Gaborone
Gaborone, Botswana's capital, blends modern government and business districts with lively markets, cultural venues and easy access to Kgale Hill and nearby nature reserves.
Passengers
Luggage
About South-East
Gaborone is the capital and largest city of Botswana, sitting in the South-East District about 15 kilometres from the South African border. Often called Gabs, it is a calm, well-planned administrative and commercial centre that grew rapidly after Botswana gained independence in 1966.
The city was purpose-built in the mid-1960s after the capital moved from Mafeking in South Africa. It takes its name from Chief Gaborone of the BaTlokwa. Its grid of broad avenues links the central business district, the government enclave and older trading areas such as the Main Mall.
Landmarks include the Three Dikgosi Monument, the Parliament buildings, the National Museum and Art Gallery, and Kgale Hill, which offers a popular hike with views over the city. The Gaborone Dam and the nearby Mokolodi Nature Reserve add outdoor escapes within easy reach.
Neighbourhoods such as Gaborone West, Broadhurst and the CBD each have their own character, while Tlokweng sits just across the Notwane River. Shoppers, café-goers and visitors mix along the Main Mall and at centres such as Game City and Airport Junction.
As the seat of government and home to the Southern African Development Community and the Botswana Stock Exchange, Gaborone is the country's main business and events hub. Its compact size, warm climate and combination of modern facilities and easy access to nature make it a practical base for both business and leisure travellers.
South-East Travel Guide
Best Time to Visit
The dry season from May to September is the most comfortable time to visit Gaborone, with mild, sunny days and little rain. Summer months from October to April bring heat and afternoon thunderstorms.
How to Get Around
Gaborone is served by shared combi minibuses and taxis that connect the CBD, Main Mall and residential neighbourhoods. Renting a car is useful for longer trips, while central areas are walkable for short journeys.
Where to Stay
The CBD and government enclave are convenient for business, while areas such as Gaborone West and Broadhurst offer a range of hotels, guesthouses and lodges. Options near the airport suit short stays and early departures.
Food & Drink
Local dishes include seswaa, a pounded beef dish, and pap, often eaten with grilled meat and greens. Restaurants, cafés and food stalls around the Main Mall, malls and hotels serve a mix of traditional and international cuisine.
Ground Transportation Services in South-East
Airport Transfers
Travel between Sir Seretse Khama International Airport and hotels, business districts and other destinations across Gaborone.
Hourly Chauffeur
Book a private chauffeur by the hour for business meetings, events, sightseeing and flexible travel around Gaborone.
Car Rental
Rent a car in Gaborone for independent travel around the city and convenient journeys to nearby nature reserves and attractions.
Bus & Group Transfers
Arrange minibuses or charter buses for groups, corporate travel, events, airport transfers and tours in Gaborone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Cities in Botswana
View all
Sowa Town
Sowa Town is a purpose-built mining town in eastern Botswana, set beside the salt pans of Sua Pan and the wider Makgadikgadi landscape. Its remote setting and links to the country's soda ash industry give it a distinct, functional character.
Kanye
Kanye, capital of Botswana's Southern District, pairs Tswana heritage and rocky hills with a calm local pace, offering travelers a genuine taste of southern Botswana life.
Selibe Phikwe
Selibe Phikwe is a planned mining town in eastern Botswana, shaped by copper and nickel extraction and a compact, grid-like centre. Its mix of industrial heritage, local markets and access to the Tuli Block gives it a practical, frontier feel.
