Botswana Shopping and nightlife
Shopping in Botswana
Shopping in Botswana is a relaxed affair, with a focus on local crafts, handmade goods, and practical items. While major towns like Gaborone, Francistown, and Maun have modern shopping centres and supermarkets, the real charm lies in the country's informal markets, roadside stalls, and craft cooperatives.
For visitors looking to bring home something truly Botswanan, handwoven baskets from the north are a top choice. Made by women in villages such as Etsha and Gumare, these intricately patterned baskets are crafted from mokola palm and natural dyes, and are both beautiful and functional. Carvings, beadwork, and textiles—often inspired by San and Tswana designs—also make excellent souvenirs.
Markets can be found in most towns, selling a mix of produce, second-hand clothing, household goods, and crafts. In Gaborone, the Main Mall area and Thapong Visual Arts Centre are good places to browse local artwork. Maun also has a growing number of artisan stalls and craft shops catering to safari-goers.
Haggling is not a major part of shopping culture in Botswana, but polite negotiation is sometimes acceptable in informal markets, especially for craft items. Shoppers interested in ethical souvenirs should look for items sold through community-based projects or certified cooperatives, which help support local livelihoods and promote sustainable practices.
Shopping hours
Mon-Sat 08:00-17:00.
Nightlife in Botswana
Nightlife in Botswana is generally low-key, reflecting the country's calm and easy-going pace. While you won't find a pulsing club scene, there are still plenty of ways to enjoy an evening out—whether you're in the capital, a safari town, or somewhere in between.
In Gaborone, the nightlife is the most developed, with a mix of bars, lounges, live music venues, and a handful of clubs catering to a young, urban crowd. The city's hotels often host events with DJs or live bands, and spots like Main Mall, Riverwalk, and Village areas are popular for drinks and dining. Midweek is usually quiet, but things pick up on Fridays and Saturdays when locals head out for socialising and dancing.
In smaller towns like Maun and Kasane, the nightlife is more relaxed and often revolves around sundowner spots and lodge bars. Watching the sunset with a cold drink in hand—sometimes with elephants wandering past—is an experience in itself. A few backpacker hostels and safari lodges also host casual braais (barbecues), open mic nights, or bush-style parties for travellers and staff alike.
Traditional music and dance performances are occasionally offered at lodges or cultural centres, giving visitors a chance to enjoy local rhythms and storytelling in an informal setting.
