Kgale Hill: Gaborone's Sleeping Giant

Hike Gaborone's iconic Kgale Hill for panoramic views, outdoor adventure, and a connection with Botswana's natural beauty.

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Kgale Hill, a prominent landmark in Gaborone, Botswana, offers hiking trails with panoramic city views. Known locally as the 'Sleeping Giant,' it's a popular spot for both tourists and locals seeking outdoor adventure and natural beauty.

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.
Wear sturdy hiking shoes due to the rocky and uneven terrain.
Bring plenty of water, as there are no facilities on the hill.
Hike with friends for safety, especially due to potential encounters with wildlife.
Be cautious of snakes and scorpions on the trail.

Getting There

Public Transport

From anywhere in Gaborone, take a local minibus (combi) towards Tlokweng. These minibuses often pass by Kgale Hill. Ask the driver to drop you off at Kgale Hill. The combi fare should be no more than 5 BWP. From the drop-off point, it's a short walk to the base of the hill.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available throughout Gaborone. A taxi from the city center to Kgale Hill will cost approximately 50-70 BWP. Ensure the driver knows you want to go to Kgale Hill for hiking.
Car

From anywhere in Gaborone, follow the A1 road south towards Lobatse. Kgale Hill is easily visible from the road. Look for signs directing you to Kgale Hill. There is a parking area at the base of the hill. Parking is free.

Discover more about Kgale Hill

Kgale Hill, rising 1,287 meters above sea level, is a dominant feature of Gaborone's landscape, offering an invigorating escape from the city. The hill, known as the 'Sleeping Giant' due to its resemblance to a reclining person, provides stunning panoramic views of Gaborone and its surroundings. The hill is a popular hiking destination with trails catering to various fitness levels. As you ascend, the landscape transitions from thorny acacia and mopane trees to rocky terrain, offering a diverse natural experience. The summit provides breathtaking views of the city skyline, nearby villages, and the vast Kalahari Desert. Kgale Hill also holds historical significance, believed to have been used as a spiritual site by indigenous communities, with rock paintings and engravings found on the hill. The area was also a lookout point during wars in the late 19th century. While hiking, be prepared to encounter local wildlife, including baboons, lizards, and various bird species. It's recommended to hike in groups and stay alert.