Mokala National Park

Located in the Northern Cape, Mokala is a relatively new park focused on the conservation of endangered species, including black and white rhino, roan,...

Mokala National Park at a Glance

Location
Arid North & Karoo, South Africa, Southern Africa
Coordinates
-29.111834, 24.368214
IUCN Category
II
Crowds
Moderate
Malaria Risk
None
Best Time to Visit
May to September (dry winter) for big game viewing. October to March for birdwatching and lush landscapes.

Getting to Mokala National Park

Nearest airport: Mokala National Park Airstrip, 12 km away.

Nearest international airport: Bram Fischer International Airport (BFN), 187 km away.

Big Five in Mokala National Park

3 of the Big Five can be found here: African Buffalo, Leopard Tortoise, White Rhinoceros.

Weather & Climate in Mokala National Park

The warmest temperatures in Mokala National Park occur in January, averaging 25.1°C (up to 32.0°C). The coolest conditions are in July at 10.0°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in July with average rainfall of 2.4mm. Average humidity: 45.9%.

Monthly Temperatures

  • January: 25.1°C (rainfall: 67.8mm)
  • February: 24.5°C (rainfall: 30.9mm)
  • March: 22.3°C (rainfall: 46.1mm)
  • April: 17.9°C (rainfall: 48.5mm)
  • May: 14.3°C (rainfall: 18.9mm)
  • June: 10.4°C (rainfall: 16.3mm)
  • July: 10.0°C (rainfall: 2.4mm)
  • August: 12.8°C (rainfall: 8.3mm)
  • September: 17.7°C (rainfall: 13.7mm)
  • October: 21.6°C (rainfall: 28.5mm)
  • November: 22.8°C (rainfall: 49.7mm)
  • December: 24.6°C (rainfall: 79.8mm)

Best Time to Visit Mokala National Park

The best months to visit Mokala National Park are February, October, November, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Great, temperature 25.11°C, rainfall 67.8mm, sunshine 11.9 hrs, humidity 48.1%
  • February: Great, temperature 24.49°C, rainfall 30.9mm, sunshine 12.1 hrs, humidity 47.6%
  • March: Great, temperature 22.31°C, rainfall 46.1mm, sunshine 10.9 hrs, humidity 50.1%
  • April: Great, temperature 17.9°C, rainfall 48.5mm, sunshine 10.3 hrs, humidity 53.8%
  • May: Great, temperature 14.29°C, rainfall 18.9mm, sunshine 10.1 hrs, humidity 51.9%
  • June: Good, temperature 10.44°C, rainfall 16.3mm, sunshine 9.6 hrs, humidity 55.3%
  • July: Great, temperature 9.98°C, rainfall 2.4mm, sunshine 10.1 hrs, humidity 45.9%
  • August: Great, temperature 12.84°C, rainfall 8.3mm, sunshine 10.6 hrs, humidity 37.5%
  • September: Great, temperature 17.69°C, rainfall 13.7mm, sunshine 11 hrs, humidity 31.7%
  • October: Great, temperature 21.63°C, rainfall 28.5mm, sunshine 11.5 hrs, humidity 31.5%
  • November: Great, temperature 22.81°C, rainfall 49.7mm, sunshine 12.6 hrs, humidity 38.3%
  • December: Great, temperature 24.65°C, rainfall 79.8mm, sunshine 12.4 hrs, humidity 42.2%

Wildlife in Mokala National Park

Home to 63 recorded species including 15 iconic birds, 15 waterbirds, 13 birds of prey, 8 antelope & gazelle, 4 big herbivores, 3 reptiles.

Recommended Packing List for Mokala National Park

Based on average temperature of 18.7°C, typical conditions, humidity 44%.

  • 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 Mokala National Park

7 safari lodges available.

Other

Similar Parks in Arid North & Karoo

Visitor Tips - Mokala National Park

We love Mokala for its quiet dedication to conservation, offering a truly intimate safari experience away from the usual crowds. This park is a hidden gem, where we've had some of our most memorable sightings of rare antelope species in a serene, unhurried setting. The sunsets are sensational, painting the sky with fiery hues that perfectly complement the rugged beauty of the Northern Cape.

Gate Times

We find Mokala National Park's gate times are fairly consistent, typically opening at 06:00 and closing at 18:00. These hours are strictly enforced for day visitors, and we always recommend confirming them directly with SANParks when you book, as they can shift slightly with the seasons. For overnight guests, access to your lodge or camp is generally permitted outside these hours, but you must check-in before the main gate closes. Booking your accommodation and activities well in advance is essential, especially during peak dry season from May to September.

Tipping

Tipping is a thoughtful gesture for excellent service, and we always encourage it. For your safari guide, we recommend around R150-R250 per person per day, given directly to them at the end of your stay. For general camp staff, a communal tip of R50-R100 per guest per day, placed in a central tip box, is customary and ensures everyone from housekeepers to chefs is acknowledged. Rangers leading walks or specific activities might appreciate a separate tip of R100-R150. Always tip in South African Rand cash.

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for South Africa

Travel advisory for South Africa

Mokala National Park FAQs

When is the optimal time to visit Mokala National Park for the best wildlife viewing opportunities?

The dry winter months, typically from May to September, are ideal for game viewing in Mokala. During this period, vegetation is sparser, and animals congregate around the park's permanent water sources, making them easier to spot. The cooler temperatures also make for more comfortable safari drives.

What kind of unique safari experience can I expect at Mokala National Park compared to other South African parks?

Mokala offers a distinctly tranquil and intimate safari experience, focusing on the quiet observation of its diverse wildlife, including its rare and endangered species. Unlike busier parks, you'll often have sightings to yourself, allowing for a more personal connection with nature and the unique thornveld environment. It's perfect for visitors seeking peace and dedicated wildlife photography.

What are the typical accommodation options and associated costs for visitors staying within Mokala National Park?

Mokala provides a range of accommodation, from comfortable self-catering cottages and bungalows at Mosu Lodge to more rustic tented camps and campsites. Prices generally range from budget-friendly camping options to mid-range lodge stays, typically booked through SANParks. It's advisable to book well in advance, especially during peak season.

Beyond the well-known rhinos and roan, what other notable wildlife can visitors hope to encounter in Mokala National Park?

While Mokala is renowned for its black and white rhino, roan, and tsessebe, visitors can also frequently spot a variety of other plains game such as giraffe, kudu, eland, gemsbok, and red hartebeest. Keep an eye out for smaller predators like caracal or bat-eared foxes, which thrive in this unique Northern Cape landscape. The park's diverse birdlife is also a significant draw.

What safety considerations should visitors be aware of, and what activities are available besides self-driving within Mokala National Park?

While Mokala is a safe destination, standard safari safety precautions apply, such as remaining in your vehicle unless in designated areas and respecting wildlife. Beyond self-drive safaris, the park offers guided game drives, bird-watching opportunities, and even guided bush walks for a more immersive experience. These activities provide different perspectives on the park's unique ecosystem.

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.
  • Lonely Planet South Africa, Lesotho & Eswatini by Lonely Planet - Comprehensive guide to South Africa including Kruger, Garden Route, Cape Town, and the Drakensberg. Essential for self-drive safari planning.
  • The Elephant Whisperer by Lawrence Anthony - Incredible true story of saving a herd of rogue elephants in Zululand, South Africa. A massive bestseller that will change how you see elephants forever.
  • 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.
  • An Elephant in My Kitchen by Francoise Malby-Anthony - The moving sequel to The Elephant Whisperer, written by Lawrence Anthony's wife. Continues the story of the Thula Thula elephants after his death. A beautiful account of the bond between humans and elephants.
  • 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.