Manyelanong Game Reserve

Manyelanong Game Reserve is a protected area in Botswana.

Manyelanong Game Reserve at a Glance

Location
Tuli Block & Eastern Borderlands, Botswana, Southern Africa
Coordinates
-25.052720, 25.767159
IUCN Category
II
Crowds
Very Quiet
Malaria Risk
None
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 Manyelanong Game Reserve

Nearest airport: Alpha Airstrip (FBAL), 17 km away.

Nearest international airport: Sir Seretse Khama International Airport (GBE), 58 km away.

Weather & Climate in Manyelanong Game Reserve

The warmest temperatures in Manyelanong Game Reserve occur in November, averaging 23.3°C (up to 29.9°C). The coolest conditions are in July at 11.6°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in July with average rainfall of 1.0mm. Average humidity: 42.0%.

Monthly Temperatures

  • January: 22.8°C (rainfall: 78.5mm)
  • February: 22.7°C (rainfall: 70.7mm)
  • March: 21.6°C (rainfall: 23.0mm)
  • April: 18.0°C (rainfall: 47.2mm)
  • May: 14.9°C (rainfall: 6.5mm)
  • June: 11.6°C (rainfall: 5.2mm)
  • July: 11.6°C (rainfall: 1.0mm)
  • August: 15.1°C (rainfall: 1.8mm)
  • September: 20.0°C (rainfall: 2.2mm)
  • October: 22.1°C (rainfall: 41.6mm)
  • November: 23.3°C (rainfall: 45.8mm)
  • December: 23.2°C (rainfall: 89.2mm)

Best Time to Visit Manyelanong Game Reserve

The best months to visit Manyelanong Game Reserve are September, October, January, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Great, temperature 22.8°C, rainfall 78.5mm, sunshine 11.6 hrs, humidity 61.2%
  • February: Great, temperature 22.74°C, rainfall 70.7mm, sunshine 11 hrs, humidity 60.8%
  • March: Great, temperature 21.56°C, rainfall 23mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 57.1%
  • April: Good, temperature 17.98°C, rainfall 47.2mm, sunshine 10 hrs, humidity 59%
  • May: Great, temperature 14.94°C, rainfall 6.5mm, sunshine 10.3 hrs, humidity 52.5%
  • June: Great, temperature 11.57°C, rainfall 5.2mm, sunshine 10.1 hrs, humidity 50.2%
  • July: Great, temperature 11.55°C, rainfall 1mm, sunshine 10.3 hrs, humidity 42%
  • August: Great, temperature 15.13°C, rainfall 1.8mm, sunshine 10.5 hrs, humidity 36%
  • September: Great, temperature 19.99°C, rainfall 2.2mm, sunshine 11.1 hrs, humidity 31.6%
  • October: Great, temperature 22.13°C, rainfall 41.6mm, sunshine 11.1 hrs, humidity 37.3%
  • November: Great, temperature 23.27°C, rainfall 45.8mm, sunshine 11.3 hrs, humidity 47.5%
  • December: Great, temperature 23.18°C, rainfall 89.2mm, sunshine 11.4 hrs, humidity 57.5%

Wildlife in Manyelanong Game Reserve

Home to 70 recorded species including 28 iconic birds, 19 waterbirds, 15 birds of prey, 3 big herbivores, 2 antelope & gazelle, 2 tropical birds.

Recommended Packing List for Manyelanong Game Reserve

Based on average temperature of 18.9°C, typical conditions, humidity 49%.

  • Light layers - comfortable for 19°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 Manyelanong Game Reserve

4 safari lodges available.

Other

Similar Parks in Tuli Block & Eastern Borderlands

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Botswana

Travel advisory for Botswana

Manyelanong Game Reserve FAQs

What kind of unique safari experience does Manyelanong Game Reserve offer compared to Botswana's larger, more famous parks?

Manyelanong provides a remarkably tranquil and intimate wildlife viewing experience, distinct from the bustling scenes found elsewhere. Visitors can expect a serene environment perfect for birdwatching and observing smaller game without the presence of numerous other vehicles.

What specific wildlife is Manyelanong Game Reserve known for, and when is the optimal time to visit for the best sightings?

While not a Big Five destination, Manyelanong is renowned for its diverse birdlife, including raptors and various waterbirds, alongside antelope species like kudu and impala. The dry winter months (May to October) are ideal for wildlife viewing as animals gather around water sources, while the summer rains bring spectacular bird migrations.

What activities can visitors engage in at Manyelanong Game Reserve, and what facilities are available?

The reserve primarily offers self-drive game viewing routes, allowing for independent exploration and photography at your own pace. While facilities are generally rustic, there are designated picnic areas and basic ablutions, emphasizing a connection with nature.

How accessible is Manyelanong Game Reserve for independent travelers, and what are the typical entry requirements or costs?

Manyelanong is generally accessible by 4x4 vehicles, making it suitable for self-drive adventurers. Entry permits and conservation fees are payable at the reserve gate upon arrival, with costs varying for citizens and non-citizens, contributing directly to the park's upkeep.

Beyond the absence of malaria, what safety considerations should travelers be aware of when visiting Manyelanong Game Reserve?

While Manyelanong is very safe, standard safari precautions apply, such as staying in your vehicle in designated areas and maintaining a safe distance from wildlife. It's advisable to carry sufficient water, fuel, and a spare tire, as services within the reserve are minimal.

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.