Game ReserveFeatured Destination
Central Kalahari Game Reserve
Botswana 52,800 km² (20,386 mi²) Est. 1961
About Central Kalahari Game Reserve
The Central Kalahari Game Reserve is one of the largest protected areas in the world, a vast expanse of endless Kalahari grasslands, ancient fossil riverbeds, and salt pans. During the wet season, the desert transforms with abundant wildlife including gemsbok, springbok, and the iconic black-maned Kalahari lions. The reserve was originally established to protect the traditional territory of the San Bushmen.
0
Safari Tours
3.8
Avg Rating
2/5
Big Five
65
Years Protected
Highlights
- One of the largest game reserves in the world with a true wilderness feel
- Iconic black-maned Kalahari lions and desert-adapted wildlife
- Spectacular stargazing in the remote desert environment
- Green season transforms the desert with wildflowers and wildlife
- Rich San Bushmen cultural heritage
Considerations
- Extremely remote with long driving distances on deep sand tracks
- Wildlife can be sparse in the dry season
- Very hot summers with temperatures exceeding 40°C
- Self-drive requires a well-equipped 4x4 and desert driving experience
Wildlife
Big Five Status
🦁
Lion
occasional
🐆
Leopard
rare
🐘
Elephant
Not present
🦬
Buffalo
Not present
🦏
Rhino
Not present
Notable Species
Lion
Occasional
Leopard
Rare
Cheetah
Occasional
Wildebeest
Occasional
Springbok
Common
Gemsbok
Common
Hyena
Occasional
Jackal
Common
Kori Bustard
Occasional
Honey Badger
Rare
Bat-eared Fox
Common
Aardvark
Rare
Common Occasional Rare
Best Time to Visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Peak Season Good Time Less Ideal
Climate Overview
Getting There
Access from Ghanzi (western gate, approximately 3 hours) or from Maun via Rakops (eastern gate, approximately 5 hours). All roads within the reserve are deep sand requiring 4x4.
Nearest Airport
Maun Airport (MUB)
Nearest City
Ghanzi
Drive Time
5 hours