Central Kalahari (Botswana) and Lower Zambezi (Zambia) are often weighed against each other. This comparison uses seasons, activities and access to help you choose.
| Central Kalahari | Lower Zambezi | |
|---|---|---|
| Country | Botswana | Zambia |
| Type | Reserve | National park |
| Approx. area | 52,800 km² | 4,092 km² |
| Best time | March to April | August to October |
| Suggested stay | 2–4 days | 3–4 days |
| Main gateway airport | Maun Airport (MUB) | Kenneth Kaunda International Airport (LUN) |
| 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 | Lower Zambezi |
|---|---|---|
| January | ★★★★★ rainy season | ★★★★★ rainy season |
| February | ★★★★★ rainy season | ★★★★★ rainy season |
| March | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ rainy season |
| April | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ some rain |
| 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 camping, cultural visits and stargazing
- you hope to see cheetahs, giraffes, oryx, wildebeest and meerkats
Choose Lower Zambezi if
- you are travelling in June to October
- you want canoeing, boat safaris, night drives and fishing
- you hope to see elephants, buffalo, hippos, crocodiles and zebras
Frequently asked questions
Which is better, Central Kalahari or Lower Zambezi?
It depends on when you travel and what you want to see. Central Kalahari is stronger in December to April. Lower Zambezi is stronger in June to October.
When is the best time for each?
Central Kalahari: March to April. Lower Zambezi: August to October.
Sources: Botswana Tourism - Central Kalahari Game Reserve · Botswana Tourism - Ghanzi · Climates to Travel (1991-2020 normals) - Ghanzi · Zambia Tourism - Lower Zambezi National Park · Climates to Travel (1991-2020 normals) - Kariba (Zambezi valley proxy)
Figures are approximate averages and vary from year to year.