Eat, Drink, Explore: Gaborone

BEST FOOD TO EAT IN BOTSWANA

Africa is a meat-eating continent, and Botswana is no different. The country’s national meat dish has two names: “seswaa” in the Central District, and “leswao” in the south. Both describe a traditional stew made with goat, beef, chicken, or river fish that is salted and boiled until tender. Enjoy seswaa with pap (maize meal), green peppers, and onions. Dig in!

Top Cultural Foods To Try in Gaborone

Live like a local in Gaborone with a memorable culinary experience. The city's food scene is vibrant and authentic, serving up dishes that tell a story of history and a celebration of community. We recommend trying the following:

• Seswaa: This is Botswana's national dish and a major cultural icon. Seswaa is an incredibly tender, shredded meat that is slow-cooked for many hours with just salt and water. It serves as the centerpiece at every major event, from weddings to national holidays. Eating it is a communal experience that is all about sharing and spending time with your family and friends.
• Bogobe: Bogobe is a thick, firm porridge made from sorghum or maize meal. It is a fundamental part of the local diet and a perfect base for savoring the rich flavors of other regional dishes.
• Morogo: If you are a vegetarian, Morogo is a perfect dish for you to enjoy! It refers to a collection of wild-grown leafy greens that are cooked with onions and tomatoes. It provides the perfect balance to meat dishes and is a major staple of local cuisine. It's also a great example of how locals make simple and natural ingredients delicious!

BEST DRINK IN BOTSWANA

Beyond the specific traditional beverages like Gemere and Maheu, the beverage culture in Botswana is a mix of home-brewed traditions, modern commercial products, and drinks that reflect its agricultural heritage. The country's drinks are a key part of social gatherings, daily life, and a way to celebrate its cultural roots!

Top Cultural Drinks To Try in Gaborone

Here are some of the top traditional drinks to try while you're studying in Gaborone:

• Gemere: Do you like a zesty and spicy kick? Then Gemere might be the perfect drink for you to cool off. It's a traditional, non-alcoholic and homemade ginger beer that is often served at special occasions and family gatherings, especially weddings. Its bubbly, refreshing flavor is the perfect way to beat the heat and experience a taste of local celebration.
• Madila: This is a drink that is both delicious and extremely important to the local culture. Madila is a type of cultured milk, similar to plain yogurt or sour milk. It is a staple in many households and is highly nutritious. Locals love to drink it on its own, but it can also be added to a porridge or enjoyed with a little sugar.
• Maheu: This is the perfect go-to drink for a quick energy boost. Maheu is a fermented porridge drink made from maize meal or sorghum. It is a little tangy, a little sweet, and it is known for being very filling and refreshing. You will find it sold everywhere, from street vendors to supermarkets, making it a convenient and authentic drink to grab while you are out exploring.

BEST PLACE TO EXPLORE IN BOTSWANA

The best way to enjoy Botswana’s incredible wildlife in a safe and respectful way (for you and the animals) is to visit the Gaborone Game Reserve. This protected habitat offers visitors an up-close view of rhinos, zebras, ostriches, wildebeests, warthogs, impala, and many other amazing African mammals and birds. Easily accessible from just about any spot in the city, the Gaborone Game Reserve is well worth a visit for a safari and a picnic lunch. Spend a day immersed in Botswana’s renowned wildlife habitat for memories that will last a lifetime.

Top Cultural Attractions to Visit in Gaborone

Here are some of the top cultural attractions to visit while you're studying in Gaborone:

• Mokolodi Nature Reserve: Just a short drive from the city, this is a go-to spot to enjoy an amazing first-hand wildlife experience. Mokolodi is a conservation and education center where you can get up close with a ton of native animals like giraffes, rhinos, and zebras, all while learning about conservation efforts.
• Gaborone National Museum and Art Gallery: If you want to dive deep into the country's past and present, this is exactly where you need to go. The museum showcases fascinating exhibits on Botswana's history, from its early days to its independence, as well as its rich culture and traditional crafts. The art gallery is a great spot to see work by local artists and to get a feel for the creative culture of the city!
• Gabane Village: For a truly authentic cultural experience, take a trip to Gabane, a traditional village just outside of Gaborone. Gabane is especially famous for its skilled artisans and crafters, including its talented potters. Visiting allows you to see how traditional Setswana pottery is made by hand and provides a glimpse into the slower, more traditional way of life that is still an integral part of the country's culture.

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