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All You Need To Shop In Gaborone 2025: A Local’s Guide To GBE’s Best Markets, Malls, and Bargains

Discover the ultimate guide to shopping in Gaborone in 2025. From traditional markets to modern malls, learn how to navigate GBE's shopping scene like a local with insider tips, money-saving strategies, and authentic Botswana shopping experiences.

Embracing Gaborone’s Shopping Scene: My Journey Through Botswana’s Capital

The first time I wandered through Gaborone’s bustling Main Mall back in 2019, I felt completely overwhelmed. Between the persistent vendors calling “Dumela Mma!” (Hello, madam!), the dazzling array of traditional crafts, and my complete ignorance of proper bargaining etiquette, I ended up overpaying for just about everything. Fast forward to 2025, after multiple extended stays in Botswana’s capital, and I’ve become something of an unofficial shopping guru for friends visiting GBE.

Gaborone’s shopping landscape has transformed dramatically over the past few years. The city now boasts an impressive blend of traditional markets, modern malls, and specialty boutiques that cater to both locals and the growing tourist population. What hasn’t changed is the warm Botswana hospitality—the “botho” (humanity/compassion) that makes shopping here such a personal experience.

Whether you’re hunting for authentic handcrafted souvenirs, seeking out local fashion designers, or simply need to stock up on essentials during your stay, this guide will help you navigate Gaborone’s diverse shopping scene like a seasoned local. I’ll share the mistakes I’ve made so you don’t have to, the hidden gems I’ve discovered, and the money-saving tricks that have saved me thousands of pula over the years.

Understanding Gaborone’s Shopping Districts

Gaborone’s shopping areas are quite spread out, which initially confused me. After several visits, I’ve mapped out the key shopping districts to help you plan efficient shopping expeditions.

Central Business District (CBD)

The heart of Gaborone’s shopping experience starts in the CBD, where you’ll find:

  • Main Mall – The oldest shopping center in the city, not a modern mall but an open-air complex of shops, banks, and street vendors
  • African Mall – Just northeast of Main Mall, offers more traditional goods and local experiences
  • Government Enclave Craft Market – Located near government offices, specializes in authentic crafts

Western Gaborone

The western part of the city has seen major development since 2020:

  • Game City Mall – Gaborone’s largest mall with over 100 stores (expanded in 2023)
  • Airport Junction Mall – Modern shopping center near Sir Seretse Khama Airport
  • Sebele Centre – More upscale shopping with international brands

Eastern Gaborone

Don’t miss these spots in the eastern districts:

  • Riverwalk Mall – Beautiful riverside setting with fashion boutiques and cafes
  • Fairground Mall – Home to many local businesses and the popular Friday craft market

Traditional Markets: Where Culture and Commerce Blend

The beating heart of Gaborone’s shopping scene lies in its traditional markets. Here’s where I’ve found the most authentic shopping experiences and the best deals:

Main Mall Open Market

Located in the downtown area along Independence Avenue, this isn’t a formal structure but rather a collection of vendors with stalls along the pedestrian walkways. The sensory experience is unforgettable—the scent of roasting corn mingling with the bright colors of chitenge fabrics and the melodic calls of vendors.

TIP: Visit early morning (before 9am) for the freshest produce and to avoid the midday heat that can be brutal during Botswana’s summer months.

What you’ll find:

  • Traditional basket weaving (the intricate Botswana baskets are world-renowned)
  • Hand-carved wooden items (the giraffe statues are popular but often overpriced for tourists)
  • Beaded jewelry with distinctive Botswana patterns
  • Fresh produce from surrounding farms

Gaborone Central Market

This covered market near the bus station has been renovated in 2024 and now offers better facilities while maintaining its authentic character. The improved layout has made it easier to navigate, but it’s still wonderfully chaotic in the best possible way.

I once spent three hours here chatting with Mma Dikeledi, an elderly basket weaver who taught me the traditional patterns used in Botswana baskets. Each design tells a story—something I would never have learned from a quick tourist purchase.

Molapo Crossing Weekend Market

Held every Saturday from 8am to 1pm at the Molapo Crossing Mall, this relatively new market (established in 2022) has quickly become a favorite among expatriates and locals alike. It’s especially good for:

  • Organic and locally-produced foods
  • Handmade soaps and natural beauty products
  • Artisanal crafts with a contemporary twist
  • Fresh bread and baked goods (the melktert from the Afrikaans bakery stall is incredible!)

Bargaining Ethics and Etiquette

My first attempt at bargaining in Gaborone was an awkward disaster. I was too aggressive and clearly offended the vendor. Here’s what I’ve learned:

  1. Begin with a friendly greeting in Setswana: “Dumela Rra” (for men) or “Dumela Mma” (for women)
  2. Ask “O tsogile jang?” (How did you wake up?) – showing interest in their well-being before business
  3. Start your counter-offer at about 60-70% of the asking price, not the aggressive 30-40% that might work in other countries
  4. Maintain a smile and keep the interaction pleasant – relationships matter deeply in Botswana culture
  5. Be prepared to meet in the middle; the goal is a fair price where both parties feel respected

INSIDER TIP: If you’re buying multiple items from the same vendor, don’t bargain each piece separately. Instead, select everything you want first, then negotiate a package deal. I’ve saved up to 35% using this approach at the Government Enclave market.

Modern Malls: Air-Conditioned Comfort with Local Flavor

While traditional markets offer cultural immersion, Gaborone’s modern malls provide convenience, variety, and blessed air conditioning during the hot months. The mall culture has exploded here since 2020, with several new developments and expansions.

Game City Mall

The 2023 expansion made Game City the largest shopping center in Botswana at over 50,000 square meters. Located in the western part of the city along Western Bypass Road, it houses:

  • Over 150 shops ranging from local boutiques to international brands
  • A massive Game superstore (great for household items)
  • Exclusive Apple reseller store (opened in 2024)
  • An expanded food court featuring both international chains and local eateries

Game City is particularly good for electronics, with competitive prices on smartphones and laptops. The new tech hub section on the upper level offers better selection than I’ve found anywhere else in the country.

Airport Junction Mall

Conveniently located near Sir Seretse Khama International Airport, this upscale mall has become my go-to when I want a more refined shopping experience. The central atrium was renovated in 2024, creating a stunning space with natural light and indigenous plants.

Notable stores include:

  • Woolworths (higher-end clothing and excellent food section)
  • Exclusive Books (best bookstore in Gaborone with a coffee shop)
  • Botswana Craft (curated selection of premium local handicrafts at fixed prices)
  • Edgars (department store with good cosmetics section)

The Pick n Pay supermarket here tends to be less crowded than other locations around the city—a valuable find during weekend shopping rushes.

Riverwalk Mall

Set alongside the Notwane River in eastern Gaborone, Riverwalk offers a more relaxed shopping environment. After the 2023 landscaping project, the outdoor areas have become a pleasant place to relax between shopping.

Riverwalk excels in:

  • Fashion boutiques with both African and Western styles
  • Home décor and furnishings
  • The Riverwalk Farmers Market (every Sunday morning)

Mall Hours and Shopping Tips

Mall Weekday Hours Weekend Hours Special Notes
Game City 9am – 7pm 9am – 5pm (Sat), 9am – 3pm (Sun) Friday evenings are extremely busy
Airport Junction 9am – 6pm 9am – 5pm (Sat), 9am – 3pm (Sun) Best parking on west side
Riverwalk 9am – 6pm 9am – 5pm (Sat), 9am – 2pm (Sun) Some restaurants open later
Main Mall 8am – 5pm 8am – 3pm (Sat), Closed (Sun) Many shops close for lunch (1-2pm)

MONEY-SAVING TIP: Major sales typically happen during April/May and November/December. The end-of-season clearances offer discounts of up to 70% at stores like Truworths and Foschini, especially on summer clothing in May.

Specialty Shopping: Unique Finds in Gaborone

Beyond the markets and malls, Gaborone has developed some fascinating specialty shopping opportunities that showcase the creativity and entrepreneurship blooming in Botswana.

Local Fashion Designers

Botswana’s fashion scene has exploded since 2022, with local designers gaining international recognition. My favorite boutiques include:

  • Sentebale Designs (The Square Mall, CBD) – Contemporary clothing that blends traditional African prints with modern silhouettes. Their signature jumpsuits are worth every pula!
  • Botocy (Fairground Mall) – Accessories made from repurposed materials, including stunning jewelry crafted from recycled glass and metals.
  • Kgori Original (Old Naledi neighborhood) – This appointment-only studio showcases the work of emerging designers. I found a hand-beaded jacket here that draws compliments everywhere I go.

Ethical Diamond and Gemstone Shopping

Botswana is the world’s largest producer of diamonds by value, and there are legitimate ways to purchase ethically-sourced stones:

  • Debswana Diamond Company (Central Business District) – While they primarily handle wholesale diamonds, their display center provides fascinating education about Botswana’s diamond industry.
  • Gaborone Diamond Traders (Grand Palm Hotel complex) – Certified diamonds with full provenance documentation. Not the cheapest option, but you’re guaranteed ethical sourcing.
  • Botswana Craft Jewellery Workshop (Broadhurst Industrial) – For affordable gemstone jewelry using local semiprecious stones like agate and rose quartz.

In 2024, I saved nearly $3,000 on a diamond pendant by purchasing directly in Gaborone rather than back home. The pendant came with certification of ethical mining and Botswana origin.

Books and Music

Gaborone’s literary and music scenes have blossomed in recent years:

  • The Book Nest (Main Mall) – Specializes in works by Botswana authors and pan-African literature. The owner, Mma Sethunya, is a walking encyclopedia of southern African literature.
  • Rhythm Records (Airport Junction) – Opened in 2023, this store stocks vinyl records, CDs, and digital downloads of local artists. The listening stations let you sample before buying.
  • Exclusive Books (Airport Junction) – The most comprehensive bookstore with English-language titles and a small but growing Setswana literature section.

Grocery Shopping: From Supermarkets to Farm Stands

If you’re self-catering or staying long-term in Gaborone, understanding the grocery landscape will save you time and money.

Major Supermarkets

The city has several major supermarket chains, each with distinct advantages:

  • Shoprite (Game City, Main Mall) – Typically the most economical option with good basics but limited specialty items
  • Pick n Pay (Airport Junction, Riverwalk) – Better selection of international products and fresh produce
  • Spar (Kgale View, Molapo Crossing) – Convenient neighborhood locations with decent bakeries
  • Choppies (Multiple locations) – Local chain with competitive prices on staple items
  • Woolworths Food (Airport Junction) – Premium option with high-quality prepared foods and specialty ingredients

After trying all the options, I find Pick n Pay offers the best balance of quality and price, especially for fresh produce.

INSIDER TIP: Supermarkets mark down perishable items in the evening, usually after 6pm. I regularly save 30-50% on bread, pre-made sandwiches, and soon-to-expire dairy products by shopping around 6:30pm at Pick n Pay Riverwalk.

Fresh Produce Markets

For the freshest fruits and vegetables at the best prices:

  • Broadhurst Farmers’ Market (Broadhurst Industrial) – Open daily 7am-6pm with the best selection early morning
  • Bontleng Vegetable Market (Bontleng neighborhood) – Lower prices than supermarkets and locally grown produce
  • Tlokweng Border Gate Market – If you’re up for a short trip (10 minutes from the CBD), the vendors near the South African border offer excellent variety and prices

The most surprising discovery for me was the quality of local mangoes available at these markets between December and February. They’re sweeter and juicier than anything I’ve found elsewhere, and at about 3 pula each (roughly $0.22), they’re a fraction of what I’d pay at home.

Specialty Food Shops

Recent years have seen growth in specialty food options:

  • The Health Deli (Fairground Mall) – Organic, gluten-free, and health food products
  • East Asian Grocery (Extension 10) – Authentic ingredients for Chinese, Thai, and Japanese cooking
  • Thusanyo Butchery (Block 8) – Premium local meats including game options like kudu and impala
  • Cape Town Fish Market (CBD) – Not just a restaurant but also sells fresh seafood to take home

Local Food Products Worth Trying

Don’t miss these uniquely Botswanan products:

  • Sorghum Meal (Mabele) – The traditional grain of Botswana, used to make bogobe (porridge)
  • Morama Butter – A nutritious spread made from indigenous beans
  • Kalahari Truffle – In season around March-April, these desert delicacies appear after rains
  • Seswaa Spice Mix – Traditional seasoning for Botswana’s national dish of pounded beef
  • Morula Fruit Products – Jams and liqueurs made from this indigenous fruit

Souvenirs and Gifts: Beyond the Tourist Traps

After buying countless forgettable souvenirs on my first visits, I’ve refined my approach to finding meaningful mementos and gifts.

Authentic Crafts and Their True Prices

Botswana is renowned for several traditional crafts:

Botswana Baskets

These intricately woven baskets from the northwestern region are globally recognized art pieces. Prices should reflect size, complexity, and quality:

  • Small decorative basket (under 15cm diameter): 150-300 pula ($11-22)
  • Medium utility basket (15-30cm): 300-800 pula ($22-59)
  • Large masterpiece basket (30cm+): 800-3000+ pula ($59-222+)

My worst mistake was paying 750 pula for a small, roughly-made basket at a tourist shop my first day in Gaborone. I later found similar baskets for 200 pula at the Government Enclave Market.

Wood Carvings

Traditional wooden items include animal figurines, salad servers, and decorative masks:

  • Simple animal carvings: 80-200 pula ($6-15)
  • Detailed animal sculptures: 200-600 pula ($15-44)
  • Functional items (bowls, utensils): 150-400 pula ($11-30)

Textiles and Clothing

  • Traditional German-print fabric (leteisi): 120-200 pula ($9-15) per meter
  • Handwoven scarves: 200-350 pula ($15-26)
  • Batik wall hangings: 300-1200 pula ($22-89) depending on size

Where to Find the Best Quality at Fair Prices

My recommended shopping spots for authentic crafts:

  1. Botswanacraft Marketing (Broadhurst Industrial) – Higher fixed prices but guaranteed authenticity and artist attribution
  2. Government Enclave Craft Market (CBD) – Direct from artisans with bargaining expected
  3. Gaborone National Museum Shop (Village neighborhood) – Curated selection with educational context
  4. Thamaga Pottery (About 40km from Gaborone) – Worth the trip for unique handmade ceramics at studio prices

SUSTAINABILITY TIP: Ask about sustainably harvested materials. The best basket weavers now use palm fronds from managed sources rather than endangered plants. This is better for the environment and results in longer-lasting products!

Edible Souvenirs

Food items make wonderful gifts and are often overlooked:

  • St Louis Lager – Botswana’s national beer
  • Amarula – Cream liqueur made from indigenous marula fruit
  • Tautona Honey – Local honey produced in the Gaborone region
  • Morogo Spice Blends – Traditional seasoning mixes
  • Ginger Gems Cookies – A Botswana teatime favorite

Supporting Local Artisans Directly

For a truly meaningful shopping experience:

  • Visit Lentswe Craft Centre in Mokolodi (15km south of Gaborone) where you can meet artisans and commission custom pieces
  • Attend the Gaborone International Arts Festival (held annually in September) to purchase directly from artists
  • Check out Flying Mission Crafts (Broadhurst) which supports disadvantaged communities through craft production

Money-Saving Strategies for Shoppers

After years of shopping in Gaborone, I’ve developed strategies to stretch my pula further:

Timing Your Shopping for the Best Deals

Shopping calendar for maximum savings:

  • January – Post-holiday clearance sales, especially at clothing stores
  • April/May – End of summer sales as shops transition to winter inventory
  • August – Mid-winter sales
  • November/December – Black Friday has become increasingly popular in Botswana, with Game City Mall hosting a major event

For groceries, shop in the early evening (after 6pm) when perishables are often marked down. Wednesday is typically when supermarkets introduce new weekly specials.

Loyalty Programs Worth Joining

Several loyalty programs offer genuine value:

  • TLC Card (Woolworths) – Points system and regular discount days
  • Smart Shopper (Pick n Pay) – Accumulate points for cash back
  • Thank U (Edgars, Jet, CNA) – Store-wide discounts for members
  • Pula Card (Choppies) – Local program with good returns on staple items

I’ve found the TLC and Smart Shopper programs particularly worthwhile, saving approximately 1200 pula ($89) annually through the Pick n Pay program alone.

INSIDER TIP: Combine loyalty programs with the store’s app for additional savings. The Pick n Pay app offers personalized deals based on your shopping habits that aren’t advertised in-store.

Bargaining Strategies That Actually Work

In markets where bargaining is expected:

  1. Learn the phrase “Ke kopa tlhwatlhwa e e siameng” (I’m asking for a fair price)
  2. Shop on weekday afternoons when vendors are less busy and more willing to negotiate
  3. Buy in bulk or multiple items to leverage better discounts
  4. Show genuine interest in the craftsmanship and ask questions before discussing price
  5. Be prepared to walk away—sometimes vendors will call you back with a better offer

Transportation Shopping Hacks

Getting around Gaborone efficiently:

  • Combo trips: Game City, Airport Junction, and Sebele Centre are all along the Western Bypass—plan to visit multiple in one trip
  • Shared taxis (combis): Cost 5 pula ($0.37) per trip and connect major shopping areas
  • Bolokang app: Botswana’s ride-sharing service, generally cheaper than traditional taxis
  • Shopping delivery: Pick n Pay and Spar now offer home delivery for orders over 350 pula through the Sensible app

I’ve found that combining combi transport with occasional ride-sharing saves me about 200 pula ($15) per shopping day compared to hiring a private taxi.

Conclusion: Your 5-Step Action Plan for Shopping in Gaborone

After numerous shopping expeditions across Gaborone—from frantic last-minute souvenir hunts to leisurely explorations of hidden boutiques—I’ve distilled my experience into an actionable plan for anyone looking to make the most of GBE’s diverse shopping landscape.

Your 5-Step Gaborone Shopping Strategy

  1. Orient yourself first – Spend your first morning exploring Main Mall without buying anything. Get a feel for prices, quality, and variety before committing to purchases.
  2. Prioritize authentic experiences – Schedule visits to traditional markets early in your stay, then move to malls for any remaining needs. This prevents the disappointment of finding a better, more authentic item after you’ve already bought something similar.
  3. Combine shopping with cultural learning – Visit the National Museum before shopping for crafts to understand their cultural significance and appropriate pricing.
  4. Set a souvenir budget and strategy – Allocate 60% for one or two significant pieces (like a quality basket or artwork) and 40% for smaller items. This prevents ending up with only forgettable trinkets.
  5. Use digital tools to your advantage – Download the Mall Guide app (launched in 2024) which covers all major Gaborone shopping centers, showing store locations, current promotions, and operating hours.

Remember that shopping in Gaborone isn’t just about acquiring things—it’s about connecting with a culture that values relationship-building and personal interaction. The time you take to greet properly, learn a few Setswana phrases, and show interest in craftsmanship will not only enhance your shopping experience but might lead to unexpected friendships and insights into Botswana life.

The most valuable souvenir I’ve taken from my shopping adventures in Gaborone isn’t something I purchased—it’s the understanding of “botho,” the compassionate humanity that defines Botswana culture, and how it manifests even in commercial transactions. That cultural appreciation has changed how I approach shopping everywhere.

Whether you’re visiting for a few days or settling in for an extended stay, I hope this guide helps you navigate Gaborone’s shopping scene with confidence, curiosity, and respect for local traditions. Happy shopping!

FAQs: Shopping in Gaborone

What currency is used in Gaborone and should I exchange money before arriving?

Botswana uses the Pula (BWP). While major credit cards are widely accepted in malls and larger stores, you’ll need cash for markets and smaller shops. I’ve found the best exchange rates at banks in the CBD rather than at the airport. ATMs are plentiful, but be aware that most have a daily withdrawal limit of 3000-5000 pula.

Are shops open on Sundays in Gaborone?

Sunday shopping is limited. Major malls are typically open from 9am to 3pm, but many smaller stores remain closed. Traditional markets are generally closed, except for the Molapo Crossing Weekend Market which runs Sunday mornings until 1pm. Supermarkets maintain shortened hours, usually until 3pm.

How can I ship purchases back home from Botswana?

Botswana Post offers international shipping from their main office near the Main Mall, but service can be slow. For more reliable but expensive options, DHL and FedEx have offices in Gaborone. I’ve had good experiences with The Courier Guy at Airport Junction Mall, which offers reasonable rates for shipping to neighboring countries and internationally.

What items are restricted or prohibited from export?

Protected animal products including ivory, rhino horn, and certain animal skins are prohibited. Ostrich products and some wooden items may require CITES permits. Diamond purchases should come with proper certification to avoid issues at customs. When in doubt, ask the seller about export documentation.

Is haggling expected in Gaborone shops?

Haggling is expected at traditional markets and with street vendors, but not in established stores or malls where prices are fixed. Government-run craft shops like those at museums also have fixed prices. When bargaining is appropriate, do so respectfully and with good humor—aggressive negotiation tactics will not be well-received.

What are the best days to visit markets in Gaborone?

Markets are generally busiest (with the most vendors) on weekends, but Tuesday and Friday mornings offer the freshest produce. Wednesday afternoons tend to be quieter, giving you more time to browse and chat with vendors. Avoid shopping during the midday heat (12-2pm) when many vendors take breaks.

How do I identify authentic Botswana crafts?

Authentic Botswana baskets have tight, even weaving with natural color variations. Wooden items should feel substantial and show hand-carved (not machine-made) details. Genuine crafts are rarely perfectly uniform. When possible, purchase directly from artisans or reputable sources like Botswanacraft Marketing where items have provenance information.

What are typical business hours in Gaborone?

Most businesses operate Monday to Friday 8:30am to 5pm, with a lunch break from 1-2pm when smaller establishments might close. Malls stay open later, typically until 7pm on weekdays and 5pm on Saturdays. Government offices close at 4:30pm and aren’t open weekends.

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