Otjombinde Conservancy

Otjombinde Conservancy is a protected area in Botswana.

Otjombinde Conservancy at a Glance

Location
Southern Kalahari & Kgalagadi, Botswana, Southern Africa
Coordinates
-21.730755, 20.498907
Crowds
Very 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 Otjombinde Conservancy

Nearest airport: Gam Airstrip (FYGA), 168 km away.

Weather & Climate in Otjombinde Conservancy

The warmest temperatures in Otjombinde Conservancy occur in November, averaging 26.5°C (up to 33.1°C). The coolest conditions are in June at 14.7°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in July with average rainfall of 0.0mm. Average humidity: 31.0%.

Monthly Temperatures

  • January: 24.6°C (rainfall: 81.3mm)
  • February: 24.8°C (rainfall: 95.9mm)
  • March: 23.7°C (rainfall: 39.5mm)
  • April: 21.6°C (rainfall: 16.5mm)
  • May: 18.6°C (rainfall: 0.9mm)
  • June: 14.7°C (rainfall: 2.5mm)
  • July: 14.7°C (rainfall: 0.0mm)
  • August: 18.5°C (rainfall: 0.0mm)
  • September: 22.9°C (rainfall: 0.1mm)
  • October: 25.5°C (rainfall: 8.0mm)
  • November: 26.5°C (rainfall: 14.9mm)
  • December: 26.5°C (rainfall: 54.3mm)

Best Time to Visit Otjombinde Conservancy

The best months to visit Otjombinde Conservancy are April, May, August, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Great, temperature 24.65°C, rainfall 81.3mm, sunshine 11.5 hrs, humidity 57.3%
  • February: Great, temperature 24.83°C, rainfall 95.9mm, sunshine 10.6 hrs, humidity 56.5%
  • March: Great, temperature 23.67°C, rainfall 39.5mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 55.8%
  • April: Great, temperature 21.56°C, rainfall 16.5mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 48.8%
  • May: Great, temperature 18.6°C, rainfall 0.9mm, sunshine 10.8 hrs, humidity 33.3%
  • June: Great, temperature 14.71°C, rainfall 2.5mm, sunshine 10.6 hrs, humidity 36.1%
  • July: Great, temperature 14.73°C, rainfall 0mm, sunshine 10.6 hrs, humidity 31%
  • August: Great, temperature 18.49°C, rainfall 0mm, sunshine 10.9 hrs, humidity 23.2%
  • September: Great, temperature 22.89°C, rainfall 0.1mm, sunshine 11.1 hrs, humidity 20.9%
  • October: Great, temperature 25.53°C, rainfall 8mm, sunshine 11.7 hrs, humidity 24%
  • November: Great, temperature 26.51°C, rainfall 14.9mm, sunshine 12.3 hrs, humidity 35.7%
  • December: Great, temperature 26.5°C, rainfall 54.3mm, sunshine 12.1 hrs, humidity 43.6%

Wildlife in Otjombinde Conservancy

Home to 1 recorded species including 1 reptiles.

Recommended Packing List for Otjombinde Conservancy

Based on average temperature of 21.9°C, typical conditions, humidity 39%.

  • Light layers - comfortable for 22°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

Similar Parks in Southern Kalahari & Kgalagadi

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Botswana

Travel advisory for Botswana

Otjombinde Conservancy FAQs

When is the optimal time to visit Otjombinde Conservancy for wildlife viewing, and what unique species might I encounter?

The dry winter months, typically from May to October, are ideal for visiting Otjombinde as animals congregate around limited water sources, making them easier to spot. While not a 'Big Five' destination, you can expect to see Kalahari specialists such as brown hyena, cheetah, eland, and various other antelope species adapted to its arid environment.

What kind of safari experience can I expect at Otjombinde Conservancy, especially given its extremely low crowding level?

Otjombinde offers a truly remote and exclusive wilderness experience, perfect for self-drive enthusiasts seeking solitude and an off-the-beaten-path adventure. You can expect vast, untouched landscapes and a profound sense of tranquility, often feeling like you have the entire conservancy to yourself.

What are the typical accommodation options and general cost considerations for a safari in Otjombinde Conservancy?

Accommodation within Otjombinde is primarily limited to designated self-catering campsites, requiring visitors to be fully self-sufficient with all provisions. This typically makes it a more budget-friendly safari compared to luxury lodge experiences, though park fees, 4x4 vehicle rental, and fuel remain significant costs.

What specific safety precautions and logistical preparations are recommended for visiting Otjombinde Conservancy, particularly for self-drivers?

Due to its remote nature and challenging sandy tracks, a well-equipped 4x4 vehicle, satellite phone, and sufficient water and fuel are absolutely essential. It is highly advisable to travel in convoy or inform local authorities of your detailed itinerary, as cell service is non-existent and assistance can be hours away.

How does the unique landscape of Otjombinde Conservancy contribute to its wildlife, and what conservation efforts are in place?

Otjombinde's semi-arid Kalahari environment supports a unique ecosystem adapted to dry conditions, featuring resilient flora and fauna like gemsbok and springbok. The conservancy model empowers local communities in managing and benefiting from wildlife, ensuring sustainable conservation practices for its delicate habitat and species.

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.