Central Kalahari (Botswana) and Madikwe (South Africa) are often weighed against each other. This comparison uses seasons, activities and access to help you choose.
| Central Kalahari | Madikwe | |
|---|---|---|
| Country | Botswana | South Africa |
| Type | Reserve | Reserve |
| Approx. area | 52,800 km² | 750 km² |
| Best time | March to April | July to September |
| Suggested stay | 2–4 days | 2–4 days |
| Main gateway airport | Maun Airport (MUB) | O. R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) |
| Big Five | Not all five | Present |
| Malaria | Low risk: check with a doctor | None |
| Families | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Honeymooners | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Photographers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| First-time visitors | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Budget travellers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Luxury travellers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
Month by month
| Month | Central Kalahari | Madikwe |
|---|---|---|
| January | ★★★★★ rainy season | ★★★★★ rainy season |
| February | ★★★★★ rainy season | ★★★★★ rainy season |
| March | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ some rain |
| 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 | ★★★★★ some rain |
| November | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ some rain |
| December | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ some rain |
How to choose
Choose Central Kalahari if
- you are travelling in January to March
- you want camping, cultural visits and stargazing
- you hope to see oryx, meerkats, ostriches and foxes
Choose Madikwe if
- you are travelling in May to October
- you want night drives
- you hope to see elephants, white rhino, black rhino, buffalo and zebras
Frequently asked questions
Which is better, Central Kalahari or Madikwe?
It depends on when you travel and what you want to see. Central Kalahari is stronger in January to March. Madikwe is stronger in May to October.
When is the best time for each?
Central Kalahari: March to April. Madikwe: July to September.
Sources: Botswana Tourism - Central Kalahari Game Reserve · Botswana Tourism - Ghanzi · Climates to Travel (1991-2020 normals) - Ghanzi · North West Parks Board · South African Tourism - Madikwe · Climates to Travel (1991-2020 normals) - South Africa (Mahikeng)
Figures are approximate averages and vary from year to year.