Central Kalahari (Botswana) and Pilanesberg (South Africa) are often weighed against each other. This comparison uses seasons, activities and access to help you choose.
| Central Kalahari | Pilanesberg | |
|---|---|---|
| Country | Botswana | South Africa |
| Type | Reserve | National park |
| Approx. area | 52,800 km² | 550 km² |
| Best time | March to April | July to September |
| Suggested stay | 2–4 days | 1–3 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 | Pilanesberg |
|---|---|---|
| January | ★★★★★ rainy season | ★★★★★ rainy season |
| February | ★★★★★ rainy season | ★★★★★ some rain |
| 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 | ★★★★★ some rain |
| November | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ rainy season |
| December | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ rainy season |
How to choose
Choose Central Kalahari if
- you are travelling in March to April and November to January
- you want cultural visits and stargazing
- you hope to see oryx, meerkats, ostriches and foxes
Choose Pilanesberg if
- you are travelling in May to October
- you want night drives and hot-air balloon flights
- you hope to see elephants, white rhino, black rhino, buffalo and zebras
Frequently asked questions
Which is better, Central Kalahari or Pilanesberg?
It depends on when you travel and what you want to see. Central Kalahari is stronger in March to April and November to January. Pilanesberg is stronger in May to October.
When is the best time for each?
Central Kalahari: March to April. Pilanesberg: July to September.
Sources: Botswana Tourism - Central Kalahari Game Reserve · Botswana Tourism - Ghanzi · Climates to Travel (1991-2020 normals) - Ghanzi · North West Parks Board · Pilanesberg National Park - travel information · Climates to Travel (1991-2020 normals) - South Africa (Pretoria, Mahikeng)
Figures are approximate averages and vary from year to year.