Orapa Game Park

Orapa Game Park is a protected area in Botswana.

Orapa Game Park at a Glance

Location
Makgadikgadi & Nxai Pans, Botswana, Southern Africa
Coordinates
-21.263237, 25.364529
IUCN Category
III
Crowds
Quiet
Malaria Risk
Low
Best Time to Visit
May to October (dry season) for the Okavango Delta floods and wildlife. November to March for birding and green season rates.

Getting to Orapa Game Park

Nearest airport: Letlhakane Airstrip (FBLT), 30 km away.

Nearest international airport: Phillip Gaonwe Matante International Airport (FRW), 219 km away.

Big Five in Orapa Game Park

2 of the Big Five can be found here: White Rhinoceros, Leopard Tortoise.

Weather & Climate in Orapa Game Park

The warmest temperatures in Orapa Game Park occur in November, averaging 27.8°C (up to 34.0°C). The coolest conditions are in July at 16.6°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in August with average rainfall of 0.0mm. Average humidity: 33.6%.

Monthly Temperatures

  • January: 25.2°C (rainfall: 84.1mm)
  • February: 25.8°C (rainfall: 63.1mm)
  • March: 25.1°C (rainfall: 34.2mm)
  • April: 22.9°C (rainfall: 7.7mm)
  • May: 20.0°C (rainfall: 0.6mm)
  • June: 16.8°C (rainfall: 1.3mm)
  • July: 16.6°C (rainfall: 0.3mm)
  • August: 20.0°C (rainfall: 0.0mm)
  • September: 24.3°C (rainfall: 0.1mm)
  • October: 27.0°C (rainfall: 2.7mm)
  • November: 27.8°C (rainfall: 22.6mm)
  • December: 26.3°C (rainfall: 104.4mm)

Best Time to Visit Orapa Game Park

The best months to visit Orapa Game Park are March, April, August, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Great, temperature 25.21°C, rainfall 84.1mm, sunshine 11.6 hrs, humidity 61.8%
  • February: Great, temperature 25.83°C, rainfall 63.1mm, sunshine 11.5 hrs, humidity 57%
  • March: Great, temperature 25.11°C, rainfall 34.2mm, sunshine 10.9 hrs, humidity 52.4%
  • April: Great, temperature 22.87°C, rainfall 7.7mm, sunshine 10.6 hrs, humidity 48.6%
  • May: Great, temperature 20°C, rainfall 0.6mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 40.8%
  • June: Great, temperature 16.81°C, rainfall 1.3mm, sunshine 10.5 hrs, humidity 42.5%
  • July: Great, temperature 16.61°C, rainfall 0.3mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 36.4%
  • August: Great, temperature 20.04°C, rainfall 0mm, sunshine 10.9 hrs, humidity 33.6%
  • September: Great, temperature 24.25°C, rainfall 0.1mm, sunshine 11.6 hrs, humidity 30.5%
  • October: Great, temperature 27°C, rainfall 2.7mm, sunshine 11.8 hrs, humidity 30.9%
  • November: Great, temperature 27.77°C, rainfall 22.6mm, sunshine 11.6 hrs, humidity 42.1%
  • December: Great, temperature 26.31°C, rainfall 104.4mm, sunshine 11.5 hrs, humidity 56.4%

Wildlife in Orapa Game Park

Home to 13 recorded species including 3 iconic birds, 3 waterbirds, 3 birds of prey, 2 big five, 1 big herbivores, 1 reptiles.

Recommended Packing List for Orapa Game Park

Based on average temperature of 23.2°C, typical conditions, humidity 44%.

  • Light layers - comfortable for 23°C weather
  • Binoculars - essential for every game drive
  • Sun hat & sunscreen - protection from the African sun
  • Sturdy walking shoes - for bush walks and uneven terrain
  • Neutral-coloured clothing - khaki, olive, and tan blend with the bush
  • Insect repellent - essential in most safari regions
  • First aid kit - basic medical supplies for remote areas
  • Torch / headlamp - useful for evenings at camp
  • Camera with telephoto lens - capture your safari memories

Notable Species

Safari Lodges in Orapa Game Park

8 safari lodges available.

Other

luxury

Similar Parks in Makgadikgadi & Nxai Pans

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Botswana

Travel advisory for Botswana

Orapa Game Park FAQs

What specific wildlife can I expect to encounter at Orapa Game Park, and are there any particular species it's known for?

Orapa Game Park is particularly renowned for its successful white rhino reintroduction program, offering excellent opportunities to spot these magnificent creatures. Beyond rhinos, visitors can frequently observe a variety of plains game such as giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, and various antelope species, alongside predators like cheetahs and leopards. The park's diverse habitats also support a rich birdlife, making it a great spot for birdwatchers.

When is the best time of year to visit Orapa Game Park for optimal wildlife viewing and pleasant weather conditions?

The dry season, from May to October, is generally considered the best time to visit Orapa Game Park. During these months, animals congregate around permanent water sources, making them easier to spot, and the sparse vegetation offers clearer views. The weather is also typically mild and sunny, providing comfortable conditions for game drives.

How accessible is Orapa Game Park, and what are the typical accommodation options available for visitors?

Orapa Game Park is located near the Orapa diamond mine, and access is primarily via self-drive or organized tours from nearby towns like Letlhakane or Francistown. While the park itself has limited public accommodation, visitors often stay in lodges or guesthouses in the surrounding areas, which can arrange permits and guided safaris into the park. It's advisable to arrange permits in advance due to its protected status.

What are the typical costs involved for a safari experience at Orapa Game Park, including entry fees?

Entry fees for Orapa Game Park are generally lower than Botswana's more famous national parks, reflecting its less commercialized nature. Visitors should budget for daily park entry fees, which vary for residents and non-residents, and consider costs for vehicle permits if self-driving or guided tour packages which include transport and game drives. Accommodation outside the park will be an additional expense.

What makes Orapa Game Park a unique safari destination in Botswana, especially given its low crowding level?

Orapa Game Park offers a more intimate and uncrowded safari experience compared to Botswana's larger, more popular parks, allowing for truly exclusive wildlife encounters. Its focus on conservation, particularly the successful white rhino program, provides a unique opportunity to witness these rare animals in a natural, less disturbed environment. The park's proximity to the Orapa diamond mine also adds an interesting, albeit indirect, layer to its regional context.

Recommended Books

  • The Handbook of Bird Photography by Markus Varesvuo, Jari Peltomäki & Bence Máté - Excellent for birding photographers on safari - covers technique, equipment, fieldcraft, and post-processing with stunning example images.
  • Photographing Wildlife in Africa by Paolo Torchio - Practical guide specifically for African safari photography - camera settings, lens choices, composition techniques, and how to make the most of game drives.
  • Fodor's The Complete Guide to African Safaris by Fodor's Travel - Country-by-country planning guide with lodge reviews, practical logistics, packing lists, and insider tips. Often cited as the best all-in-one safari planning resource.
  • Lonely Planet Botswana & Namibia by Lonely Planet - Covers the Okavango Delta, Chobe, Etosha, Sossusvlei, and the Skeleton Coast. Essential for self-drive safaris through two of southern Africa's wildest destinations.
  • Lonely Planet Zambia & Mozambique by Lonely Planet - From Victoria Falls and South Luangwa to Mozambique's pristine coastline. Practical advice for two of Africa's most rewarding off-the-beaten-path destinations.
  • National Geographic Kids: Safari by National Geographic - Age-appropriate wildlife facts with stunning photographs. Great for getting children excited about the animals they'll see on safari.
  • Bradt Guide: Botswana by Chris McIntyre - Gold standard for Okavango Delta and Chobe planning - self-drive routes, camp reviews, and detailed maps. Essential for anyone planning a Botswana safari.
  • Lonely Planet Southern Africa by Lonely Planet - Covers South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique. Practical planning information with detailed park and city guides.
  • The Last Elephants by Don Pinnock & Colin Bell - Conservation-focused book combining beautiful photography with urgent storytelling about the threats facing Africa's elephant populations.
  • Here Is the African Savanna by Madeleine Dunphy - Beautifully illustrated picture book about the savanna ecosystem. Teaches children about the interconnected web of life on an African plain.
  • Safari: A Photographic Journey by Art Wolfe - Large-format coffee-table book from one of the world's most celebrated nature photographers. Stunning images from across the African continent.
  • The Kingdon Field Guide to African Mammals by Jonathan Kingdon - The definitive mammal field guide for Africa covering over 1,150 species with detailed illustrations. Considered the gold standard for safari-goers and researchers alike.
  • The Behavior Guide to African Mammals by Richard Despard Estes - Goes beyond identification to explain why animals behave as they do. Essential reading for safari-goers who want to understand the wildlife they observe.
  • Roberts Bird Guide by Hugh Chittenden, Greg Davies & Ingrid Weiersbye - Comprehensive southern African bird guide covering 960+ species with detailed range maps and illustrations. The birder's bible for safaris in South Africa, Botswana, and Namibia.
  • Cry of the Kalahari by Mark & Delia Owens - Riveting account of wildlife research in Botswana's Central Kalahari. An adventurous tale of two young researchers living among the wild animals.
  • Remembering Lions by Various Photographers - Part of the acclaimed Remembering Wildlife conservation book series. Features contributions from world-class wildlife photographers, with proceeds supporting lion conservation.
  • African Animals ABC by Stella Blackstone & Petr Horacek - Simple alphabet book with bold, colourful animal illustrations. Perfect for toddlers and young children preparing for their first safari. Ages 2–5.
  • Beat About the Bush: Mammals by Trevor Carnaby - The single best book for understanding animal behaviour on safari. Explains why animals do what they do - feeding, mating, territory, predator-prey dynamics. Makes every game drive infinitely more rewarding.
  • Sasol Birds of Southern Africa by Ian Sinclair, Phil Hockey & Warwick Tarboton - The southern Africa birding bible. Covers over 950 species with detailed illustrations, distribution maps, and habitat notes. The most trusted bird field guide for South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Mozambique.
  • Africa's Top Wildlife Countries by Mark W. Nolting - The most respected safari planning book in print. Detailed country-by-country guide covering parks, lodges, best times to visit, and what wildlife to expect. Updated regularly. The first book every safari planner should read.
  • The Safari Companion: A Guide to Watching African Mammals by Richard D. Estes - Part field guide, part planning tool. Explains mammal behaviour in a way that transforms game drives. Covers tracks, signs, social structures, and habitat preferences. A must-pack for serious safari-goers.
  • The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuscinski - Widely considered the greatest book ever written about Africa. Kapuscinski spent 40 years reporting from across the continent. Vivid, poetic, and deeply insightful. Essential pre-safari reading for understanding the continent.
  • Elephant Company by Vicki Constantine Croke - The extraordinary true story of James Howard Williams and the elephants who helped him build bridges, extract teak, and ultimately rescue refugees across the Burmese jungle during WWII. Gripping and moving.
  • When the Last Lion Roars by Sara Evans - An urgent, accessible account of the African lion's decline from 200,000 to under 20,000 in a century. Covers the science, politics, and human stories behind lion conservation. Eye-opening pre-safari reading.
  • Ivory, Horn and Blood by Ronald Orenstein - The definitive book on the poaching crisis devastating African elephants and rhinos. Covers the criminal networks, the rangers fighting back, and what travellers can do. Important context for any safari visitor.
  • Last Chance to See by Douglas Adams & Mark Carwardine - Witty and heartbreaking tour of endangered species by the Hitchhiker's Guide author. Combines humour with urgent conservation messaging.
  • Owen and Mzee by Isabella Hatkoff, Craig Hatkoff & Paula Kahumbu - True story of an orphaned hippo befriending a 130-year-old tortoise in Kenya. A heartwarming tale of unlikely friendship that teaches empathy.
  • Remembering Elephants by Various Photographers - Stunning coffee-table book from the Remembering Wildlife series. All proceeds go to elephant conservation - beautiful photography with a purpose.
  • Whatever You Do, Don't Run by Peter Allison - Hilarious memoir from a Botswana safari guide - true stories from the bush that will have you laughing out loud. A favourite among safari enthusiasts.
  • Poached by Rachel Love Nuwer - Gripping investigation into the illegal wildlife trade - from African poaching networks to Asian markets. Essential reading for understanding the threats to safari wildlife.
  • Safari Nation by Jacob S. T. Dlamini - Fascinating history of South Africa's national parks and their complex colonial legacy. Academic but accessible - changes how you think about safari tourism.
  • Safari: A Photicular Book by Dan Kainen & Carol Kaufmann - Mesmerising book with moving photographic images of African animals. Kids and adults love the magical moving pictures - perfect pre-trip gift.