10 Things to Do in Gaborone Dam Nature Reserve – Palapye, Botswana



Gaborone Dam Nature Reserve is a conservation area located in Palapye, Botswana. It is home to a wide variety of wildlife and birds, and is a great place to explore and relax. The reserve is situated on the edge of the Gaborone Dam, which is the largest man-made lake in the country. It offers a wide range of activities for visitors, including game viewing, bird watching, fishing, and camping. Here are 10 things to do when visiting Gaborone Dam Nature Reserve.

1. Game Viewing: Gaborone Dam Nature Reserve is home to a variety of wildlife, including impala, kudu, warthog, and zebra. It is also home to the rare and elusive African wild dog, which is rarely seen in other parts of Botswana. There are several game viewing hides located around the reserve, so visitors can get a close-up look at the animals.

2. Bird Watching: The reserve is a bird-watcher’s paradise, with over 250 species of birds, including the African fish eagle, the white-backed vulture, and the kori bustard. There are several bird hides located around the reserve, so visitors can get a close-up look at the birds.

3. Fishing: Gaborone Dam Nature Reserve is a great place for fishing. The lake is stocked with a variety of fish, including tilapia, catfish, and barbel. Fishing is allowed in certain areas of the lake, and there are several boat hire services available.

4. Camping: There are several camping sites located around the reserve, so visitors can stay overnight and enjoy the beauty of the reserve. Camping is a great way to experience the wild, and the sites are equipped with all the necessary amenities.

5. Hiking: The reserve is home to a number of hiking trails, ranging from easy to difficult. The trails take visitors through the bush, and offer stunning views of the lake and the surrounding area.

6. Boating: Visitors can rent boats and explore the lake. There are several boat hire services located around the reserve, and visitors can explore the lake and its surroundings.

7. Picnicking: There are several picnic sites located around the reserve, so visitors can enjoy a relaxing day in the bush. The sites are equipped with tables and benches, and visitors can bring their own food and drinks.

8. Cycling: The reserve is home to several cycling trails, so visitors can explore the bush on two wheels. The trails are well-marked, and visitors can hire bicycles from the reserve.

9. Horse Riding: There are several horse riding trails located around the reserve, so visitors can explore the bush on horseback. The trails are well-marked, and visitors can hire horses from the reserve.

10. Photography: The reserve is home to a variety of wildlife and birds, so it is a great place for photography. Visitors can take stunning photos of the animals and birds in their natural habitat.

Gaborone Dam Nature Reserve is a great place to explore and relax. There are a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy, and the reserve is a great place to experience the beauty of Botswana.