Gaborone Dam
Lake Reservoir and picnic area supplying Gaborone
Reservoir on the Notwane River near Gaborone supplying water and offering shoreline recreation; visitors come for birdwatching, picnic spots, shoreline walks and small-boat fishing close to Botswana’s capital.
Gaborone Dam is a reservoir and earth-fill dam located in Botswana’s South-East District, serving as one of the primary water-supply sources for the city of Gaborone. It is a managed impoundment on the Notwane River and is significant for local water storage and supply.
The dam and its reservoir are used locally for open-air recreation and wildlife observation. The shoreline and surrounding grassland attract waterbirds and small-scale recreational visits rather than large tourist facilities.
The structure was created by damming the Notwane River to provide reliable water storage for the expanding capital and surrounding communities. It has been managed as part of Botswana’s municipal water infrastructure and has been modified and maintained over time to meet demand.
The site sits in the South-East District of Botswana, approximately 8 km south of central Gaborone, within easy driving distance of the city and accessible from local roads.
How to Get to Gaborone Dam #
Gaborone Dam is northwest of central Gaborone. Drive via the A1 and follow local signage; it’s about a 20-30 minute drive from the city centre depending on traffic. Some tour operators include the dam in half‑day excursions.
Tips for Visiting Gaborone Dam #
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching - the dam's perimeter attracts waterfowl seasonally.
- Visit viewpoint platforms around dusk for long, wide views across the water and the city beyond.
- Check for local fishing permits before angling; parts of the reservoir may be regulated.
Best Time to Visit Gaborone Dam #
Best in the dry season for clearer skies and easier walking around the reservoir.
Weather & Climate near Gaborone Dam #
Gaborone Dam's climate is classified as Hot Semi-Arid - Hot Semi-Arid climate with hot summers (peaking in January) and cool winters (coldest in July). Temperatures range from 5°C to 32°C. Semi-arid with limited rainfall with a pronounced dry season.
January
January is the warmest month with highs of 32°C and lows of 20°C. The wettest month with 92 mm of rain.
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February
February is warm with highs of 31°C and lows of 19°C. Moderate rainfall (75 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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March
March is mild with highs of 30°C and lows of 17°C. Moderate rainfall (62 mm).
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April
April is mild with highs of 27°C and lows of 14°C. Light rainfall.
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May
May is cool with highs of 25°C and lows of 9°C. Almost no rain and clear sunny skies.
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June
June is cool with highs of 22°C and lows of 5°C. Almost no rain and clear sunny skies.
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July
July is the coolest month with highs of 22°C and lows of 5°C. The driest month with just 1 mm and clear sunny skies.
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August
August is cool with highs of 25°C and lows of 8°C. Almost no rain and clear sunny skies.
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September
September is mild with highs of 29°C and lows of 12°C. Light rainfall and clear sunny skies.
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October
October is mild with highs of 31°C and lows of 16°C. Moderate rainfall (40 mm) and mostly sunny skies.
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November
November is warm with highs of 31°C and lows of 18°C. Moderate rainfall (79 mm).
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December
December is warm with highs of 32°C and lows of 19°C. Moderate rainfall (73 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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