Marang Casino and Cresta Marang Gardens Hotel

Located in Francistown, 2nd largest city in Botawana, is the Marang Casino and Cresta Marang Gardens Hotel. The city is sometimes referred to as the capital of the north and is a decent stopover if you’re interested in the landscape and a bit of light gaming. You can find three major rivers in the area – the Tati, Inchwe and Shashe. To get a better grasp on the history of the region, head to the Supa Ngwao Museum which has gone through recent renovations. To best see the flora and fauna indigenous to this area, check out either the Tachila Nature Reserve or the Birds and Game Botswana.

gaming

The casino is really rather weak in its offering, with just a mere 50 slot machines and a gaming space of 1733 sq ft. While it may not have all the things the die-hard gambler is looking for, sometimes a relaxing hour or two on the gaming floor out of the hot sun is really all you need to get your head back on straight and get your bearings before heading back out into the city.

Hotel/Accommodations

The hotel has 54 standard rooms, 40 of which have double beds, while the other 14 have 2 twin beds, and come equipped with air conditioning, satellite tv, and a balcony overlooking the pool and courtyard. The hotel is approximately 5 minutes outside of Francistown, a short cab ride back into downtown. Make sure to fully utilize your time at the hotel by asking for recommendations on the best local eateries, and information on attractions throughout the city.

Dining

The hotel restaurant can seat 100 guests and serves both a breakfast and lunch buffet as well as an a la carte dinner. Light eats can also be found at the pool bar. For café style dining, there’s Merilicious. Nearby restaurants include Barcelo’s, Milky Lane, Spur’s, Debonair’s Pizza and the ever-familiar KFC. Be sure to ask staff at both the hotel and casino for suggestions on popular venues nearby that dish up authentic Botswanan cuisine.

Attractions/NightLife

When it’s time to let loose, kick off your heels for drinks and dancing over at Lizard Entertainment Nightclub. If you’re inclined to relax and sun while enjoying your favourite cocktails, order at the pool bar at the hotel. For light snacks with your drinks, try the Fox and Hound Cocktail Bar. To get a feel for the city, stroll along the banks of one of the rivers or head over to the Supa Ngwao Museum. To best appreciate the indigenous flora and fauna, make a day trip of visiting the Tachila Nature Reserve, or Birds and Game Botswana, home to orphaned and injured wildlife. For historical/archaeological sites, there’s Domboshaba (meaning ‘red rock’ when translated from Kalang), dating back to 1450 AD.

Rewards/Deals

The casino does not currently have any player rewards systems in place. Be sure to speak to casino staff about any potential contests or promotions which might be running during your visit.