Africa

Central Kalahari Game Reserve

The Central Kalahari Game has until recently been closed to the public and as a result is one of the most unspoilt parts of Africa. It is the largest reserve in Botswana covering 52,000 sq. km and is quite unique as it was initially set aside for the use of the traditional hunter-gatherers: the San and Bakgalagadi people. The first inhabitants of the Kalahari were Stone Age people and it is only very recently that modern man has really shown an interest in the region.

The Kalahari basin is the largest continuous stretch of sand in the world covering a distance of about 2500 km fromSouth Africa to the Congo, although the area that you explore is by no means void of vegetation and there are some beautiful landscapes of acacia woodland and fields of grass on the ancient dunes.

After the rains the valley floors, the remains of the ancient rivers, teem with wildlife. Thousands of springbok and gemsbok congregate in the valleys, which in turn attract a significant number of predators including lion, cheetah, leopard and jackal. Most of the animals that live in this harsh environment show remarkable adaptations that enable them to survive in such conditions and your guide will point out these unique features throughout the safari.

Other wildlife in the area includes chanting goshawks, ostriches and the black korhaan, whilst you might have rare and wonderful sightings of the elusive brown hyena.

The area is best visited on a mobile camping safari (please see our Green Desert Expedition itinerary) or with a stay at one of our preferred lodges:

Deception Valley Lodge
Edo's Camp

Kalahari Plains Camp