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Living in Gaborone, Botswana:
Tips for Moving and Visiting

48 local experts
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If you've been wondering what it's like to live in or visit Gaborone, the Crowdsourced Explorer community can help. We asked 48 people living in Gaborone what someone who is considering moving to or visiting there should know. Here are their pros and cons, tips, and advice:

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48 comments on “Gaborone”

If you are moving to Gaborone you need to know private schools are very expensive and the main option for schooling primary school children. High schools are limited. It is relatively safe with overall friendly people.

Lianrie, says: 2024

What can I say about Gaborone? Our beloved city, or as we locals affectionately call it, Mageba. Everyone else just says “Gabs.” There truly is no place quite like it. I know that’s a common phrase when talking about one’s hometown, but I assure you, there’s no place like Gaborone in the known universe. Having traveled extensively, I’ve never felt the same charm and comfort as I do in my city.

Now, I wouldn’t go as far as saying it’s the best city in the world, but it certainly holds its own amongst other major cities on the continent. In fact, I believe that in the next 50 years, Gaborone will become an integral city for humanity. Consider that just half a century ago, it barely existed. It’s come a long way.

Gaborone is like that unassuming but overarching kid in class. It’s progressive, yet also a selective introvert. It’s a city that’s loving, bold, young, and has managed to be the envy of its neighbors. The people who live here are just as colorful and loving, but don’t try to get on their bad side. Gaboronians have a habit of lashing out when provoked, but overall, we’re good people who don’t tolerate nonsense.

Our nightlife isn’t the best, but we work with what we have. As the Setswana saying goes, “Monate wa itirelwa” which translates to “If you want fun, create it yourself.” So, when bar hopping and clubbing aren’t cutting it, you’re never too far from a house party on your street. Batswana love them, and Gaborone house parties are on another level. All in all, if you want to know more about Gabs, come experience it yourself.

Elliot, says: 2023

If you are moving to Gaborone City, Botswana, or plan to visit, you will enjoy every minute you spend here. There are lovely buildings around the city that will just melt your heart, not to mention beautifully planned houses. Crime is there, of course, but it is mostly petty crime like phone snatching in some parts of the city. However, Gaborone is a safe place with friendly people who love to help others, even if they do not know them personally. Violent crime rarely occurs. The standard of living is fairly high due to inflation but very affordable. There is cultural and religious tolerance, with Christianity being more common. There are lots of schools, both private and public, as well as various tertiary schools, with the University of Botswana being the biggest and one of the most recognized in Africa, boasting an enormous library. Recreational places are plentiful, loaded with different activities and various kinds of food. The food here is amazingly scrumptious if you are a foodie like myself. Last but not least, the weather is fairly okay but can be too hot, too rainy, or too cold. I love it.

Gontse, says: 2023

Gaborone is the small capital city of Botswana, bustling with the energy and pop culture of it’s youth whilst still upholding the grassroot culture of it’s locals. The inhabitants are full of love, peace and tolerance for one another. The capital is growing at a slow and steady pace compared to the surrounding metropolis cities in its neighboring countries.

Olebogeng, says: 2020

Gaborone is the capital city of Botswana where great things can be found. For instance, there is a game reserve here that is a home for various wild animals like the impala. In addition to this, there is The Three Dikgosi Monument that is a bronze sculpture of the three chiefs that fought for Botswana’s independence, this location is often used to celebrate some events that highlight Botswana’s independence.

Segolame, says: 2020

A friendly urban environment with welcoming people. Less populated environment. Different ethnicity, linguistic. One of the safest city in the country. Historical monuments. It consists of various shades of people—different castes, classes, ethnic groups, religions, etc. Gaborone is noteworthy for its diversity. Its mixture of people of all races, castes, classes, creeds, occupations and ethnic origins heightens the sense of anonymity.

Gaborone is a busy and thriving city with a lot of entertainments for the youth. The city is the home of the beautiful CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT which has so luxurious hotels and beautiful restaurants with scrumptious meals. A view of the city at night is breathtaking from Kgale Hill or the Hilton Garden Inn.

Bokamoso, says: 2020

Gaborone is a small city of about 200,000 people. The city was built from a small railway stop in preparation for Botswana’s independence in 1966, so it essentially grew out of the desert.

Merapelo, says: 2020

It has amazing features that we as the citizens don’t really explore because we tend to be afraid to try new things. A lot of creatives are around but we as the citizens aren’t really supportive. There is a whole lot of talent idling around and artists are just waiting and hoping to get their big break.

Gaborone is the capital city of Botswana. It is located in the south east part of the country. The main languages in the city are English and Setswana. It is a busy city as most be people more there to look for jobs and other facilities. The population of the city is about 230,000 people. The city is named after a chief who was called Kgosi Gaborone. Gaborone is headquarters to numerous companies. The headquarters of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) is in Gaborone.

Baboki, says: 2020

Gaborone is located in the Southern part of Botswana. It has a population of 231 592. It experiences hot summers and cold winters. It has numerous tourism hotspots which include game reserves, nature reserves and some bird sanctuaries which hosts varieties of beautiful birds. Moreover, it is an economic hub for Botswana.

Lorato, says: 2020

If you are considering moving to Gaborone, then you should know that there are two ways of getting by using public transport. You can either use a combi or a taxi. One of the difference between the two is that, combis carry 16 passengers and taxis carry 4. You can opt to use a special taxi which will take you straight to your destination, but then you will have to pay more.

Cleopatra, says: 2020

Gaborone is the biggest city in Botswana. It is very hot in summer and very cold in winter. It is very dangerous to walk out in the streets alone. It has low employment rate. It is a very beautiful city.

Aldridge, says: 2020

Gaborone is the capital of Botswana. The population of Gaborone is a little over 200,000 people. The city was named after the local chief, Kgosi Gaborone of the Batlokwa tribe. You can expect to witness a variety of cultures in one of the city’s markets known commonly as the Main Mall.

The weather is very hot and it is quite.There are many modes of transport available for one to use.There are many services available within the city.It is soiled with western needs such as pubs and luxury hotels.All neighborhoods have two things in common:warm friendly people and a rich experimental culture.

Ziyaanah, says: 2020

It is the best city. There is a variation of safari life and city life. One can spend the day in the wild game viewing and in the later hours of the day go out for the best night life you will ever experience. We also have a great variety of cuisines. Both traditional and European.

Bokamoso, says: 2020

A city known for diamond trading with a hot and wet summer. dense traffic, populated by the working class. Unlike most cities in Africa it is not that crowded and has less industrialisation. Being a resident in this city mostly requires commuting to work with a public transport.

Cynthia, says: 2020

Gaborone is a relatively safe city. People here are friendly and helpful. The weather in Gaborone is pleasant and mild, though it can get really hot in summer. Public transport is available but I recommend hiring or buying your own vehicle if your are to be travelling around alot.

Gaborone, though quiet, has a vibrant nightlife; a place for both city lovers and suburban inclined families. The city has a well developed city center, a beautiful nature reserve, and quiet, safe neighbourhoods; with wonderful school systems; both private and public. Gaborone is home to many, both local and expat; so you will be immersed into a multicultural, vibrant world.

Foreigners would consider our lifestyle affordable. However, we locals consider things expensive here. There is very high competitiveness among supermarkets. It is better to buy from street vendors as it is cheaper. Private school fees are expensive but worth it because the education is top notch. There is lots of diversity here.

Diphimotswe, says: 2020

The city is in a developing country, and this is an advantage because there are many opportunities to pursue, many businesses opportunities to chase and create employment for citizens. The city is rich in agricultural produce and land that is good for agricultural produce.

Ibrahim, says: 2020

The residents here are very friendly and open. It is the well developed compared to other places in the country. It is named after Chief Gaborone, who lead his tribe around 1880. The city has all the facilities of any modern city.

We have a great and clean city. Gaborone is arguably one of the beautiful cities in the world. With a lot of shopping malls and other recreational activities going around in town, one needs not to worry when you are around as you can always have a variety to choose from.

It’s the capital of Botswana, it’s in a landlocked country, it has one main airport. It’s still a developing city, it has few five stars hotel. The university of Botswana can be found in this city. Although it’s still developing, it has few shopping malls that tourist can visit.

Barati, says: 2020

The parliament building is in Gaborone and the statue of the first president of Botswana faces the parliament building. Gaborone is the capital of Botswana and very populated compared other areas in the country. All embassy buildings are in Gaborone. The SADC and UNICEF offices are in Gaborone. As there are more people leaving in the city, high volumes of traffic are experienced daily.

Lebogang, says: 2020

Gaborone is a small city in the south-eastern corner of Botswana. It is a friendly city, and a great place to raise happy, relaxed and well-educated children. Gaborone provides a gateway to the natural beauty of Botswana, from the vast Kalahari Desert to the magnificent wildlife-rich areas of the Okavango and Chobe.

Merapelo, says: 2020

Gaborone is very safe and peaceful. There are many excursion sites. Its residents mostly value respect and kindness. Some people are rooted to culture, hence the need to respect and tolerate their cultural practices. It is also the center of fashion in Botswana.

Aldridge, says: 2020

Gaborone is the capital of Botswana and has approximately 250,000 people in it. For someone who wants to visit the city for reasons of pleasure, one may get three shopping mall as recommendation for a shopping spree; Game City Mall, RiverWalk Mall and Airport Junction Mall. A variety of traditional Tswana cuisine may also prove to be of interest to anybody who wants. The common language spoken among residents is Setswana, secondary to this is English.

Cynthia, says: 2020

This city has been documented to be one of those cities with the lowest crime rate. Remarkable landmarks like the statue of the Three Chiefs can be sighted in the city and is a popular attraction for tourists. The Main Mall is also popular among visitors, who are keen on buying tradition wear, jewellery and sculptures.

Tersia, says: 2020

It is the capital so therefore loads of traffic should be expected. Game reserves and nature reserves such as Gaborone Game Reserve and Mokolodi Nature reserve can be found on the outskirts of the city, making touring and sightseeing extremely accessible. The national museum is found within the confines of the city if one is interested in learning about the history of Botswana.

Tumelo, says: 2020

Our city is very good for people who’d like to move here because only peace reigns. The people here are so friendly one would feel at home and be able to do whatever it is their heart desires. There are a lot of opportunities for people moving in terms of business and one thing about this city is that there is abundance of services.

Motlhalefi, says: 2020

Gaborone is a city that hasn’t reached its full potential, therefore there are so many niches- endless business opportunities to take advantage of. It’s a city that welcomes diverse cultures with open minded accommodating people. Despite it being a city, it is not as fast-paced as other cities, thus less chances of one being kicked to the sidelines.

Barati, says: 2020

Gaborone is an amazing city to reside in and is full of different activities and sites to visit, from the museum, to the game reserve and more. We have more than one shopping mall to visit which creates variety in different shops to visit for specific needs while all not being far from one another.

Gaborone is still a developing city with a population of approximately 300,000. It is in the south eastern part of Botswana. The city is rich with heritage, as it was deliberately built along the railway line by the missionaries in the 1800’s. There are different ethnicities and cultures in Gaborone which make it vibrant and welcoming.

Rebatho, says: 2020

Gaborone is the capital and largest city of Botswana and the commerce capital with numerous headquarters. Gaborone has an ever-growing business community and one of the fastest growing cities in Africa and a home to Southern African Development Community (SADC).

It is the capital of Botswana, where there are great opportunities like business, employment and school. There are many shopping centres available for use in the city and the cost of rent is relatively low. There are great buildings which offer great eye catching content that is pleasing to the senses. The weather in the city is absolutely great and it’s one to be experienced.

Keatlaretse, says: 2020

Gaborone, the capital of my country, has more jobs. My city is also home to 85% of the Varsity education institutions. my city has close by surrounding areas that are home to the best farmers in the country with the soil being fertile giving the room for such activities.

Gofaone, says: 2020

We just inaugurated the fifth President of The republic of Botswana. Everyone is still very much excited to the see opportunities and changes he is bringing into the country. One must look forward to he great food of Botswana. The rich culture. People in Gaborone are very welcoming. One still has a chance to see wild animals in the city.

Gaborone is a city of warm people. If one is into business, they will be able to flourish here because there are lots of business opportunities. We have what are two drastic seasons, summer and winter. It gets too cold and too hot. But it is beautiful.

Yvette, says: 2020

Gaborone is a modern and well designed City. The people are friendly and helpful. Accommodation is affordable. There are well placed malls for shopping in al suburbs. Medical facilities are plenty. The police have stations in all major suburbs and are effective. There are a diverse choice of take away and sit down food outlets.

Lesedi, says: 2020

Gaborone is the capital of Botswana. It is fairly a small city compared to other capitals around the world. To get around the city, one can use public transport of ‘combis’, taxis and cabs, or hire a private from a reputable company. For most of the year, the weather is fairly warm though temperatures can get as high as 47 degrees in summer.

Yvette, says: 2020

Not everyone knows how to speak English and that might be a problem for someone who cannot use the local languages.

Tshephang, says: 2020

Gaborone is full of loving people and if you are an outgoing person a lot of fun places to entertain oneself. Different people who descend from different cultural backgrounds blending together. Respectful people whom will go an extra mile in assisting another. Compassionate, fun-loving, Botho instilled, young and vibrant people from young to old. Development wise it is still in the developing phrase, we see increased numbers in the building of skyscrapers all around the city.

Refilwe, says: 2020

The people are friendly and welcoming. Transport is easily accessible and affordable. If you are looking for a spot to unwind, CBD is the place. You can find all kinds of restaurants with nice view. The accommodation is also affordable, ranging from hotels, lodges, motels and houses to rent.

Baboki, says: 2020

It is one of the friendliest cities I know of, mostly because Gaborone is in the world’s most peaceful countries. Also, crime rates are lower here than anywhere in Africa. One also has the opportunity to see wildlife roam free, in some parts of the city though. The nightlife is vibrant but also subtle in the sense that no matter where you’re out having fun, you’re sure to be safe.

Rebatho, says: 2020

The weather here is unpredictable, it’s always safe to bring along warm clothing and some summer wear in case it changes from hot to cold or very cold to hot. Sometimes traffic gets bad, especially when it’s raining, so it’s always best to find other non-congested roads you can use if you are driving.

We are a country provide of its tourists attraction especially the wild animals e.g., lions, zebra, giraffes and more and the Makgadikgadi pans, and the amazing views one will get. They are cultural sites that can be visited like Matsieng Footprint where who is believed to be the first person to arrive in Botswana.

It is advisable to use bottled water for drinking. The tap water in Gaborone is a bit bit salty! However, it is safe for cooking and could even be used for drinking! You might also want to take a bus than drive to work. There is always too much traffic especially early in the morning and in the late afternoon.

Baitumetse, says: 2020

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