The Kalahari 365

Highlights

Spanning several countries in Southern Africa, the Kalahari Desert has a number of protected areas, with three premier regions – the Central Kalahari Game Reserve (Botswana), the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park (straddling South Africa and Botswana), and the green Kalahari (in South Africa). All offer a different experience with excellent sightings of a variety of plains game and predators. Bird watching here is also excellent, especially in the summer months when most of the area’s rainfall occurs. Far from the better-known tourist areas, this remote wilderness offers a special, a-typical safari experience. 

Climate

Interestingly, the Kalahari is not classified as a desert. The area experiences both wet and dry seasons making it a semi-arid region, with only certain parts of the south west considered true desert. Summer falls between November and March, and brings hot days and milder nights, as well as rain (peak rainy season is from February to April) when visitors can expect occasional afternoon thunderstorms. Autumn (April and May) is the greenest time of the year. Winter (June to August) is the dry season, with mild, pleasant days but cold nights where the temperature can drop below freezing. It’s one of the best times for game viewing as animals are forced to congregate around water sources.

Budget

Safari by nature is not a one-size-fits-all type of holiday. Numerous factors play a role in determining what you’ll pay to visit the Kalahari Desert. Factors like whether you’re driving yourself (this way you can tailor accommodation to your budget – even camping along the way, and preparing your own meals as you go). Private and semi private safaris (where light aircraft transfer is usually the mode of transport) are the most expensive way to travel – but come with perks like luxury lodging and private game vehicles.