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Khutse Game Reserve Travel Guide

Travel to Khutse Game Reserve - Undulating Desert Plains and Pans

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Khutse Game Reserve, the southern extension of the Central Kalahari Game Reserve, was established to conserve the pans of the Central Kalahari and is an ideal spot to experience true wilderness away from the busier parks of the north. This 2,500 sq. km reserve was opened in 1971, on Bakwena tribal land.

Prior to this date, due to the almost complete absence of surface water and the fragile vegetation, very few people lived in this area of undulating plains of dry Kalahari bush savannah. Those who did subsisted by gathering wild foods, undertaking limited hunting and keeping small stock. Wildlife was therefore considered to be a good alternative form of land use. The extensive mineralised pan system within Khutse provides an important habitat for wildlife.

Attractions in Khutse Game Reserve

During the rainy season, herbivores graze on the grass-covered pans, whilst in the dry season they can be seen licking salt from the pans. These herbivores in turn attract predators, such as lion, cheetah and leopard. Boreholes have been established at certain points within the reserve in order to encourage wildlife to stay within the area throughout the year.

Giraffe, gemsbok, red hartebeest, eland, kudu, wildebeest, springbok, steenbok, grey duiker, lion, leopard, cheetah, brown hyena, black-backed jackal, bat-eared fox and wild dog can be seen within Khutse, as well as many other smaller mammals. Travellers, however, should not expect to see large herds of game. A wide range of birdlife will keep bird enthusiasts well occupied.

Getting Around

Khutse can be reached after a 4 hour drive, on varying road conditions, from Gaborone. Basic, designated camping sites are available at various locations within the reserve.