City Navigation: Gaborone

Public Transportation

Gaborone does not have a metro, tram system, or a formalized city-wide public bus network operated by a single entity. Minibus taxis are 15-seater vans that operate on fixed routes throughout the city. They pick up and drop off passengers anywhere along their designated route. They are the most common and budget-friendly form of public transport for locals. Shared taxis are similar but typically regular sedan cars that operate on a fixed route, picking up multiple passengers.

Official, detailed route maps for minibus taxis are generally not available. Drivers and conductors know their routes, and locals can guide you. Fares are fixed per trip, based on distance or route. A short trip within the city might cost between P5 and P10. You pay your fare in cash directly to the driver or conductor. Always have small denominations of Pula ready.

Navigating Minibuses

Main Bus Rank: Central hub for all minibus taxi routes and long-distance buses.
Operating Hours: Early morning (5:00 AM) until late evening (8:00 PM-9:00 PM). High frequency on popular routes.
Accessibility: Generally not wheelchair accessible due to design and operation.
Tips: Ask locals for directions, wave to hail, state your destination, say "Stop here" to alight.

Combi Taxis

15-seater vans operating on fixed routes, picking up and dropping off passengers.

Shared Taxis

Regular sedans on fixed routes, taking multiple passengers.

Efficiency

Minibuses are frequent on popular routes, less so on off-peak or less common routes.

Taxis and Ride-Sharing

Licensed Taxis

Official taxis are white vehicles with a blue number plate and blue roof light.
Drivers often negotiate fares upfront; confirm price before starting your journey.
Payment is almost exclusively cash (Botswana Pula).

Ride-Sharing and Safety

Bolt is the most popular ride-sharing app, offering transparent pricing and journey tracking.
Bolt is recommended for safety and convenience, especially at night.
Avoid walking alone at night, specifically in less populated or unfamiliar areas.

Rental Options and Driving

Car Rentals

Available at GBE and city offices (Avis, Budget, Hertz).

Requirements

National driver's license, IDP, passport, credit card.

Motorcycle/Scooter

Not widely available or recommended for general tourist travel.

Bicycle Sharing

No widespread programs; some hotels offer rentals.

Walking & Cycling

Gaborone offers pedestrian-friendly areas for exploration. The Main Mall is a pedestrianized shopping and administrative area in the city center, ideal for leisurely walking. The newer CBD (Central Business District) boasts modern infrastructure with sidewalks, generally walkable during the day. Kgale Hill, on the southwestern edge, is a popular hiking spot with marked trails and panoramic views. Gaborone Game Reserve also has designated walking trails where you safely explore and observe wildlife (no large predators).

Walking Routes

Main Mall: Ideal for leisurely walks among shops, banks, and government buildings.
CBD: Modern area with sidewalks, walkable during the day.
Kgale Hill: Marked hiking trails offer city and dam views.
Gaborone Game Reserve: Designated walking trails for wildlife observation.

Walking Tour Options

No formal "hop-on-hop-off" style walking tours.
Self-guided walks are possible in Main Mall or CBD.
Local guides are available through tour operators or hotels for customized city walking tours.
Avoid walking alone at night, especially in poorly lit or unfamiliar areas.

Cycling Infrastructure & Safety

Dedicated bicycle lanes are limited in Gaborone.
Cycling on main roads can be hazardous due to traffic.
Lack of cyclist awareness from drivers is a factor.

For recreational cycling, Gaborone Game Reserve or around Gaborone Dam offer safer environments.
Mountain biking trails are not formally established within or immediately around the city.
Exercise caution around the Main Bus Rank, specifically after dark.

Specialized Transportation

Tour Buses

Hop-on-hop-off services are not available. Visitors rely on private tours, taxis, or ride-sharing for city exploration.

Water Transport

Not applicable to Gaborone, an inland city without navigable rivers or canals for public transport.

Unique Transport

Gaborone does not have cable cars, funiculars, or local systems like tuk-tuks.

Accessibility Considerations

Gaborone's urban setting means it does not have many of the specialized transport types found in other regions.

Public Transport Access

Public minibuses and combi-taxis are generally not accessible for wheelchair users.
Their design and operation (climbing in, tight seating) make them unsuitable for travelers with significant mobility challenges.
Newer buildings, major shopping malls, and upscale hotels are more likely to have ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms.
Overall accessibility infrastructure in the city remains limited compared to Western standards.

Mobility Solutions

Travelers with mobility needs may find it necessary to rely on private taxis.
Pre-arranged accessible transport might be an option.
Your own rental vehicle with adaptations, if available, could be a choice.
Inquire with your accommodation or a specialized tour operator for specific accessible options.

General Driving Laws & Conditions

Driving Side

Botswana drives on the left-hand side of the road.

Like South Africa and the UK.

Seatbelts

Mandatory for all vehicle occupants.

Always buckle up.

Speed Limits

60 km/h in urban, 100 km/h on main roads, 120 km/h on highways.

Strictly enforced.

Road Hazards & Parking

Road Conditions

Main roads in Gaborone are generally paved and in good condition.
Traffic can be heavy during peak hours (morning and late afternoon commutes).
Be aware of potholes in some older or less maintained areas.

Parking Availability

Ample parking is usually available at shopping malls, hotels, and major attractions.
Street parking in the city center can be limited at times, but designated areas exist.
Most parking is free, though some private lots may charge a small fee.

Pedestrian and Cyclist Warnings

Outside specific pedestrian-friendly areas, sidewalks can be inconsistent.
Traffic may be busy, making walking less comfortable for longer distances.
Avoid walking or cycling alone at night, especially in less populated, poorly lit, or unfamiliar areas.
Exercise caution around the Main Bus Rank, notably after dark, due to crowds and petty crime.

Cycling on main roads can be hazardous due to traffic and lack of cyclist awareness from drivers.
Drunk driving is a concern, specifically on weekends and holidays. Drive defensively if self-driving.
Always lock vehicle doors and keep windows closed, especially in traffic or when parked.
Be aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts.

Final Navigation Tip

For convenient and safe city movement, a mix of ride-sharing apps (Bolt) and walking in designated pedestrian zones is often the most practical approach.

Consider a rental car if you plan extensive day trips outside the city or have specific mobility needs.

City Navigation