Dinaka Camp - CT/1
An exclusive tented camp on a private concession bordering the Central Kalahari Game Reserve, Dinaka Camp offers an intimate safari experience with a strong focus on wildlife photography and birding. Its private location allows for off-road driving, night drives, and guided walks, providing a comprehensive exploration of the Kalahari ecosystem.
- Location
- CT/1, Makgadikgadi & Nxai Pans, Botswana, Southern Africa
- Type
- tented_camp
- Coordinates
- -20.000000, 23.500000
- Price range
- ultra-luxury
- Website
- https://keranddowney.com/dinaka-camp/
- Capacity
- 14 guests
- Rooms
- 7
- Dietary options
- Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free available upon request.
- Night drives
- Available
- Child-friendly
- Yes
- Pool/Spa
- Available
PlnrScore: 57/100
Wildlife Near This Lodge
1403 species observed within 20 km, 45 mammals, 218 birds.
- Holub's Golden-Weaver (Aves, 57 observations)
- Arrow-marked Babbler (Aves, 46 observations)
- Southern Red-billed Hornbill (Aves, 45 observations)
- Laughing Dove (Aves, 45 observations)
- Red-eyed Dove (Aves, 43 observations)
- Fork-tailed Drongo (Aves, 43 observations)
- Makalani Palm (Plantae, 43 observations)
- Magpie Shrike (Aves, 42 observations)
- Meves's Starling (Aves, 41 observations)
- Swamp Boubou (Aves, 40 observations)
Best Time to Visit Dinaka Camp
The best months to visit Dinaka Camp are August, September, October, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Month-by-Month Safari Conditions
- January: Good, temperature 23.7°C, rainfall 163.9mm, sunshine 10.6 hrs, humidity 72.6%
- February: Great, temperature 24.52°C, rainfall 89.9mm, sunshine 10.9 hrs, humidity 65.9%
- March: Great, temperature 24.03°C, rainfall 56.2mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 63.1%
- April: Great, temperature 22.49°C, rainfall 13.1mm, sunshine 10.9 hrs, humidity 56.9%
- May: Great, temperature 19.57°C, rainfall 0.4mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 47.5%
- June: Great, temperature 17.23°C, rainfall 0.2mm, sunshine 10.5 hrs, humidity 44.9%
- July: Great, temperature 17.26°C, rainfall 0.2mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 38.4%
- August: Great, temperature 20.91°C, rainfall 1.7mm, sunshine 10.9 hrs, humidity 32.7%
- September: Great, temperature 25.04°C, rainfall 0.1mm, sunshine 11.5 hrs, humidity 29.4%
- October: Great, temperature 27.66°C, rainfall 3.9mm, sunshine 11.6 hrs, humidity 30.4%
- November: Great, temperature 26.86°C, rainfall 30.9mm, sunshine 11.3 hrs, humidity 49.4%
- December: Great, temperature 25.29°C, rainfall 115mm, sunshine 10.9 hrs, humidity 63.8%
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Dinaka Camp so special for wildlife photographers?
We love that Dinaka's private concession means you can go off-road and track animals for those perfect shots, something you can't do in the main reserve. The camp's hides are strategically placed for incredible close-ups, especially of the desert-adapted species and raptors. The light in the Kalahari is simply magical for photography, and the guides here truly understand how to position the vehicle for the best angles.
When is the absolute best time to visit Dinaka Camp for game viewing?
While Botswana is always incredible, we recommend visiting Dinaka between June and October. This is the dry season, and the desert-adapted wildlife, like gemsbok and springbok, congregate around the waterholes, making them easier to spot. The birding is also fantastic during this period, with many resident species showing off their best plumage.
What kind of wildlife can we expect to see at Dinaka Camp, beyond the usual safari suspects?
Dinaka truly shines with its desert-adapted species. We've seen magnificent gemsbok, graceful springbok, and the elusive brown hyena here. Keep an eye out for meerkats too, they are endlessly entertaining. The birdlife is also exceptional, with many raptors and Kalahari endemics.
Is Dinaka Camp suitable for families with younger children?
Absolutely. We found Dinaka to be wonderfully welcoming to families. The tented accommodation feels adventurous yet secure, and the guides are excellent at engaging children with the bush. They offer special activities and are very flexible, making it a comfortable and exciting experience for all ages.
Given its remote location, what is the overall experience like at Dinaka Camp?
The remoteness is precisely what makes Dinaka so special. You feel a profound sense of solitude and connection to the vast Kalahari landscape. The lodge feels luxurious and timeless, with beautifully appointed tents that offer comfort without compromising the wildness outside. Expect sensational sunsets and a quiet, star-filled sky each night.