Francistown

Francistown is one of Botswana’s oldest and largest towns, and is known for being the epicentre of South Africa’s very first gold rush in the mid 1800's. Gold had actually been mined and used by locals in the area for generations before.

The town is named after the British entrepreneur Daniel Francis, who gained the prospecting licenses in 1869. Old, abandoned mines are still seen scattered along the edge of the town.

Francistown is located north of Gaborone, and has an important railway line leading to Bulawayo, Zimbabwe.

Due to the revival in the interest of gold mining, Francistown is undergoing a welcome economic boom.

Tourists and locals alike enjoy the colourful African local markets and beautiful parks distributed throughout the city. There is also a vibrant nightclub scene supporting wonderfully talented local musicians and dancers.