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Masa Square Centre
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Landmark
Masa Square Centre is a prominent symbol of Gaborone's rapid modernization and the centerpiece of the new Central Business District (CBD). Completed around 2012, the complex combines high-quality office space, luxury retail, and dining with the renowned Masa Square Hotel. The architecture is characterized by glass facades and an open-square design that creates a lively urban space. As one of Botswana's first mixed-use projects of this scale, Masa Square redefined the standard for commercial real estate in the capital. The center is a popular meeting point for business professionals and the upwardly mobile middle class, housing some of the city's most exclusive restaurants and cafes. Its strategic location within the CBD reflects Botswana's economic growth and ambitions to become a regional financial hub. The square often serves as a venue for cultural events and fashion shows, making it a central node of social life in Gaborone.
- Location: Botswana
- Top sights: Three Dikgosi Monument · Stone Monument · Philatelic Museum
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, May, Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 27 | 27 | 25 | 21 | 18 | 14 | 14 | 17 | 22 | 25 | 26 | 27 |
| Rain mm | 90 | 77 | 69 | 40 | 8 | 7 | 1 | 1 | 11 | 34 | 68 | 96 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
This spirited lifestyle and business complex is fully open to the public, offering a mix of upscale retail spaces, modern offices, and dining areas inside and out.
Typical hours
Retail shops and daytime amenities generally operate during standard business hours, while the surrounding restaurants and entertainment venues often remain open well into the late evening.
Photography
The sleek modern architecture and bustling square provide excellent opportunities for urban photography, especially when capturing the lively atmosphere during sunset or early evening.
Time needed
Visitors typically spend between one and three hours here, depending on whether they are just browsing the shops, having a quick coffee, or enjoying a full sit-down meal at one of the upscale eateries.
Combine with
Exploring the rest of the central business district is highly recommended, and you can easily pair this visit with a short trip to the Three Dikgosi Monument or the nearby Government Enclave.
Getting there
Situated directly within the heart of Gaborone's new CBD, the complex is highly accessible by local taxis, ride-hailing services, and has ample secure parking for those arriving by private rental car.
Insider tip
Planning your visit for the late afternoon allows you to seamlessly transition from daytime shopping into enjoying the spirited local nightlife and diverse culinary scene that comes alive after dark.
Geography
Facts
- Masa Square Centre is located in the heart of Gaborone's New Central Business District (CBD).
- The complex includes the 152-room Masa Square Hotel.
- It was one of the first buildings in Gaborone to implement the 'live-work-play' concept.
- The project was designed by leading South African architectural firms.
- The center houses Botswana's first 3D cinema facility.
- Masa Square is well-known for its rooftop terrace featuring a pool and panoramic city views.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Masa Square Centre (6)
Bonnington Farm
Historic farmstead recalling the agricultural heritage of Gaborone.
Decoon
Shop selling home decor and interior items in Gaborone.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is Masa Square Centre?
A modern business and lifestyle hub in Gaborone's CBD featuring hotels, cinemas, and offices.
Is there parking available?
Yes, both surface and secure underground parking are available for visitors.
What restaurants are located there?
It features a variety of cafes, fast-food chains, and fine dining options like Cappuccinos.
Is the centre safe?
Yes, it has private security services and is one of the safest locations in the city.
When are the shops open?
Most shops are open daily from 9:00 to 18:00, with restaurants often staying open later.
Masa Square Centre: where is it located?
Masa Square Centre is located in Botswana.
Masa Square Centre: what is there to see?
Highlights include Three Dikgosi Monument, Stone Monument, Philatelic Museum.
Masa Square Centre: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, May, Sep.
Masa Square Centre: why is it worth visiting?
Masa Square Centre is a prominent symbol of Gaborone's rapid modernization and the centerpiece of the new Central Business District (CBD).
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History & landmarks
Sir Seretse Khama Statue
This statue in the heart of Gaborone honors Sir Seretse Khama, the founding president of independent Botswana.
National Assembly Building
The National Assembly building is the seat of Botswana's Parliament, representing the country's long-standing democratic traditions.
Three Dikgosi Monument
This central landmark in Gaborone features impressive bronze statues of the three tribal chiefs who secured Botswana's future.
Botswana National Museum
The National Museum complex is a cultural landmark in Gaborone, housing the nation's most important art and historical collections.
iTowers
A modern high-rise complex shaping Gaborone's skyline.
SADC Headquarters
The Southern African Development Community (SADC) headquarters is a modern office complex and a symbol of regional cooperation.
Bank of Botswana Headquarters
The Bank of Botswana building is a financial landmark, housing the central bank responsible for the nation's monetary policy.
Orapa House
Orapa House is a famous landmark in Gaborone, formerly used for the sorting and valuing of the nation's diamonds.
More places
Gaborone Botanical Garden
The Gaborone Botanical Garden is a serene green space showcasing indigenous plants and providing an educational park for children.
Gaborone Game Reserve
A small, city-adjacent wildlife reserve.
Gaborone Nature Trail
An easy hiking trail for children to explore local flora.
Notwane River
A river that flows through Gaborone.
Moshaweng River
The Moshaweng is a seasonal river in southern Botswana, typical of the dry drainage systems found in the Kalahari region.
Gaborone Zoo
A small zoo for children for wildlife observation.
Gaborone Dam
A popular recreation area at the dam.
Mokolodi Nature Reserve
An educational center for nature conservation with many interactive opportunities.