22 Jan 2026

Nestled between Gerald Estate and Shashemooke, a wildlife park spanning approximately 19 kilometres is set to become Francistown’s latest hotspot for thrill-seekers and nature lovers.
The Francistown Education Park, established by the Ministry of Environment and Tourism, will introduce a unique blend of adventure and wildlife experiences, setting it apart from other parks in the country.
For athletes, the park’s bush walk and marathon trails offer an unparalleled experience.
Imagine running through a lush landscape surrounded by zebras, kudus and wildbeest, with birds chirping in the distance. That is exactly what awaits participants in the park’s upcoming marathons.
“I have run in several marathons, but this one is going to be a game-changer. The scenery is breathtaking, and the fact that I will be running alongside wildlife makes it even more exciting. It is like being part of a real-life National Geographic Channel,” said a local athlete with the Francistown Athletics Club, Rose ‘Myguel’ Ditihalo.
The park’s bush walk trail takes participants on a five-kilometre journey through the heart of the wildlife reserve, offering a chance to get up close with animals. For those seeking a more adrenaline-fuelled experience, the marathon trail stretches 10 kilometres, winding through the park’s rugged terrain.
“As an athlete, it is exhilarating to run in a park full of animals. You have to be aware of your surroundings, but it is also incredibly freeing. The animals themselves seem to be enjoying the show too, I have seen zebras alongside the trail, completely unfazed by the runners,” Ditihalo added.
The park’s unique activities are designed to promote eco-tourism and diversify Botswana’s tourism sector, which has traditionally focused on wildlife viewing.
“We want to show the world that there is more to Botswana than just wildlife,” said the Minister of Environment and Tourism, Wynter Mmolotsi, recently when addressing a Francistown special full council meeting.
He said the park was just the beginning, adding that the new administration planned to develop more innovative tourism products showcasing the country’s natural beauty.
“The park will form part of Francistown’s city tourism attractions and encourage visitors to stay longer in the city,” he said.
Meanwhile, a paddock has been demarcated, fenced and gated. Within it, a boma has been erected to hold incoming wildlife for acclimatisation purposes.
Stocking of the park has commenced, with impalas and zebras already introduced. Elands and ostriches are expected to arrive in the near future.
Principal Wildlife Officer, Tabona Nyakane said the Big Five would not be introduced due to safety reasons. However, giraffes would be introduced in future, the current challenge being the lack of suitable equipment for their transportation.
He said the animals were sourced from the Gaborone Game Reserve, with expectations that other reserves such as Sowa, Orapa and Jwaneng would donate wildlife to boost the park’s population.
Some of the ongoing developments include construction of a gatehouse, which is almost complete, and grading of game-drive routes.
Nyakane explained that the park’s ultimate goal was to provide hands-on experiential learning, boost community development and foster environmental stewardship by transforming green spaces into dynamic learning environments for students, communities and tourists.
He said the current developments were partial, as funds for full development were still awaiting disbursement.
Upon full operation, activities such as educational facilities, game drives, camping and chalet-style lodging will be introduced.
However, challenges have emerged, with some animals dying due to stress and difficulties adapting to the new environment.
“We have already lost five impalas due to stress and other complications. Some sustained serious injuries after fighting in transport trucks and later died,” said Senior Game Warden, Emmanuel Jeremiah.
He added that one impala bull with a stomach wound was receiving treatment and was in a stable and promising condition.
As the park prepares to welcome its first visitors, residents are eager to experience the new attraction.
“It is about time we had something like this in Francistown. I cannot wait to take my kids on the bush walk and see the animals up close,” said resident Masego Motingwa.
The park is expected to boost local tourism, create jobs and generate revenue for the community.
With its unique blend of adventure and wildlife, the Francistown Education Park is poised to become a must-visit destination for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike. ENDS