforts in the Bangwato territory.
Serowe Village and Royal Cemetery
Walk through the historic village of Serowe and visit the royal cemetery where many members of the Khama dynasty are buried. This provides context for understanding the hereditary leadership that shaped modern Botswana.
Booking Tip: Self-guided exploration is free, but hiring a local guide (50-100 BWP) enhances the experience significantly. Best visited in the morning or late afternoon to avoid midday heat.
Seretse Khama's Birthplace
Explore the birthplace and childhood home of Sir Seretse Khama, Botswana's first president and grandson of Chief Khama III. The site offers insights into the family legacy that continued to shape Botswana's independence movement.
Booking Tip: Visits can be arranged through local tourism offices or community guides. Costs are typically 30-50 BWP per person. Combine with other Serowe historical sites for a full day experience.
Attend Cultural Performances and Traditional Ceremonies
Experience traditional Tswana culture through local performances, storytelling sessions, and if timing allows, participate in or observe traditional ceremonies that celebrate the chiefs' legacy. These events often feature traditional music, dance, and oral history presentations.
Booking Tip: Cultural events are often seasonal or tied to national holidays. Check with local tourism offices or community centers in advance. Costs vary but are typically 20-100 BWP depending on the event.
Getting There
Three Chiefs Monument is located in Serowe, approximately 160 kilometers north of Gaborone, Botswana's capital. The most convenient way to reach Serowe is by car, taking the A1 highway north from Gaborone, which takes about 2 hours of driving on well-maintained roads. Public transportation is available via bus services from Gaborone's main bus terminal, with several daily departures to Serowe. The journey by bus takes approximately 2.5-3 hours and costs around 25-40 BWP. For international visitors, the nearest major airport is Sir Seretse Khama International Airport in Gaborone, from where you can rent a car or arrange private transportation to Serowe.
Getting Around
Serowe is a relatively small town that can be explored on foot, especially the central area where the Three Chiefs Monument and related historical sites are located. Most attractions are within walking distance of each other, making it easy to visit multiple sites in a single day. For longer distances or to visit outlying areas, local taxis and combis (shared minibuses) are available at reasonable rates. Many visitors choose to rent a car in Gaborone for the flexibility it provides in exploring Serowe and surrounding areas. Bicycle rentals may be available through some guesthouses, offering an eco-friendly way to explore the town and its surroundings.
Where to Stay
Serowe town center
Near the monument area
Gaborone (day trip base)
Palapye (nearby town)
Local guesthouses
Camping sites outside town
Food & Dining
Serowe offers a modest but authentic dining scene focused on traditional Tswana cuisine and basic international fare. Local restaurants and food stalls serve traditional dishes like seswaa (shredded beef), morogo (wild spinach), and bogobe (sorghum porridge), providing visitors with an authentic taste of Botswana's culinary heritage. Several small cafes and takeaway spots offer more familiar options like grilled meats, rice dishes, and basic Western fare. For a more extensive dining experience, many visitors base themselves in Gaborone and make day trips to Serowe, as the capital offers a wider range of restaurants, from upscale establishments to international cuisine. Local markets in Serowe also provide fresh produce and snacks for those preferring to self-cater.
When to Visit
The best time to visit Three Chiefs Monument is during Botswana's dry season from May to September, when temperatures are more comfortable and rainfall is minimal. During these months, daytime temperatures range from 20-25°C (68-77°F), making outdoor exploration pleasant. The cooler months of June through August are particularly ideal for walking tours and extended outdoor activities. While the monument can be visited year-round, the wet season (October to April) brings higher temperatures, humidity, and occasional heavy rains that may affect transportation and outdoor activities. However, the wet season also brings lush green landscapes and fewer tourists, which some visitors prefer despite the weather challenges.
Insider Tips
Visit during Botswana's Independence Day celebrations in September for special cultural events and ceremonies at the monument
Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Khama Rhino Sanctuary for a full historical and wildlife experience