FindYourStay
🎒Backpackers

Where to Stay in Gaborone

Cheapest areas, hostel districts, and budget tips

⚠️ Moderate💰 Budget: BWP 500/day🚗 Car Needed☀️ Best: May, Jun, Jul

Our pick for backpackers

Stay in Broadhurst

Provides more affordable accommodation and food options, with opportunities to experience local life outside the main tourist hubs.

Best Neighborhoods for Backpackers

Ranked by relevance for backpackers visiting Gaborone

1

Broadhurst

Budget

A large, diverse residential and commercial area with a mix of local life and modern conveniences.

familiesbudgetdigital nomads
  • +More affordable accommodation and food options.
  • +Exposure to daily local life.
  • +Good access to shops and services.
  • -Can be spread out, requiring transport within the neighborhood.
  • -Less tourist-oriented infrastructure.
🏨 Cresta Lodge Gaborone🏨 The Big 5 Guesthouse🏨 Abo Guesthouse
2

Central Business District (CBD)

Mid-range

The modern heart of Gaborone, filled with businesses, shopping, and government offices.

first-timersbusiness travelersfoodies
  • +Central location with good access to amenities.
  • +Many dining and shopping options.
  • +Relatively safe and well-maintained.
  • -Can feel deserted after business hours.
  • -Limited authentic local experiences.
🏨 Mowana Safari Lodge🏨 Peermont Mondior Hotel🏨 The Grand Palm Hotel Casino Convention Resort
3

Tlokweng

Mid-range

A growing area just east of the city center, known for its mix of residential areas and developing commercial zones.

couplessolo travelersnightlife
  • +Increasing number of restaurants and entertainment venues.
  • +Proximity to the city center and border with South Africa.
  • +Developing infrastructure.
  • -Can experience traffic congestion.
  • -Some areas are still under development.
🏨 AVANI Gaborone Hotel & Casino🏨 Phakalane Golf Estates Hotel🏨 The Hill Guesthouse

Daily Budget (Budget)

BWP 500/day

Stay at a dorm bed in The Big Five LodgeBWP 150
Street food lunch from a vendor near the bus rank, dinner at a local eatery like Mma Mosadi CafeBWP 100
Local mini-bus taxis for the dayBWP 50
Visit the National Museum and Art Gallery (free entry, donation appreciated), explore the Gaborone Dam areaBWP 50
Walk around Main Mall for local crafts and atmosphereBWP 50
See all budget tiers

Hidden Gems in Gaborone

Lesser-known spots the locals love

🍜

Naledi House

This charming restaurant offers a taste of authentic Botswana cuisine in a relaxed, home-like setting. Locals rave about their traditional stews and grilled meats, providing a genuine culinary experience.

foodGaborone West
🛍️

Botswana Craft

More than just a shop, Botswana Craft is a vibrant hub showcasing local artisans and their crafts. You can find beautiful handcrafted souvenirs, artwork, and even enjoy a meal or drink in their restaurant and bar.

marketGaborone North
🚶

River Walk Trust

FREE

This isn't a single street but a network of paths along the Gaborone Dam, popular with locals for jogging, cycling, and enjoying the sunset. It offers scenic views and a breath of fresh air away from the city bustle.

streetGaborone Dam Area
⚠️

1 area to be cautious about

Read our full safety guide for Gaborone

More Gaborone Guides

Full Gaborone guideAreas to avoid👩 Solo Female Travellers💑 Couples👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Families💻 Digital Nomads✨ Luxury Travellers🎉 Nightlife Seekers