Central Kalahari for a first safari

Central Kalahari is not the first choice for a first safari; other destinations may suit you better.

Suitability: ★★★★★

The Central Kalahari Game Reserve is a vast area of semi-arid savanna in central Botswana, crossed by fossil river valleys and pans. It suits experienced travellers looking for solitude rather than high animal density.

Why Central Kalahari for a first safari?

• 2–4 days are enough for a good experience.

What awaits you in Central Kalahari

• One of the largest reserves in Africa
• Kalahari black-maned lions
• Deception Valley in the green season
• Remote with few visitors
• Clear skies for stargazing

Wildlife you may encounter: lions, cheetahs, leopards, hyenas, African wild dogs, giraffes, oryx and wildebeest.

Suggested time on the ground: 2 to 4 days. Visitors fly by light aircraft from Maun to lodges on or inside the reserve edge, or self-drive by 4x4 via Matswere Gate in the east or Xade and Tsau gates in the west. Tracks are sandy and require full self-sufficiency.

Activities that fit

game drives, walking safaris and cultural visits.

When to go

The best period overall is March to April.

After the rains, fossil valleys such as Deception Valley turn green and draw springbok and oryx, followed by predators.

Other destinations for a first safari

• Masai Mara Kenya
• Merzouga Morocco
• Ngorongoro Tanzania
• Pilanesberg South Africa
• Victoria Falls Zimbabwe
• Kruger South Africa

Full Central Kalahari guideBest safaris for a first safari

No trips are listed for this destination yet. Send a request and we will check with providers.

Sources: Botswana Tourism - Central Kalahari Game Reserve · Botswana Tourism - Ghanzi · Climates to Travel (1991-2020 normals) - Ghanzi
Figures are approximate averages and vary from year to year.