A dissemination blog about travel and gastronomy

Francistown: The Gold City of Botswana

Francistown, known as the "Gold City", is the second largest city in Botswana and one of the country's most attractive tourist destinations. Located in northeastern Botswana, Francistown is a vibrant hub of activity, rich in history and culture, and surrounded by stunning natural beauty.

History and Culture

Francistown was one of the first gold mining settlements in Africa. The city is named after Daniel Francis, a British trader and miner who obtained mining rights in the area in 1869. Although gold mining is no longer the city's main industry, its legacy endures in the colonial architecture and local museums that tell the story of the gold rush in Botswana.

Tourist Attractions

Francistown is home to several tourist attractions. The Supa Ngwao Museum, for example, offers a fascinating insight into the region's history and culture. The Tachila National Park, on the outskirts of the city, is a haven for wildlife, including giraffes, zebras, and a variety of birds.

St. Patrick's Cathedral is another point of interest in Francistown. This impressive Catholic structure is one of the largest churches in Botswana and is known for its beautiful architecture and stained glass windows.

Shopping and Dining

Francistown is also known for its vibrant shopping and dining scene. The Galo Shopping Centre offers a variety of shops and restaurants, while the Bojanala Market is the perfect place to buy local crafts and fresh food.

As for dining, visitors can enjoy a variety of local and international dishes at the city's numerous restaurants. Traditional Botswana dishes, such as seswaa (a meat stew) and bogobe (sorghum porridge), are especially popular.

Accommodation

Francistown offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets. From luxurious five-star hotels to more affordable lodgings, visitors will find a warm welcome and a comfortable place to rest after a day of exploration.

In summary, Francistown is a city full of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you're interested in the history of gold mining, African wildlife, local cuisine, or simply enjoying the hospitality of Botswana, Francistown has something to offer all visitors.

Gastronomic Products of Francistown

• Seswaa

  Seswaa is a traditional dish from Botswana that can be found in Francistown. It is a stew made from beef, goat, or lamb that is slow-cooked until the meat falls apart. It is served with pap, a type of polenta made from ground corn, or with samp, crushed and dehulled corn kernels.

• Boerewors

  Boerewors is a South African-style sausage that is very popular in Francistown. It is made with a mix of beef and pork and a variety of spices, and is usually grilled. It is often served in a bread roll with mustard and chopped onion.

• Mopane Worms

  Mopane worms are a highly consumed source of protein in Botswana and can be found in Francistown. They are collected from Mopane trees and cooked in various ways, often dried and rehydrated for use in stews. They have a unique taste and are an important part of the local diet.

• Bogobe jwa Lerotse

  Bogobe jwa Lerotse is a traditional dish from Botswana that can be found in Francistown. It is a type of porridge made with millet and lerotse squash. The lerotse squash gives a sweet and unique flavor to the porridge, which is often served as breakfast or dinner.

Sporting Activities in Francistown, Botswana

Safaris

Francistown is a gateway to several national parks and game reserves. Tourists can participate in walking or vehicle safaris to see African wildlife, including lions, elephants, and giraffes.

Fishing

The Tati River, which runs through Francistown, is a popular spot for fishing. Tourists can rent equipment and spend a peaceful day fishing on the river's banks.

Cycling

Francistown offers several cycling routes for enthusiasts of this sport. Tourists can rent bicycles and explore the city and its surroundings at their own pace.

Golf

For golf lovers, Francistown has an 18-hole golf course. Tourists can enjoy a round of golf while taking in the panoramic views of the city and the surrounding landscape.

Hiking

The surroundings of Francistown offer several hiking routes. Tourists can enjoy a day of hiking, taking in the natural beauty of Botswana.

Places near Francistown

If you are in Francistown and wish to explore a bit more, here are some nearby cities and towns that offer unique tourist and gastronomic experiences:

Gaborone, the vibrant capital of Botswana, offers a mix of modern and traditional cultures. Visitors can enjoy its rich cuisine, which includes local dishes such as seswaa and bogobe jwa lerotse, and explore its lively craft market.

Kasane, in Botswana, is a paradise for nature and gastronomy lovers. It offers thrilling safaris, stunning views of the Chobe River and a unique local cuisine, with dishes such as seswaa, game meat and fresh fish from the river.

Maun, the gateway to the stunning Okavango Delta in Botswana, offers a unique blend of outdoor adventures and local culinary experiences, with traditional dishes such as seswaa and bogobe jwa lerotse to delight food lovers.