Art & Craft Tour

Introduction

If you’re curious about Botswana beyond the usual game drives and safari lodges, the Art & Craft Tour offers a fascinating glimpse into rural life and traditional craftsmanship. While I haven’t taken this exact tour myself, the detailed reviews and itinerary paint a vivid picture of an authentic, well-rounded experience.

What really appeals are the chance to visit four different villages, learn about local history and culture, and even buy handcrafted goods directly from artisans. The inclusion of a museum tour and lunch at a local restaurant adds layers of depth to the day.

One thing to consider is that this tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, so mobility might be limited for some travelers. Still, if you’re eager to understand Botswana’s heritage through its villages and crafts, this tour seems well worth considering. It’s ideal for those looking to connect with local traditions and enjoy a meaningful cultural outing.

Key Points

Authentic cultural exposure: Visit four villages to see traditional crafts, history, and daily life.
Museum and historical sites: The guided tour of Phuthadikobo Museum and Livingstone’s Tree adds educational value.
Hands-on experiences: Witness locals weaving and pottery-making, with opportunities to buy souvenirs.
Inclusive meal and shopping: Lunch at Botswana Craft combines local cuisine with a chance to purchase handmade crafts.
Small group feel: The tour typically runs with a guide, making it personable and informative.
Price for value: At $270, it offers a comprehensive cultural day, blending history, craft, and community.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Botswana’s Rural Life on the Art & Craft Tour

This tour offers a fantastic way for travelers to move beyond Gaborone’s urban scene and explore Botswana’s diverse villages. It’s perfect for culture enthusiasts, history buffs, and those who enjoy learning about local craftsmanship firsthand. The day is thoughtfully designed to balance educational visits, practical craft demonstrations, and relaxed moments to soak in the rural atmosphere.

From Gaborone to Mochudi: Discovering the Bakgatla Tribe

Your day begins with a hotel pickup, setting a comfortable tone for the adventure. Once you’re in the vehicle, the drive north (about 40km or 25 miles) takes you into the heart of Mochudi, a vibrant village home to the Bakgatla people. Here, the highlight is the Phuthadikobo Museum, where your guide will shed light on the history of the tribe and their traditions.

This museum isn’t just a collection of old artifacts; it’s a window into Botswana’s cultural roots. According to reviews, guides like Christina are very knowledgeable, making the experience both engaging and educational. You’ll learn about local history, customs, and perhaps even hear stories passed down through generations.

The Art of Weaving at Oodi

Next, the tour takes you to Oodi, a village renowned for weaving crafts. Unlike a simple visit, you get to see locals weaving textiles, and you might even have the chance to participate in the process. Several visitors have appreciated the hands-on aspect, with one review stating they could join in hand-weaving with local women. Witnessing craft in action offers a tangible connection to Botswana’s cultural expression, and it’s a moment you won’t forget.

Lunch at Botswana Craft: Tasting and Shopping

No cultural tour is complete without sampling local flavors, and the tour’s stop at Botswana Craft delivers just that. The restaurant provides a taste of authentic Botswana cuisine in a relaxed setting. Reviews mention that the guide was friendly and professional, making the experience even more enjoyable.

After lunch, the shop area is a treasure trove of handmade souvenirs—from woven items to jewelry and carved figures. Many travelers find it satisfying to pick up a unique craft as a memento, knowing it supports local artisans directly.

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Pottery and Rock Paintings in Gabane and Manyana

Post-lunch, the tour continues to Gabane, where you’ll see skilled artisans working with clay. Watching locals craft pottery offers insight into a traditional skill that’s been passed down for generations.

The route then takes you to Manyana, where a short walk leads you to the Mma Sechele Monument. This site links to local history and features ancient rock paintings dating back around 2000 years. These paintings, created by bush tribes, are a fascinating glimpse into early artistic expression and daily life of ancient peoples.

The Livingstone Tree and Memorial

Your final stop is the famous Livingstone’s Tree, linked to the missionary/explorer David Livingstone. Nearby, a memorial commemorates his work and influence in the region. Observing locals going about their daily routines nearby offers a relaxed, genuine snapshot of rural Botswana life.

Returning to Gaborone

As the day winds down, you’ll enjoy a scenic drive back, passing rural villages and passing by the Livingstone’s Tree once more. The experience leaves you with a well-rounded sense of Botswana’s cultural landscape—beyond the wildlife safaris, into the realm of local traditions, crafts, and history.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Depth of cultural insight: Unlike standard city tours, this experience immerses you directly in village life.
Authentic craft experiences: Watching artisans at work, and possibly participating, adds an engaging touch.
Educational value: The museum, rock paintings, and historical sites deepen your understanding of Botswana’s past.
Support for local communities: Purchasing crafts helps sustain artisans, making your souvenirs meaningful.
Flexible itinerary: The sequence of village visits offers a natural flow from historical to contemporary life.

Practical Considerations

Transportation: The tour uses a comfortable vehicle with hotel pickup and drop-off included, making logistics hassle-free.
Duration: It’s a full-day experience, allowing ample time at each site without feeling rushed.
Group size: Although not explicitly stated, guided tours like this typically keep groups small, fostering interaction and a personal experience.
Cost: At $270 per person, the price reflects the diversity of activities—museum visits, craft demonstrations, lunch, and transport. When you consider how much is packed into this day, it offers good value for a culture.

Accessibility: The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, so consider mobility needs before booking.
Language: Guides speak English, ensuring clear explanations and storytelling.
Refund policy: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, adding flexibility for planning.

Final Thoughts

This Art & Craft Tour offers a unique opportunity to see Botswana from a different perspective—one rooted in tradition, community, and history. It’s especially suited for travelers eager to explore beyond the typical safari scene and connect with local culture through craft, stories, and sites.

The combination of engaging guides, authentic craft demonstrations, and historical sites makes for an enriching day. Plus, the chance to buy genuine handmade items ensures you’ll leave with souvenirs that truly represent Botswana’s cultural spirit.

While it might not be the best fit for those with mobility limitations, for everyone else, this tour provides a meaningful, relaxed, and visually stimulating experience. If understanding Botswana’s everyday life and traditions is on your list, this trip is a smart choice.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included? Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics simple and stress-free.
What is the cost of the tour? It costs $270 per person, which includes entrance fees and lunch, making it a well-rounded value for a full-day experience.
How long does the tour last? It is a full-day tour, giving enough time to explore each village and site thoroughly.
Are the sites accessible? The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, as it involves walking and some uneven terrain.
What kind of food is served during lunch? You’ll enjoy local cuisine at Botswana Craft, with a chance to sample traditional flavors.
Can I buy crafts during the tour? Absolutely, the stop at Botswana Craft and other craft stops allow you to purchase handmade souvenirs.
Is the tour suitable for children? While not explicitly stated, the focus on cultural and historical sites makes it suitable for most ages, but check with the provider for specific age recommendations.
How knowledgeable are the guides? Based on reviews, guides like Christina are very friendly, professional, and well-informed, enhancing the experience.
What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and some cash for extra shopping are recommended.
Are meals included? Yes, the tour includes a lunch stop, but other meals and beverages are not covered.

To sum it up, the Art & Craft Tour in Botswana offers a meaningful way to engage with local communities, learn about history, and shop authentic crafts. It’s perfect for cultural explorers who want a balanced, authentic day outside the usual tourist hotspots. If you’re after a deeper connection to Botswana’s traditions and a chance to support local artisans, this tour provides a memorable, value-packed experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: