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Gaborone Game Reserve: A Wildlife Oasis in the City

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

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Escape the urban bustle at Gaborone Game Reserve, a compact sanctuary offering accessible wildlife viewing just minutes from the city center. Established in 1988, the reserve provides a natural habitat for a variety of animals and birds, making it a perfect destination for a quick nature getaway.

A brief summary to Gaborone Game Reserve

Local tips

  • Visit during the cooler, dry winter months (May to September) for the best wildlife viewing opportunities, as vegetation is less dense and animals congregate around water sources.
  • Bring binoculars for enhanced birdwatching, especially around the dam area.
  • Weekdays are less crowded than weekends, offering a quieter and more personal experience.
  • Be cautious of monkeys and avoid feeding them to maintain their natural behaviors.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Gaborone city center, take a 'Kombi' (minibus taxi) heading towards Broadhurst. These are easily identifiable by their blue license plates. Ask the driver to drop you off near Broadhurst Mall, which is about 1km from the reserve entrance. From there, you can walk or take a short taxi ride to the entrance. Kombi fares are typically around P5-P10 per person. A taxi from Broadhurst Mall to the reserve should cost approximately P20-P30.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Gaborone. You can either hail one on the street or use ride-hailing apps such as Gabz Ride, Mpitsa, or Kolloi Botswana. A taxi ride from the city center to Gaborone Game Reserve will cost approximately P50-P80, depending on traffic and distance. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

  • Driving

    From Gaborone city center, follow the A1 highway north. Turn east onto Limpopo Drive, which leads directly to the Gaborone Game Reserve. The reserve is located approximately 1km east of Broadhurst Mall. Parking is available at the entrance. Entrance fee is P10 for adults and P5 for children under 17. There is an additional vehicle fee of P10.

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Discover more about Gaborone Game Reserve

Gaborone Game Reserve, a 5-square-kilometer haven established in 1988 by the Kalahari Conservation Society, offers a unique opportunity to experience Botswana's wildlife without venturing far from the capital. Located just east of Broadhurst Mall, the reserve is easily accessible and provides a refreshing escape for locals and tourists alike. Despite its modest size, the reserve is home to a diverse range of animals, including zebras, giraffes, various antelopes (eland, kudu, impala, gemsbok, wildebeest), warthogs, ostriches, and monkeys. Birdwatchers will be delighted by the rich avifauna, with kingfishers, herons, ibises, spur-winged geese, and flamingos among the many species that can be spotted, especially around the artificial dam. While the reserve lacks large predators, this makes it safe for picnics and walks. The landscape features a mix of savannah, acacia forests, and small ponds created by artificial dams, providing varied habitats for the wildlife. Visitors can explore the reserve in their own vehicles via well-maintained roads suitable for 2WD vehicles. Several picnic sites and a game hide offer excellent vantage points for observing the animals. There is also a small visitor-education center where you can learn more about the local flora and fauna. The Gaborone Game Reserve serves an important educational and recreational function, giving city dwellers the opportunity to connect with nature and learn about Botswana's wildlife without the need to travel long distances. It's an ideal destination for families, short excursions, and picnics.

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