Tsabong Travel Guide

Planning a trip to Tsabong? Check out our travel guide for the best places to visit, things to do, and local culture and customs of this Southern African city.


Introduction to Tsabong

Tsabong is a small town located in the Kalahari region of Botswana, in Southern Africa. It is known for its beautiful natural landscape, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. Tsabong has a population of around 8,000 people and serves as an important trading and transportation hub for the surrounding area.

If you enjoy outdoor adventures, experiencing new cultures, and exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations, Tsabong is an excellent destination for you. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will explore some of the best places to visit, things to do, and local customs of Tsabong, Botswana.

List of Places to Visit in Tsabong

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Tsabong Museum: The Tsabong Museum is dedicated to the history and culture of the Kalahari region. It showcases traditional artifacts, artwork, and tribal customs of the San and Khoi people who have inhabited this area for thousands of years. The museum also has a large collection of wildlife exhibits, which highlight the diverse fauna found in the nearby Kalahari Game Reserve.

  • Tshwaane Cultural Village: The Tshwaane Cultural Village is an open-air museum that showcases the traditional way of life of the Tswana people. Visitors can experience traditional dance and music performances, watch traditional crafts being made, and sample local cuisine.

Natural Attractions of Tsabong: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Kalahari Game Reserve: The Kalahari Game Reserve is a vast wilderness area that covers over 52,000 square kilometers. It is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including lions, cheetahs, meerkats, and a variety of bird species. Visitors can take guided game drives, nature walks, and explore the reserve on horseback.

  • Tsabong Hills: The Tsabong Hills are a series of sandstone outcrops that offer stunning views of the surrounding Kalahari landscape. Visitors can hike to the top of the hills and enjoy panoramic views of the desert, or explore the surrounding valleys and ravines.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Tsabong

  • Kalahari Trails Bike and Hike: The Kalahari Trails Bike and Hiking Trail is a popular way to explore the surrounding countryside. The trail offers a range of options for both experienced and novice bikers and hikers, ranging from short scenic routes to more challenging multi-day treks.

Best Things to Do in Tsabong: Activities and Tours

  • Traditional San Hunting Experience: Visitors can experience the traditional hunting techniques of the San people on a guided tour. They will learn about the unique survival skills and hunting strategies of these ancient tribes, such as tracking, foraging, and using traditional weapons.

  • Night Sky Viewing: The Kalahari desert is known for its stunning night skies, free from light pollution. Visitors can take a guided night sky viewing tour and explore the stars and constellations with the help of expert guides.

Week-Long Itinerary for Tsabong

Day Activity
Day 1 Arrive in Tsabong and check into accommodation
Day 2 Explore Tsabong town, visit the Tsabong Museum, and Tshwaane Cultural Village
Day 3 Take a guided tour of the Kalahari Game Reserve
Day 4 Visit the Tsabong Hills for a scenic hike or bike ride
Day 5 Experience traditional hunting techniques with a guided San hunting tour
Day 6 Stargazing experience in the Kalahari
Day 7 Depart Tsabong for your next destination

Food and Drink Scene of Tsabong

Must-Try Dishes

  • Seswaa: A popular traditional dish made from slow-cooked beef, which is traditionally pounded into a soft and tender meaty paste.

  • Morogo: A type of wild spinach that is boiled and seasoned with onions, tomatoes, and chilies. It is often served as a side dish with meat or maize meal.

Local Beverages

  • Chibuku: A traditional beer made from maize or sorghum. It has a sour taste and a low alcohol content.

  • Mukuru: A sweet and refreshing fruit drink made from the baobab fruit.

Where to Stay in Tsabong: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Tsabong Lodge: A comfortable and affordable lodge located in the heart of town. It offers air-conditioned rooms, a restaurant, and an outdoor pool.

  • Sekgoma Guest House: A charming guest house located on the outskirts of town. It offers comfortable rooms, a garden, and an outdoor pool.

What to Buy in Tsabong: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Traditional Crafts: Visitors can purchase a range of traditional crafts, such as beaded jewelry, pottery, and woven baskets, from local markets and craft shops.

  • Kalahari Salt: The Kalahari desert is known for its high-quality salt, which is harvested from underground salt pans. Visitors can purchase salt at local markets and souvenir shops.

Local Culture and Customs of Tsabong

  • The San and Khoi people have a rich cultural heritage, which includes music, dance, and traditional crafts. Visitors should respect local customs and seek permission before taking photographs or filming.

  • The people of Tsabong are friendly and welcoming. Common greetings include “dumela” (hello) and “ritee” (goodbye).

Best Time to Visit Tsabong

The best time to visit Tsabong is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. The weather is cooler and more comfortable for outdoor activities, and wildlife is more easily spotted around watering holes. The wet season, from November to April, can be hot and humid, with occasional floods and heavy rains.

Do’s and Don’ts of Tsabong

Do:

  • Dress modestly and respectfully when visiting cultural sites or public places.

  • Bring plenty of sunscreen, water, and protective clothing to guard against the harsh desert sun.

Don’t:

  • Don’t disrespect local customs or traditions, including taking photographs or filming without permission.

  • Don’t buy souvenirs made from endangered animal species, such as elephant ivory or rhinoceros horn.

Safety and Health

Safety in Tsabong

Tsabong is a relatively safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a friendly local population. However, visitors should take basic precautions, such as locking valuables in a safe, avoiding unlit areas at night, and not carrying large amounts of cash.

Health in Tsabong

Visitors should take precautions against dehydration and sunstroke, particularly during the hot and dry season. They should also ensure that they receive all necessary vaccinations and medications before traveling to Botswana, including protection against malaria.

Getting to Tsabong: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Tsabong

The nearest airport to Tsabong is Sir Seretse Khama International Airport in the capital city of Gaborone. From there, visitors can take a domestic flight or drive the 475-kilometer distance to Tsabong.

Bus Stations Near Tsabong

Several bus companies operate daily services to Tsabong from major Botswana cities such as Gaborone and Maun.

Other Options

Car rental companies are available in Gaborone, and visitors can hire a car to explore the surrounding countryside at their own pace.

How to Get Around in Tsabong

Taxis and minibusses are the main forms of transportation in Tsabong. Visitors can also rent cars or bikes to explore the local area.

Where to Go Next from Tsabong: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park: A vast wilderness area that spans the border between South Africa and Botswana. It is known for its rugged scenery, diverse wildlife, and excellent game viewing opportunities.

  • Gaborone: The capital city of Botswana, located 475 kilometers east of Tsabong. It is a modern and vibrant city that offers a range of cultural and historical attractions, as well as excellent shopping and dining options.

Conclusion

Tsabong, Botswana is a unique and fascinating destination that offers a range of cultural and natural attractions for visitors. With its rich history and diverse landscape, there is something for everyone in this Southern African gem. Plan your trip today and experience the beauty and wonder of Tsabong for yourself.