Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
North of Gaborone
MATSIENG ROCK CARVINGS
The Batswana regard the Matsieng Rock Carvings as one of the four 'creation sites'. Ac-
cording to legend, the footprint and rock carvings belonged to Matsieng, who marched out
of a hole followed by wild and domestic animals. There is a small information board at
the gate and, on the other side of the fence from the car park, a tiny room with some ex-
planations. The site lies at the end of a well-signposted 1km-long 2WD track that starts
about 6km north of Pilane.
MOCHUDI
As evidenced by ruined stone walls in the hills, the charming village of Mochudi was first
settled in the 1500s by the Kwena, who are one of the three most prominent lineage
groups of the Batswana. In 1871, however, the Kgatla settled here after being forced from
their lands by north-trekking Boers.
Buses to Mochudi (P15, one hour) depart from Gaborone when full. By car, head to Pil-
ane and turn east. After 6km, turn left at the T-junction and then right just before the hos-
pital to reach the historic village centre.
West of Gaborone
GABANE
The ancient hilltop settlements around Gabane date from between AD 800 and 1200, and
were built by the early Bangologa people, who once inhabited this area. A more contem-
porary attraction is
Pelegano Village
( 394 7054; Gabane; workshop 8am-4.30pm
Mon-Fri, craft shop 7.30am-1pm Sat, 2-4pm Sun)
, established in 1982. This wonderful
artisan complex offers local crafts such as hand-fired ceramics and wine bottles recycled
into dinner glasses.
Gabane village is 12km southwest of Mogoditshane and 23km from central Gaborone.
Pelegano Village is 900m along a dirt road that starts at the second turn-off along the road
from Mogoditshane - look for the Pelegano signs. By public transport, take the bus to-
wards Kanye from Gaborone (P18, 25 minutes) and walk the last bit to Pelegano Village.
