Francistown, Botswana Travel Guide

Discover Francistown, Botswana's oldest town, where history, culture, and nature converge to create an unforgettable travel experience.

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Francistown

Francistown, located in northeastern Botswana, is a city that beautifully blends history with modernity. Known as the country's oldest town, it was once a bustling center during the gold rush of the late 19th century. Today, it stands as a vibrant hub with a rich cultural tapestry. Explore the remnants of its mining past at the Supa Ngwao Museum, where you can delve into artifacts and exhibits that showcase the city's evolution. For nature lovers, the Tachila Nature Reserve offers a serene escape with opportunities for wildlife spotting and hiking. The city's welcoming atmosphere is complemented by its lively markets, where you can experience local crafts and cuisine. The Domboshaba ruins, a short drive from the city, provide a fascinating glimpse into ancient civilizations that once thrived in the area. Whether you're a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or simply seeking a unique cultural experience, Francistown has something to offer every traveler.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Francistown.

Visit the Supa Ngwao Museum to learn about the city's mining history and cultural heritage.
Spend a day at the Tachila Nature Reserve for wildlife viewing and hiking trails.
Explore the bustling local markets for unique crafts and traditional cuisine.
Take a short trip to the Domboshaba ruins for an insight into ancient civilizations.
Try to visit during the annual Francistown Marathon for a festive atmosphere and community spirit.

Explore Francistown: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Francistown

Top-rated picks

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Woodlands Stop Over and Lodge

A historic and tranquil stopover near Francistown, offering diverse lodging, birdwatching, and a peaceful escape on the original Hunters' Road.

4.5

Central Park

Escape to Francistown's Central Park: A green oasis offering tranquility, recreation, and a touch of local culture in the city's heart.

3.9

Nkgwana Park

Escape to Nkgwana Park in Francistown: A serene oasis offering relaxation, recreation, and a connection with nature.

4.2

Nyangabwe Hill

Hike to panoramic views, explore local history, and discover the natural beauty of Francistown from the iconic Nyangabwe Hill.

4.0

Best landmarks in Francistown

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Cresta Marang Gardens

Escape to Cresta Marang Gardens in Francistown: Lush gardens, comfortable rooms, and a tranquil riverside setting await your Botswana adventure.

4.1

Cresta Thapama

Experience comfort and convenience at Cresta Thapama Hotel, your ideal base for exploring Francistown and Northern Botswana.

4.1

Dumela Lodge & Campsite

Escape to Dumela Lodge & Campsite in Francistown: a tranquil retreat with safari-style accommodations, local cuisine, and a refreshing pool.

3.8

Francistown Bus Rank

Experience the heart of Botswana at Francistown Bus Rank, your gateway to exploring the northern region and beyond.

3.8

Best restaurants in Francistown

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Nando's Francistown Galo

Discover the vibrant flavors of flame-grilled peri-peri chicken at Nando's Francistown Galo - your go-to spot for family-friendly dining.

4.1

Nando's Francistown Marang

Experience the vibrant flavors of Portuguese cuisine at Nando's Francistown Marang - perfect for families and fast food lovers!

4.2

Golden Hills Spur

Experience the best of African cuisine at Golden Hills Spur - where delicious steaks meet family-friendly dining in Francistown.

4.0

Wimpy

Experience family-friendly dining at Wimpy in Francistown – where delicious fast food meets warm hospitality.

4.0

Best bars in Francistown

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Nando's Francistown Galo

Discover the vibrant taste of peri-peri chicken at Nando's Francistown Galo, a top family-friendly dining spot in Botswana.

4.1

Nando's Francistown Marang

Experience the vibrant flavors of South African and Portuguese cuisine at Nando's Francistown Marang, where flame-grilled peri-peri chicken awaits.

4.2

Golden Hills Spur

Savor the best of African and international cuisine at Golden Hills Spur, Francistown's premier steakhouse and family-friendly restaurant.

4.0

Roots of Africa

Discover the flavors of Botswana at Roots of Africa, where local dishes meet international cuisine in a vibrant atmosphere.

4.0

Best nightclubs in Francistown

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Golden Hills Spur

Experience the vibrant flavors of African cuisine at Golden Hills Spur, the premier steakhouse in Francistown, Botswana.

4.0

WATERHOLE

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Francistown at Waterhole, a bar that promises great drinks and an unforgettable atmosphere.

4.0

Brown's Sports Bar

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Francistown at Brown's Sports Bar, where locals and tourists gather for drinks, music, and unforgettable moments.

3.8

Lions Club

Discover the vibrant nightlife at Lions Club in Francistown, where socializing and enjoying refreshing drinks create unforgettable experiences.

3.7

Best shops in Francistown

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Galo Mall

Explore Galo Mall in Francistown: A vibrant shopping hub with diverse retail, dining, and entertainment options for an unforgettable experience.

4.1

Shoprite Francistown

Discover the convenience and affordability of Shoprite Francistown, your ultimate shopping destination for local goods and essentials.

3.9

Game Francistown

Discover a diverse range of products at Game Francistown, your ultimate shopping destination in Botswana's vibrant retail scene.

4.1

Nzano Centre

Discover the vibrant shopping scene at Nzano Centre, Francistown's premier destination for retail therapy, dining, and entertainment.

3.9

Explore Francistown on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Francistown, mapped for you.

Francistown Essentials

Francistown is accessible by air and road. The Francistown International Airport (FRW) offers flights from major cities in Botswana and some regional destinations. If you're traveling by road, Francistown is well-connected via the A1 highway from Gaborone, which is approximately 430 kilometers away. The journey by car or bus takes about 5-6 hours. Regular bus services also operate between Francistown and other major cities in Botswana.
In Francistown, public transportation options include minibuses, known locally as 'kombis,' and taxis. Kombis are the most economical way to travel around the city, while taxis are more convenient for direct routes. Car rental services are available for those who prefer to drive. Walking is also an option in the city center, where many attractions are within close proximity.
The official currency in Botswana is the Botswana Pula (BWP). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. However, it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are readily available throughout Francistown, and most accept international cards.
Francistown is generally safe for tourists, but it's important to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas, and be cautious with your belongings in crowded places such as markets and bus stations. Areas with higher crime rates targeting tourists include the bus station area and some parts of the city center. Always stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.
In case of an emergency, dial 999 for police assistance, 998 for an ambulance, and 997 for the fire department. Francistown has several medical facilities, including the Nyangabgwe Referral Hospital, which offers comprehensive medical services. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are also available for minor health issues.
Fashion: Do dress modestly to respect local customs. Avoid wearing very revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect religious practices and places of worship. Remove your shoes and cover your head when entering mosques. Public Transport: Do be courteous and offer your seat to elderly passengers. Don't argue with drivers or conductors. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. It's customary to say 'Dumela' (hello) when meeting someone. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don't eat or drink in public during Ramadan out of respect for those fasting.
To experience Francistown like a local, visit the bustling Francistown Market for fresh produce and traditional crafts. Engage with locals, who are generally friendly and willing to share stories about the city's history and culture. Don’t miss the Supa Ngwao Museum to learn about the region's heritage. For a unique experience, attend a local music or dance performance, which are often held in community centers or open spaces.

When is the best time to visit Francistown?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Francistown

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Francistown. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloDumela
  [doo-MEH-lah]
- GoodbyeSala sentle
  [SAH-lah sen-tleh]
- YesEe
  [EE]
- NoNnyaa
  [NYAH]
- Please/You're welcomeNtshwarele
  [nt-SWA-reh-leh]
- Thank youKealeboga
  [keh-ah-leh-BOH-gah]
- Excuse me/SorryPeleka
  [peh-LEH-kah]
- How are you?O kae?
  [oh kah-eh]
- Fine. And you?Ke gona. O kae?
  [keh goh-nah. oh kah-eh]
- Do you speak English?O bua se se Ingilishi?
  [oh boo-ah seh seh een-gee-LEE-shee]
- I don't understandGa ke itse
  [gah keh eet-seh]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseKe kopa go bona setsebi, ka kopo
  [keh koh-pah goh boh-nah set-SEH-bee, kah koh-poh]
- I don't eat meatGa ke itse nyama
  [gah keh eet-seh nyah-mah]
- Cheers!Phuthu!
  [poo-TOO]
- I would like to pay, pleaseKe kopa go dirisa, ka kopo
  [keh koh-pah goh dee-ree-sah, kah koh-poh]
- Help!Boitumelo!
  [boy-too-MEH-loh]
- Go away!Ie!
  [ee-eh]
- Call the Police!Bula Polasa!
  [boo-lah poh-LAH-sah]
- Call a doctor!Bula mofaladi!
  [boo-lah moh-fah-LAH-dee]
- I'm lostKe itumelelwe
  [keh ee-too-meh-leh-loo-weh]
- I'm illKe betshwara
  [keh beh-choo-wah-rah]
- I'd like to buy...Ke kopa go rekela...
  [keh koh-pah goh reh-keh-lah]
- I'm just lookingKe kopa go bona fela
  [keh koh-pah goh boh-nah feh-lah]
- How much is it?E e leng?
  [EH eh lehng]
- That's too expensiveSe se fete ka nako
  [seh seh feh-teh kah nah-koh]
- Can you lower the price?O ka nna le go emisa sekgowa?
  [oh kah nah leh goh eh-mee-sah seh-koh-wah]
- What time is it?E nngwe le nngwe ke eng?
  [eh nng-weh leh nng-weh keh ehng]
- It's one o'clockKe ya nnyane
  [keh yah nnyah-neh]
- Half past (10)Letlha la ditlhapi (10)
  [let-lah lah dee-tlah-pee (10)]
- MorningBontsi
  [boh-nt-see]
- AfternoonBoitshepo
  [boh-ee-tsheh-poh]
- EveningLetelele
  [leh-teh-leh-leh]
- YesterdayNtwa
  [nt-wah]
- TodayNameng
  [nah-mehng]
- TomorrowLefatshe
  [leh-fah-tsheh]
- 1Mosome
  [moh-soh-meh]
- 2Ratwe
  [raht-weh]
- 3Lethathamo
  [leh-thah-thah-moh]
- 4Lefarona
  [leh-fah-roh-nah]
- 5Lefokotsane
  [leh-foh-koh-tsa-neh]
- 6Lefotwane
  [leh-foh-twa-neh]
- 7Lefhele
  [leh-fheh-leh]
- 8Lefoko
  [leh-foh-koh]
- 9Lefela
  [leh-feh-lah]
- 10Lesome
  [leh-soh-meh]
- Where's a/the...?Kae e ne ya...?
  [kah-eh eh neh yah]
- What's the address?Ke eng mogala?
  [keh ehng moh-gah-lah]
- Can you show me (on the map)?O ka nna le go bona (ka map)?
  [oh kah nah leh goh boh-nah (kah map)]
- When's the next (bus)?Ke eng molaetsa o o tla a tswa?
  [keh ehng moh-lah-eh-tsah oh oh tlah ah tswah]
- A ticket (to ....)Tikete (go ....)
  [tee-keh-teh goh]

History of Francistown

Francistown, one of Botswana's oldest towns, has a rich history that dates back to the late 19th century. The area was originally inhabited by the Bakalanga people, who settled here centuries ago and played a crucial role in the region's early development. The Bakalanga were known for their skills in agriculture, hunting, and iron smelting.
The discovery of gold in the 1860s marked a pivotal moment in the history of Francistown. European prospectors, including the town's namesake Daniel Francis, flocked to the area in search of fortune. The gold rush led to the establishment of several mines and the rapid development of the town as a mining hub.
During the colonial period, Francistown grew significantly under British rule. The town served as an important administrative and commercial center, benefiting from its strategic location near the Shashe River and the railway line connecting Bulawayo in Zimbabwe to South Africa. The colonial architecture from this era can still be seen in some of the town's historic buildings.
With Botswana's independence in 1966, Francistown continued to thrive. The town experienced substantial growth and modernization, becoming a key economic and cultural center in the northeastern region of the country. The establishment of various industries, including textiles and manufacturing, contributed to its economic diversification.
Francistown is a melting pot of cultures, reflecting its diverse history. The town is home to various ethnic groups, including the Kalanga, Ndebele, and Tswana, each contributing to the vibrant cultural tapestry. Traditional music, dance, and festivals are an integral part of life in Francistown, offering visitors a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region.
Today, Francistown is a bustling urban center that seamlessly blends its historical roots with modern advancements. The town boasts modern infrastructure, educational institutions, and healthcare facilities. Despite its growth, Francistown remains deeply connected to its past, with numerous museums and cultural sites preserving its rich history for future generations.