Day Trips from Gaborone. Excursions, Nearby Cities, Tours

Mokolodi Nature Reserve

Mokolodi is a private game reserve that supports wildlife conservation and environmental education. It is a variety of wildlife, including rhinos, giraffes, zebras, and numerous birds. Unlike Gaborone Game Reserve, Mokolodi gives more extensive guided activities.

Mokolodi is a short and easy 20-30 minute drive from Gaborone. You can reach it by rental car, or arrange a private taxi or pre-booked transfer. Bolt services may be available, but confirm return options.

Organized Tour Benefits

Guided game drives with expert rangers for animal spotting.
Rhino tracking experience has an unique encounter.
Local tour operators arrange packages with transport and activities.
On-site restaurant for lunch and refreshments.

Further Exploration

Expand your journey beyond the immediate surroundings of Gaborone.

Natural Escapes

Gaborone Game Reserve and Kgale Hill are excellent choices for quick natural escapes. The game reserve has easy self-drive game viewing, while Kgale Hill delivers a rewarding hike with panoramic views.

Highlights

Self-drive game viewing for impala, zebra, and giraffes.
Kgale Hill offers a rewarding hike and refreshing outdoor activity.
Panoramic views of the city and Gaborone Dam.

Cultural Excursions

The Bahurutshe Cultural Village near Gabane endeavors to preserve and showcase the traditional way of life of the Bahurutshe people, delivering an interactive educational experience.

Cultural Insights

Gain insight into Batswana culture.
Witness traditional music and dance performances.
Learn about customary practices.

Lobatse - Historic Town

Historical Significance

One of Botswana's oldest towns.
Find historical buildings and traditional markets.
Served as an administrative center during the colonial era.
Hosts Botswana's High Court.

Getting There & Time

Accessible by rental car or long-distance bus from Gaborone.
Public transport is an option.
Train passes through, though services are infrequent.
Half-day to full-day trip, based on interest.

Excursion Timelines

Mokolodi Nature ReserveHalf-day to Full-day
Livingstone's Cave VisitHalf-day trip
Gaborone Game Reserve2-3 hours
Bahurutshe Cultural VillageHalf-day trip

Lobatse ExplorationHalf-day to Full-day
Gaborone Dam LeisureFew hours
Morning Game DriveOptimal Viewing
Kgale Hill HikeStunning Views at Sunset

Planning Your Day Trips

Consider travel time and activity duration for a fulfilling experience. For booking day trips, explore options on GetYourGuide.

Multi-Day Extensions

Gaborone serves as a starting point for longer regional explorations into Botswana's iconic wilderness areas or neighboring countries.

Khama Rhino Sanctuary

A thriving community-based wildlife project for protecting endangered white and black rhinos.

Francistown Gateway

Botswana's second-largest city, a convenient stopover if driving further north to safari circuits.

Safari Destinations

Okavango Delta, Chobe National Park, and Moremi Game Reserve are world-renowned for wildlife.

Khama Rhino Sanctuary Stay

Khama Rhino Sanctuary is ideal for an overnight stay (1-2 nights), supporting both an afternoon and morning game drive.

Visit Highlights

Maximize rhino and other wildlife sightings.
Enjoy game drives and walking trails.
Peaceful bush camp atmosphere.

Connecting North

Transport to northern destinations from Gaborone. Consider booking ahead for popular safari regions.

Transport Links

Domestic flights to Maun (Okavango Delta) or Kasane (Chobe).
Long-distance buses offer an affordable option.
Self-drive for independence.

Planning Your Extended Trip

Accommodation TypeSafari camps & lodges

Travel LogisticsDomestic flights often needed

Booking AheadSafari trips book up quickly

BudgetingHigher costs for safaris

Season ConsiderationsDry season popular for wildlife

Tour OperatorSpecialized safari operators advised

Safari Considerations

These areas call for a minimum of 3-5 days for a meaningful experience.
Remote nature needs specialized logistics.
Often planned as a separate, dedicated trip.
Gaborone serves as a logical arrival or departure point.
Consider ethical tour operators like G Adventures for these trips.

Planning Local Outings

Maximize your Gaborone visit with well-planned local outings. Various options cater to different interests and timeframes.

Short Nature Breaks

Enjoy quick access to nature within minutes of the city center, offering a refreshing break from urban life.

Quick Escapes

Easy accessibility to reserves and hills.
Opportunities for wildlife sightings.
Panoramic city views from elevated spots.

Cultural Immersion

Discover local heritage and traditional lifestyles through interactive experiences outside the capital.

Heritage Exploration

Visit traditional villages to learn about customs.
Explore historically significant towns.
Experience bustling local markets.

Independent Exploration

Rental cars bring flexibility for self-guided adventures, reaching sites not covered by public transport.

Benefits of Self-Drive

Freedom to set your own schedule.
Access to more remote or less frequented locations.
Ability to explore at your personal pace.

Organized Tours

Opt for guided experiences for expert insights and convenience, especially for wildlife or cultural sites.

Tour Advantages

Benefit from expert local guides.
No stress over navigation or logistics.
Activities are often tailored to group interests.

Trip Considerations

Effective planning makes for a smoother day trip experience from Gaborone.

Transportation

Consider rental car or pre-booked taxi services for ease.

Time of Day

Mornings are often optimal for wildlife viewing.

Local Guides

Local insights enrich your cultural and wildlife encounters.

Flexible Planning

Gaborone's proximity to diverse sites supports flexible day trip planning, catering to various interests.

Day Trips from Gaborone