Ten important skateboard spots in Botswana, Africa (2024)
1. Gaborone Skatepark (Gaborone):
Gaborone, the capital city of Botswana, is home to the Gaborone Skatepark, a vibrant hub for skateboarders. The park boasts various ramps, rails, and street-style obstacles, catering to riders of all skill levels. Skateboarding at Gaborone Skatepark allows riders to connect with the local skateboarding community, participate in events and competitions, and experience the growing skateboarding culture in the city.2. Maun Skatepark (Maun)
Maun, a town located on the edge of the Okavango Delta, offers skateboarders the Maun Skatepark, a lively spot for skateboarding enthusiasts. The park features ramps, banks, and rails, providing riders with ample opportunities for technical tricks and creative lines. Skateboarding at Maun Skatepark allows riders to combine their love for skateboarding with the beauty of the Okavango Delta, explore the surrounding wildlife reserves, and experience the unique atmosphere of this gateway to the delta.
3. Serowe Skate Spot (Serowe)
Serowe, a town rich in cultural heritage, is home to the Serowe Skate Spot, a small but vibrant skateboarding location. This spot offers riders a mix of street-style features, ledges, and banks, allowing for creative and technical skateboarding. Skateboarding at Serowe Skate Spot enables riders to connect with the local skateboarding community, learn about the history and traditions of the town, and enjoy the warm hospitality of the residents
4. Francistown Skatepark (Francistown)
Francistown, the second-largest city in Botswana, features the Francistown Skatepark, a popular destination for skateboarders in the region. The park offers a range of ramps, bowls, and rails, catering to riders of different skill levels and riding preferences. Skateboarding at Francistown Skatepark provides riders with the opportunity to connect with local skateboarders, experience the vibrant urban atmosphere of the city, and immerse themselves in the cultural diversity of the area
5. Kasane Skate Spot (Kasane)
Kasane, a town located near the borders of Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe, offers skateboarders the Kasane Skate Spot. This spot features ramps, ledges, and banks, providing riders with a space to showcase their skills and creativity. Skateboarding at Kasane Skate Spot allows riders to enjoy the unique setting of being near the meeting point of four countries, explore the nearby Chobe National Park, and appreciate the diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes of the region.
6. Makgadikgadi Pans (Nata)
The vast salt pans of Makgadikgadi, located near the town of Nata, offer skateboarders a truly unique and surreal skateboarding experience. With its vast open spaces and flat terrain, the pans provide riders with the opportunity to cruise along the seemingly endless horizon. Skateboarding on the Makgadikgadi Pans allows riders to connect with the raw beauty of the desert-like landscape, witness breathtaking sunsets and starry nights, and experience the sense of freedom and solitude that comes with skateboarding in such an awe-inspiring environment.
7. Okavango Delta (Maun)
The Okavango Delta, one of the world's largest inland deltas, offers skateboarders a thrilling and unconventional skateboarding experience. With its vast waterways and floating reed islands, the delta provides riders with the opportunity to explore the water channels on specially designed skateboard decks or skimboarding. Skateboarding in the Okavango Delta allows riders to appreciate the unique ecosystem, spot wildlife such as hippos and elephants, and create unforgettable memories in this remarkable natural wonder.
8. Molepolole Skate Spot (Molepolole)
Molepolole, a large village in Botswana, features the Molepolole Skate Spot, a popular gathering place for local skateboarders. This spot offers a mix of street-style features, ramps, and ledges, catering to riders of different skill levels. Skateboarding at Molepolole Skate Spot allows riders to connect with the local skateboarding community, experience the vibrant and welcoming atmosphere of the village, and learn about the traditions and customs of the Setswana people.
9. Tsodilo Hills (Shakawe)
Tsodilo Hills, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, provides skateboarders with a unique and visually stunning skateboarding location. The hills are adorned with ancient rock art and offer riders a blend of natural transitions and rock formations that can be used for creative skate lines. Skateboarding at Tsodilo Hills allows riders to appreciate the cultural and historical significance of the rock art, experience the spiritual energy of the site, and connect with the ancient traditions of the San people.
10. Tswapong Hills (Palapye)
Tswapong Hills, a range of hills located near the town of Palapye, offers skateboarders a thrilling downhill skateboarding experience. The hills feature winding roads, steep descents, and breathtaking views, providing riders with an adrenaline-pumping adventure. Skateboarding at Tswapong Hills allows riders to appreciate the natural beauty of the region, test their skills on challenging terrain, and experience the exhilaration that comes with conquering the hills.
Skateboarding is tribal and most locals are welcoming, but if you're new to a spot, or just passing through, have respect for the locals. Listen. Be smart. Have fun.
A human being
Art can change the world – and everybody is an artist. Those who scribble stickmen. Those who paint chapel ceilings. Those who tattoo biceps. Those who are careful with pigment on canvas. Those who create fantasy characters. Those who paint pet portraits. Those who yarn bomb. Those who write poems on crappy old cardboard.
My art lives on the bottom of skateboard decks. It's designed for you to destroy. For you, the rider, my art may come second to the deck’s ability to perform – and that’s awesome. To me, art comes first. Always.
It’s how I think. It’s who I am. It’s what I am.
A machine
This article has been created with the help of artificial intelligence platforms ChatGPT and Bard. If there are inaccuracies or there are opportunities for improvement, please let me know.
BellyRash