Kalahari Plains Camp - NG/47
A stylish, eco-friendly camp located in the remote eastern part of the Central Kalahari Game Reserve. It offers excellent wildlife viewing, particularly during the green season when vast herds of plains game and their predators gather.
- Location
- NG/47, Makgadikgadi & Nxai Pans, Botswana, Southern Africa
- Type
- tented_camp
- Coordinates
- -20.800000, 24.133300
- Price range
- ultra-luxury
- Website
- https://www.wildernessdestinations.com/botswana/central-kalahari-game-reserve/kalahari-plains-camp
- Capacity
- 18 guests
- Rooms
- 9
- Dietary options
- Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free options available upon request
- Child-friendly
- Yes
- Pool/Spa
- Available
PlnrScore: 42/100
Wildlife Near This Lodge
6 species observed within 20 km, 2 mammals, 2 birds.
- Plains Zebra (Mammalia, 2 observations)
- White-crowned Lapwing (Aves, 1 observations)
- Pale Chanting-Goshawk (Aves, 1 observations)
- Tsessebe (Mammalia, 1 observations)
- Ground Agama (Reptilia, 1 observations)
- African Joker (Insecta, 1 observations)
Best Time to Visit Kalahari Plains Camp
The best months to visit Kalahari Plains Camp are April, May, August, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Month-by-Month Safari Conditions
- January: Great, temperature 24.32°C, rainfall 146mm, sunshine 10.8 hrs, humidity 68.9%
- February: Great, temperature 25.39°C, rainfall 93.2mm, sunshine 11.1 hrs, humidity 61.2%
- March: Great, temperature 24.67°C, rainfall 50mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 59.4%
- April: Great, temperature 23.54°C, rainfall 8.2mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 48.7%
- May: Great, temperature 20.5°C, rainfall 0.3mm, sunshine 10.8 hrs, humidity 38.3%
- June: Great, temperature 17.46°C, rainfall 0.1mm, sunshine 10.6 hrs, humidity 39.7%
- July: Great, temperature 17.17°C, rainfall 0.1mm, sunshine 10.8 hrs, humidity 35.3%
- August: Great, temperature 21.07°C, rainfall 0mm, sunshine 10.9 hrs, humidity 29.1%
- September: Great, temperature 25.52°C, rainfall 0.4mm, sunshine 11.4 hrs, humidity 26.2%
- October: Great, temperature 28.31°C, rainfall 2.3mm, sunshine 11.6 hrs, humidity 26.8%
- November: Great, temperature 28.05°C, rainfall 29.2mm, sunshine 11.4 hrs, humidity 42.6%
- December: Great, temperature 26.1°C, rainfall 103.4mm, sunshine 11.3 hrs, humidity 58.8%
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the absolute best time to visit Kalahari Plains Camp for the most dramatic wildlife sightings, and what makes it so special then?
We absolutely love the green season, typically from December to April. This is when the Kalahari truly comes alive; the rains transform the arid landscape into a lush paradise, attracting vast herds of springbok, gemsbok, and wildebeest. The predators, including lions and cheetahs, follow these herds, making for incredibly dynamic game viewing that feels exclusive to this remote corner of Botswana.
We're considering Kalahari Plains Camp for a family trip. How child friendly is it really, and what unique experiences can our kids enjoy?
Kalahari Plains Camp is surprisingly wonderful for families. While it's an ultra-luxury tented camp, the staff are exceptionally welcoming to children, and the smaller guest capacity means a more intimate experience. We especially recommend the 'skybeds' – sleeping out under the immense Kalahari stars is an unforgettable adventure for all ages, and the guides are fantastic at engaging younger guests with the bush.
What is the 'skybed' experience at Kalahari Plains Camp like, and is it safe and comfortable?
The skybeds are pure magic. Imagine being safely tucked into a comfortable bed on a raised platform, completely immersed in the star-filled Kalahari night. We found them to be incredibly secure and surprisingly cozy, offering an unparalleled connection to the wilderness. It’s a truly unique way to experience the profound silence and celestial beauty of the desert.
Beyond the iconic plains game, what other unique wildlife or birdlife can we expect to encounter near Kalahari Plains Camp?
While the large herds are a major draw, we always keep an eye out for the desert-adapted species that make the Kalahari so distinct. Look for the elusive brown hyena, the charming meerkat colonies, and the magnificent black-maned lions that roam these sands. Birders will also be delighted; the area hosts a surprising variety of raptors and smaller desert species, especially during the greener months.
Given its remote location, what should we pack to ensure comfort and practicality during our stay at Kalahari Plains Camp?
Pack light, breathable clothing in neutral colours for game drives, along with a warm fleece or jacket for cool desert mornings and evenings. We always bring a good wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and high SPF sunscreen. Don't forget your binoculars and camera – the photographic opportunities are sensational, and the camp's 100% solar power means you can charge your devices guilt-free.