Kgale Hill

Kgale Hill sits just southwest of Gaborone and rises around 1,300 meters above sea level. Known locally as the “Sleeping Giant,” the hill is a popular spot for walking, light hiking, and panoramic views of the capital below. For both locals and visitors, it’s one of the few places near the city where you can stretch your legs outdoors and see Gaborone from a different angle.

There are a few informal routes up Kgale Hill, all of them walkable without any special equipment. The most common starting point is near the Game City Mall parking area. From there, the trail climbs steadily along rocky paths, patches of brush, and light forest. Depending on your pace, the ascent typically takes between 30 to 60 minutes.

The trail is not marked in a formal way, but it’s generally easy to follow. There are loose rocks and uneven ground in places, so comfortable shoes are recommended. Early mornings or late afternoons are best—not only for the temperature, but for the light and views once you reach the summit.

The summit of Kgale Hill offers unobstructed views across Gaborone and the surrounding plains. On a clear day, you can see as far as the hills along the Botswana–South Africa border. There’s no built-up lookout or signage—just open rock and sky—but that simplicity is part of the appeal.

Many locals use the hill as a spot for walking meditation, photography, or simply sitting for a while. It’s also a common exercise route, with early joggers and weekend walkers making regular use of the trail.

While not remote, Kgale Hill is still home to some light wildlife activity. Rock dassies (hyraxes) are commonly seen among the boulders, and the occasional troop of vervet monkeys passes through. Birdwatchers might spot hawks or sunbirds overhead, especially near the summit.

Because the area is close to the city, encounters with larger wildlife are rare. Still, it’s best to stay on visible trails and avoid hiking alone at dusk.