Southern

The Southern District is a region in south-eastern Botswana, stretching from the outskirts of Gaborone south to the border with South Africa. It is the traditional homeland of the Bangwaketse people, with their capital at Kanye — one of Botswana's largest and most historic traditional villages. The district's landscape consists of acacia savanna, low rocky hills, and seasonal river valleys. The Southern District has a mix of traditional villages, farming communities, and small towns, offering visitors a chance to experience the cultural heartland of Botswana away from the major safari circuits. It is accessible from Gaborone and makes an excellent day-trip destination.

The dry winter months (May–August) are ideal, with mild temperatures and sunny skies. Summer (October–March) is hot with occasional afternoon thunderstorms. The Kanye Agricultural Show typically takes place in July.

The A2 highway runs through the district, connecting Gaborone to Kanye and continuing south towards the Jwaneng road. Minor roads are unpaved and can be rough in places. Minibus taxis run regularly between Gaborone, Kanye, and the major villages.

• Kanye — The traditional capital of the Bangwaketse people, one of Botswana's largest villages.
• Moshupa — A traditional village known for its rocky hills and cultural heritage.
• Goodhope — A farming town in the southern part of the district.
• Mmathethe — A rural settlement in the south.
• Pitsane — A village near the South African border.
• Ranaka — A farming community.
• Lotlhakane — A settlement in the southern district.
• Sese — A rural village.
• Digawana — A border-area settlement.

The Southern District's cuisine is classic Setswana: pap (maize porridge), seswaa (pulled beef), morogo (wild spinach), and grilled meats. Kanye has small restaurants serving traditional dishes.

The Bangwaketse people maintain strong traditions, with the active kgotla (tribal court) in Kanye as a focal point. The Dithubaruba Cultural Festival in Kanye (September) celebrates Bangwaketse music, dance, and history.

• Kanye cultural tour — Visit the Bangwaketse kgotla, the Kanye cemetery, and traditional homesteads.
• Dithubaruba Cultural Festival — An annual celebration of Bangwaketse heritage (September).
• Moshupa hills hike — The rocky hills around Moshupa offer good walking and views.
• Cross-border trip to South Africa — The district's southern border posts provide access to South Africa's North West Province.