The Central Kalahari Game Reserve (CKGR), acknowledged as the second-largest wildlife reserve in the world, represents a symbol of wild beauty and tranquility in Southern Africa. Covering more than 52,000 square kilometers, it exceeds the size of certain countries, including Denmark. This remote reserve in Southern Africa serves as a biodiversity hotspot, hosting species that have uniquely adapted to the tough desert environment. The Kalahari sands span nearly two thirds of Botswana – a remarkable idea for a country known for its delta waterways.
The reserve was established in 1961, apparently as a sanctuary for the San Bushmen tribe. The San Bushmen have largely relocated from their traditional lands to areas on the periphery of the park. However, you can still gain insight into what traditional San Bushmen life would have been like, as some of the lodges employ San Bushmen guides.
They are eager to tell stories from their lives and demonstrate the skills essential for survival in this harsh environment. It’s a remarkable opportunity to gain this viewpoint from them. The Central Kalahari reserve consists of salt pans, wide-ranging grasslands, and acacia forests. There are dunes, but these are primarily covered in vegetation, unlike the sand dunes typically found in the Sahara. The region is known for its ancient fossil river beds, which create valleys throughout the bush. Deception Valley stands out as the most known among these valleys.
Activities to do in Central Kalahari Game Reserve
Game drives in Central Kalahari Game Reserve
Game drives in the Kalahari take place either during the day or at night. The night drives are gaining huge recognition, particularly because there are fewer people participating, allowing for easy sightings of animals such as the Oryx, jackals, and hartebeest. Following the drive, you can relish a camping experience while gazing at the stars. However, it’s advisable to bring insect repellent to avoid bites from insects and bugs.
Most game drives occur during the day, and they are most effective in the dry season. This is the optimal time for spotting various animals in the park, as the roads remain accessible and are not flooded or slippery. The reserve is home to a variety of animals, including white rhinos, cape wild dogs, South African cheetahs, bat-eared foxes, buffalos, both spotted and black hyenas, leopards, blue wildebeests, and many other species.
Birding in Central Kalahari Game reserve
The Central Kalahari Game Reserve boasts more than 250 recorded bird species, which can be observed during the wet season. The central Kalahari reserve is home to a variety of bird species, mainly raptors, largely because it supports a population of numerous small animals. The reserve is home to various bird species, including the black bustard, ostriches, the red crested bustard, the white backed heron, Pel’s fishing owl, Kori bustard, and many others.
To embark on a birding adventure in the Central Kalahari reserve, you’ll require various equipment: a camera, binoculars, hides, a recognition book, plenty of snacks and water, and, of course, insect repellent. These are essential for fully enjoying your Botswana safari in the central Kalahari game reserve.
Hiking in Central Kalahari Game Reserve
The central Kalahari reserve offers excellent opportunities for hiking, featuring various routes situated within the game reserve. Hiking through the reserve is primarily undertaken during the park’s green season or the dry season, but it is permitted only with a tour guide to navigate the routes. This provides an alternative method to appreciate observing the animals, though caution is necessary to avoid encounters with predators. The hikes are most enjoyable in the morning when the sun is less intense.
Nature walks in Central Kalahari Game Reserve
The nature walks in the central Kalahari game reserve typically occur with the presence of the Bushmen warriors, who are consistently armed. The Bushmen trackers possess an in-depth understanding of the routes to take during nature walks, a skill perfected over many years in the area. In the unlikely event of an attack, they are always present to provide protection, all for a modest fee.
Photographic Safaris in Central Kalahari Game Reserve
Photo safaris involve documenting your entire experience in the Central Kalahari reserve. All you need is a good camera, and if you don’t have one, a camera will be provided for you, along with guidance on the essentials of photography. Exploring the entire reserve through the lens is a unique experience. However, it’s important to remember that the ideal times for a photo safari in the central Kalahari reserve are either in the morning or evening, when the lighting is suitable for capturing great photos.
Best Time to visit Central Kalahari Game Reserve
Botswana has two distinct seasons: the wet season and the dry season. These seasons play a crucial role in determining the best time to visit the Central Kalahari Reserve. In contrast to what many tourists might believe, the game viewing hours in the central Kalahari reserve differ from those in other parks across the country.
The rainy season in the reserve occurs from November to May, making it a perfect period for enthusiasts of birding and game drives. This is a moment when animals can be observed roaming the park, thanks to the availability of sufficient water and food. During these months, the country enjoys its summer, making it an excellent time to visit. The weather is cooler, and the Park is covered with a stunning green, particularly as the rainy season comes to a close.
The dry season occurs from May to October, and unlike other parks, it is not necessarily the optimal time for game drives within the park. This period marks the peak season of the park, and you should prepare for the crowds that will be present. However, it is essential to remember to bring plenty of water, as the heat can become quite intense.
