Porto6 scaled

Can you live for less than $1000 USD in Gaborone? A comprehensive guide

Experience Adventure Like Never Before: Book Your Tour Today!

Can you live for less than $1000 USD in Gaborone? A comprehensive guide

Living on a budget is a challenge that many people face in today’s world. Whether it’s due to economic instability, personal circumstances, or a desire to save money, the question remains the same: can you live comfortably in a city while spending less than $1000 USD per month? In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at Gaborone, the capital city of Botswana, and explore the costs of living there.

Introduction

Gaborone is a relatively small city that has a population of approximately 240,000 people. It’s known for being a hub for business and commerce and is home to a number of large corporations, hotels, and shopping malls. Despite being the capital city of Botswana, Gaborone has a low cost of living compared to many other African cities.

Housing

One of the biggest expenses that people face when moving to a new city is housing. In Gaborone, the average cost of renting an apartment or house is around $350 USD per month. This can vary depending on the location, size, and condition of the property, but it’s generally affordable. It’s also possible to find shared accommodation, such as a room in a shared house or apartment, for even less.If you’re looking to buy property in Gaborone, the average cost of a house or apartment is around $200,000 USD. While this may sound expensive, it’s important to remember that property prices in Botswana are generally lower than in other African countries.

Food and drink

Food and drink costs in Gaborone are also relatively low. A typical meal at a local restaurant can cost anywhere between $5 and $10 USD. If you’re looking to save money, you can purchase food at local markets and cook at home. A typical grocery bill for a family of four can range from $200 to $300 USD per month.Alcohol and tobacco products are heavily taxed in Botswana, so it’s important to factor this into your budget if you’re a smoker or enjoy a drink. A pack of cigarettes costs around $4 USD, while a bottle of beer is around $2 USD.

Transportation

Public transportation in Gaborone is relatively affordable. A single bus fare costs around $0.70 USD, while a monthly pass costs around $30 USD. Taxis are also available, but they can be expensive. It’s often more cost-effective to use a ride-hailing service like Uber or Bolt.If you’re looking to purchase a car in Gaborone, the cost of a new car can vary depending on the make and model. However, there are plenty of used cars available that can be purchased for less than $5000 USD.

Utilities

The cost of utilities in Gaborone can vary depending on the size of your home and the appliances you use. However, on average, a family of four can expect to pay around $100 USD per month for water, electricity, and gas.

Conclusion

Overall, it is possible to live comfortably in Gaborone for less than $1000 USD per month. The cost of living is relatively low, and there are plenty of affordable housing and food options. While it’s important to budget for transportation, utilities, and other expenses, it’s still possible to live on a tight budget in this city.It’s worth noting that some expenses, such as healthcare and education, can be more expensive in Gaborone. However, these costs can be offset by the lower cost of living. Ultimately, it’s up to the individual to decide whether Gaborone is the right city for them based on their budget and personal circumstances.

Insider’s Guide to Gaborone, Botswana

Gaborone, the capital of Botswana, is a vibrant city with a lot to offer. The city is small compared to other African capitals but is packed with attractions, delicious dining spots, historical landmarks, and cultural experiences. As a traveler, you will find that Gaborone is a perfect destination offering affordable living with natural outdoor settings and a peaceful atmosphere.

Local Attractions

Gaborone offers plenty of options for visitors! Most of the attractions are easy to find, but some are off the beaten path. Some of the must-visit local attractions include:

  • Gaborone Game Reserve – a perfect day trip to witness various species of birds and animals.
  • Three Dikgosi Monument – a landmark that illustrates the history of Botswana and honors the three chiefs who led the country into independence.
  • Kgale Hill – a scenic peak located in the city center, offering incredible hiking and birding experiences.
  • National Museum and Art Gallery – a cultural center showcasing art and culture of Botswana and Africa.
  • Mokolodi Nature Reserve – perfect for viewing big cats, rhinos, and giraffes in their natural habitat.

Dining Spots

Gaborone boasts a diverse and tasty food scene. The city offers both local and international cuisine, so you can explore and indulge in an array of dining spots. Some of the recommended places to eat include:

  • Sanitas Tea Garden – perfect for breakfast or lunch with an abundance of vegetarian options and sprawling gardens.
  • Bull and Bush Pub – a lively spot with bands, DJs and delicious food. It’s a great place to have a drink, catch a sporting event or enjoy dinner with friends.
  • Bites and Beats – a must-visit food truck park offering fantastic street food options. Outlets like Street Bar and Tacos and Noodles are among the best.
  • Turn and Tender – a meat-eater’s paradise, offering an extensive selection of steaks with great service.
  • Maru A Pula Restaurant – located in an international school, Maru A Pula offers a unique dining experience with an African flair.

Cultural Experiences

Immersing yourself in the local culture is an essential part of traveling. Here are some cultural experiences you can enjoy while in Gaborone:

  • Mokolodi Cultural Experience – where you can learn about the culture of the local people and villages. Visitors can experience traditional dance, singing, and music.
  • Botswana Craft – a center showcasing the finest handiwork of Botswana. The center sells jewelry, sculptures, paintings, pottery, and fabrics made by local artists.
  • Thapong Visual Arts Centre – a space for local artists to exhibit their paintings, sculptures, and photography, and gain exposure to the world.
  • Square Art Gallery – a gallery that showcases contemporary art pieces by artists from Botswana and neighboring countries.
  • The National Stadium- a venue for local football matches where you can experience the passion for sport and social events unique to Botswana.

Local History

Gaborone has a rich history that is engraved in the city’s landmarks, artifacts, and architecture. Here are some historical landmarks to visit:

  • Three Dikgosi Monument – as previously mentioned, this landmark illustrates the history of Botswana and reveres the three chiefs who led the country into independence.
  • Old Gaberone Train Station – constructed in the early 1900s to transport beef from Botswana, the station bears witness to the city’s early history.
  • Kgosi Bathoen II Memorial – the memorial is a commemoration of one of the leaders who fought for independence. The statue stands tall in the city center, remembering the power and influence of the chiefs in Botswana’s past.
  • Botswana National Archives – the archives showcase Botswana’s history through its collection of documents, photographs, maps, and artifacts.
  • Botswana Railways Museum – the museum displays the history of Botswana Railways. Visitors will see the locomotive collections, artifacts, and archives that show the growth of Botswana through transportation systems.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you want to discover more off-the-beaten-path places that are just as amazing as the well-known landmarks, Gaborone has plenty to offer:

  • Kgatleng Heritage Museum – the museum showcases the history of the Kgatleng region through its rich collection of traditional attire, artifacts, and cultural events.
  • Giant Garaku – the largest meteorite in the world. It’s a unique attraction located in Gaborone, free and accessible to visitors.
  • Oodi Weavers – a cooperative where women weave unique baskets, mats, and other hand-made crafts. Visitors typically order customized baskets or take a workshop to learn basket weaving.
  • Pilikwe pottery – another cooperative in Gaborone that creates excellent pottery. Visitors can take a pottery workshop and create their artwork.
  • Gaborone Reservoir – an artificial lake located in the heart of Gaborone. It’s a popular spot for picnics, fishing, and sightseeing.

In conclusion, Gaborone is an affordable yet remarkable city to visit. With a perfect blend of unique attractions, local dining spots, cultural experiences, historical landmarks, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions, visitors can see firsthand how Botswana’s heritage and culture have influenced its capital city.

Porto6 scaled

Can you live for less than $1000 USD in Gaborone? A comprehensive guide

Experience Adventure Like Never Before: Book Your Tour Today!