Things To Do
in Lokwabe

Lokwabe, Botswana sits on the fringe of the Kalahari savanna where golden grasslands meet red sandy plains. The town functions as a quiet agricultural hub with a growing craft scene and a welcoming, close-knit community. Nearby reserves and open waterholes make wildlife a gentle, everyday presence rather than a distant dream.

Visitors come for authentic rural Botswana experiences, hearty local food, and encounters with artisans and elders who share stories of the land.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival in Lokwabe
morning
:

Arrive in Lokwabe and settle into your accommodation, surrounded by the stunning landscapes of Botswana. Take a moment to soak in the fresh air and the vibrant colors of nature as you step out into this tranquil environment. Orientation sessions will give you an overview of the adventures that await you.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local eatery, where you can savor traditional Botswana dishes. Afterward, embark on a short walking tour of the village to immerse yourself in the local culture and meet the friendly inhabitants. Take note of the unique crafts and artworks being created by local artisans.

evening
:

Gather around a communal fire for an evening of storytelling led by a local elder. Listen to captivating tales of the village's history and the surrounding wildlife, allowing the atmosphere to ignite your imagination. Conclude the night with a stargazing session, where the vast African sky reveals its breathtaking constellations.

day 2
Exploring the Okavango Delta
morning
:

Set off early for a guided excursion into the Okavango Delta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site teeming with wildlife. Glide quietly through serene waterways on a mokoro (traditional canoe) to observe the diverse ecosystem. Look out for hippos, elephants, and a variety of bird species as you navigate this breathtaking landscape.

afternoon
:

Return to Lokwabe for a hearty lunch before heading out for a bush walk with an experienced tracker. Gain insights into the flora and fauna as your guide shares stories about the plants and animals you encounter. Engage in discussions about conservation efforts in the area and their importance.

evening
:

Enjoy a home-cooked dinner prepared by local chefs using fresh ingredients. Join in a workshop to learn traditional cooking techniques and recipes, connecting with the culture through taste. As the night falls, indulge in some local music and dance, getting moving with the rhythm of Botswana.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$5-12
🥗Vegetarian lunch$6-15
🚗Local taxi or short ride$2-8
🛍️Market snacks and drinks$1-5
🛏️Budget hotel or guesthouse per night$25-60

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Authentic rural Botswana experience
  • Friendly locals and relaxed pace
  • Good value for wildlife and nature viewing
  • Limited nightlife and dining options after dark
  • Rural infrastructure can be basic
  • Seasonal malaria risk during the rainy season
  • "Dumela" - Hello
  • "Ke kopa metsi" - Please, water
  • "Ke leboga" - Thank you
  • "Tsamaya sentle" - Goodbye
  • "O kae?" - Where is [this place]?
  • "Nna ke batla mopheng tshediso" - Can you help me with directions?

Places to Visit in Lokwabe

Visit one of these nice places.

Lokwabe Riverside Overlook

Panorama of the river valley at golden hour with silhouettes of acacia trees and distant wildlife silhouettes.

Old Baobab Grove

Ancient baobabs form dramatic focal points for wide-angle and portrait shots, especially at sunrise.

Sunset Dune Edge

Dunes along the savanna boundary glow with warm tones as the sun dips behind the horizon.

Culinary Guide

Food in Lokwabe

Botswana cuisine centers on hearty meat dishes, maize-based staples, and seasonal greens. Expect generous portions, simple preparations, and flavors influenced by cattle farming and desert-adapted ingredients. Vegetables, legumes, and greens like morogo complement meat-centered dishes, while maize pap (bogobe) anchors many meals. Street food and market stalls offer quick, comforting bites perfect for travelers on the go.

Lokwabe Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Seswaa

Shredded beef cooked slowly and seasoned lightly; typically served with bogobe (pap) or morogo.

Must-Try!

Bogobe jwa Setswana

Maize porridge (pap) that accompanies meat, greens, or beans; a staple at family meals and gatherings.

Morogo

Steamed or sautéed wild greens (often with peanuts or onion) served as a side.

Mopane Worms

Seasonal protein snack or meal component; usually fried or dried and added to stews.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Lokwabe Central Market

Bustling morning market where you can taste roasted maize (mealie), vetkoek, grilled meats, and fresh produce.

Climate Guide

Weather

The region experiences a semi-arid climate with hot summers, cool to mild winters, and a distinct rainy season (roughly Nov-Apr). Rain can bring lush greens briefly after storms, followed by dry spells. Daytime temperatures can be very hot in the dry season, with cooler nights especially in winter.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings and respect

Offer a warm, friendly greeting such as 'Dumela' when meeting people. Shake hands in public and use polite tone when addressing elders.

Photography respectful

Ask permission before taking photos of people or private homes; avoid photographing ceremonies or sacred spaces without consent.

Safety Guide

Safety

Exercise standard travel precautions: safeguard valuables in markets, avoid walking alone at night in sparsely lit areas, and keep an eye on footwear around wildlife zones. Use insect repellent during the rainy season to prevent mosquito bites and malaria. Have a basic first aid kit and travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Tipping in Lokwabe

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

A 5-10% tip is customary in sit-down restaurants if service isn’t included. Guides and lodge staff often receive small tips for personalized service.

Payment Methods

Cash in Botswana Pula (BWP) is widely accepted in rural areas. Cards are increasingly accepted in towns and lodges; carry some cash for markets and small shops. Mobile money and bank cards are commonly used in larger centers.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Rain showers and thunderstorms are common; days are hot and dry periods can be intense. Malaria risk rises in wetter months; use repellent and wear long sleeves in the evenings.

Winter

Cool to mild days with chilly nights; comfortable for hiking and outdoor exploration. By late winter, mornings can be dewy and roads may be dusty; rain is rare.

Nightlife Guide

Lokwabe at Night

Lokwabe has a modest nightlife scene centered on lodge gatherings, community events, and occasional live music at cafes. Expect relaxed evenings with braai chats, storytelling, and stargazing rather than high-energy clubs. For a change of pace, join a local braai or cultural show at a guesthouse.

Hiking in Lokwabe

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Boteti River View Trail

A gentle riverside hike offering wildlife viewing and birdwatching opportunities.

Lokwabe Dune Edge Loop

A scenic loop along the dune edge with panoramic savanna views.

Matlapamotse Hills Loop

A moderate climb through rocky outcrops to vantage points over the plains.

Airports

How to reach Lokwabe by plane.

Sir Seretse Khama International Airport (GBE)

Gaborone's main international gateway; broad domestic connections and regional flights.

Maun International Airport (MUB)

Gateway to the Okavango Delta and northern Botswana; domestic connections and some regional flights.

Kasane International Airport (BBK)

Serves the Chobe region and northeast Botswana; convenient for safari itineraries in the north.

Getting Around

Walkability

Lokwabe is fairly walkable within the town center, with most services and markets close by. Sidewalks can be uneven in older sections, and street lighting is limited in some areas, so plan evening strolls carefully and use a flashlight after dark.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Tswana (Setswana-speaking majority)

The core community with deep roots in cattle farming, crafts, and local markets.

Kalanga and other Botswana groups

Minorities and migrant workers contributing to markets, service sectors, and cultural exchange.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (soccer)

The dominant sport across Botswana, played in schools and local clubs.

Rugby Union

Growing presence in towns and schools with local clubs and matchdays.

Netball

Popular among communities and school teams; often played during events and tournaments.

Transportation

Traffic

Inside Lokwabe, traffic is typically light with modest speed limits. Rural roads can be gravel or dirt and may be slow during the rainy season due to mud. Minibus taxis and informal shared transport are common for longer trips; plan extra time for connections and road conditions.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Lokwabe.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Rely on morogo, beans, and bogobe. Many dishes can be adapted to reduce meat and still be flavorful.

Gluten-free

Maize-based foods (pap) are naturally gluten-free; confirm sauces and preparations with staff.

Vegan

Choose morogo and bean-based dishes; avoid dairy in sauces and meaty broths; request oil-free preparations when possible.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

There is a local clinic serving basic needs; for more comprehensive care, residents and visitors often travel to larger facilities in Gaborone or Maun. Malaria risk exists in the rainy season—take preventive measures and carry a basic first aid kit and any essential medications.

Discover Botswana

Read more in our Botswana 2025 Travel Guide.

Botswana Travel Guide