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Gaborone Game Reserve: A Wildlife Haven in the City

Discover Botswana's wildlife in the heart of the capital at Gaborone Game Reserve, a convenient and accessible natural escape.

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Escape the urban bustle at Gaborone Game Reserve, a compact yet captivating sanctuary offering a glimpse of Botswana's wildlife. Established in 1988, this accessible reserve is home to diverse species, including zebras, antelopes, and a variety of birds, providing a refreshing nature experience close to the city center.

A brief summary to Gaborone Game Reserve

  • Monday 6:30 am-6:30 pm
  • Tuesday 6:30 am-6:30 pm
  • Wednesday 6:30 am-6:30 pm
  • Thursday 6:30 am-6:30 pm
  • Friday 6:30 am-6:30 pm
  • Saturday 6:30 am-6:30 pm
  • Sunday 6:30 am-6:30 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the early morning for the best chance to see active wildlife.
  • Bring binoculars for enhanced birdwatching, especially around the dam.
  • Weekdays are less crowded than weekends, offering a quieter experience.
  • Be cautious of monkeys and avoid feeding them to maintain their natural behavior.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Gaborone city center, take a 'combi' (minibus) towards Broadhurst. These minibuses are a common and affordable mode of transport. Ask the driver to drop you off near Broadhurst Mall, which is about 1km from the reserve entrance. From there, it's a short walk east along Limpopo Drive to the Gaborone Game Reserve. A one-way combi fare is approximately P8. Taxis are also available but more expensive, costing around P20-P30 for a short trip.

  • Walking

    If you are near Broadhurst Mall, the Gaborone Game Reserve is easily accessible by foot. Head east from the mall along Limpopo Drive for approximately 1km. The walk is straightforward and takes about 15-20 minutes.

  • Driving

    From Gaborone city center, follow the signs towards Broadhurst. Continue onto Limpopo Drive. The Gaborone Game Reserve will be on your right, approximately 1km east of Broadhurst Mall. There is a vehicle entry fee of P10 in addition to the park entrance fees. Parking is available inside the reserve.

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Discover more about Gaborone Game Reserve

Gaborone Game Reserve, a 5-square-kilometer protected area, offers a unique opportunity to experience Botswana's wildlife without venturing far from the capital city. Established in 1988 by the Kalahari Conservation Society, the reserve provides an accessible and natural environment for viewing indigenous species. Located just east of Broadhurst Mall, the reserve features a diverse landscape of savannahs, acacia forests, and artificial dams, creating varied habitats for its inhabitants. Visitors can spot zebras, various antelope species (such as gemsbok, kudu, impala, and eland), wildebeest, warthogs, ostriches, and monkeys. Birdwatchers will be delighted by the rich avifauna, including kingfishers, herons, and ibises, particularly around the dam area. While the reserve does not house large predators, it offers a safe environment for self-drive safaris, picnics, and walks. The Gaborone Game Reserve serves an important educational and recreational function, allowing city dwellers to connect with nature and learn about Botswana's wildlife. The well-maintained roads are accessible to 2WD vehicles, making it easy to explore the park independently. Picnic sites, a game hide, and a small visitor-education center enhance the visitor experience. Although smaller and less diverse than Botswana's larger national parks, the Gaborone Game Reserve provides a convenient and rewarding nature escape for tourists and locals alike.

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