Plizio Visual Lab

Livingstone Memorial

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Landmark

Weather…

The Livingstone Memorial at Kolobeng preserves the ruins of the only mission station personally established by the renowned explorer and missionary David Livingstone in Botswana, where he lived from 1847 to 1852. Located approximately 25 kilometers west of Gaborone, the site includes the mud-brick foundations of Livingstone's house, a church, and a school. A pivotal historical event occurred here in 1848 when Livingstone baptized the Bakwena chief, Sechele I, marking a significant milestone in the Christian history of the region. The station was tragically destroyed in 1852 during a conflict between the Boers and the Bakwena, an event that prompted Livingstone to venture further north on his famous expeditions. Today, the area is a protected National Monument, offering visitors a glimpse into 19th-century missionary life and the early cultural exchanges between Europeans and the Tswana people. The site remains a place of historical reflection, highlighting the challenges of early colonial-era settlements and Livingstone's enduring legacy in Southern Africa.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, Sep, Oct.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	25	25	23	20	16	13	13	16	20	24	25	25
Rain mm	94	90	76	44	12	11	2	3	11	36	67	99

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

The Livingstone Memorial in Kolobeng, Botswana, marks the site where David Livingstone lived and worked. The ruins are freely accessible and can be visited.

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Typical hours

The site is accessible at any time during the day, with no fixed opening hours. Best visited early morning or late afternoon.

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Photography

Photography is allowed and encouraged. The ruins offer interesting subjects with a historical backdrop.

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Time needed

Allow 30 to 60 minutes to explore the grounds and read the information boards. The surroundings invite a short walk.

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Combine with

Combine your visit with the nearby Kolobeng Mission. The Limpopo River is also not far and features nature experiences.