Plizio Visual Lab

Notwane River

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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Weather…

The Notwane River is a vital watercourse in southeastern Botswana, playing a pivotal role in the water supply for the capital city, Gaborone. It originates in the Sandveld area west of Ramotswa and flows in a northeasterly direction before eventually joining the Limpopo River as a left-bank tributary. The river is predominantly ephemeral, meaning that during dry periods it may consist only of a series of pools, while heavy rains can cause it to swell rapidly. In the 1960s, the Gaborone Dam was constructed on the Notwane, and it continues to be the primary drinking water reservoir for the metropolitan area. The banks of the Notwane are lined with gallery forests and dense thickets, providing essential habitat for numerous bird species and small mammals. Historically, the Notwane basin was a significant settlement area for the Batlokwa and other Tswana tribes, who utilized the fertile riparian land for agriculture. Despite increasing urbanization, the river remains a critical ecological feature, though it faces threats from environmental pollution originating in nearby industrial zones. The river's hydrological patterns are essential for maintaining the balance of the semi-arid landscape in the southeast.

Location: Botswana
Top sights: Dave's · Subaru Botswana

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

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Getting there

The river and its immediate surroundings are highly accessible from various points within Gaborone, including public parks and suburban areas. For nature walks, the trails near the Gaborone Dam offer straightforward, clearly marked access points to the riverbanks.

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Best season

The dry winter months from May to September provide pleasant walking weather with low humidity and cooler daytime temperatures. However, during the summer rainy season, water levels can rise significantly, sometimes causing localized flooding of the adjacent paths.

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Terrain & paths

The landscape adjacent to the river within the city limits typically consists of flat, shaded riparian zones and cleared recreational pathways. Further away from the urban center, the banks transition into thicker bushveld, requiring sturdy shoes for uneven, natural ground.

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What to bring

Comfortable walking or running shoes are perfectly adequate for the urban stretches, along with a broad hat and basic sun protection. Binoculars are highly recommended for birdwatchers hoping to spot the varied avian life commonly found along the water's edge.

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Parking

Parking is widely available at established recreational facilities, nearby shopping centers, or designated lay-bys close to the river within Gaborone. Ensure vehicles are securely locked and do not leave any visible valuables unattended while enjoying your walk.

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Safety

Even in urban areas, crocodile sightings are a real possibility along certain stretches; swimming or wading in the river is strictly prohibited. Additionally, it is generally advised to stick to populated paths and avoid lingering in completely isolated sections after dark.

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Time needed

A relaxing stroll or a dedicated birdwatching session along the accessible banks typically spans one to two hours. Residents often incorporate the riverside trails into shorter daily exercise routines or weekend family picnics near the dam.

Geography

Coordinates

-24.60000, 25.90000

Facts

The Notwane River is approximately 250 kilometers in length.
The Gaborone Dam on the Notwane was officially commissioned in 1964.
The name 'Notwane' translates to 'river of reed mats' in the local language.
In certain sections, the river forms the international boundary with South Africa.
Key tributaries of the Notwane include the Taung and the Metsemotlhaba.
The river basin is currently challenged by the spread of invasive water hyacinths.