The summit view
City and dam together.
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Kgale Hill is a green rocky rise on the southwestern edge of Gaborone, Botswana's capital, nicknamed «The Sleeping Giant». Its summit reaches 1,287 m above sea level and it makes the easiest hill walk from the capital, climbed by locals and visitors alike for the view over the city and dam. Its name means «the place that dried up» in Setswana. The hill once held a television repeater and has since become a tourist destination. Filming for The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency took place at its foot, earning the set the nickname «Kgalewood». It also hosts the 15 km King of the Hill race, run with the Gaborone Runners Club. You can choose from three trails climbing through red rocks, trees and grass. From the granite summit the view spreads over the city, the road and Gaborone Dam, with green hills behind. You will usually see troops of baboons on the way, so do not feed them or carry food in sight. It is 9 km in a straight line from central Gaborone, easily reached by car or taxi. The climb takes about an hour, so start early to avoid the heat, and bring enough water and suitable shoes, as the trail is rocky and steep. It is better to go with a companion rather than alone, and to leave valuables somewhere safe.
City and dam together.
Red rocks and trees.
Do not feed them.
Southwest Gaborone, Botswana
About an hour, so start early to avoid the heat.
Yes, usually baboon troops, so do not feed them or show food.