Things to Do in Gaborone in December
December weather, activities, events & insider tips
December Weather in Gaborone
Is December Right for You?
Advantages
- Green season transforms the landscape - December marks the height of Botswana's rainy season, turning the typically dusty cityscape into something surprisingly lush. The jacaranda trees around the government enclave are in bloom, and you'll actually see green lawns without sprinklers running 24/7. Makes for much better photos than the brown, dry winter months.
- Dramatically fewer tourists compared to winter safari season - While July-September sees Gaborone hotels packed with safari-goers using the city as a jumping-off point, December is genuinely quiet. You'll get better rates on accommodations (typically 30-40% lower than peak season), easier restaurant reservations, and the National Museum isn't crowded with tour groups.
- Prime bird watching season with migrant species - If you're into birds at all, December is exceptional. The rains bring European and North African migrants, and the wetlands around Gaborone Dam become incredibly active. You'll see species that simply aren't here during the dry months, and local birders are out in force most mornings.
- Afternoon rain pattern creates perfect morning activity windows - The predictable weather actually works in your favor. Mornings are consistently clear and pleasant from around 6am-1pm, giving you a solid window for outdoor activities before the afternoon storms roll in. Locals have adapted their schedules around this, and you should too.
Considerations
- Afternoon thunderstorms disrupt outdoor plans 60-70% of days - That predictable rain pattern cuts both ways. If you're planning afternoon game drives to nearby reserves or outdoor markets, you'll likely get rained out. The storms typically hit between 2-5pm and can be intense, with lightning that keeps you indoors. Not ideal if you're only here for 2-3 days and lose half your afternoons.
- High humidity makes midday heat feel oppressive - The combination of 32°C (90°F) temperatures and 70% humidity creates that sticky, heavy feeling where you're sweating just standing still. Air conditioning becomes non-negotiable for accommodation, and you'll understand why locals disappear indoors between noon and 3pm. Not pleasant for walking tours during peak heat.
- Some dirt roads to attractions become impassable after heavy rain - Gaborone itself handles the rain fine, but if you're planning day trips to places like Mokolodi Nature Reserve or the rock art sites, be aware that access roads can turn to mud after storms. You'll need a proper 4x4, not just an SUV, and even then some routes close temporarily. Check conditions before heading out.
Best Activities in December
Gaborone Game Reserve morning walks
The 600-hectare reserve on the city's edge is genuinely excellent in December mornings. The rains bring fresh grass that attracts more wildlife closer to the walking trails, and you'll see impala, kudu, and warthogs more actively feeding than during dry season when they're lethargic from heat. The 6am-10am window is perfect - cool enough for comfortable hiking, animals are active, and you're done before the afternoon storms. The reserve gets maybe 10-15 visitors on weekday mornings versus 50+ during July peak season.
Gaborone Dam and wetlands birding
December is legitimately the best month for this. The dam area becomes a magnet for both resident and migrant waterbirds, and the surrounding wetlands are fully active after months of dry conditions. You'll see African fish eagles, various herons, and if you're lucky, the migrant European bee-eaters that arrive in December. Local birding groups do morning walks most weekends, and the area is accessible by regular car. Best between 6-9am before it gets too hot.
National Museum and Art Gallery visits
Perfect for those afternoon storm windows when you need to be indoors anyway. The museum is genuinely well-curated with excellent exhibits on Botswana's history, traditional culture, and contemporary art scene. December's low tourist numbers mean you'll actually have space to appreciate the displays without tour groups crowding the rooms. The air conditioning is a bonus when humidity is high. Plan for 2-3 hours to see it properly.
Mokolodi Nature Reserve day trips
About 12km (7.5 miles) south of the city, Mokolodi is worth the trip in December if you have a proper vehicle or book transport. The reserve has rhinos, giraffes, and various antelope species, and the green season means animals are more spread out but the landscape is dramatically more photogenic. Morning game drives starting around 6:30am are ideal - you'll see active wildlife and avoid both the midday heat and afternoon storms. The reserve is less crowded than Chobe or other major parks.
Traditional craft market browsing at Main Mall
The Main Mall pedestrian area hosts craft vendors selling genuine Botswana baskets, pottery, and woodcarvings. December mornings are pleasant for wandering the stalls without the oppressive heat of dry season. You'll find better prices than in safari lodge gift shops, and the selection is actually quite good. The baskets especially are worth considering - they're traditional Botswana craft and pack flat for travel. Go mid-morning around 9-11am when vendors are set up but before the heat builds.
Kgale Hill sunrise hikes
The 1287m (4222 ft) hill offers the best views of Gaborone, and December mornings are ideal for the roughly 45-minute climb to the top. You'll want to start around 5:30am to catch sunrise and finish before it gets hot and humid. The trail can be slippery after rain, so go on a morning after 1-2 dry days if possible. The view across the green, rain-washed city is genuinely spectacular and totally different from the brown landscape of winter months.
December Events & Festivals
Maitisong Festival
This performing arts festival typically runs in late November through early December at the Maitisong Theatre. You'll see local and regional theater, music, and dance performances. It's genuinely worth catching if you're interested in Southern African contemporary arts - the quality is solid and it gives you insight into Botswana's cultural scene beyond the safari narrative. Performances are usually evening shows, which works perfectly with the afternoon rain pattern.