Palapye is a small town located in the Central District of Botswana, about halfway between the capital city of Gaborone and Francistown. It is the administrative centre of the Central District, and is home to a population of roughly 30,000 people. Palapye is the site of the world’s largest diamond mine, the Jwaneng Diamond Mine, and is also home to the University of Botswana.
Palapye is a great destination for visitors looking to explore the stunning natural beauty of Botswana. Here are the top 20 places to see in Palapye.
1. Jwaneng Diamond Mine: The Jwaneng Diamond Mine is the world’s largest diamond mine and is located just outside of Palapye. It is a great place to visit and learn about the mining process and the history of the diamond industry in Botswana.
2. Tsodilo Hills: Tsodilo Hills are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and are located just outside of Palapye. This area is known for its incredible rock art, which dates back to the Stone Age.
3. Nxai Pan National Park: Nxai Pan National Park is located about an hour and a half from Palapye and is home to a variety of wildlife, including lions, leopards, cheetahs, zebras, giraffes, and more.
4. Khutse Game Reserve: Khutse Game Reserve is located about two hours from Palapye and is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, giraffes, and more.
5. Mokolodi Nature Reserve: Mokolodi Nature Reserve is located about an hour and a half from Palapye and is home to a variety of wildlife, including giraffes, zebras, antelopes, and more.
6. Tswapong Hills: Tswapong Hills are located about two hours from Palapye and are home to a variety of wildlife, including leopards, hyenas, and more.
7. Nata Bird Sanctuary: Nata Bird Sanctuary is located about three hours from Palapye and is home to a variety of birds, including flamingos, pelicans, and more.
8. Makgadikgadi Salt Pans: The Makgadikgadi Salt Pans are located about two hours from Palapye and are home to a variety of wildlife, including flamingos, zebras, springboks, and more.
9. Boteti River: The Boteti River is located about two hours from Palapye and is home to a variety of wildlife, including hippos, crocodiles, and more.
10. Khama Rhino Sanctuary: The Khama Rhino Sanctuary is located about three hours from Palapye and is home to a variety of wildlife, including rhinos, giraffes, zebras, and more.
11. Gaborone Dam: The Gaborone Dam is located about two hours from Palapye and is home to a variety of wildlife, including hippos, crocodiles, and more.
12. Chobe National Park: Chobe National Park is located about three hours from Palapye and is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, and more.
13. Deception Valley: Deception Valley is located about two hours from Palapye and is home to a variety of wildlife, including lions, cheetahs, and more.
14. Moremi Game Reserve: Moremi Game Reserve is located about four hours from Palapye and is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, leopards, and more.
15. Makgadikgadi Pans National Park: Makgadikgadi Pans National Park is located about three hours from Palapye and is home to a variety of wildlife, including zebras, wildebeest, and more.
16. Central Kalahari Game Reserve: The Central Kalahari Game Reserve is located about five hours from Palapye and is home to a variety of wildlife, including lions, cheetahs, and more.
17. Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park: Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park is located about six hours from Palapye and is home to a variety of wildlife, including lions, cheetahs, and more.
18. Nxai Pan National Park: Nxai Pan National Park is located about four hours from Palapye and is home to a variety of wildlife, including giraffes, zebras, and more.
19. Okavango Delta: The Okavango Delta is located about six hours from Palapye and is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, hippos, and more.
20. Tsodilo Hills: Tsodilo Hills are located about four hours from Palapye and are home to a variety of wildlife, including leopards, hyenas, and more.
Palapye is a great destination for visitors looking to explore the stunning natural beauty of Botswana. From the world’s largest diamond mine to the incredible wildlife that inhabits the area, Palapye has something for everyone. So, if you’re looking for an unforgettable experience, be sure to add Palapye to your list of must-see destinations in Botswana.