Located in the heart of Gaborone, Grand Aria Hotel & Conference Centre offers a full spectrum of business and leisure services, including conference spaces, event hosting, open gardens for sundowners, an infinity pool, and a hot tub. The hotel combines three-star accommodation with five-star service at highly competitive prices, positioning itself as a “home away from home” for both business and leisure travellers.

Grand Aria’s clientele is 60% local, 25% South African, and 15% American, with US visitors forming the largest share of its luxury tourism segment. Botswana’s government support, particularly in facilitating visas and streamlining permits for foreign direct investment, is also driving growth in international travel. “There is a willingness from the government to collaborate with the hospitality sector,” says General Manager Donovan Britz.

Tourism is the country’s second-largest contributor to GDP, expected to grow by 8% by 2026. However, challenges persist, especially the shortage of skilled hospitality workers. Grand Aria supports the wider community by sourcing supplies locally and recognises the need for more investment in skills and know-how. “People are the greatest asset of our country and businesses.”

The hotel is currently focused on gaining MICE industry accreditations and awards for 2025, after winning ‘Best MICE hotel 2024’, and has future plans to acquire a new property under a brand chain. Sales have now returned to pre-pandemic levels, a strong signal of recovery. “Hospitality is a way of living, and I am very passionate about becoming the best, offering the best services.”

With a personalised approach where guests are called by name, and a clear strategy for growth, Grand Aria invites international partners and investors to experience Botswana’s culture, people, and opportunities.