Joanna James
The vibrant capital of Botswana, Gaborone usually tends to be overlooked by tourists in favour of more popular African destinations. However, this charming city promises to capture the hearts and minds of discerning travellers with its unique blend of tradition, modernity, and charm.
Despite its rather small size, Gaborone is a true cultural melting pot with its rich blend of various ethnic groups and expats from around the globe. This unique ethnic diversity is beautifully mirrored in a variety of cultural aspects ranging from art, music, and festivals to cuisine. The city regularly plays host to several cultural events such as Culture Week and the Gaborone International Music which routinely attracts performers and artists from around the world. Foodies can also savour a multitude of flavours ranging from Western fast food, and local Setswana dishes to a delectable Indian curry all within the Gaborone city limits.
A rapidly growing city, Gaborone is regarded as one of the safest cities in Africa. The city is effectively governed ensuring low crime rates and offers a sense of security and safety for visiting travellers and city residents. Locals are friendly, helpful, and renowned for their warm sense of hospitality. Gaborone’s safe atmosphere and welcoming nature also encourage international business investment and tourism, adding to the reputation of the beautiful city.
The city of Gaborone is home to South Africa’s largest mall – Game City. The sprawling mall features an array of retailers ranging from local craft stores to designer boutiques. The mall caters to a diverse clientele and offers shoppers and mall patrons a range of goods and services to choose from. Game City is also more than your run-of-the-mill shopping destination. It has also become a fantastic social hub where residents and expats gather to socialise and participate in community events. With its modern architecture and offering of international brands, Game City can be reached easily from resorts in Botswana such as the likes of Avani Gaborone Resort & Casino.
Unlike other African capitals where wildlife is pushed to its outskirts, the city of Gaborone is dedicated to bringing conservation and wildlife closer to the urban population via initiatives such as the Gaborone Game Reserve. The city lies close to several notable game reserves and proudly reflects the national pride taken in the country’s ecosystems. Gaborone’s conservation efforts routinely attract visitors and travellers passionate about sustainable tourism and environmental stewardship.
Gaborone is one of the world’s largest diamond-producing cities and is home to Debswana – a joint venture between the Diamond Trading Company Botswana, the Botswana Government, and De Beers. Gaborone’s diamond industry has also put the city on the map as one of the most important diamond centers while boosting the country’s national economy. Gaborone encourages ethical mining practices and responsible governance.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
