KGALE hill, Southern District Travel Guide

4.7 (3)

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

Kgale Hill, a prominent landmark in Gaborone, Botswana, offers hiking trails with panoramic city views. Known as 'The Sleeping Giant' due to its shape, it's a favorite spot for locals and tourists seeking outdoor adventure and stunning scenery.

A brief summary to KGALE hill

8V4F+J2, Gaborone, BW

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Start your hike early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat.
Wear sturdy hiking shoes with good grip due to the rocky and uneven terrain.
Bring plenty of water, as there are no facilities on the hill.
Be aware of baboons along the trails, but observe them from a distance and do not disturb them.
Check the weather forecast before your visit to ensure the best hiking conditions.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more about listing your business on Evendo

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Mogonye Gorge

Jwana Private Game Park

National Museum and Art Gallery

Gaborone Game Reserve

ISKCON Temple, Botswana

Explore KGALE hill on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near KGALE hill, mapped for you.

Getting There

Car

If driving from within Gaborone, head south towards the A1 road to Lobatse. Kgale Hill is visible from the city and well-signposted. Follow the signs to the Kgale Hill parking area at the base of the hill. Parking is available at the base of the hill. There is no entrance fee to access the hill.
Public Transport

From Gaborone city center, take a local taxi or 'combi' (minibus) heading towards Tlokweng. Ask the driver to drop you off at Kgale Hill. The taxi fare from Gaborone to Kgale Hill is approximately 50-70 BWP. Alternatively, buses heading towards Gaborone City can be taken from various locations within Kgatleng District. The bus fare to Gaborone is typically around 10-20 Pula, and the taxi fare from Gaborone to Kgale Hill is around 30-50 Pula.
Walking

If you are already in Gaborone, you can walk to Kgale Hill. Start from the city center and head south towards the hill. This is a distance of approximately 6-8 kilometers, so ensure you are prepared for a hike. The path may not be well-marked, so use a map app on your phone for navigation.

Discover more about KGALE hill

Kgale Hill, loosely translated from Setswana as 'The Place That Dried Up,' is a cherished natural landmark located on the southern outskirts of Gaborone. Rising to a summit elevation of 1,287 meters (4,222 ft), this granite hill offers a rewarding escape with panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscapes. Its distinctive shape has earned it the nickname 'The Sleeping Giant'.Hiking enthusiasts can choose from three trails to reach the peak, with the ascent typically taking around an hour. Along the way, hikers may encounter troops of baboons and various bird species. The trails range from concrete staircases to rocky terrain, offering a varied hiking experience. Reaching the summit rewards you with views of Gaborone Dam and the A1 Road to Lobatse.Kgale Hill has historical significance, having served as a lookout point during wars in the late 19th century. It also hosted a television repeater in the past. More recently, it gained international recognition as a filming location for 'The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency,' with the set earning the nickname 'Kgalewood'.While offering a refreshing escape, litter has become an increasing concern. Efforts are underway to encourage responsible hiking and maintain the hill's natural beauty.