Gaborone Game Reserve Gaborone
A surprising urban oasis in Gaborone, offering close encounters with diverse wildlife like impala, zebras, and giraffes.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Animals are most active
Gaborone Game Reserve Gaborone
Best Time
Animals are most active
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A surprising urban oasis in Gaborone, offering close encounters with diverse wildlife like impala, zebras, and giraffes.
"Awesome place to view some Game in Gaborone. Between the city it feels like a forest."
🚗 Vehicle Entry Fee
Expect a small fee per vehicle, plus per person. It's a one-time entry, so plan your visit accordingly.
🦩 Flamingo Hotspot
Mornings are ideal for spotting flamingos near water bodies. Bring binoculars for a closer look!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Impala and Zebra Encounters
Throughout the reserve
Witness herds of impala and zebras grazing freely, offering fantastic photo opportunities.
Giraffe Spotting
Various clearings
Look up to spot graceful giraffes browsing on acacia trees, a truly iconic safari sight.
Flamingo Mornings
Water bodies
Catch vibrant flocks of flamingos, especially during morning visits, adding a splash of color.
Picnic and BBQ Spots
Designated picnic areas
Enjoy a relaxed family outing with BBQ facilities amidst nature.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Wildlife Sightings
What to Expect: A City Oasis
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Vehicle Entry Fee
Expect a small fee per vehicle, plus per person. It's a one-time entry, so plan your visit accordingly.
🦩 Flamingo Hotspot
Mornings are ideal for spotting flamingos near water bodies. Bring binoculars for a closer look!
🦓 Animal Sightings
While not guaranteed, impala, zebra, and ostriches are commonly seen. Keep an eye out!
🧺 Picnic Paradise
Bring your own food and enjoy the BBQ facilities. It's a great spot for family outings.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Vehicle Entry Fee
Expect a small fee per vehicle, plus per person. It's a one-time entry, so plan your visit accordingly.
🦩 Flamingo Hotspot
Mornings are ideal for spotting flamingos near water bodies. Bring binoculars for a closer look!
🦓 Animal Sightings
While not guaranteed, impala, zebra, and ostriches are commonly seen. Keep an eye out!
🧺 Picnic Paradise
Bring your own food and enjoy the BBQ facilities. It's a great spot for family outings.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
You might do some walking, so wear comfortable shoes. The reserve is a lovely place to explore.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors generally find Gaborone Game Reserve a pleasant and convenient place to see wildlife within the city. It's praised for its accessibility and suitability for family outings, offering a good introduction to Botswana's fauna. However, some note the absence of large predators and the presence of a sewage line as minor drawbacks.
"Lovely nature reserve in the middle of the city. They have monkeys & impala roaming freely"
Joalane Nkoane
"Awesome place to view some Game in Gaborone.No cats though.the sewage line through the game reserve is a turn off though.Neitherless i enjoyed my visit"
Lucky mpolokang
"Lots of Impala and Kudus. Good visibility of Animals. You can have a close look of Ostrich as well.
Don't come with a high expectations."
Deepak Das
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Gaborone Game Reserve is conveniently located within the city of Gaborone, making it easily accessible by car or taxi. Many visitors use their own vehicles or hire local transport to reach the entrance.
While direct public transport routes might be limited, you can likely reach the vicinity via local buses and then take a short taxi ride to the reserve entrance. It's advisable to confirm routes with locals.
Most visitors drive through the reserve in their own vehicles or rented cars. Some areas are also suitable for walking, offering a more immersive experience.
Being in the heart of Gaborone, you can easily combine your visit with other city attractions, restaurants, or shopping centers.
Yes, the reserve is relatively straightforward to navigate, with clear roads and signage. It's a good starting point for experiencing Botswana's wildlife.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entrance fees are typically around P10 per adult, P5 per child, and P10 per vehicle. These prices are subject to change, so it's good to confirm upon arrival.
The reserve generally closes around 6:00 PM. It's best to arrive a few hours before closing to maximize your wildlife viewing opportunities.
Currently, tickets are typically purchased at the entrance gate upon arrival. There isn't a widely advertised online booking system.
Entry is usually a one-time fee, allowing you to stay until closing time. Plan your visit to make the most of your time inside.
Information on special discounts or passes is not widely available. Standard per-person and per-vehicle fees apply.
🎫 🦁 Onsite Experience
You can expect to see a variety of animals including impala, zebra, kudus, ostriches, monkeys, and sometimes giraffes. Large predators like lions are not present.
Absolutely! It's a fantastic place for families. Children often get very excited seeing the animals up close in a safe environment.
While self-driving is common, inquire at the entrance if any guided tours or ranger-led activities are available.
There are designated picnic areas with BBQ fire pits and cemented seating. You can bring your own chairs for added comfort.
Yes, certain areas are suitable for walking, allowing for a more intimate connection with nature.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The reserve primarily offers picnic and BBQ facilities. It's recommended to bring your own food and drinks for a picnic.
Pack your favorite BBQ meats, sides, drinks, and any personal items like chairs or blankets to enjoy your picnic.
As the reserve is within Gaborone, you'll find numerous restaurants and shops in the city before or after your visit.
Yes, the reserve has dedicated picnic spots with BBQ fire pits, perfect for a traditional Botswana braai.
It's best to bring all your own supplies, including water, as on-site shop facilities are limited or non-existent.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, creating a beautiful golden hour effect.
Focus on capturing the common herbivores like impala, zebra, and ostriches. Giraffes also make for stunning shots.
While not strictly necessary for all shots, a telephoto lens can be beneficial for capturing clearer images of animals from a distance.
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed. Be respectful of the animals and avoid disturbing them.
Look for open clearings with good animal visibility and the natural landscape as a backdrop. The reserve offers a unique urban-wildlife blend.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key recommendations for families:
* Visit early or late: Animals are more active, increasing sighting chances.
* Pack a picnic: Utilize the BBQ facilities for a memorable meal.
* Bring binoculars: Enhance the viewing experience for kids.
* Wear comfortable shoes: For easy exploration around picnic spots.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 While you won't find the 'big five', the accessibility and variety of common wildlife provide ample opportunities for creative shots.Photography tips:
* Bring a telephoto lens: To get closer shots of animals.
* Scout locations: Open clearings and water sources are often good spots.
* Be patient: Wildlife sightings require a bit of luck and observation.
* Capture the urban backdrop: The blend of city and nature can make for interesting compositions.
🌳 Nature Lovers on a Budget
Budget-friendly tips:
* Self-drive: Use your own vehicle or a rental car to save on tour costs.
* Pack your own food: Utilize the free BBQ facilities for a cost-effective meal.
* Visit during weekdays: Potentially fewer crowds and a more relaxed atmosphere.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Wildlife Encounters in an Urban Setting
One of the most charming aspects is the presence of flamingos near water bodies, particularly in the mornings, adding a vibrant splash of color to the landscape.
The reserve also provides opportunities to see giraffes gracefully feeding on acacia trees, a truly memorable sight. The presence of a sewage line running through the reserve has been noted by some visitors, but it doesn't significantly detract from the overall experience of encountering wildlife in such an accessible location. For those interested in conservation efforts, the reserve has also been used for practical training for wildlife trafficking investigators, highlighting its role beyond just tourism.
This underscores the importance of such urban reserves in fostering awareness and practical application of wildlife protection strategies.Planning Your Visit: Practicalities and Tips
The reserve is well-equipped for visitors who wish to enjoy a picnic or a braai (BBQ). Designated picnic areas feature fire pits and cemented seating, making it an ideal spot for a family outing or a relaxed afternoon with friends. It's advisable to bring your own raw food materials and any personal comfort items like chairs.
For a more immersive experience, consider wearing comfortable footwear as there are areas suitable for walking.
The reserve's accessibility within Gaborone means you can easily combine your visit with other city activities, making it a convenient and enjoyable excursion. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit