The city brings together a range of attractions: the Three Chiefs’ Monument represents an important chapter in the country’s history, the Thapong Visual Arts Centre showcases art, and Kgale Hill offers a connection with nature. Golf options also vary by location and type of facility.

History and Art in Gaborone

The Three Chiefs’ Monument in the Central Business District marks a significant turning point in Botswana’s history. In 1885, Chief Khama III of the Bangwato, Chief Sebele I of the Bakwena and Chief Bathoen I of the Bangwaketse travelled to London to ask Joseph Chamberlain, the Secretary of State for the Colonies, for protection. The three chiefs were also presented to Queen Victoria there and asked her for protection. The Bechuanaland Protectorate was established that same year, preventing the territory from being incorporated into the British South Africa Company. The monument thus offers a concrete starting point for exploring this historical context.

The Thapong Visual Arts Centre offers a different cultural focus. It is housed in the former magistrate’s building, dating from 1902, and is a centre for Botswana’s young, talented and sometimes avant-garde artists. Regular exhibitions are part of its programme; art classes for children are also held occasionally. If a children’s class is important to your visit, check the current programme in advance. The grounds are also home to The No. 1 Ladies Coffee House. Its name comes from Alexander McCall Smith’s novel series “The Number One Ladies Detective Agency.”

Golf Options and Connections with Nature

Golf enthusiasts also have several different options to choose from. Gaborone Golf Club is near the old city centre. Phakalane Golf Resort is located in the Phakalane Golf Estate on the outskirts of Gaborone. Blue Tree Golf Centre has a driving range, pitch-and-putt facilities, and conference and meeting facilities. When planning, you can distinguish between the two golf courses and the practice and meeting facilities at the Golf Centre, without treating the three venues as a single location.

Kgale Hill is a landmark of Gaborone. The hill has clearly defined routes up and down and is used by hikers and picnickers. This offers nature lovers a different focus from the city’s art and history sites. Gaborone Dam is the city’s main source of drinking water. Non-motorised water sports are permitted through the Gaborone Yacht Club. If you would like to plan such activities, ask the club about the specific arrangements.

The Wider Destination of South-East

Beyond Gaborone, the wider destination of South-East offers further cultural and landscape connections. Lentswe la Baratani in Otse is a landmark of the South East District and is associated with local stories about two lovers. In the literature, Otse Hill is described as Botswana’s highest point above sea level, followed by Baratani Hill and Tsodilo Hill. This ranking remains an attributed assessment, setting it apart from the clear historical account surrounding the Three Chiefs’ Monument.

Outside the village of Otse lies the 300-hectare Manyelanong Game Reserve. It was established in June 1985 to protect the colony of Cape vultures living there. These regional sites are part of the wider South-East destination and complement Gaborone’s attractions without being presented as city offerings. When choosing accommodation, you can therefore consider whether to focus on Gaborone’s culture, golf and urban landscape, or include the wider destination of South-East in your plans as well.

Discover more destinations: Gaborone

View the wider travel guide: South-East.