Mahalapye - Discovering Botswana

Travelling to Mahalapye

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Mahalapye, a pretty good destination in Botswana (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Mahalapye and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Mahalapye, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Botswana, here's everything to know about Mahalapye for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Mahalapye

Mahalapye is a town located in the Central District of Botswana, situated about 200 km north of the capital city Gaborone. It is an important transportation hub, with both road and rail links connecting it to major cities around the country. The town has a population of around 50,000 people, and is known for its vibrant markets, traditional crafts, and cultural festivals. The surrounding area is also home to various scenic attractions, including wildlife parks, game reserves, and historic landmarks.

What to visit in Mahalapye

Mahalapye is a market town located in the Central District of Botswana. Here are some of the tourist attractions in Mahalapye and some information about each of them: 1. Mmakgodumo Cultural Museum: This museum showcases the history and culture of the BaNgwaketse people who originally settled in the Mahalapye area. Visitors can see traditional clothing, weapons, and pottery on display.
2. Morupule Coal Mine: This is the largest coal mine in Botswana and an important source of employment for the local people. Visitors can take a tour of the mine and learn about the coal mining process.
3. Khama Rhino Sanctuary: This wildlife sanctuary is located about 45 minutes from Mahalapye and is home to both black and white rhinos as well as other African wildlife such as zebras, giraffes, and wildebeest. Visitors can take game drives and guided walks to see the animals.
4. Bokaa Dam: This dam is a popular spot for fishing and picnicking. Visitors can also take a boat ride on the dam or go bird watching. The dam is especially beautiful during sunset.
5. Pilikwe Rock Paintings: These rock paintings date back to the Stone Age and were created by the San people who lived in the area. Visitors can see the paintings of animals and humans that have survived for thousands of years.
6. Dikgatlhong Dam: This dam is located about an hour from Mahalapye and provides drinking water for the nearby towns. However, it is also a popular destination for fishing, camping, and water sports. Visitors can go boating, kayaking, or fishing in the dam.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Botswana, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Mahalapye.

When to go on holiday to Mahalapye

The best time to visit Mahalapye in Botswana is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. During this time of year, the weather is cooler and there is less rainfall, which makes it ideal for game drives and other outdoor activities. November to April is the wet season, characterized by hot and humid weather with frequent rain showers. Although the vegetation is lush and green during this time, the roads may become difficult to navigate due to flooding.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Mahalapye

There are a few ways to get to Mahalapye in Botswana. 1. By air: The nearest airport is Sir Seretse Khama International Airport which is located in Gaborone. From there, you can take a domestic flight to Francistown Airport, which is approximately 160 km from Mahalapye. You can then take a taxi or public transportation to Mahalapye.
2. By road: Mahalapye is located along the main highway that connects South Africa to Zimbabwe. If you are coming from South Africa, you can take the N4 highway and cross the border at the Tlokweng border post. From there, you can proceed to Gaborone and then take a local bus or taxi to Mahalapye. If you are coming from Zimbabwe, you can take the A1 highway and cross the border at the Plumtree border post. From there, you can proceed to Francistown and then take a local bus or taxi to Mahalapye.
3. By train: The Botswana Railways operates a daily train service that runs from Gaborone to Francistown, with a stop at Mahalapye. The journey takes approximately 7 hours.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Mahalapye, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Mahalapye

Mahalapye is a town located in Botswana, known for its vibrant culinary scene. Here are some typical foods you can find in Mahalapye: 1. Seswaa - A traditional Botswana dish made from boiled and shredded beef, goat or lamb meat that is served with a thick porridge made from maize.
2. Bogobe jwa lerotse - also known as sorghum porridge is a staple food in Botswana made from sorghum and served with a side dish such as meat or vegetables.
3. Mopane worms - A popular delicacy in Botswana, mopane worms are caterpillars that are dried and cooked in a tomato and onion sauce. They are also high in protein.
4. Chotlho - A spinach-based dish that is boiled and served with a mixture of sorghum meal and maize meal.
5. Ditloo - A popular dish in Botswana made from dried cowpeas that are boiled and flavored with onions and tomatoes.
6. Seswaa with papa - Seswaa (shredded meat) eaten with pap (a porridge made from maize flour) is a typical Batswana dish that is often served at special occasions.
7. Magwinya - Fried dough balls that are typically eaten for breakfast or as a snack.
8. Vetkoek - Similar to magwinya but with a slightly different recipe, vetkoek is also a deep-fried dough ball that is often filled with mince or cheese.
9. Chakalaka - A spicy vegetable relish that is made from chopped carrots, onions, tomatoes, and chili peppers. It is often served as a side dish.
10. Bogobe - A baked bread made from sorghum that is often eaten as a breakfast food.
You can find general info about typical foods in Botswana here.

Is Mahalapye an expensive destination for tourists?

Mahalapye, Botswana is generally considered to be a mid-range to expensive destination for tourists. The cost of accommodation, food, and transportation tends to be higher compared to other African countries. However, the cost of travel can vary depending on the type of traveler you are and the activities you plan to do. Some ways to save money in Mahalapye include staying in budget accommodations, cooking your own meals, and using public transportation. It is also important to note that the cost of travel may increase during peak tourist seasons.

Where to find accomodation in Mahalapye

The best areas to find accommodation while visiting Mahalapye would be: 1) The central business district: This area is ideal if you want to be close to the shops, restaurants, and other amenities in the area. There are budget-friendly hotels and guesthouses available in this area.
2) Along the railway line: The railway line runs through Mahalapye, and there are some hotels and guesthouses located alongside the rails. These accommodations offer easy access to the town and are in a relatively quiet area.
3) Near the bus station: Mahalapye has a prominent bus station, and several hotels and guesthouses are located in the area. This area is ideal if you plan to use public transportation during your stay.
Overall, Mahalapye is a small town, so wherever you choose to stay, you will not be too far from the town center.
You can check hotel prices at Mahalapye here:
Booking.com

Is Mahalapye a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Mahalapye in Botswana is considered a safe place for tourists. However, as with any foreign destination, it is important to take the necessary precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Be aware of your surroundings, keep your belongings close, and avoid walking around alone at night. It is also a good idea to research any specific safety concerns or travel advisories for the area before your trip.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Botswana here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Mahalapye.

What type of travelers will enjoy Mahalapye the most?

Mahalapye, Botswana is a popular destination for travelers who are interested in nature, wildlife, culture, and relaxation. It is a great place for both couples and families. There are many activities to enjoy, such as bird watching, game drives, nature walks, cultural tours, and relaxation in beautiful natural surroundings.
Mahalapye is also a great destination for young people who are looking for adventure and fun, as there are many opportunities for outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, and water sports.
Overall, Mahalapye has something for everyone, and travelers of all ages and interests can enjoy a memorable trip to this beautiful destination in Botswana.

How to get around Mahalapye

The most common modes of transportation in Mahalapye are buses, taxis, and private vehicles. Buses are a popular choice for long-distance travel, while taxis and private vehicles are more commonly used for shorter trips within the town.

What to see around Mahalapye

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Mahalapye in Botswana: 1. Khama Rhino Sanctuary - Located about an hour from Mahalapye, this sanctuary offers a chance to spot endangered black and white rhinos as well as other wildlife such as giraffes and zebras.
2. Lekhubu Island - This stunning island on the Makgadikgadi Pans can be reached in just a few hours from Mahalapye. Here, you can enjoy birdwatching or explore the ancient rock formations.
3. Mokolodi Nature Reserve - Located 2 hours from Mahalapye, Mokolodi offers an opportunity to see big game such as lions, leopards, and elephants.
4. Khutse Game Reserve - This stunning game reserve is located about 3 hours from Mahalapye and is home to predators such as lions, cheetahs, and hyenas.
5. Serowe Museum - This cultural museum is located about an hour from Mahalapye and offers a fascinating insight into the history of Botswana.
6. Tswapong Hills - Located about an hour from Mahalapye, these hills have stunning rock formations and offer excellent hiking opportunities. I hope this helps you plan your day trips from Mahalapye!
For every travel information about Botswana you can click here.

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