Balyerwa Conservancy

Balyerwa Conservancy is a protected area in Namibia.

Balyerwa Conservancy at a Glance

Location
Zambezi & Kavango East, Namibia, Southern Africa
Coordinates
-18.249325, 23.549550
Crowds
Very Quiet
Malaria Risk
Low
Best Time to Visit
May to October (dry winter) for Etosha wildlife. Year-round for Sossusvlei and the Skeleton Coast.

Getting to Balyerwa Conservancy

Nearest airport: Kwando-Lebala Airstrip (FBKW), 13 km away.

Nearest international airport: Victoria Falls International Airport (VFA), 242 km away.

Big Five in Balyerwa Conservancy

4 of the Big Five can be found here: African Buffalo, Lion, Leopard Tortoise, Leopard.

Weather & Climate in Balyerwa Conservancy

The warmest temperatures in Balyerwa Conservancy occur in October, averaging 29.2°C (up to 36.6°C). The coolest conditions are in July at 18.3°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in May with average rainfall of 0.0mm. Average humidity: 36.9%.

Monthly Temperatures

  • January: 23.9°C (rainfall: 197.1mm)
  • February: 25.1°C (rainfall: 89.4mm)
  • March: 24.8°C (rainfall: 72.2mm)
  • April: 23.7°C (rainfall: 8.1mm)
  • May: 21.2°C (rainfall: 0.0mm)
  • June: 18.5°C (rainfall: 0.2mm)
  • July: 18.3°C (rainfall: 0.0mm)
  • August: 21.9°C (rainfall: 0.6mm)
  • September: 26.4°C (rainfall: 0.0mm)
  • October: 29.2°C (rainfall: 1.8mm)
  • November: 28.1°C (rainfall: 36.8mm)
  • December: 26.3°C (rainfall: 89.3mm)

Best Time to Visit Balyerwa Conservancy

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

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Good, temperature 23.94°C, rainfall 197.1mm, sunshine 10.5 hrs, humidity 73.6%
  • February: Great, temperature 25.1°C, rainfall 89.4mm, sunshine 11.3 hrs, humidity 65.2%
  • March: Great, temperature 24.81°C, rainfall 72.2mm, sunshine 10.6 hrs, humidity 63%
  • April: Great, temperature 23.67°C, rainfall 8.1mm, sunshine 10.8 hrs, humidity 51.9%
  • May: Great, temperature 21.21°C, rainfall 0mm, sunshine 10.8 hrs, humidity 36.9%
  • June: Great, temperature 18.52°C, rainfall 0.2mm, sunshine 10.8 hrs, humidity 35.9%
  • July: Great, temperature 18.29°C, rainfall 0mm, sunshine 10.8 hrs, humidity 31.4%
  • August: Great, temperature 21.95°C, rainfall 0.6mm, sunshine 10.9 hrs, humidity 25.8%
  • September: Great, temperature 26.36°C, rainfall 0mm, sunshine 11.2 hrs, humidity 23%
  • October: Great, temperature 29.17°C, rainfall 1.8mm, sunshine 11.7 hrs, humidity 24.8%
  • November: Great, temperature 28.13°C, rainfall 36.8mm, sunshine 11.5 hrs, humidity 44.7%
  • December: Great, temperature 26.34°C, rainfall 89.3mm, sunshine 11.2 hrs, humidity 59.5%

Wildlife in Balyerwa Conservancy

Home to 122 recorded species including 38 waterbirds, 33 iconic birds, 25 birds of prey, 6 antelope & gazelle, 5 big herbivores, 5 tropical birds.

Recommended Packing List for Balyerwa Conservancy

Based on average temperature of 24.0°C, typical conditions, humidity 45%.

  • Light layers - comfortable for 24°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 Balyerwa Conservancy

2 safari lodges available.

Other

Similar Parks in Zambezi & Kavango East

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Namibia

Travel advisory for Namibia

Balyerwa Conservancy FAQs

What is the best time to visit Balyerwa Conservancy for optimal wildlife viewing?

The prime time to visit Balyerwa Conservancy for wildlife viewing is during Namibia's dry season, typically from May to October. During these months, animals congregate around the remaining water sources, making them easier to spot and photograph. The cooler temperatures also make for more comfortable game drives.

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

With a crowding level of 1/5, Balyerwa Conservancy offers an exceptionally intimate and exclusive safari experience. You can expect quiet game drives with minimal other vehicles, allowing for undisturbed wildlife encounters and excellent photographic opportunities. This low visitor density provides a profound sense of wilderness and tranquility.

Beyond the low malaria risk, what specific safety considerations should travelers be aware of when visiting Balyerwa Conservancy?

While malaria risk is low, travelers should prioritize sun protection, staying well-hydrated in the arid Namibian climate, and exercising caution on gravel roads if self-driving. Always maintain a safe distance from wildlife, especially larger animals, and follow any guidance provided by local conservancy staff or guides. Emergency contact information should be readily available.

What unique or iconic wildlife species are travelers most likely to encounter in Balyerwa Conservancy, distinguishing it from other African safari destinations?

Balyerwa Conservancy, like much of Namibia, is renowned for its desert-adapted wildlife. Visitors frequently encounter species such as oryx (gemsbok), springbok, and various arid-region birds. Depending on the specific habitat within the conservancy, there's also a chance to spot more elusive creatures like brown hyenas or even desert-dwelling elephants.

How do the costs and accommodation options in Balyerwa Conservancy compare to larger, more established national parks in Namibia?

As a conservancy, Balyerwa often features a range of accommodation, from community-run campsites and guesthouses to more exclusive private lodges, potentially offering more varied price points than some national parks. Costs can be influenced by the level of luxury and the direct contributions to local conservation efforts. Travelers may find unique opportunities to engage with local communities and support their initiatives.

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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • Bradt Guide: Namibia by Chris McIntyre - Comprehensive guide to Namibia - Etosha, Sossusvlei, Skeleton Coast, Damaraland. Self-drive routes, camp reviews, and wildlife guides.
  • 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.

Bookable Safari Packages in Balyerwa Conservancy

Curated safari packages featuring Balyerwa Conservancy, bookable through Safari.com.

  • 10 Day Namibia Must-See - Namibia Must-See is an exciting self-drive adventure, exploring the popular areas of this beautiful country. The colossal red dunes and desert-adapted wildlife are intensified by the luxurious accommodation and rich cultural experiences in private reserves. On this adventure, you will go out to the heart of Windhoek, experience the idyllic Okonjima Nature Reserve, search for desert-adapted Elephant at Mowani Mountain Lodge, visit Swakopmund where the Namibian sand dunes meet the beautiful Atlantic Ocean, and finally take in the impressive red dunes of Sossusvlei. (From R58,217)
  • 12-Day Rovos Rail Namibia to South Africa Safari - This journey commences in Walvis Bay, Namibia, traversing the Namib Desert to Otjiwarongo, where guests can observe desert-adapted wildlife in Etosha National Park. Experience the iconic red dunes of Sossusvlei and marvel at the quiver trees in Garas Park. Explore Luderitz for its colonial architecture and abundant wildlife, including seals and flamingos, before visiting the largest canyon in the southern hemisphere. Discover Upington and enjoy an exclusive cruise on the Orange River as you cross into South Africa to explore the Diamond Mine Museum in Kimberley. (From R215,000)
  • 5-Day Luxury Walvis Bay Safari at Pelican Point Lodge (From R49,494)
  • 4-Day Zannier Omaanda Safari - Zannier Omaanda, nestled in the heart of the Namibian savannah, is an exclusive lodge that offers a unique blend of luxury, wildlife, and authentic African charm. Located within the Zannier Reserve by N/a’an ku sê, a sprawling 9,000-hectare wildlife sanctuary, Omaanda provides an unparalleled safari experience. (From R20,510)
  • 10-Day Namibian Highlights Tour - Enjoy Namibia’s most popular destinations on this compact guided tour that incorporates visits to the Kalahari and Namib deserts – including the famed Sossusvlei dunes, the intriguing coastal town of Swakopmund, the Twyfelfontein rock engravings and Etosha National Park. The easiest way to travel the country, the Highlights Tour provides a comprehensive, informative, and fun-filled Namibian feast, without the hassle. It could not be simpler. Just hop aboard, sit back, and savour the delights this superlative country has to offer (From R63,722)
  • 9 Day Diverse Namibia - Experience the incredible wonders Namibia has to offer with this amazing 9-day safari. This tour is created on past client experiences but you are welcome to replace your accommodation to a level that suits your comfort preference and your wallet. Our travel experts will be happy to assist you with alternative options. (From R113,439)