North-East District, Botswana Travel Guide
Discover the hidden treasures of Botswana's North-East District – where cultural heritage meets natural beauty, and adventure awaits at every turn.
The North-East District of Botswana is a hidden gem waiting to be explored by intrepid travelers. This region, bordered by Zimbabwe to the northeast, is known for its rich cultural heritage and diverse natural beauty. The district is home to the iconic Tswapong Hills, where ancient rock paintings tell stories of a bygone era. The hills are a haven for hikers and nature lovers, offering breathtaking views and a chance to see rare bird species. One of the must-visit attractions in the North-East District is the Francistown, Botswana's second-largest city. Francistown offers a blend of modern convenience and historical charm, featuring museums, markets, and vibrant nightlife. The Supa Ngwao Museum provides an insight into the local history and culture, showcasing artifacts from the Kalanga people and other ethnic groups. Nature enthusiasts will find solace in the Shashe River Basin, which offers excellent opportunities for fishing and bird-watching. The area is also renowned for its wildlife, including elephants, hippos, and crocodiles. For a unique experience, visitors can explore the Nyangabwe Hill, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and is a popular spot for picnics and relaxation.
Know before you go
Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring North-East District.
- Visit the Supa Ngwao Museum to understand the local culture and history.
- Take a hike in the Tswapong Hills for stunning views and ancient rock paintings.
- Plan a trip to the Shashe River Basin for fishing and bird-watching.
- Explore Francistown's vibrant markets for unique souvenirs and local crafts.
- Pack comfortable shoes for hiking and exploring the natural landscapes.
- Check the local weather before your trip to ensure a comfortable visit.
Top City Travel Guides in North-East District
The cities of North-East District, and the easiest places to base yourself.
Explore North-East District: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More
Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more
Top Attractions & Sightseeing in North-East District
Top-rated picks
Best Attractions
Browse the full guide
All Attractions
Domboshaba
Uncover Botswana's ancient past at Domboshaba Ruins, a hilltop settlement with stone walls and rich cultural heritage near Masunga.
Zebra Statue
Discover the iconic Zebra Statue in Botswana, a vibrant landmark celebrating local artistry, culture, and the beauty of Botswana's wildlife.
Nkgwana Park
Escape to Nkgwana Park in Francistown: A tranquil oasis with lush greenery, perfect for relaxation and community activities.
Riverside Deck
Escape to Francistown's Riverside Deck: A serene garden oasis offering tranquility, lush greenery, and picturesque waterfront views for nature lovers.
Best landmarks in North-East District
Top-rated picks
Best Landmarks
Browse the full guide
All Landmarks
Supa Ngwao Museum
Discover the heritage of Francistown and northeastern Botswana at the Supa Ngwao Museum, showcasing local culture and history.
Tachila Nature Reserve
Discover Botswana's natural beauty at Tachila Nature Reserve near Francistown: wildlife, birdwatching, and scenic landscapes await!
Lee Bed & Breakfast
Experience the warmth and hospitality of Lee Bed & Breakfast, your cozy retreat in Francistown, Botswana, offering comfort and local charm for every traveler.
Best restaurants in North-East District
Top-rated picks
Best Restaurants
Browse the full guide
All Restaurants
Bull & Bush
Discover delightful local cuisine at Bull & Bush in Gaborone - where every meal is a celebration of Botswana's rich flavors.
Nando's Francistown Galo
Experience the essence of Portuguese cuisine at Nando's Francistown Galo – where every bite tells a story of flavor.
Nando's Francistown Marang
Discover the taste of South African cuisine at Nando's Francistown Marang - home of flame-grilled peri-peri chicken and family-friendly dining.
Wimpy
Discover family-friendly dining at Wimpy in Francistown—where delicious fast food meets warm hospitality.
Best bars in North-East District
Top-rated picks
Best Bars
Browse the full guide
All Bars
Infinite Alpha Empire
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Infinite Alpha Empire, a premier bar in Tonota offering local flavors, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Welcome Bar
Experience vibrant nightlife and local culture at Welcome Bar in Sebina, the perfect spot for relaxation and socializing.
WATERHOLE
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Waterhole Bar in Francistown, where local culture meets friendly social encounters for an unforgettable experience.
Brown's Sports Bar
Discover the lively atmosphere of Brown's Sports Bar in Francistown, where locals and tourists enjoy drinks and big sports events together.
Best nightclubs in North-East District
Top-rated picks
Best Nightclubs
Browse the full guide
All Nightclubs
Infinite Alpha Empire
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Infinite Alpha Empire in Tonota, where great drinks, live music, and an energetic atmosphere await you.
WATERHOLE
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Waterhole, a lively bar in Francistown, offering refreshing drinks and a welcoming atmosphere.
Absolut Lounge
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Absolut Lounge, Gaborone's lively destination for cocktails, music, and social gatherings.
X-Hail
Discover the vibrant nightlife at X-Hail, Francistown's premier nightclub, where local culture and energetic beats come alive.
Best shops in North-East District
Top-rated picks
Best Shops
Browse the full guide
All Shops
Shoprite Francistown
Experience local culture and flavors at Shoprite Francistown, your ultimate grocery destination in Botswana.
Game Francistown
Explore Game Francistown, your one-stop department store for a wide range of products from electronics to sporting goods, all at fantastic prices.
Nswazi Mall
Discover shopping, dining, and entertainment at Nswazi Mall in Francistown, Botswana's vibrant retail hub.
Pick n Pay Family Francistown Two
Shop local and discover the flavors of Francistown at Pick n Pay, where convenience meets variety in the heart of Botswana.
Explore North-East District on the Map
A handpicked selection of must-see spots in North-East District, mapped for you.
North-East District Essentials
-
The North-East District of Botswana is accessible via Francistown Airport (FRW), which is the nearest airport located approximately 60 kilometers away. From Francistown, you can take a taxi or a bus to various destinations within the North-East District. The journey takes about an hour by road. Alternatively, you can drive from Gaborone, the capital city, which is around 500 kilometers away and takes approximately 6 hours by car.
-
Public transportation in the North-East District includes buses and taxis. Buses run regularly between major towns and villages. For more flexibility, you can hire a car from Francistown. Roads are generally in good condition, but be cautious of wildlife crossing, especially at night. Taxis are available in urban areas and can be hailed on the street or booked via phone. Bicycles are also a popular way to explore smaller towns and rural areas.
-
The official currency in Botswana is the Botswana Pula (BWP). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. However, it is advisable to carry cash, especially when visiting smaller villages and markets. ATMs are available in major towns like Masunga and Tati Siding, but it is wise to withdraw sufficient cash before heading to more remote areas.
-
The North-East District is generally safe for tourists. However, it is advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night and be cautious of your surroundings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but petty theft can occur. Keep your valuables secure and be vigilant, especially in bus stations and markets.
-
In case of emergencies, dial 999 for police, fire, or medical assistance. Francistown has the nearest major hospital, while smaller clinics are available in towns like Masunga and Tati Siding. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available in larger towns for minor health issues.
-
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially in rural areas. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Remove your shoes when entering homes and religious sites. Public Transport: Do be patient as buses may not always run on schedule. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. Use both hands as a sign of respect. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes such as seswaa and morogo. Don’t refuse food offerings as it may be considered impolite.
-
To experience the North-East District like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional crafts. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and eager to share their culture. Don’t miss visiting the Matsiloje Pottery Project, where you can see traditional pottery being made. Exploring the Tswapong Hills offers a unique experience with stunning landscapes and historical sites.
When is the best time to visit North-East District?
Useful Local Phrases for North-East District
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
Here are the phrases I use most often in North-East District. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️
-
- HelloHello
[Hello] - GoodbyeGoodbye
[Goodbye] - YesYes
[Yes] - NoNo
[No] - Please/You're welcomePlease
[Pleez] - Thank youThank you
[Thank you] - Excuse me/SorryExcuse me
[Ex-kyoos mee] - How are you?How are you?
[How are you?] - Fine. And you?Fine. And you?
[Fine. And you?] - Do you speak English?Do you speak English?
[Do you speak English?] - I don't understandI don't understand
[I don't understand]
- HelloHello
-
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseI'd like to see the menu, please
[I'd like to see the menu, please] - I don't eat meatI don't eat meat
[I don't eat meat] - Cheers!Cheers!
[Cheers!] - I would like to pay, pleaseI would like to pay, please
[I would like to pay, please]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseI'd like to see the menu, please
-
- Help!Help!
[Help!] - Go away!Go away!
[Go away!] - Call the Police!Call the Police!
[Call the Police!] - Call a doctor!Call a doctor!
[Call a doctor!] - I'm lostI'm lost
[I'm lost] - I'm illI'm ill
[I'm ill]
- Help!Help!
-
- I'd like to buy...I'd like to buy...
[I'd like to buy...] - I'm just lookingI'm just looking
[I'm just looking] - How much is it?How much is it?
[How much is it?] - That's too expensiveThat's too expensive
[That's too expensive] - Can you lower the price?Can you lower the price?
[Can you lower the price?]
- I'd like to buy...I'd like to buy...
-
- What time is it?What time is it?
[What time is it?] - It's one o'clockIt's one o'clock
[It's one o'clock] - Half past (10)Half past (10)
[Half past (10)] - MorningMorning
[Morning] - AfternoonAfternoon
[Afternoon] - EveningEvening
[Evening] - YesterdayYesterday
[Yesterday] - TodayToday
[Today] - TomorrowTomorrow
[Tomorrow] - 11
[1] - 22
[2] - 33
[3] - 44
[4] - 55
[5] - 66
[6] - 77
[7] - 88
[8] - 99
[9] - 1010
[10]
- What time is it?What time is it?
-
- Where's a/the...?Where's a/the...?
[Where's a/the...?] - What's the address?What's the address?
[What's the address?] - Can you show me (on the map)?Can you show me (on the map)?
[Can you show me (on the map)?] - When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
[When's the next (bus)?] - A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
[A ticket (to ....)]
- Where's a/the...?Where's a/the...?
History of North-East District
-
Long before the arrival of European settlers, the North-East District of Botswana was inhabited by the San people, also known as the Basarwa. These indigenous hunter-gatherers lived in harmony with the land, their culture deeply rooted in the natural environment. Archaeological evidence, such as rock paintings and ancient tools, reveals a rich history of human activity dating back thousands of years.
-
In the late 19th century, the North-East District came under British colonial rule as part of the Bechuanaland Protectorate. The colonial administration introduced new governance structures and economic practices, significantly impacting the region’s traditional ways of life. Tati Concessions Limited, a British company, was granted large tracts of land in the area, leading to the development of commercial agriculture and mining.
-
The Tati Company, established in 1869, was instrumental in the economic development of the North-East District. The company's activities centered around gold mining and later expanded to include cattle ranching and crop farming. This period saw the establishment of infrastructure such as roads and railways, facilitating trade and communication within the district and beyond.
-
Francistown, the capital of the North-East District, played a pivotal role in the region’s history. Founded as a mining town during the gold rush, it became a commercial hub attracting diverse ethnic groups, including Europeans, Asians, and Africans. Today, Francistown is a melting pot of cultures, reflecting its historical role as a center of trade and industry.
-
Botswana gained independence from Britain on September 30, 1966. Post-independence, the North-East District witnessed significant political and economic changes. The government prioritized infrastructure development, education, and healthcare, leading to improved living standards. The district has since evolved, embracing modernity while preserving its rich cultural heritage.
-
The North-East District is home to a diverse array of ethnic groups, including the Kalanga, Shona, and Ndebele. Each group contributes to the region’s vibrant cultural tapestry through traditional music, dance, crafts, and festivals. The annual Domboshaba Festival of Culture and History, for example, celebrates the heritage of the Kalanga people, featuring traditional performances, food, and rituals.
-
The North-East District boasts several natural attractions, including the Tuli Block, known for its stunning landscapes and wildlife. Conservation efforts in the region aim to protect its unique biodiversity, with community-based initiatives playing a crucial role. These efforts ensure that the natural beauty and ecological significance of the district are preserved for future generations.
Neighbouring Regions of North-East District
The closest regions to North-East District, if you have time for more than one.
Your all‑in‑one travel companion app
Explore expert travel guides, compare and book tours, experiences, hotels, and more—all from the palm of your hand. Download now for seamless trip planning wherever your wanderlust takes you.
Explore More of Botswana
Looking beyond North-East District? Discover Botswana for broader travel guides, local hot-spots, and regional highlights.
Explore BotswanaNorth-East District in Photos
Browse through our photo collection highlighting the charm and character of the destination.
The Enchanting North-East District of Botswana
The North-East District of Botswana is a hidden gem waiting to be explored by intrepid travelers. This region, bordered by Zimbabwe to the northeast, is known for its rich cultural heritage and diverse natural beauty. The district is home to the iconic Tswapong Hills, where ancient rock paintings tell stories of a bygone era. The hills are a haven for hikers and nature lovers, offering breathtaking views and a chance to see rare bird species. One of the must-visit attractions in the North-East District is the Francistown, Botswana's second-largest city. Francistown offers a blend of modern convenience and historical charm, featuring museums, markets, and vibrant nightlife. The Supa Ngwao Museum provides an insight into the local history and culture, showcasing artifacts from the Kalanga people and other ethnic groups. Nature enthusiasts will find solace in the Shashe River Basin, which offers excellent opportunities for fishing and bird-watching. The area is also renowned for its wildlife, including elephants, hippos, and crocodiles. For a unique experience, visitors can explore the Nyangabwe Hill, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and is a popular spot for picnics and relaxation.