The Central Kalahari region of the Kalahari Desert covers a vast section of Botswana.  Despite its name, the Kalahari Desert is not actually a true desert, because it does receive small amounts of rainfall - so some parts have acacia and grassy plains that stretch endlessly into the distance. 

The Central Kalahari Game Reserve is the largest game reserve in Botswana (and second largest in the world), and covers some 52,800 square kilometers - so larger than Denmark or Switzerland.  It was established as a National Park in 1961. 

The reserve is made up of open plains, which sit alongside salt pans, ancient river beds, and sand dunes, making for a varied and interesting landscape.

Game viewing is best between December and April, which is during the rainy season, characterised by fast and frequent rainstorms. 

The vast open plains burst into life at the first rainfall, turning this area into one of the prime game viewing destinations in Africa. 

Huge herds of wildebeest, springbok, gemsbok, eland and kudu fill the now grassy plains as far as the eye can see - and you can be sure that the predators such as cheetah, wild dog, jackal, leopard, hyena and lion are not far away ! 

Visitors here will also be able to see giraffe, warthog, red hartebeest and over 220 bird species.

Outside of the rainy season, between May to October, it is extremely hot and dusty in the Kalahari, and the animals depart in search of water again.  October is by far the hottest month, with daytime temperatures soaring as high as 40°C (104°F) and more.  

As well as the wildlife, the reserve is also home to the Bushmen, or to give them their proper name, the Basarwa or San people, who have inhabited the land for thousands of years. 

Today, rather than roaming as nomadic hunters and gatherers, they live in settlements, some of which are situated in the southern part of the reserve. 

There are moves by the Government, however, to persuade them to move out of the reserve so that they can benefit from integrating within society, and reaping benefits of schooling, education and healthcare. 

Suggested Holiday Itinerary

Suggested Itineraries

Prices on request9 night Superior Footsteps in Africa Package
9 day itinerary.

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*Prices are per person and are based on today's exchange rates. Exchange rates are subject to change and are updated daily.

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Kalahari Desert Camp, Private Wildlife Reserve

Safari Lodge

Accommodation is in 6 large meru tents, elevated on platforms. Each tent is tastefully furnished with either twin or double bed configurations, a relaxation area and en-suite bathrooms with al fresco showers.

From USD415 per person.

Grasslands Bushman Lodge, Private Wildlife Reserve

Safari Lodge

The hospitality at the lodge can best be described as a real home away from home, and a genuine ease prevails. Most of the staff are made up of San people, who have worked alongside the De Graff family for generations.

From USD420 per person.

Properties 1 to 2 of 2