Gaborone, Botswana: Africa's Well-Kept Secret

Contrary to what many people assume about landlocked Botswana, its capital city Gaborone is a vibrant modern metropolis that offers visitors a charming blend of African culture and international amenities. Situated smack dab in the middle of the Kalahari Desert, Gaborone comes as a pleasant surprise with its abundance of lush gardens, parks and plenty of places to find relief from the desert sun.

While safaris to Chobe National Park and the Okavango Delta to spot iconic wildlife like elephants, lions and leopards understandably attract most tourists to Botswana, those who skip visiting Gaborone are truly missing out. As the fastest growing city in Africa, this desert oasis has a fascinating story to tell. Let's explore some of the top spots to experience the energetic spirit of Gaborone.

Book Travel and Earn Crypto with BitBook

For accommodation in Gaborone, be sure to check out hotel and apartment listings on BitBook. By booking your stay through their site, you can earn rewards in the form of BBT tokens - the native cryptocurrency of the BitBook travel rewards platform. You can also earn BBT by booking flights and rental cars. BitBook makes it fun and profitable to plan your African adventure!

After reserving your lodging with BitBook, spending a few BBT tokens at a nice restaurant could be a great way to support the local Gaborone economy. Cryptocurrency adoption is still in early stages across much of Africa, so using BBT as a payment method could help introduce more people to the exciting world of digital money.

Soak in the Vibes at the Mokolodi Nature Reserve

Only a 30 minute drive from downtown, the lush Mokolodi Nature Reserve offers the perfect escape from the city. Within its over 12,000 acres you can opt to simply relax and renew in the refreshing surroundings, or sign up for guided walking trails where you may spot zebras, giraffes, monkeys and over 300 bird species living freely in their natural habitat. After an afternoon of wildlife viewing, enjoy a sunset cocktail at their scenic lounge while taking in sweeping views of the reserve. The Mokolodi is truly where man and nature harmoniously coexist, making it a must for any nature lover's Gaborone itinerary.

Experience the Cultural Heart of the City

No trip to Gaborone is complete without a visit to the National Museum and Art Gallery. Here you can gain fascinating insights into Botswana's rich cultural heritage and history dating back to the earliest San Bushmen tribes that first inhabited this land. Be sure to check their calendar for performances and workshops featuring local music, dance, crafts and cuisine so you can engage with Botswana's artistic traditions up close.

Another great way to experience Batswana culture is to catch a performance at the Jabu Sculpture Thrust, an intimate outdoor theater often featuring plays, concerts and events reflecting the diverse tapestries that make up Botswana's story. Getting involved in the local arts scene is a memorable way to connect with the heart and soul of Gaborone.