Central Kalahari Game Reserve
One of the world's largest game reserves covering 52,000 square kilometres of Kalahari wilderness — home to black-maned lions, San heritage, and raw desert beauty.
Highlights
Best Time to Visit
December to April (green season) when rain transforms the Kalahari into rich grasslands attracting vast herds of springbok, gemsbok, and wildebeest with predators in pursuit. The dry season (May-October) is harsh with dispersed game, though Deception Valley retains wildlife around fossil river pans.
Budget Guide
One of Botswana's more affordable reserves for self-drivers. Camping at designated sites from $30/night. A handful of fly-in luxury camps charge $600-1,500/night. Self-drive requires a fully equipped 4x4, GPS, and desert driving experience.
Getting There
Self-drive from Maun (5-6 hours) via Rakops or from Ghanzi (4-5 hours). Bush flights to camp airstrips from Maun (45 minutes). The reserve has minimal infrastructure — self-sufficient vehicle travel is essential. Entry gates at Matswere (north) and Xade (west).
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