Central Kalahari (Botswana) and Hwange (Zimbabwe) are often weighed against each other. This comparison uses seasons, activities and access to help you choose.
| Central Kalahari | Hwange | |
|---|---|---|
| Country | Botswana | Zimbabwe |
| Type | Reserve | National park |
| Approx. area | 52,800 km² | 14,650 km² |
| Best time | March to April | August to October |
| Suggested stay | 2–4 days | 3–4 days |
| Main gateway airport | Maun Airport (MUB) | Victoria Falls International Airport (VFA) |
| 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 | Hwange |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | ★★★★★ rainy season |
How to choose
Choose Central Kalahari if
- you are travelling in December to April
- you want cultural visits and stargazing
- you hope to see oryx, meerkats, ostriches and foxes
Choose Hwange if
- you are travelling in June to November
- you want night drives
- you hope to see elephants, buffalo, zebras, hippos and crocodiles
Frequently asked questions
Which is better, Central Kalahari or Hwange?
It depends on when you travel and what you want to see. Central Kalahari is stronger in December to April. Hwange is stronger in June to November.
When is the best time for each?
Central Kalahari: March to April. Hwange: August to October.
Sources: Botswana Tourism - Central Kalahari Game Reserve · Botswana Tourism - Ghanzi · Climates to Travel (1991-2020 normals) - Ghanzi · ZimParks - Hwange National Park · Zimbabwe Tourism - Hwange National Park · Climates to Travel (1991-2020 normals) - Hwange National Park
Figures are approximate averages and vary from year to year.