Central Kalahari (Botswana) and Chobe (Botswana) are often weighed against each other. This comparison uses seasons, activities and access to help you choose.
| Central Kalahari | Chobe | |
|---|---|---|
| Country | Botswana | Botswana |
| Type | Reserve | National park |
| Approx. area | 52,800 km² | 11,700 km² |
| Best time | March to April | July to October |
| Suggested stay | 2–4 days | 2–3 days |
| Main gateway airport | Maun Airport (MUB) | Kasane Airport (BBK) |
| Big Five | Not all five | Not all five |
| Malaria | Low risk: check with a doctor | Malaria area: see a travel doctor |
| Families | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Honeymooners | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Photographers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| First-time visitors | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Budget travellers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Luxury travellers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
Month by month
| Month | Central Kalahari | Chobe |
|---|---|---|
| January | ★★★★★ rainy season | ★★★★★ rainy season |
| February | ★★★★★ rainy season | ★★★★★ rainy season |
| March | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ rainy season |
| April | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| May | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| June | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| July | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| August | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| September | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| October | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| November | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ some rain |
| December | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ rainy season |
How to choose
Choose Central Kalahari if
- you are travelling in December to April
- you want walking safaris, cultural visits and stargazing
- you hope to see oryx, eland, meerkats, ostriches and foxes
Choose Chobe if
- you are travelling in May to November
- you want boat safaris and fishing
- you hope to see elephants, buffalo, zebras, hippos and crocodiles
As both are in the same country, many travellers combine them in one trip.
Frequently asked questions
Which is better, Central Kalahari or Chobe?
It depends on when you travel and what you want to see. Central Kalahari is stronger in December to April. Chobe is stronger in May to November.
When is the best time for each?
Central Kalahari: March to April. Chobe: July to October.
Sources: Botswana Tourism - Central Kalahari Game Reserve · Botswana Tourism - Ghanzi · Climates to Travel (1991-2020 normals) - Ghanzi · Botswana Tourism - Chobe National Park · Botswana Tourism - Savuti and Linyanti · Climates to Travel (1991-2020 normals) - Kasane
Figures are approximate averages and vary from year to year.