If you are looking to enjoy wildlife encounters in Botswana’s capital without having to drive far off, then the Gaborone Game Reserve makes a perfect choice; here’s more on what you need to know.
Diverse Wildlife
A significant feature of this reserve is that it does not have any predators or large animals such as elephants. However, that doesn’t mean you won’t get to see many other creatures in the wild! Easy to access from city-based properties such as Avani Gaborone Resort & Casino, this site is home to kudus, zebras, warthogs, impalas, elands, wildebeests, gemsboks, ostriches and more.
Bird Species
Birdwatching enthusiasts staying at hotels in Gaborone, Botswana, also have much to look forward to on a visit here. One has the chance to spot a variety of avifauna found in various habitats too be it a swamp, riparian forest, or thorny shrub. Be on the lookout to spot African crakes, crimson boubou shrikes, European bee-eaters, sandpipers, kingfishers, and snake eagles.
Reserve Location
The chief reason for opening the Gaborone Game Reserve was to give the public a chance to encounter wildlife in a location that’s within easy reach of the city; this is a great plus point for tourists too! It can be accessed from Limpopo Drive and is around 1 km from Broadhurst Mall. While guide drives are not offered, this site can be explored by 2WD vehicles as well; the reserve opens at about 6:30am and closing time is 6:30pm.
Good to Know
If it’s going to be your first time here, remember to get a detailed map from the entrance gate which will feature the various routes you can drive along. You will find a visitor-education centre at the reserve as well along with a barbecue area and several spots for picnics; do keep in mind not to litter or attempt to feed any of the animals. In the rainy season, you can usually spot wildlife throughout the day, though in the dry season, the best times are in the evening or early in the morning.
