Jackson is a distinguished expert on Africa and a seasoned trip planner, specializing in safaris across Tanzania, Kenya, Botswana, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. He also manages safari operations in Rwanda, Uganda, and South Africa.
Jackson is a distinguished expert on Africa and a seasoned trip planner, specializing in safaris across Tanzania, Kenya, Botswana, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. He also manages safari operations in Rwanda, Uganda, and South Africa.
The harsh desert landscape of the Central Kalahari transforms dramatically after the rains. Vast herds of herbivores, including majestic blue wildebeest, graceful oryx, and nimble springbok, congregate around the life-giving waterholes in Deception Valley. Smaller groups of eland, greater kudu, and red hartebeest complete this stunning wildlife tableau. These herbivores, in turn, attract the attention of the region’s apex predators: the powerful Kalahari black-maned lions and the swift and agile cheetahs.
The golden hours of dawn and dusk are the best times to encounter hyenas. Both the common spotted hyena and the elusive brown hyena emerge from or retreat to their dens during these twilight periods. The desert landscape is also home to a variety of smaller predators, including the quirky bat-eared fox, the agile yellow mongoose, the enigmatic aardwolf, and the endearing suricate.
The best time to witness the Central Kalahari’s wildlife spectacle is during the wet season (December to March), when animals gather around the water-filled pans in Deception Valley. However, the rainy season can make road conditions challenging. For a more accessible experience, consider visiting in April and May, at the end of the wet season. While the rainfall may have subsided, wildlife sightings remain abundant.
Jackson is a distinguished expert on Africa and a seasoned trip planner, specializing in safaris across Tanzania, Kenya, Botswana, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. He also manages safari operations in Rwanda, Uganda, and South Africa.
The Central Kalahari is at its most vibrant during the wet season (November to April), with animals gathering around waterholes and migratory birds arriving. This is also when resident birds display their breeding plumage.
For a quieter experience with more accessible conditions, the shoulder seasons (April-May or September-October) offer cooler temperatures and clearer skies, though wildlife may be more spread out.
Regardless of the time of year, the Central Kalahari ensures a memorable safari adventure.
450+
Nov to Apr
Jackson is a distinguished expert on Africa and a seasoned trip planner, specializing in safaris across Tanzania, Kenya, Botswana, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. He also manages safari operations in Rwanda, Uganda, and South Africa.
Jackson is a distinguished expert on Africa and a seasoned trip planner, specializing in safaris across Tanzania, Kenya, Botswana, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. He also manages safari operations in Rwanda, Uganda, and South Africa.
The Central Kalahari Game Reserve experiences distinct seasonal variations.
Dry Season (May – October): As the dry season progresses from May to August, temperatures gradually decrease, with pleasant daytime highs around 29°C (84°F). However, early mornings can be quite chilly, so it’s advisable to pack warm clothing. September and October mark the end of the dry season, with temperatures rising steadily, reaching highs of around 32°C (90°F) in October.
Wet Season (November – April): The wet season brings much-needed rainfall, particularly between December and March. While this period offers lush landscapes and abundant wildlife, it can also lead to muddy roads and challenging driving conditions. April marks the transition to the dry season, with rainfall gradually decreasing.
The Central Kalahari’s Wet season, spanning from November to March, brings much-needed relief from the dry heat. The initial rains cool the air and settle the dust. Afternoon thunderstorms and short showers are common during this period, particularly in January and February. While the daytime temperatures remain high, around 32°C (90°F), the early mornings offer cooler temperatures, often around 18°C (64°F) in November and December, and slightly cooler at 17°C (63°F) in March.
Jackson is a distinguished expert on Africa and a seasoned trip planner, specializing in safaris across Tanzania, Kenya, Botswana, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. He also manages safari operations in Rwanda, Uganda, and South Africa.
The Central Kalahari Game Reserve is situated approximately 250 kilometers (155 miles) south of Maun, the gateway to the Okavango Delta. The drive typically takes around 5* hours, though road conditions can be challenging after rainfall. The reserve has four entrances, with the Matswere Gate, located about 40 kilometers (24 miles) north of Deception Valley, being the most commonly used.
Given the remote location of the Central Kalahari, flying to one of the camps within or outside the reserve via chartered flight is often the most convenient option. Many safari packages include internal flights as part of the itinerary. It’s important to note that there are no scheduled commercial flights to the Central Kalahari.
If you arrange your flights, we will happily handle all the ground arrangements for you.
Starting from London
Starting from London, the easiest and most direct route to Botswana is to fly to Johannesburg, often with British Airways, and then connect to one of Botswana’s four gateway airports: Maun or Kasane in Botswana, or Livingstone or Victoria Falls, located near the Victoria Falls in Zambia or Zimbabwe, respectively.
These flights depart from Heathrow every day of the week.
Starting from the USA
Starting from the USA, you have several options for your flight arrangements. Broadly speaking, your two main choices are:
Direct Flights to Johannesburg: You can fly directly from major US cities such as New York, Atlanta, or Washington D.C. to Johannesburg, South Africa, with airlines like Delta or South African Airways. From Johannesburg, you can connect to Botswana’s gateway airports—Maun or Kasane in Botswana, or Livingstone or Victoria Falls near the Victoria Falls in Zambia or Zimbabwe.
Connecting Flights via Europe: Alternatively, you can opt for a connecting flight through major European hubs such as London, Paris, or Frankfurt. You can take a flight from these cities to Johannesburg, then proceed to one of the gateway airports in Botswana or near Victoria Falls.
You can arrange your flights from the USA to Botswana and back via London or another route and simply inform us of the flight times and carriers. Bush 2 City Adventure will handle all your arrangements within Botswana, including smaller flights and any plans in Livingstone.
This approach is particularly sensible if you are flying directly from the USA, such as on the route linking Atlanta to Johannesburg. If you decide to arrange your intercontinental flights, it’s advisable to book any regional connecting flights at the same time with the same company that handles your intercontinental travel. For example, flights between Johannesburg and Maun, Kasane, Livingstone, or Victoria Falls. This way, you avoid the risk of having two unconnected flights in case of schedule changes.
Charter flights between parks are typically included in your tour package, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free travel experience. The cost of these flights is covered in the overall price, allowing you to enjoy your journey without worrying about additional expenses for inter-park transfers.
Domestic flights to Kasane can be booked through:
For detailed information on passport, visa, vaccination, and other entry requirements, please visit our “Getting There – Botswana” page. This resource will help ensure you’re fully prepared for your journey.
Jackson is a distinguished expert on Africa and a seasoned trip planner, specializing in safaris across Tanzania, Kenya, Botswana, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. He also manages safari operations in Rwanda, Uganda, and South Africa.
Botswana is renowned for its safety and low crime rates, making it a peaceful and secure destination for travelers. Our experiences in the Central Kalahari Game Reserve further reinforce this positive perception. Flying between lodges is often the most convenient and secure mode of transport.
To stay informed about the latest travel advice for Botswana and the Central Kalahari Game Reserve, it’s recommended to consult the relevant travel advisories.
Your healthcare provider can advise you on the necessary vaccinations for your trip to Botswana. While the Central Kalahari is located in a malaria-free zone, if you plan to visit other parts of the country, especially the northern regions, taking antimalarial medication is recommended. To further protect yourself, use insect repellent with at least 30% DEET and cover up during the evening, particularly during the rainy season when malaria risk is highest.
Wildlife viewing in the Central Kalahari is generally safe as long as you adhere to park regulations and follow your guide’s instructions. For more detailed safety guidelines, please refer to the ‘Wildlife Viewing Safety Precautions’ section below.
Jackson is a distinguished expert on Africa and a seasoned trip planner, specializing in safaris across Tanzania, Kenya, Botswana, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. He also manages safari operations in Rwanda, Uganda, and South Africa.
Jackson is a distinguished expert on Africa and a seasoned trip planner, specializing in safaris across Tanzania, Kenya, Botswana, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. He also manages safari operations in Rwanda, Uganda, and South Africa.
The harsh desert landscape of the Central Kalahari transforms dramatically after the rains. Vast herds of herbivores, including majestic blue wildebeest, graceful oryx, and nimble springbok, congregate around the life-giving waterholes in Deception Valley. Smaller groups of eland, greater kudu, and red hartebeest complete this stunning wildlife tableau. These herbivores, in turn, attract the attention of the region’s apex predators: the powerful Kalahari black-maned lions and the swift and agile cheetahs.
The golden hours of dawn and dusk are the best times to encounter hyenas. Both the common spotted hyena and the elusive brown hyena emerge from or retreat to their dens during these twilight periods. The desert landscape is also home to a variety of smaller predators, including the quirky bat-eared fox, the agile yellow mongoose, the enigmatic aardwolf, and the endearing suricate.
The best time to witness the Central Kalahari’s wildlife spectacle is during the wet season (December to March), when animals gather around the water-filled pans in Deception Valley. However, the rainy season can make road conditions challenging. For a more accessible experience, consider visiting in April and May, at the end of the wet season. While the rainfall may have subsided, wildlife sightings remain abundant.
Jackson is a distinguished expert on Africa and a seasoned trip planner, specializing in safaris across Tanzania, Kenya, Botswana, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. He also manages safari operations in Rwanda, Uganda, and South Africa.
The Central Kalahari is at its most vibrant during the wet season (November to April), with animals gathering around waterholes and migratory birds arriving. This is also when resident birds display their breeding plumage.
For a quieter experience with more accessible conditions, the shoulder seasons (April-May or September-October) offer cooler temperatures and clearer skies, though wildlife may be more spread out.
Regardless of the time of year, the Central Kalahari ensures a memorable safari adventure.
450+
Nov to Apr
Jackson is a distinguished expert on Africa and a seasoned trip planner, specializing in safaris across Tanzania, Kenya, Botswana, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. He also manages safari operations in Rwanda, Uganda, and South Africa.
Jackson is a distinguished expert on Africa and a seasoned trip planner, specializing in safaris across Tanzania, Kenya, Botswana, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. He also manages safari operations in Rwanda, Uganda, and South Africa.
The Central Kalahari Game Reserve experiences distinct seasonal variations.
Dry Season (May – October): As the dry season progresses from May to August, temperatures gradually decrease, with pleasant daytime highs around 29°C (84°F). However, early mornings can be quite chilly, so it’s advisable to pack warm clothing. September and October mark the end of the dry season, with temperatures rising steadily, reaching highs of around 32°C (90°F) in October.
Wet Season (November – April): The wet season brings much-needed rainfall, particularly between December and March. While this period offers lush landscapes and abundant wildlife, it can also lead to muddy roads and challenging driving conditions. April marks the transition to the dry season, with rainfall gradually decreasing.
The Central Kalahari’s Wet season, spanning from November to March, brings much-needed relief from the dry heat. The initial rains cool the air and settle the dust. Afternoon thunderstorms and short showers are common during this period, particularly in January and February. While the daytime temperatures remain high, around 32°C (90°F), the early mornings offer cooler temperatures, often around 18°C (64°F) in November and December, and slightly cooler at 17°C (63°F) in March.
Jackson is a distinguished expert on Africa and a seasoned trip planner, specializing in safaris across Tanzania, Kenya, Botswana, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. He also manages safari operations in Rwanda, Uganda, and South Africa.
The Central Kalahari Game Reserve is situated approximately 250 kilometers (155 miles) south of Maun, the gateway to the Okavango Delta. The drive typically takes around 5* hours, though road conditions can be challenging after rainfall. The reserve has four entrances, with the Matswere Gate, located about 40 kilometers (24 miles) north of Deception Valley, being the most commonly used.
Given the remote location of the Central Kalahari, flying to one of the camps within or outside the reserve via chartered flight is often the most convenient option. Many safari packages include internal flights as part of the itinerary. It’s important to note that there are no scheduled commercial flights to the Central Kalahari.
If you arrange your flights, we will happily handle all the ground arrangements for you.
Starting from London
Starting from London, the easiest and most direct route to Botswana is to fly to Johannesburg, often with British Airways, and then connect to one of Botswana’s four gateway airports: Maun or Kasane in Botswana, or Livingstone or Victoria Falls, located near the Victoria Falls in Zambia or Zimbabwe, respectively.
These flights depart from Heathrow every day of the week.
Starting from the USA
Starting from the USA, you have several options for your flight arrangements. Broadly speaking, your two main choices are:
Direct Flights to Johannesburg: You can fly directly from major US cities such as New York, Atlanta, or Washington D.C. to Johannesburg, South Africa, with airlines like Delta or South African Airways. From Johannesburg, you can connect to Botswana’s gateway airports—Maun or Kasane in Botswana, or Livingstone or Victoria Falls near the Victoria Falls in Zambia or Zimbabwe.
Connecting Flights via Europe: Alternatively, you can opt for a connecting flight through major European hubs such as London, Paris, or Frankfurt. You can take a flight from these cities to Johannesburg, then proceed to one of the gateway airports in Botswana or near Victoria Falls.
You can arrange your flights from the USA to Botswana and back via London or another route and simply inform us of the flight times and carriers. Bush 2 City Adventure will handle all your arrangements within Botswana, including smaller flights and any plans in Livingstone.
This approach is particularly sensible if you are flying directly from the USA, such as on the route linking Atlanta to Johannesburg. If you decide to arrange your intercontinental flights, it’s advisable to book any regional connecting flights at the same time with the same company that handles your intercontinental travel. For example, flights between Johannesburg and Maun, Kasane, Livingstone, or Victoria Falls. This way, you avoid the risk of having two unconnected flights in case of schedule changes.
Charter flights between parks are typically included in your tour package, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free travel experience. The cost of these flights is covered in the overall price, allowing you to enjoy your journey without worrying about additional expenses for inter-park transfers.
Domestic flights to Kasane can be booked through:
For detailed information on passport, visa, vaccination, and other entry requirements, please visit our “Getting There – Botswana” page. This resource will help ensure you’re fully prepared for your journey.
Jackson is a distinguished expert on Africa and a seasoned trip planner, specializing in safaris across Tanzania, Kenya, Botswana, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. He also manages safari operations in Rwanda, Uganda, and South Africa.
Botswana is renowned for its safety and low crime rates, making it a peaceful and secure destination for travelers. Our experiences in the Central Kalahari Game Reserve further reinforce this positive perception. Flying between lodges is often the most convenient and secure mode of transport.
To stay informed about the latest travel advice for Botswana and the Central Kalahari Game Reserve, it’s recommended to consult the relevant travel advisories.
Your healthcare provider can advise you on the necessary vaccinations for your trip to Botswana. While the Central Kalahari is located in a malaria-free zone, if you plan to visit other parts of the country, especially the northern regions, taking antimalarial medication is recommended. To further protect yourself, use insect repellent with at least 30% DEET and cover up during the evening, particularly during the rainy season when malaria risk is highest.
Wildlife viewing in the Central Kalahari is generally safe as long as you adhere to park regulations and follow your guide’s instructions. For more detailed safety guidelines, please refer to the ‘Wildlife Viewing Safety Precautions’ section below.
â’¸ B2C Adventure Ltd 2025. All Rights Reserved
