CENTRAL KALAHARI GAME RESERVE

Overview

The Central Kalahari Game Reserve spans a vast 52,800 sq. km., making it the second-largest game reserve in the world. This unique, untouched wilderness boasts a dramatic landscape of vast plains, ancient river valleys, and dense bushveld. Visitors are drawn to its raw beauty and the chance to encounter an array of wildlife, including the elusive black-maned lion, cheetahs, hyenas, giraffes and desert-adapted antelopes. The reserve offers a rare, immersive experience, enabling guests to truly connect with nature and appreciate the profound serenity of the Kalahari.

Explore This Area

Safaris

Safari

Lodges

Plants and Animals

Rare black-maned lions
Cheetah
Hyenas
Caracal
Giraffes
Desert-adapted antelopes
Desert landscapes
Iconic trees (Camel Thorn Tree, Silver Cluster-leaf, Blackthorn, Shepherds Tree)
Bushman’s Grass
Sour Grass
Tsamma Melon (a source of water for humans and animals)

People and Culture

The Central Kalahari Game Reserve is deeply intertwined with the San Bushmen, indigenous inhabitants for over 20,000 years. Renowned as one of the world’s oldest cultures, the San possess an intimate knowledge of the Kalahari, with traditions rooted in storytelling, dance, and music. The San primarily speak the Khoisan language, characterized by distinctive click sounds. Through a court ruling, this reserve now has only one remaining San settlement (Molapo) living within it. With the establishment of the Central Kalahari Game Reserve and the growth of tourism in the region, there is a presence of people working in the conservation and tourism sectors, San people hired by local operators that share their history with guests’ duration of their stay. Operators interactions with local communities contribute to cultural exchange and may influence the socio-economic landscape of the area.

Seasons

The Green Season: Rainy season – November – April – Observe vibrant birdlife and calving antelopes. Unforgettable wildlife photography opportunities.

Dry season: May – October – Observe cheetahs and black-maned lions sneaking up on their prey. End your evening with unforgettable stargazing.