Mokolodi Nature Reserve

A private, non-profit game reserve near Gaborone, Mokolodi offers a convenient wildlife experience for those visiting the capital. It's home to white...

Mokolodi Nature Reserve at a Glance

Location
Tuli Block & Eastern Borderlands, Botswana, Southern Africa
Coordinates
-24.749931, 25.773485
IUCN Category
III
Crowds
Busy
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 Mokolodi Nature Reserve

Nearest airport: Sir Seretse Khama International Airport (GBE), 26 km away.

Nearest international airport: Sir Seretse Khama International Airport (GBE), 26 km away.

Weather & Climate in Mokolodi Nature Reserve

The warmest temperatures in Mokolodi Nature Reserve occur in November, averaging 24.2°C (up to 30.8°C). The coolest conditions are in June at 12.5°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in August with average rainfall of 0.7mm. Average humidity: 35.8%.

Monthly Temperatures

  • January: 23.7°C (rainfall: 78.0mm)
  • February: 23.6°C (rainfall: 63.2mm)
  • March: 22.4°C (rainfall: 21.8mm)
  • April: 18.9°C (rainfall: 50.7mm)
  • May: 15.9°C (rainfall: 5.4mm)
  • June: 12.5°C (rainfall: 4.0mm)
  • July: 12.6°C (rainfall: 1.8mm)
  • August: 16.1°C (rainfall: 0.7mm)
  • September: 20.8°C (rainfall: 1.1mm)
  • October: 22.9°C (rainfall: 31.8mm)
  • November: 24.2°C (rainfall: 37.7mm)
  • December: 23.9°C (rainfall: 82.0mm)

Best Time to Visit Mokolodi Nature Reserve

The best months to visit Mokolodi Nature Reserve are September, October, November, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Great, temperature 23.67°C, rainfall 78mm, sunshine 11.8 hrs, humidity 60.1%
  • February: Great, temperature 23.58°C, rainfall 63.2mm, sunshine 11.2 hrs, humidity 59.9%
  • March: Great, temperature 22.38°C, rainfall 21.8mm, sunshine 10.9 hrs, humidity 56.6%
  • April: Great, temperature 18.95°C, rainfall 50.7mm, sunshine 10.1 hrs, humidity 58%
  • May: Great, temperature 15.93°C, rainfall 5.4mm, sunshine 10.4 hrs, humidity 52%
  • June: Great, temperature 12.54°C, rainfall 4mm, sunshine 10.2 hrs, humidity 50%
  • July: Great, temperature 12.58°C, rainfall 1.8mm, sunshine 10.4 hrs, humidity 41.7%
  • August: Great, temperature 16.14°C, rainfall 0.7mm, sunshine 10.6 hrs, humidity 35.8%
  • September: Great, temperature 20.82°C, rainfall 1.1mm, sunshine 11.2 hrs, humidity 31.9%
  • October: Great, temperature 22.88°C, rainfall 31.8mm, sunshine 11.2 hrs, humidity 37.8%
  • November: Great, temperature 24.2°C, rainfall 37.7mm, sunshine 11.5 hrs, humidity 47%
  • December: Great, temperature 23.93°C, rainfall 82mm, sunshine 11.5 hrs, humidity 57.3%

Wildlife in Mokolodi Nature Reserve

Home to 75 recorded species including 30 iconic birds, 23 waterbirds, 14 birds of prey, 4 big herbivores, 2 tropical birds, 1 primates.

Recommended Packing List for Mokolodi Nature Reserve

Based on average temperature of 19.8°C, typical conditions, humidity 49%.

  • Light layers - comfortable for 20°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 Mokolodi Nature Reserve

50 safari lodges available.

Other

budget

Similar Parks in Tuli Block & Eastern Borderlands

Visitor Tips - Mokolodi Nature Reserve

Mokolodi Nature Reserve offers a wonderfully accessible taste of Botswana's wildlife, just a stone's throw from Gaborone. We love its dedicated conservation efforts, particularly with the white rhinos, which provide truly intimate viewing experiences. We recommend taking advantage of the guided walks and cheetah visits; these close encounters are what make Mokolodi so special and memorable.

Gate Times

Mokolodi Nature Reserve typically operates from 07:30 to 17:00 daily, though we always recommend checking their official website for the most current seasonal variations, especially during public holidays. Entry permits are required and can be purchased at the gate, but for specific activities like rhino tracking or cheetah visits, advance booking is essential to secure your spot. We find it's always best to plan ahead, particularly if you are visiting during peak season.

Tipping

Tipping is a customary way to show appreciation for excellent service in Botswana. For your safari guide or ranger at Mokolodi, we recommend around 100-150 BWP (approximately 7-10 USD) per person per day, given directly and discreetly. For general camp staff, a communal tip box is often available, or you can tip individual staff members like waiters or housekeepers 20-50 BWP (1.50-3.50 USD) per service. We believe a genuine 'thank you' accompanied by a tip is always well-received.

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Botswana

Travel advisory for Botswana

Mokolodi Nature Reserve FAQs

What's the best time of year to visit Mokolodi Nature Reserve for optimal wildlife viewing and to manage the crowding level?

The dry winter months from May to October are generally best for wildlife viewing, as animals gather around water sources and the vegetation is less dense. To best manage the 4/5 crowding level, especially given its proximity to Gaborone, consider visiting on weekdays or early mornings for a more tranquil experience.

Beyond typical game drives, what unique wildlife experiences or 'close encounters' can visitors expect at Mokolodi Nature Reserve?

Mokolodi is renowned for its unique 'close encounter' opportunities, such as guided rhino tracking walks or visits to their animal rehabilitation center. These experiences offer an intimate perspective on conservation efforts and allow for closer interaction than typically found in larger, wilder parks.

Is Mokolodi Nature Reserve suitable for a day trip from Gaborone, and what are the typical logistical considerations?

Absolutely, Mokolodi is perfectly suited for a convenient day trip from Gaborone, being just a short drive away. You can easily self-drive or arrange a transfer, and while entrance fees apply, it offers an accessible wildlife experience without needing extensive safari planning or overnight stays.

What safety precautions should visitors be aware of when exploring Mokolodi, especially if opting for a self-drive safari?

While Mokolodi is a fenced reserve, it's crucial to remember you are in a wild animal environment; always stay in your vehicle unless in designated, safe areas. For self-drivers, adhere strictly to speed limits, maintain a safe distance from animals, and follow all reserve signage and guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.

How does the safari experience at Mokolodi Nature Reserve differ from the larger, more remote national parks in Botswana?

Mokolodi offers a more intimate, accessible, and education-focused wildlife experience compared to the vast wilderness of parks like Chobe or the Okavango Delta. While you won't find the same scale of migration or predator density, Mokolodi excels in providing close encounters, conservation insights, and a convenient safari option for those visiting Gaborone.

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.