Central District · Travel guide · Updated 2026

Discover the Heart of Botswana: Central District

Explore Botswana's Central District: A blend of history, culture, and breathtaking natural landscapes. From ancient rock art to vast salt pans, adventure awaits.

Central District in Botswana is a land of stunning contrasts and a gateway to the country's rich cultural and natural heritage. This vast region offers an array of experiences, from the bustling towns of Serowe and Palapye to the tranquil, remote landscapes of the Makgadikgadi Pans and the Tswapong Hills. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or an adventurer, Central District has something to captivate your imagination. Serowe is the district's administrative capital and holds great historical significance as the birthplace of Botswana's first president, Sir Seretse Khama. The Khama III Memorial Museum offers a deep dive into the country's history and the legacy of the Khama family. Nearby, the Manyana Rock Paintings provide a glimpse into the region's ancient past with their well-preserved rock art. For nature enthusiasts, the Central District is a paradise of unique ecosystems. The Makgadikgadi Pans, one of the largest salt flats in the world, transform into a lush wetland during the rainy season, attracting an array of wildlife including flamingos and zebras. The Tswapong Hills, with their hidden waterfalls and lush vegetation, are perfect for hiking and bird watching. The Khama Rhino Sanctuary is another must-visit, offering a chance to see rhinos in their natural habitat. The Central District is also a cultural melting pot, home to diverse communities with rich traditions. Visiting local villages provides an opportunity to experience traditional Setswana life, from craft markets to traditional dances. The area is known for its warm hospitality, making every visitor feel welcome and at home.

When is the best time to go to Central District?

Weather at a glance

Use the monthly temperature and precipitation trends to compare typical conditions across the year before planning countryside walks, town visits, and heritage days.

Temperature

°C

Precipitation

mm
Warmest monthsNov–Mar
Longest daylightOct–Mar
Driest periodJun–Jul

Explore places in Central District

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    Iconic landmarks you can't miss

    Classic Central District sights that mirror the landmark pins above, with a little more context before users explore further.

    Mokolodi Nature Reserve

    Discover Botswana's wildlife and support conservation at Mokolodi Nature Reserve, a short drive from Gaborone.

    Mokolodi Nature Reserve

    Maun Lodge

    Your comfortable starting point for exploring the Okavango Delta and experiencing the best of Maun, Botswana.

    Maun Lodge

    Botswana Craft

    Discover Botswana's artistic soul at Botswana Craft: Authentic crafts, cultural events, and delicious local cuisine in Gaborone.

    Botswana Craft

    Lion Park Resort

    Experience thrilling water slides, amusement rides, and majestic lion viewing at Gaborone's premier entertainment destination.

    Lion Park Resort

    Khama Rhino Sanctuary

    Discover Botswana's Khama Rhino Sanctuary: A community-driven conservation success, protecting rhinos and offering unforgettable wildlife encounters.

    Khama Rhino Sanctuary

    Moremi Game Reserve

    Explore Moremi Game Reserve: a Botswana wildlife sanctuary with diverse ecosystems, abundant species, and unforgettable safari experiences in the Okavango Delta.

    Moremi Game Reserve

    Chobe National Park

    Discover Botswana's Chobe National Park: Home to massive elephant herds, diverse wildlife, and stunning landscapes for an unforgettable safari experience.

    Chobe National Park

    Goo-Moremi Gorge Resort

    Discover Botswana's hidden gem: Goo-Moremi Gorge Resort. Experience nature, culture, and adventure in the heart of the Tswapong Hills.

    Goo-Moremi Gorge Resort

    Planet Baobab

    Experience Botswana's quirky side at Planet Baobab: Authentic lodging, Kalahari adventures, and unforgettable desert nights near the Makgadikgadi Pans.

    Planet Baobab

    National Museum and Art Gallery

    Explore Botswana's rich cultural heritage, traditional arts, and natural wonders at the National Museum and Art Gallery in Gaborone.

    National Museum and Art Gallery

    Nxai Pan National Park

    Explore Botswana's Nxai Pan National Park: witness the zebra migration, iconic baobabs, and stunning Kalahari landscapes. A unique safari adventure.

    Nxai Pan National Park

    Kgale View Guest House

    Experience comfort and convenience at Kgale View Guest House, your ideal base for exploring Gaborone and enjoying a tranquil retreat.

    Kgale View Guest House

    Baines Baobabs

    Discover the ancient beauty of Baines Baobabs, a breathtaking natural wonder in Botswana's Kalahari Desert, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.

    Baines Baobabs

    Mashatu Game Reserve

    Explore Botswana's Mashatu Game Reserve: a land of giants, diverse landscapes, and exceptional wildlife encounters in the heart of the Northern Tuli.

    Mashatu Game Reserve

    Trinity Church

    Discover Trinity Church in Gaborone: A historic symbol of unity, architectural gem, and serene sanctuary in the heart of the capital.

    Trinity Church

    Essential places to dine

    The dining ideas below match the food pins above, making the map and editorial recommendations work together.

    Avani Gaborone Resort & Casino

    Discover luxury accommodations and vibrant entertainment at Avani Gaborone Resort & Casino in Botswana's capital city.

    Avani Gaborone Resort & Casino

    Bull & Bush

    Discover the flavors of Botswana at Bull & Bush - A vibrant restaurant offering local delights and international favorites in Gaborone.

    Bull & Bush

    Table50Two

    Discover culinary delights at Table50Two in Gaborone – where local flavors meet international cuisine in an inviting atmosphere.

    Table50Two

    Two Six Seven

    Discover the unique flavors and vibrant atmosphere of Two Six Seven, Gaborone's premier dining destination for food enthusiasts.

    Two Six Seven

    Park 27

    Discover authentic Botswana flavors at Park 27 - a premier grill restaurant in Gaborone offering delicious meals and inviting ambiance.

    Park 27

    Mokolodi Restaurant

    Discover Mokolodi Restaurant: A Culinary Haven in Botswana's Breathtaking Nature Reserve

    Mokolodi Restaurant

    Cappello Palapye

    Experience authentic Botswana flavors at Cappello Palapye - where every bite tells a story.

    Cappello Palapye

    Wimpy

    Discover family-friendly dining at Wimpy in Gaborone – where fast food meets friendly service for an unforgettable meal.

    Wimpy

    Touch Down

    Experience family-friendly dining at Touch Down in Gaborone - where delicious meals meet warm hospitality in Botswana's vibrant capital.

    Touch Down

    The Pond Restaurant

    Experience authentic Italian flavors at The Pond Restaurant in Gaborone - where every meal is a celebration of taste and tradition.

    The Pond Restaurant

    Luna Rosa Sarona City Mall

    Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Luna Rosa Sarona City Mall in Gaborone – where flavors meet tradition in every dish.

    Luna Rosa Sarona City Mall

    Pedros Fields Mall

    Discover the rich flavors of Portuguese cuisine at Pedros Fields Mall in Gaborone - a haven for chicken lovers!

    Pedros Fields Mall

    Bonita Gardens Cafe - Palapye, Botswana

    Discover culinary bliss at Bonita Gardens Cafe in Palapye – where nature meets deliciousness.

    Bonita Gardens Cafe - Palapye, Botswana

    Mahogany's Restaurant

    Discover the exquisite flavors of Botswana at Mahogany's Restaurant in Gaborone—where local cuisine meets modern dining.

    Mahogany's Restaurant

    Jimmy's Killer Express

    Experience the vibrant culinary scene of Gaborone at Jimmy's Killer Express - where local flavors meet international flair.

    Jimmy's Killer Express

    Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

    Each shopping card aligns with a mapped browsing area, from major retail streets to market-led detours.

    Game City Shopping Mall

    Experience shopping, dining, and entertainment at Game City Shopping Mall in Gaborone, the ultimate destination for tourists and locals alike.

    Game City Shopping Mall

    Airport Junction Shopping Centre

    Discover the vibrant shopping experience at Airport Junction Shopping Centre in Gaborone, a blend of local culture, dining, and entertainment.

    Airport Junction Shopping Centre

    Riverwalk Mall

    Discover Riverwalk Mall in Gaborone: A premier shopping destination with diverse stores, delicious dining, and vibrant entertainment for every tourist.

    Riverwalk Mall

    Food Lovers Market

    Discover a culinary paradise at Food Lovers Market in Gaborone, where fresh produce and gourmet delights await every food enthusiast.

    Food Lovers Market

    Galo Mall

    Discover a vibrant shopping experience at Galo Mall in Francistown, where local culture meets international brands in a unique retail environment.

    Galo Mall

    Main Mall

    Explore Gaborone's Main Mall: A vibrant shopping and dining destination that showcases local culture and offers a memorable experience for every traveler.

    Main Mall

    Molapo Crossing Shopping Mall

    Explore Gaborone's Molapo Crossing Shopping Mall: A vibrant hub for shopping, dining, and entertainment in the heart of Botswana.

    Molapo Crossing Shopping Mall

    Shoprite Francistown

    Discover a world of flavors and convenience at Shoprite Francistown, where local and international delights await your taste buds.

    Shoprite Francistown

    The Fields Shopping Centre

    Discover the vibrant shopping experience at The Fields Shopping Centre in Gaborone, where local culture meets modern retail.

    The Fields Shopping Centre

    Khama Rhino Sanctuary

    Explore the majestic Khama Rhino Sanctuary, a haven for rhinos and wildlife enthusiasts in Botswana's breathtaking landscapes.

    Khama Rhino Sanctuary

    Bodiba Mall

    Discover Bodiba Mall in Gaborone: A vibrant shopping and dining destination blending local culture with international flair.

    Bodiba Mall

    The Design Quarter

    Explore The Design Quarter in Gaborone for unique local crafts, stylish fashion, and a vibrant shopping experience that showcases Botswana's culture.

    The Design Quarter

    TRANS Cash & Carry

    Discover a world of flavors and essentials at TRANS Cash & Carry, the premier supermarket in Francistown, Botswana.

    TRANS Cash & Carry

    Nata Bird Sanctuary

    Explore the breathtaking Nata Bird Sanctuary, a haven for birdwatching and nature lovers in Botswana's stunning landscapes.

    Nata Bird Sanctuary

    West Pack Lifestyle The Fields

    Explore West Pack Lifestyle The Fields in Gaborone for unique home goods that enhance your living spaces and capture the essence of Botswana.

    West Pack Lifestyle The Fields

    Essential bars & hidden hideouts

    The evening cards below match the bars layer in the map, so browsing and orientation stay connected.

    Bull & Bush

    Discover the culinary delights of Gaborone at Bull & Bush, where local flavors meet international cuisine in a vibrant setting.

    Bull & Bush

    Majestic Five Hotel

    Discover luxury and comfort at Majestic Five Hotel in Palapye, the perfect retreat for travelers in Botswana.

    Majestic Five Hotel

    Table50Two

    Discover the vibrant culinary scene at Table50Two in Gaborone, where local flavors meet international cuisine in a lively atmosphere.

    Table50Two

    room50two

    Discover luxury and comfort at room50two, your ideal hotel in Gaborone for relaxation and stunning city views.

    room50two

    Two Six Seven

    Experience the vibrant culinary scene at Two Six Seven, a riverside restaurant in Gaborone, Botswana, offering local and international flavors.

    Two Six Seven

    Cappello Masa

    Discover the lively atmosphere of Cappello Masa, a bar in Gaborone, where locals and tourists gather for drinks and entertainment in a vibrant setting.

    Cappello Masa

    The Pond Restaurant

    Discover the essence of Italian cuisine at The Pond Restaurant in Gaborone, where every meal is a celebration of flavor and tradition.

    The Pond Restaurant

    Leobah's Pub - Gaborone

    Discover Leobah's Pub in Gaborone, a lively bar experience filled with local culture, delicious drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.

    Leobah's Pub - Gaborone

    Serowe Barcelos

    Experience the vibrant flavors of Botswana at Serowe Barcelos, where delicious peri-peri chicken awaits in a warm, inviting atmosphere.

    Serowe Barcelos

    Social Gaborone

    Experience the vibrant culinary scene of Gaborone at Social Gaborone, where local flavors meet a lively atmosphere for an unforgettable dining experience.

    Social Gaborone

    The PRINCETON LOUNGE

    Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Princeton Lounge, Gaborone's go-to bar for locals and tourists, offering a cozy atmosphere and delicious drinks.

    The PRINCETON LOUNGE

    Main Deck Pool Bar

    Experience relaxation and entertainment at Main Deck Pool Bar in Gaborone, where refreshing drinks and delicious bites await you by the poolside.

    Main Deck Pool Bar

    Chili Bar

    Discover the vibrant flavors of Gaborone at Chili Bar, a delightful grill offering a range of delicious grilled dishes and refreshing drinks.

    Chili Bar

    Leobah's Pub & Grill

    Discover the lively ambiance and local flavor at Leobah's Pub & Grill in Gaborone, where good food and great company meet.

    Leobah's Pub & Grill

    Main Deck Restaurant & Bar

    Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delectable cuisine at Main Deck Restaurant & Bar in Gaborone, Botswana.

    Main Deck Restaurant & Bar
    File:Okavango delta - Botswana - panoramio.jpg - Wikimedia Commons
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    More about Botswana

    Explore Botswana: A land of stunning contrasts, rich wildlife, and cultural heritage. Discover the Okavango Delta, Kalahari Desert, and immerse in sustainable tourism.

    Tell me more about Botswana
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    Explore Central District in Photos

    A quick visual route through countryside views, towns, gardens, and regional day-trip atmosphere.

    File:Rinocerontes blancos (Ceratotherium simum), Santuario de Rinocerontes  Khama, Botsuana, 2018-08-02, DD 04.jpg - Wikipedia
    File:Central District Botswana ESA373976.jpg - Wikimedia Commons
    File:Flamingo migration Makgadikgadi Pan.jpg - Wikimedia Commons
    File:Straight lines.jpg - Wikimedia Commons
    File:The main square in Francistown (3297095166).jpg - Wikipedia
    File:BIUST Botswana 3.jpg - Wikimedia Commons
    File:Limpopo - Over the river we go 5.jpg - Wikimedia Commons
    File:Myrmecocichla formicivora -Central Kalahari Game Reserve, Botswana  -female-8.jpg - Wikipedia

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