Botswana's Central Kalahari Game Reserve

Botswana, Africa

The Central Kalahari Game Reserve is a vast expanse of wilderness known for its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and unique ecosystems. It's home to the San people and offers a chance to experience traditional cultures. Visitors can witness breathtaking sunsets over the salt pans, spot iconic creatures like meerkats, hyenas, and the elusive black-maned Kalahari lions. The reserve is a paradise for photography and adventure lovers, making it an unforgettable destination for those seeking nature's raw beauty.

Quick facts

Target stay

4-7 days

Type

Nature Reserve

Vibe

Active

Airport

Orapa

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

10 Best Things to Do in Botswana's Central Kalahari Game Reserve

1

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Game Drive Safaris

Experience thrilling wildlife encounters in stunning landscapes.

Booking required
2

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Nature Walks

Explore the Kalahari on foot with local guides.

No booking required
3

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Stargazing

Marvel at the breathtaking night sky view.

No booking required
4

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the San Bushmen

Learn about the culture of the indigenous Bushmen.

Booking required
5

Est. 2 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Bird Watching

Spot unique bird species in their natural habitat.

No booking required
6

Est. 12 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Camping Under the Stars

Sleep in the wild under a blanket of stars.

Booking required
7

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Photography Tours

Capture breathtaking landscapes and wildlife moments.

Booking required
8

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Deception Valley

Discover the stunning landscape and wildlife diversity.

No booking required
9

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Wildlife Photography

Photograph majestic wildlife in their natural environment.

Booking required
10

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Kalahari Salt Pans

Explore the unique salt pans and their ecosystems.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~10%)

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

High

LGBTQ+ safety score

-4 (#84 globally)

Cost

Expensive

Currency

Pula

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Tswana

(50-80% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Seswaa

Shredded beef dish, slow-cooked. (National dish)

Pap

VE

Maize porridge, staple food in Botswana.

Morogo

VE

Wild spinach, often cooked with onions.

Vetkoek

Fried bread, often filled with meat or jam.

Ditloo

Traditional dish made from cow's intestines.

Phrases to learn

English

Tswana

Hello

Dumela

(Doo-meh-lah)

Yes/No

Ee / Nnyaa

(Eh / Nyaah)

Thank you

Ke a leboga

(Ke ah leh-boh-ha)

Excuse me

Ntshwarele

(N-tswah-reh-leh)

How much?

Ke bokae?

(Keh boh-kah-eh)