Kgale Hill: Gaborone's Majestic Overlook

Hike Gaborone's iconic Kgale Hill for panoramic city views, stunning sunsets, and a refreshing escape into nature.

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Kgale Hill, fondly called 'The Sleeping Giant,' is a prominent granite hill offering panoramic views of Gaborone. A popular hiking destination, it provides a refreshing escape and a chance to connect with nature just outside the city.

A brief summary to Kgale Hill

Gaborone, BW

Local tips

Start your hike early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and enjoy cooler temperatures.
Wear sturdy hiking shoes with good grip due to the rocky and uneven terrain.
Bring plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially during warmer months.
Consider bringing a camera to capture the breathtaking scenery from the summit.
Be mindful of local wildlife and respect the natural environment while exploring.

Getting There

Public Transport

From Gaborone Bus Rank, take a minibus heading towards the southern suburbs or Gaborone West. Inform the driver you wish to go to Kgale Hill. The fare is typically around P10-P15. You may need to walk a short distance from the drop-off point to the entrance of the hiking trail.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available in Gaborone. A taxi from the city center to Kgale Hill will cost approximately 50-70 BWP. Ensure the driver knows the exact location, as there are different access points to the hill.
Walking

If you are nearby Kgale Hill Road, follow it towards the hill until you see the trailhead. Be prepared for an uphill walk. Ensure you have comfortable shoes and water.
Car

From Gaborone city center, head southwest on Nelson Mandela Drive (A1). Continue on A1 for approximately 12 kilometers. Look for signs directing you to Kgale Hill. Turn onto Kgale Hill Road and follow it for about 3 kilometers until you reach the parking area at the base of the hill. Parking may incur a small fee, typically around BWP 10 to BWP 20.

Discover more about Kgale Hill

Kgale Hill, known in Setswana as "The Place that Dried Up," is a dominant landmark rising just west of Gaborone, Botswana. Affectionately nicknamed "The Sleeping Giant" due to its reclining person shape, it reaches a summit of 1,287 meters (4,222 ft) above sea level, standing approximately 300 meters above the city plain. Kgale Hill holds historical and cultural significance. It served as a lookout point during wars in the late 19th century and is believed to have been a spiritual site for indigenous communities, evidenced by rock paintings and engravings. In more recent times, the hill housed a television repeater. The area gained international recognition as the filming location for "The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency," earning the nickname "Kgalewood". Hiking Kgale Hill is a favorite activity for locals and tourists alike. Several trails lead to the summit, offering varied levels of difficulty. The well-marked trails wind through rocky terrain and sparse vegetation, providing an authentic Botswana outdoor experience. Along the way, hikers may encounter baboons and diverse bird species. Reaching the summit rewards hikers with breathtaking views of Gaborone's skyline, the surrounding landscape, and the distant Kalahari Desert. The sunrise and sunset views are particularly stunning, casting a golden glow over the landscape. Beyond the physical challenge and scenic views, Kgale Hill offers a tranquil escape from the city. The cool breeze and natural sounds create a serene atmosphere for reflection and connection with nature.