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Serowe Hills

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Serowe Hills (Botswana)

Weather…

The Serowe Hills are a series of prominent basalt outcrops located in the Central District of Botswana, defining the landscape of the historic town of Serowe. These volcanic formations rise approximately 100 meters above the surrounding plains to a total elevation of around 1150 meters. The most significant among them is Thathe Hill, which holds immense cultural and spiritual importance for the Bangwato people. The hilltops host the Royal Cemetery, the final resting place of revered leaders such as Khama III and Botswana's founding president, Sir Seretse Khama. Beyond their historical significance, the hills serve as essential natural catchments for rainwater in the semi-arid environment, fostering a unique micro-ecosystem. The vegetation on the rocky slopes consists of resilient aloe species, euphorbias, and wild fig trees that thrive in the crevices of the dark basaltic rock. Today, the Serowe Hills are a key destination for cultural heritage tourism, providing panoramic views over one of the largest traditional settlements in Southern Africa.

📋 Practical info

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Getting there
The hilly landscape is typically best accessed from the nearby town of Serowe, from where unpaved local tracks usually lead directly into the surrounding natural areas.
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Best season
The drier months typically offer the most favorable conditions for a visit, as the landscape is significantly less muddy and the local weather is generally much more comfortable.
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Terrain & paths
The terrain primarily consists of gentle elevations and rolling hilly sections, which frequently feature uneven pathways and rocky ground for those exploring on foot.
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What to bring
Sturdy footwear and ample water supplies are absolutely essential in this specific region, along with adequate sun protection against the frequently intense African sun.
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Parking
Vehicles can typically be left on the outskirts of Serowe or at informal but locally known stopping points situated conveniently near the accessible base of the hills.
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Safety
Visitors should always remain vigilant regarding local wildlife and actively avoid extreme heat during the midday hours to safely prevent serious exhaustion and dehydration.
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Time needed
A typical excursion into this peaceful hilly landscape usually takes anywhere from a half to a full day, depending heavily on the chosen routes and the overall depth of exploration.

Geography

Coordinates
-22.40000, 26.70000

Facts

  • Composed of ancient basaltic rock formations
  • Total elevation reaches approximately 1150 meters
  • Site of the Royal Cemetery of the Bangwato tribe
  • Burial place of Khama III and Sir Seretse Khama
  • Offer strategic views over the traditional capital Serowe
  • The hills function as a natural water catchment area

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Khama III Memorial MuseumKhama III Memorial Museum1 km · EExplore →
Serowe Rhino SanctuarySerowe Rhino Sanctuary7 km · NEExplore →
Khama Rhino SanctuaryKhama Rhino Sanctuary9 km · EExplore →
Morupule Power StationMorupule Power Station38 km · NExplore →
Morupule Coal MineMorupule Coal Mine41 km · NExplore →
Palapye Glass Manufacturing PlantPalapye Glass Manufacturing Plant50 km · NExplore →
Matloutse RiverMatloutse River52 km · NEExplore →
Shumba Energy Coal ProjectShumba Energy Coal Project56 km · NExplore →

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 Serowe Hills (1)

Khama III Memorial Museum🏛 museum

Museum in Serowe dedicated to the life of Khama III and regional history.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Why are the Serowe Hills historically important?
They are the burial site of the Bangwato royal family, including Sir Seretse Khama.
Can you hike on the hills?
Yes, short hikes are possible and offer a great view over the large village of Serowe.
What else can you visit in Serowe?
The Khama III Memorial Museum is highly recommended for those interested in history.
Are there campsites there?
There are good accommodation options in Serowe and at the nearby Khama Rhino Sanctuary.
What is the terrain like?
They are rocky sandstone hills that rise prominently from the otherwise flat surroundings.
Serowe Hills: where is it located?
Serowe Hills is located in Botswana.
Serowe Hills: why is it worth visiting?
The Serowe Hills are a series of prominent basalt outcrops located in the Central District of Botswana, defining the landscape of the historic town of Serowe.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
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History & landmarks

Serowe Royal Cemetery — Serowe Hills (Botswana)
Serowe Royal Cemetery
Overlooking the village from a hill, the Royal Cemetery is a sacred landmark where generations of Bangwato royalty are laid to rest.
London Missionary Society Ruins — Serowe Hills (Botswana)
London Missionary Society Ruins
The red-brick ruins of the London Missionary Society church are the most iconic landmark of the abandoned Old Palapye settlement.
Moeng College Building — Serowe Hills (Botswana)
Moeng College Building
Moeng College is a historic educational institution established by Tshekedi Khama in a remote and scenic valley.

More places

Khama III Memorial Museum — Serowe Hills (Botswana)
Khama III Memorial Museum
Located in Serowe, this museum preserves the history of the Khama dynasty and the cultural heritage of the Bangwato people.
Serowe Royal Cemetery — Serowe Hills (Botswana)
Serowe Royal Cemetery
This cemetery is the final resting place of the Khama family, including Botswana's first president, Sir Seretse Khama.
Serowe Rhino Sanctuary — Serowe Hills (Botswana)
Serowe Rhino Sanctuary
A local reserve for preserving the rhino population.
Khama Rhino Sanctuary — Serowe Hills (Botswana)
Khama Rhino Sanctuary
A conservation project dedicated to saving the white rhino.
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Morupule Power Station
The Morupule Power Station is the largest thermal power plant in Botswana.
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Morupule Coal Mine
Morupule Coal Mine is the primary source of coal in Botswana, fueling the national power supply.
Palapye Glass Manufacturing Plant — Serowe Hills (Botswana)
Palapye Glass Manufacturing Plant
Palapye hosts specialized manufacturing facilities, including those focusing on glass production utilizing regional resources.
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Matloutse River
A tributary in eastern Botswana.