Showing all posts tagged "Things To Do In Gaborone"
Shopping Malls in Gaborone: Exploring Markets, Malls, and Local Crafts – A Shopper’s Paradise
Botswana's capital, Gaborone is a welcoming spot for both locals and those travelling from other countries. The city's filled with a mix of old and new shopping centres popping up everywhere to serve those who visit. The city has become a mega metropolis over the years, and now there are shopping centres all over the city. If you’re ever in Gaborone, these are shopping malls you should visit.
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Airport Junction Shopping Centre
Airport Junction Shopping Centre, right on the way to Sir Seretse Khama International Airport and located just 9 minutes from Avani Gaborone Resort & Casino, is a prime spot in Gaborone. If you're headed to the airport, it's a brilliant place to have a bite, do some shopping, or simply chill.
With 104 shops and ample parking, it's one of the city's largest malls. Check out family favourites like Cappuccinos, Rocco Mamas, and Spur. For those who love a bit of shopping, there's no shortage of trendy boutiques. While you're trying on the latest fashions, you can even get your car spruced up at the on-site car wash. Plus, kids are sorted with a massive play area next to the restaurants and shops.
Throughout the year, the AP mall hosts amazing events, from Christmas carols to wine tastings – some of the best things to do in Gaborone.
Game City Shopping Mall
Right next to the famous Kgale Hill, a favourite for health enthusiasts who enjoy a good hill climb, you'll find Gaborone's largest mall. Covering a massive 59,000 square metres, this shopping mall features some of the biggest brands like Aldo, American Swiss, Markhams, and Samsung.
Following a recent expansion, the mall now boasts a second floor packed with diverse restaurants. Game City Shopping Mall is perfect for family outings or business meals. Some well-loved spots like Nando's and Braai Place moved up there to enjoy the vibe. If you have kids in tow, they'll love the games room where they can play while you relax with some grub. The new expansion also introduced an entertainment space. Looking for a spot to host a private bash or a corporate event? This is your venue.
Rail Park Mall
In the heart of the city, you'll find this stunningly designed mall. Its prime location, right by bus terminals and taxi ranks, means no retailer would pass up the chance to set up shop here. With so many commuters passing by daily, it's a bustling hub of activity. If you're heading to the bus or train station, there's a handy pedestrian bridge linking you directly to the mall. It can get quite busy at times with shoppers and passers-by alike.
Covering 32,000 sqm, the mall houses popular brands like Clicks, Ackermans, and there’s also a massive supermarket. Hungry? Choose from eateries like Wimpy, KFC, and Debonairs Pizza. For traditional food lovers, there are local restaurants serving authentic dishes. For convenience, ATMs are situated near the escalators.
A unique feature of the mall is the range of boutiques on the outer building. Here, you'll discover Chinese boutiques and shops offering traditional items, right next to a petrol station. This mall isn't just about shopping. It's a hub for promoting local business, often hosting market days to support local entrepreneurs.
Main Mall
Dating back to 1963, the historical main mall was constructed in anticipation of Botswana’s independence. Despite the rise of modern shopping destinations throughout Gaborone, this mall remains a popular favourite.
Strolling along its lengthy pedestrian walkway, you will encounter street vendors proudly displaying cultural treasures – from handmade leather footwear to intricate woven baskets and sculptures. The mall stands testament to Gaborone's early developmental years, and it’s surrounded by an array of significant landmarks. These include the National Museum, the University of Botswana, and the venerable Cresta President Hotel.
Foodies will find a range of options to indulge in. Whether it's the renowned grilled chicken from Nando's or a fried treat from KFC and Chicken Licken, there's something for everyone. During lunch hours, the walkway is lined with lunch ladies offering delicious homemade dishes. Shoppers aren't left out either – from affordable retailers like Jet or Pep to exclusive boutiques offering high-end formal wear, there's a variety to choose from.
Posted on October 25th, 2023
How to Explore Botswana National Museum – A Journey Through Time
Botswana, a gem nestled in the heartland of Southern Africa, is lauded globally for its diverse cultural fabric. Sitting proudly in the hustle and bustle of the capital city, Gaborone is the National Museum. A place teeming with history, art, and the soul of Botswana, the museum serves as a window into the country's glorious past and evolving present.
Getting to the Museum
Getting to the National Museum is no challenge. If you are staying within the boundaries of Gaborone, simply hail a taxi, instruct the driver, and you'll be at the doorstep in no time. Want to drive yourself? That's not a problem at all. The museum premises offer ample parking space for your vehicle, ensuring a convenient start to your journey into Botswana's past.
Accommodation Near the Museum
The capital city, Gaborone, extends a wide array of accommodation choices to suit every traveller's needs and budget. Luxurious five-star hotels, homely guest houses, budget hostels – you name it, Gaborone has it. What's even better is that many of these establishments are within a stone's throw of the museum. For instance, Avani Gaborone Resort & Casino is only eight minutes from the museum.
The Best Time to Visit
While the National Museum welcomes visitors all year round, the period between May and September strikes the perfect balance of pleasant weather and manageable crowds, making your museum tour not just educational but thoroughly enjoyable. But make sure to check the museum’s operating hours to make sure they align with your time of visit. Visiting the museum is one of the best things to do in Gaborone, so if you don’t prefer crowds, consider visiting during the low season from December to March.
The Museum’s Attractions
The museum's numerous galleries bring to life Botswana's historical, cultural, and natural heritage. From the echo of ancient rock art to the visual narration of traditional customs and crafts, the displays span a broad spectrum of the country's timeline, offering you a well-rounded perspective.
Highlights
Several exhibits steal the spotlight at the museum. The San rock art replicas are a testament to the artistic prowess of ancient civilisations. The ethnobotanical garden, showcasing native flora and their traditional uses, is a rare treat. Not to miss are the traditional huts that offer an insight into the indigenous architectural styles of Botswana.
Museum’s Collections
The museum boasts a variety of collections, each telling you a unique story. The archaeology collection paints a vivid picture of Botswana's prehistoric era. The art collection is a medley of traditional and contemporary pieces that trace the evolution of artistic expression. The ethnography collection offers a deep dive into the lifestyles and traditions of Botswana's numerous tribes.
Why Visit Botswana National Museum?
The National Museum is more than a house of art and artefacts. It's a doorway to understanding and appreciating the country’s multicultural diversity and rich history. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a culture vulture, or a curious traveller, the museum promises an engaging and enlightening experience.
Nearby Attractions
The cultural expedition doesn't end at the museum. Several attractions in the vicinity vie for your attention. The Gaborone Game Reserve offers an opportunity to witness Botswana's unique wildlife. A scenic hike up Kgale Hill promises panoramic city views. The Three Dikgosi Monument, honouring the tribal leaders of the past, is another compelling visit.
Tips for Visiting the Museum
Here are some tips to keep in mind for the perfect museum visit:
- Plan Your Visit: Check the museum's official website for current exhibitions, events, and any possible closures.
- Dress Comfortably: Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be walking a lot, and carry a light sweater as indoor exhibits can sometimes be chilly.
- Follow the Rules: Respect the museum's rules – no flash photography, no food or drink, and no touching the exhibits.
- Take a Museum Tour: Join a guided tour if available. It can provide valuable insights into the exhibits and collections.
- Visit the Museum Shop: The museum shop often has unique souvenirs that reflect the museum's collections.
Posted on August 14th, 2023
How to Stay Safe in Gaborone - Safety Tips for Visitors Touring Gaborone
Ranked among Botswana's most breathtaking tourist hotspots, Gaborone welcomes countless travellers each calendar year. Whether you are visiting this vibrant city on business or to explore its cultural heritage, there are some measures that every tourist can take to enjoy a safer and more relaxed getaway in this part of the world. Below are some precautionary measures and warnings to help you make your Gaborone getaway a hassle-free experience.
Image by tiffany loyd from Pixabay
1. Travelling Locally
Those who are based at Avani Gaborone Resort & Casino or any other resort should avoid areas where there are protests, demonstrations or large gatherings. Although engaging with the local community is one of the best things to do in Gaborone, a big local event is not the place to do it. While most demonstrations and large gatherings are not inherently dangerous, there is a chance that the police will use rubber bullets and tear gas to disperse the crowd, so it is better to steer clear of such locations.
2. When Exploring Reserves
Wildlife reserves and game parks are some of the biggest highlights in Gaborone and Botswana as a whole but that does not mean that these spaces are risk-free for travellers. When embarking on a safari tour or engaging in a 4x4 drive in the wilderness, it is best to err on the side of caution and listen to your tour guide or park warden at all times. Wild animals sometimes exhibit strange behaviours and park guides and wardens are better at spotting unpredictable creatures than travellers, so it is best to defer to them if things get sticky on the road. It is also crucial to avoid bathing in lakes and rivers inside reserves as there are certain water-borne diseases and threats of crock attacks that one may encounter.
3. Remote Travel
If you intend to head outside the city of Gaborone to some of the more remote corners of Botswana on a day trip, it is best to inquire about safety rules for that particular area from your current base hotel. Accommodation and travel arrangements should also be made in advance as off-road driving expeditions should never be undertaken on a whim. Keep in mind that cellular connectivity and internet access are not available in these areas so you may require a satellite phone to keep in touch. Stocking up on fuel and drinking water is also a must as these are must-have commodities for those travelling outside the city limits.
4. Crime Rates
There haven't been attacks and other mishaps involving tourists in Gaborone for a long time but that does not mean that you may not face incidents of petty crimes. This is especially true for the two main towns in Gaborone called Maun and Francistown. Home thefts and hold-ups are quite common in both towns where robberies during peak dining hours have also been recorded. It is best to mind your belongings at all times and not carry too much cash on your person during sightseeing and dining outings. Wearing jewellery outside the confines of your resort is not recommended as valuables such as gold chains and rings are likely to attract the wrong kind of attention. Always keep copies of your travel documents, passport and ID at the hotel or in various locations in case of theft. If you are based at a riverfront cabin or lodge, lock up before you step outside or go on excursions as these types of accommodation hubs fall easy prey to robbers.
5. Road travel
Only those with an International Driving Permit can drive in Gaborone or Botswana for a period of no more than 3 months. Those who intend to spend more than 90 days in the country should secure a Botswana driving license. Driving in Gaborone, especially when outside the city area can be dangerous due to livestock and wildlife encounters. Driving at night time must be undertaken with special care as the roads are not well-lit.
Posted on April 21st, 2023