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Botswana

Kalahari Game Reserve

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Why Visit the Kalahari Game Reserve

The Kalahari Game Reserve, officially known as the Central Kalahari Game Reserve (CKGR), is a vast and remote wilderness located in the heart of Botswana, offering an authentic safari experience in one of Africa’s most pristine and untouched landscapes. Spanning over 50,000 square kilometers, it is the second-largest game reserve in the world, characterized by rolling golden grasslands, sparse woodlands, and the iconic red sands of the Kalahari Desert.

During the dry season, the reserve is a stunningly stark and tranquil environment, with golden savannahs stretching endlessly and ancient riverbeds creating captivating horizons. Visitors can experience the profound silence and unparalleled isolation of the Kalahari while observing wildlife such as gemsbok, springbok, giraffe, and elusive predators like cheetahs and leopards.

In the green season, the reserve undergoes a remarkable transformation. Seasonal rains breathe life into the desert, filling waterholes and turning the landscape into lush grasslands. This attracts vast herds of herbivores, including zebra and wildebeest, as well as predators like lions—particularly the famous black-maned lions of the Kalahari. Birdlife also thrives, with migratory species flocking to the reserve.

Visitors to the Kalahari Game Reserve can enjoy a range of activities, including game drives, guided bush walks, and cultural interactions with the San people, who offer a glimpse into their ancient traditions and deep connection to the land. The reserve’s combination of stunning landscapes, abundant wildlife, and cultural experiences makes it a must-visit destination for those seeking adventure and immersion in the wild heart of Africa.

Did you know?

The Central Kalahari Game Reserve (CKGR) in Botswana is one of the largest protected areas in the world, covering over 52,800 square kilometres—an area larger than Denmark! It is home to the San people, who have lived in the Kalahari for thousands of years and possess an unparalleled knowledge of the desert’s ecosystem, including how to find water and food in this harsh environment.

Migration

The Central Kalahari Game Reserve plays a key role in one of Africa’s longest wildlife migrations, with thousands of zebras traveling between the Kalahari and the Boteti River. During the dry season, the zebras move in search of water, while the onset of rains sees them heading back to the lush grasslands. This incredible journey is driven by the need for food and water, and along the way, the zebras often encounter predators, making it a dramatic and vital part of the ecosystem. The migration not only sustains the zebra population but also supports numerous other species in the region.

Highlights of the Kalahari Game Reserve

Endless Desert Landscapes: Experience the beauty of one of the world’s largest salt pans, surrounded by vast, open desert and iconic red dunes stretching as far as the eye can see.
Black-Maned Lions: Witness the legendary black-maned lions of the Kalahari, a remarkable and powerful subspecies that have adapted to the harsh desert environment, making them some of the largest lions in Africa.
Wildlife in the Wilderness: Encounter incredible desert-adapted species such as gemsbok, springbok, and the elusive brown hyena, as well as the fascinating meerkats that have made the Kalahari their home.
Seasonal Rainfall and Life: During the rainy season, the Kalahari transforms into a wildlife haven, attracting herds of wildebeest, zebra, and other animals, providing a stunning spectacle as they gather in search of water.
San People Cultural Experience: Learn from the San people, one of the world’s oldest cultures, as they share their knowledge of ancient survival techniques, hunting, and tracking in the harsh desert environment.
Adventure Activities: Thrilling game drives, guided walking safaris, and camping under the stars, where you can immerse yourself in the serene yet rugged beauty of this remote landscape.
Stunning Sunsets: Experience unforgettable desert sunsets that paint the sky in rich hues of orange and pink, creating an almost otherworldly ambiance that’s perfect for photography and contemplation.

Where to stay

Best properties in The Kalahari

This vast region stretches across much of Botswana and northern South Africa, with some incredible options for all travellers:

Luxury Safari Camp

Dinaka, Kalahari Game Reserve

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Safari Camp

Camp Kalahari, Makgadikgadi Salt Pans

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Jack's Camp, Magkadikadi Salt Pans, Botswana

Luxury Safari Camp

Jack’s Camp, Makgadikgadi Salt Pans

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Luxury Safari Camp

San Camp, Makgadikgadi Salt Pans

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Exclusive Safari Camp

Tarkuni Homestead, Tswalu

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Exclusive Safari Camp

Loapi Camp, Tswalu

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Luxury Safari Camp

The Motse Camp, Tswalu

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Good to know

Getting to the Kalahari Game Reserve

The Central Kalahari Game Reserve can be accessed by light aircraft from Maun or Kasane, with private charters offering direct flights to various airstrips within the reserve. Alternatively, travellers can reach the reserve by road, though this requires a 4×4 vehicle and can be a challenging drive, especially during the wet season.