Central Kalahari (Botswana) and South Luangwa (Zambia) are often weighed against each other. This comparison uses seasons, activities and access to help you choose.
| Central Kalahari | South Luangwa | |
|---|---|---|
| Country | Botswana | Zambia |
| Type | Reserve | National park |
| Approx. area | 52,800 km² | 9,050 km² |
| Best time | March to April | August to October |
| Suggested stay | 2–4 days | 3–5 days |
| Main gateway airport | Maun Airport (MUB) | Mfuwe International Airport (MFU) |
| 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 | South Luangwa |
|---|---|---|
| January | ★★★★★ rainy season | ★★★★★ rainy season |
| February | ★★★★★ rainy season | ★★★★★ rainy season |
| 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 | ★★★★★ 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 cheetahs, oryx, wildebeest, meerkats and ostriches
Choose South Luangwa if
- you are travelling in June to October
- you want night drives
- you hope to see elephants, buffalo, zebras, hippos and crocodiles
Frequently asked questions
Which is better, Central Kalahari or South Luangwa?
It depends on when you travel and what you want to see. Central Kalahari is stronger in December to April. South Luangwa is stronger in June to October.
When is the best time for each?
Central Kalahari: March to April. South Luangwa: August to October.
Sources: Botswana Tourism - Central Kalahari Game Reserve · Botswana Tourism - Ghanzi · Climates to Travel (1991-2020 normals) - Ghanzi · Zambia Tourism - South Luangwa National Park · Zambia Tourism - Mfuwe International Airport · Climates to Travel (1991-2020 normals) - Zambia (Mfuwe)
Figures are approximate averages and vary from year to year.