Central Kalahari (Botswana) and Etosha (Namibia) are often weighed against each other. This comparison uses seasons, activities and access to help you choose.
| Central Kalahari | Etosha | |
|---|---|---|
| Country | Botswana | Namibia |
| Type | Reserve | National park |
| Approx. area | 52,800 km² | 22,935 km² |
| Best time | March to April | August to October |
| Suggested stay | 2–4 days | 3–4 days |
| Main gateway airport | Maun Airport (MUB) | Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH) |
| Big Five | Not all five | Not all five |
| Malaria | Low risk: check with a doctor | Low risk: check with a doctor |
| Families | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Honeymooners | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Photographers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| First-time visitors | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Budget travellers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Luxury travellers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
Month by month
| Month | Central Kalahari | Etosha |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| November | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ some rain |
| December | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ some rain |
How to choose
Choose Central Kalahari if
- you are travelling in January to April
- you want walking safaris, cultural visits and stargazing
- you hope to see African wild dogs and meerkats
Choose Etosha if
- you are travelling in June to November
- you want night drives
- you hope to see elephants, black rhino, zebras and flamingos
Frequently asked questions
Which is better, Central Kalahari or Etosha?
It depends on when you travel and what you want to see. Central Kalahari is stronger in January to April. Etosha is stronger in June to November.
When is the best time for each?
Central Kalahari: March to April. Etosha: August to October.
Sources: Botswana Tourism - Central Kalahari Game Reserve · Botswana Tourism - Ghanzi · Climates to Travel (1991-2020 normals) - Ghanzi · MEFT Namibia - Etosha National Park · Namibia Wildlife Resorts - Etosha National Park · Weather2Travel - Etosha climate
Figures are approximate averages and vary from year to year.