Handpicked by a Botswana Local Expert, we bring you our guide to 'Best Sporting Events in Botswana'.
Sport plays a significant role in the culture of Botswana, and there are several exciting sporting events that take place throughout the year. Whether you are a participant or a spectator, these events offer a unique glimpse into the athletic talent and passion of the people of Botswana.
One of the most popular sporting events in Botswana is the Toyota Kalahari Botswana 1000 Desert Race. This annual off-road race attracts participants from all over the world who compete in a grueling three-day race through the desert terrain of Botswana. Spectators line the race route to cheer on the competitors, creating an electrifying atmosphere.
For those who prefer water sports, the Makgadikgadi Epic is a must-see event. This kayak race takes place on the vast salt pans of Makgadikgadi and offers participants a unique and challenging experience. The race showcases the stunning natural beauty of Botswana while providing a thrilling competition for both paddlers and spectators.
If you are a fan of equestrian sports, be sure to attend the President's Day Celebrations, which include horse racing events held in honor of the President of Botswana. The races feature some of the fastest and most skilled horses in the country, making for an exhilarating day of competition and entertainment.
Lastly, the Botswana International Trade Fair is a diverse event that includes various sporting competitions such as soccer, basketball, and athletics. This fair brings together athletes from different parts of the country to showcase their skills and talents, creating a vibrant and competitive sporting atmosphere.
Whether you are a sports enthusiast or simply looking to experience the unique sporting culture of Botswana, attending one of these events is sure to be a memorable and exciting experience.
Makgadikgadi Epic 12-15 July
The Makgadikgadi Epic is like the name says an epic skydiving event which is taking place this year from 12 - 15 July. It is a once in a lifetime experience that would tie in perfectly with your Botswana holiday whether you are travelling via fly-in, self-drive or guided safari. The Makgadikgadi Epic is hosted on the salt pans which in our opinion is one of the most magical regions of Botswana. Ju...
Khawa Dune Challenge & Cultural Festival 10-13 May
This annual festival is hosted by the Botswana Tourism Organisation together with the Ministry of Youth, Sport and Culture as well as Botswana Motor Sport. The event is hosted in a small village called Khawa approximately 167 km south-west of Tsabong in the Kgalagadi District. The event is a combination of sports and fun offering a variety of quad and motorbike challenges, camel rides and cultural...
Toyota Kalahari 1000 Desert Race 22-24 June
The Toyota 1000 Desert Race has been taking place for over 35 years on an annual basis and is the biggest off-road race in Africa. It usually takes place at the end of June every year and attracts competitors from all of Southern Africa. With it's growing popularity it draws in over 120,000 spectators with audiences arriving from the surrounding countries as well as overseas. The competi...
Nedbank Tour de Tuli 23-28 July
The Nedbank Tour de Tuli is an annual bike tour where you will be cycling in Botswana, South Africa and Zimbabwe. It is a charitable event contributing towards the Children in the Wilderness and Wilderness Wildlife Trust charity programs. The Tour de Tuli is one of the few cycling events Botswana has to offer and has been running successfully for the past 14 years. The year 2019 will see ...
Mascom National Derby
The Mascom Derby first started in 2006 and has become an annual event taking place around easter. It attracts a number of competitors both local and from neighbouring countries such as Namibia and South Africa. In the past years it has attracted over 10,000 viewers to see approximately 70 jockeys fight to win in a number of events varying between 800m, 1000m, 1400m, 1600m and 2400m. It gives the B...
