Kalahari Safari

Discover the Kalahari’s secrets and help protect its iconic wildlife.

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Experience the Kalahari

Witness incredible wildlife and contribute to ongoing research today.

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Exclusive Kalahari Access

Explore a vast reserve with limited guests for exceptional wildlife encounters.

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Your Impact Matters

Contribute to vital research on your unforgettable Kalahari safari.

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Beyond Wildlife Watching

Immerse in hands-on conservation on a life-changing Kalahari safari.

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Kalahari Safari: Immerse, Discover, and Contribute to Conservation

Exclusivity and Impact of Our Kalahari Safari Desert

Forget crowded game drives and rushed wildlife sightings. Your Kalahari safari with Working With Wildlife offers an unparalleled journey where you become an active participant in vital conservation efforts, uncovering the secrets of this extraordinary ecosystem. Experience the Kalahari’s untouched wilderness with exclusive access, leaving a positive footprint on its fragile environment.

Immerse yourself in a landscape teeming with life, where your presence directly contributes to the protection of endangered species. Witness the struggle for survival and develop a deeper bond with the Kalahari’s wild heart, knowing your participation fuels vital conservation work.

Wildlife Kalahari Safari Conservation Experience

Oryx walking on Kalahari calcrete pan, elephant in the distance

Kalahari Safari South Africa – Beyond the Ordinary

Embrace the Wild

Explore a vast 96,400-hectare (240,000-acre) private reserve in the heart of the Kalahari, home to iconic species like the black-maned lion, elusive African wild dog, majestic cheetah, and the world’s most poached mammal, the pangolin. With limited guests and exclusive access, you’ll relish uninterrupted wildlife encounters in our open game viewing vehicles, getting closer to the action than ever before on a traditional Kalahari safari. Discover the raw beauty of the Kalahari and witness true conservation in action.

Conservation at Your Fingertips

This Kalahari safari isn’t just about watching wildlife – it’s about actively protecting it. Alongside our research team, take part in essential conservation work:

Predator Monitoring

Track elusive cheetahs, lions, and endangered African wild dogs by vehicle, collecting valuable data needed to understand their movements, hunting success, prey selection, and population dynamics.

Our Predator Monitoring

Pangolin Monitoring

Support on-site research and monitoring efforts on the world’s most trafficked mammal, helping to safeguard this vulnerable species.

Our Pangolin Monitoring

Game Counts

Conduct animal surveys by vehicle focusing on sex ratios, population dynamics, and preferred habitat types. This data is key for species management within a Kalahari ecosystem.

Our Game Counts

Guests on a game viewing vehicle observing African wild dogs, Kalahari Reserve.

Kalahari Safari sees a ground pangolin photo on the animal crossing the road

Conservation at Your Fingertips

Predator Monitoring

Our Predator Monitoring

Pangolin Monitoring

Support on-site research and monitoring efforts on the world’s most trafficked mammal, helping to safeguard this vulnerable species.

Our Pangolin Monitoring

Game Counts

Conduct animal surveys by vehicle focusing on sex ratios, population dynamics, and preferred habitat types. This data is key for species management within a Kalahari ecosystem.

Our Game Counts

Kalahari Safari Animals (Africa Big 5) – Unforgettable Encounters

Experience a Kalahari safari that goes beyond wildlife viewing. Become a conservation partner on South Africa’s largest private big-5 reserve, Khamab Kalahari Reserve. Track endangered species like African wild dogs, cheetahs, and pangolins, contribute to hands-on research, and even assist in anti-poaching efforts. This is a Kalahari Conservation Safari for wildlife research – an authentic, impactful adventure in a remote, untamed African ecosystem.

Your Kalahari safari becomes a personal journey of discovery. Witness the thrill of a cheetah hunt, the playful nature of African wild dogs, or the cautious movements of a pangolin foraging at dusk. Every sighting contributes to the greater scientific understanding while leaving you in awe of the Kalahari’s resilience.

African wild dog inspecting a research camera trap, Kalahari

Guests kneeling in Kalahari grassland, conducting a plant survey

Camera Traps

Assist in setting and retrieving camera traps, capturing elusive wildlife behavior and population dynamics thereby contributing to ongoing monitoring projects within Khamab Kalahari Reserve.

Our Camera Traps

Anti-Poaching Efforts

Gain valuable insights into the challenges facing wildlife conservation and the anti-poaching strategies protecting the Kalahari’s precious species.

Our Anti-Poaching

Vegetation Surveys

Gain a deeper understanding of the Kalahari’s delicate ecosystem by participating in herbaceous and woody vegetation surveys, crucial for habitat management.

Our Vegetation Surveys

View All Activities

Camera Traps

Assist in setting and retrieving camera traps, capturing elusive wildlife behavior and population dynamics thereby contributing to ongoing monitoring projects within Khamab Kalahari Reserve.

Our Camera Traps

Anti-Poaching Efforts

Gain valuable insights into the challenges facing wildlife conservation and the anti-poaching strategies protecting the Kalahari’s precious species.

Our Anti-Poaching

Vegetation Surveys

Gain a deeper understanding of the Kalahari’s delicate ecosystem by participating in herbaceous and woody vegetation surveys, crucial for habitat management.

Our Vegetation Surveys

View All Activities

The Kalahari: A Unique Wilderness

Harsh Beauty

Witness the Kalahari’s stark beauty – iconic pans, ancient camelthorn trees, and the resilience of desert-adapted wildlife. Discover a land sculpted by extremes, where every sighting tells a story of survival. Learn how the Kalahari’s harshness shapes unique adaptations, fostering a tenacious web of life.

Desert Specialists

As you embark on your Kalahari safari, be amazed by wildlife perfectly suited to this dynamic environment. Observe gemsbok with their ability to regulate body temperature, meerkats with their social teamwork, and the nocturnal brown hyena, a master scavenger of the Kalahari. Learn the incredible strategies these creatures employ to thrive in one of Africa’s most challenging landscapes.

Nights Under the Stars

With minimal light pollution, the Kalahari unveils a celestial wonder unlike any other. Your Kalahari safari transforms into an astronomical journey as you witness the brilliance of the Milky Way and the Southern Cross, an unforgettable Kalahari safari experience in this Bortle level 1 dark zone. Gaze at the stars and let the boundless Kalahari sky ignite your imagination.

Ephemeral Wonders

The Kalahari holds hidden surprises. After the summer rains, carpets of vibrant wildflowers transform the desert, attracting a burst of insect life and migrating birds. This temporary oasis highlights the delicate balance of the ecosystem and the stark contrast between the Kalahari’s dry and wet seasons.

Your Conservation Impact

African wild dog with playful puppies, Kalahari Safari

Guests on a research vehicle observe cheetahs resting beside them, Kalahari

Wildebeest, eland, rhino, and giraffes gather at a Kalahari waterhole

Data Driven Results

The Kalahari safari experience goes far beyond observation. Each wildlife sighting, every track followed, and every camera trap checked contributes to ongoing research projects focused on African wild dogs, lions, cheetahs, pangolins, spotted hyenas, and other species. This vital data informs real-world conservation strategies, helping to protect Khamab Kalahari Reserve’s extraordinary biodiversity.

Frontline Conservation

Witness the challenges and triumphs of wildlife conservation firsthand. Understand how data gathered on your Kalahari safari directly fuels decision-making, habitat protection efforts, and the fight against poaching. Experience the profound satisfaction of knowing that your presence makes a significant difference.

A Legacy of Protection

Your Kalahari safari experience isn’t just about personal fulfillment – it’s an investment in the future of Africa’s wildlife. Revenue from our safaris directly supports conservation initiatives (21%), and the hand-on monitoring and research activities you will participate in further help to ensure your legacy is one of preserving these irreplaceable species and this unique ecosystem. This is responsible tourism that empowers you to make a tangible difference for Africa’s wildlife.

Ripple Effect

Your Kalahari safari becomes a beacon of responsible tourism. Return home as a wildlife ambassador with a newfound passion for conservation, inspiring others to choose ethical travel experiences that make a tangible impact on the places they visit.

Your Conservation Impact

Data Driven Results

Frontline Conservation

A Legacy of Protection

Ripple Effect

Live in Harmony with Wilderness

Rejuvenate in Comfort

After a day of adventure in the Kalahari, unwind in our comfortable camp. Embrace in our low-impact spacious accommodation that blends seamlessly with the desert surroundings. Enjoy good food, hot showers, uncapped Wi-Fi, and the quiet solitude of the Kalahari after an impactful day in the field.

Small Groups, Big Experiences

With a maximum of only 8 guests in camp, your Kalahari safari maintains a sense of exclusivity and intimacy thereby enhancing your wildlife viewing and creating lasting camaraderie with other like-minded adventurers as you discover the Kalahari’s hidden wonders.

A Place to Recharge

The Kalahari’s solitude offers a rare opportunity for self-reflection. Find tranquility in quiet moments, whether it’s stargazing, reading on a hammock, or simply absorbing the vastness of the landscape. Return home rejuvenated, inspired, and forever connected to the wild spirit of the Kalahari.

Our Kalahari Safari Home

Our intimate tented lodge situated within Khamab Kalahari Reserve offers a unique blend of comfort and adventure. Five spacious tents with en-suite bathrooms provide a luxurious touch after days spent exploring this vast wilderness. Watch wildlife from camp, marvel at the starlit Kalahari sky, and enjoy modern amenities like electricity, hot water, Wi-Fi, and purified drinking water. With flexible catering options, we’ll craft a Kalahari experience tailored to your needs.

Queen bed inside a luxury tented camp, Kalahari Desert

Queen bed in luxury tented camp with glass doors overlooking the Kalahari

FAQ – Your Kalahari Safari Questions

Who is this Kalahari safari ideal for?

• Experienced wildlife enthusiasts seeking an authentic, conservation-focused adventure beyond traditional safaris.
• Travelers desiring a deeper understanding of the Kalahari ecosystem and how to protect it.
• Those who value exclusivity, personalized experiences, and comfortable accommodations in a remote setting.
Read our Testimonials to see what previous guests think!

What makes this Kalahari safari different from others?

• Active participation in data collection and conservation projects alongside knowledgeable guides.
• Access to Khamab Kalahari Reserve, South Africa’s largest private big-5 reserve with minimal other tourists.
• Focus on endangered and elusive species like the African wild dog, cheetah, and pangolin.
• Comfortable lodge with a focus on guest comfort and minimal environmental footprint.
See our Gallery for more images!

What animals are in the Kalahari Safari?

• Khamab Kalahari Reserve is home to 215 birds and 49 Mammal species including:
Aardwolf, African wildcat, Aardvark, Bat-eared fox , Black-backed jackal, Black footed cat, Black rhino, Blue wildebeest, Brown hyena, Buffalo, Burchell’s zebra, Cape fox, Caracal, Chacma baboon, Cheetah, Common duiker, Eland, Elephant, Gemsbok, Giraffe, Ground squirrel, Honey badger, Impala, Kudu, Leopard, Meerkat (Suricate), Pangolin, Porcupine, Red hartebeest, Sable, Scrub hare, Serval, Slender mongoose, Small-spotted genet, Spotted hyena, Springbok, Springhare, Steenbok, Striped polecat, Vervet monkey, Warthog, Waterbuck, White rhino, Wild dog, and Yellow mongoose.

Does the Kalahari have live animals?

• Yes! Khamab Kalahari Reserve is home to thousands of large mammals, as well as 200+ bird species, and many reptiles, and insects. The reserve is committed to restoring the area to the natural state with as little human impact as possible.

In which country is the Kalahari Desert?

• The Kalahari Desert spans a vast area across three African countries: Botswana, Namibia, and South Africa. Each country offers unique Kalahari safari experiences, showcasing the diverse landscapes and wildlife of this captivating desert region. Whether you dream of tracking wildlife in Botswana’s lush delta regions, exploring the iconic red dunes of Namibia, or joining conservation efforts in South Africa, the Kalahari promises an unforgettable adventure.

Why visit the Kalahari Desert?

The Kalahari Desert offers a truly unique adventure unlike any other. You should consider a Kalahari safari for epic:
• Wildlife Encounters: Discover fascinating species adapted to thrive in arid conditions, from the iconic gemsbok to elusive predators like African wild dogs and leopards.
• Diverse Landscapes: Witness the Kalahari’s surprising variety – acacia-dotted savannas, fossil riverbeds, and vibrant pans teeming with life after the rains.
• Off-the-Beaten-Path: Embrace the solitude and vast landscapes, finding the true meaning of wilderness on a less-traveled safari destination.
• Conservation in Action: Experience a safari with purpose. Participate in conservation research and anti-poaching efforts that directly contribute to protecting this precious ecosystem.

What does the word “Kalahari” mean?

The exact meaning and origin of the word “Kalahari” are somewhat debated, but it’s generally believed to derive from the Tswana word “Kgala” meaning “great thirst” or “Kgalagadi” meaning “a waterless place.” These translations accurately reflect the Kalahari’s arid nature, highlighting the unique adaptations of the life that thrives there. Intrigued by the Kalahari’s mysteries and the resilience of its wildlife?

Embark on a Kalahari safari and experience this captivating landscape for yourself.

What kind of physical fitness is required for this Kalahari safari?

• Moderate fitness is needed. Activities include extended game drives in open game viewing vehicles, occasional walks for tracking wildlife and for herbaceous or woody surveys.

Are there age restrictions for this Kalahari safari?

• We welcome adults and kids (12+) passionate about wildlife and conservation. For children under 12 years of age, we require the camp to be booked exclusively making this a wonderful opportunity for close friends and family.

What’s the best time of year to visit the Kalahari?

• The dry season (May-October) offers optimal game viewing as animals congregate around water sources. Evenings can be very cold but this period is best for predator monitoring and pangolin monitoring as they are more active during daylight hours, and the vegetation becomes sparce making it easier to navigate. This is also denning season for African wild dogs.
• The wet season (November-April) boasts lush landscapes, vibrant and migratory birdlife, and the chance to witness the Kalahari’s transformation. Daytime temperatures can be very high yet there is nothing quite like the Kalahari when colourful and green, teeming with calves, natural rainwater, and large herds of diverse wildlife on the typical Kalahari calcrete pans. This is a sight to behold!

Can I customize my Kalahari safari experience?

• Absolutely! Contact us to tailor your itinerary based on your needs! See our Pricing or if you have any more questions, visit our FAQ page.
• Wildlife conservation efforts are required 365 days of the year and therefore, there is no bad time of the year to visit or minimum/maximum durations. This is a land of extremes and there will be pros and cons throughout the year!

Discover the profound impact of a Kalahari safari with purpose. Join Working With Wildlife and contribute to preserving Africa’s extraordinary wildlife.

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International Guests

If you would like to experience the Kalahari differently from just a normal safari, this is the place to go.

Here you get the opportunity to see and assist in some of the “behind the scenes” activities and management actions that are needed to make a reserve function.

However, you don’t just sit on a vehicle, you are expected to assist in some of the hands-on work that needs to be done.

And because some work are done on foot, you get closer to the small things that you would otherwise not see from a vehicle.

Gary and Edyta are the perfect hosts, and in their comfortable camp you are made to feel completely at home.

Their passion for their project is infectious, which result in wonderful fireside discussions on conservation in general, but also more in depth chats about all the realities of making a game reserve a success.

The remoteness of the reserve takes you away from everyday realities, and the isolation allows you to find an inner peace few other places can give.

This experience leaves you with a completely different perspective.

– HK

★★★★★

I was fortunate enough to spend 3 nights staying with Working with Wildlife recently.

I am a professional field guide, but had no idea what to expect from their location.

I was totally blown away by how much vegetation there was, and also by the exciting and plentiful game viewing we had. Such a treat to see so many of the species not found in other areas of South Africa.

I saw my very first Cape Fox, and many new bird species. I was blow away but all of the mammal species caught on their camera trap, from bat-eared fox to huge Kalahari male lions, and everything else in between.

Their newly built camp was well organised, and the safari tent was really comfortable and immaculate.

It was such a joy to be in such a remote, secluded location. It made me feel really special, and I could have happily spent much longer exploring the area with Gary, who was really knowledgeable about all of the local species.

This is an amazing initiative and I would highly recommend a stay to anyone that enjoys nature, especially if they want to do something a bit different, while also playing an important role in African conservation.

– Kelly Oldaker

★★★★★

Wow – I cannot recommend Working With Wildlife enough! What an extraordinary setting (the wildlife!), what extraordinary people and what incredible experiences! I don’t know of another location where one can get such hands-on insights to conservation (the amazing as well as the realistic truths about conservation) while also having a truly enjoyable, down-to-earth eco-tourism experience.

Gary and Edyta are an enchanting combination of knowledgeable and humble, and I really miss the invaluable fire-side chats late into the night as well as the many laughs. Despite several years of exposure to the conservation industry in South Africa, I have never quite seen a camp like the one for Working With Wildlife – I still don’t know how they pull it off because it’s truly unique: a space that fits intimately and seamlessly into the landscape and is also exquisitely comfortable?! Not to mention the baking and cooking that Edyta somehow magically produces from such a remote location…

I really hope that anyone and everyone who is truly interested in understanding conservation in Africa spends time with Working with Wildlife (you won’t regret it, trust me). Experiences like that simply build better people and goodness knows that the conservation world needs good people!

– Marike Louw-Voysey

★★★★★

Our Location

Wide-angle shot of 24 African wild dogs and 5 white rhinos drinking together at a waterhole under a colorful purple sunset.