Established
1961
Size
52,800 km²
Elevation
950–1,100 m
Ecosystem
Kalahari Semi-Desert
Best Time
December – April (green season)
Entry Fee
$30 per adult/day
About Central Kalahari Game Reserve
The Central Kalahari Game Reserve is the second-largest game reserve on Earth — a vast 52,800 km² expanse of pristine Kalahari wilderness that few visitors ever experience. Established in 1961 to protect the traditional lands of the San Bushmen, the reserve offers one of Africa's most remote and authentic wilderness experiences. The Kalahari's famous black-maned lions are the star attraction — larger and darker than their savanna cousins, adapted to the harsh desert environment. During the green season rains, the fossil river valleys of Deception and Passarge transform into lush grasslands that attract extraordinary concentrations of gemsbok, springbok, and their predators.
What Makes It Special
Second-largest reserve on Earth
Black-maned Kalahari lions
San Bushmen homeland
Ultimate remote wilderness
Spectacular green season
Wildlife & Species
Things to Do
Best Time to Visit
Peak Season
Best wildlife viewing
DecJanFebMarApr
Shoulder Season
Fewer crowds, good value
MayNov
Green Season
Lush landscapes, birding
JunJulAugSepOct
Where to Stay
Kalahari Plains Camp
LuxuryRemote solar-powered camp on a fossil river valley in the heart of the CKGR.
From $800/night / night
Tau Pan Camp
LuxuryEight raised canvas rooms overlooking a pan that attracts desert-adapted wildlife.
From $700/night / night
Deception Valley Lodge
Mid-RangeOn the CKGR boundary with game drives into the reserve and cultural San experiences.
From $300/night / night
Safari Packages
5-Day Central Kalahari Wilderness Safari
Track black-maned lions in the world's second-largest reserve