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Capital city in South-East District, Botswana

Is Gaborone LGBTQ+ friendly?

Updated October 2026Sources
3/5Tolerant, but be discreet

Is Gaborone LGBTQ+ friendly?

Decriminalised by the courts in 2019 with workplace protection; the capital has the most open scene, but attitudes remain conservative.

LGBTQ+ laws in Botswana

Decriminalised by the courts in 2019 and upheld in 2021, with workplace protections; attitudes remain conservative, so public affection draws attention.

Status
Same-sex relationships legalYes
Same-sex marriageNo
Civil unions or partnershipsNo
Legal gender changeYes
Anti-discrimination lawPartial

LGBTQ+ friendliness across Botswana

PlaceRating
Maun3/5 · Tolerant, but be discreet
Kasane3/5 · Tolerant, but be discreet
Gaborone3/5 · Tolerant, but be discreet

Quick answers

Is Gaborone safe for LGBTQ+ travelers?

Decriminalised by the courts in 2019 with workplace protection; the capital has the most open scene, but attitudes remain conservative.

Is same-sex marriage legal in Botswana?

No.

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Sources

Ratings combine national law with local attitudes and the scene. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.