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Mokolodi Nature Reserve: A Wildlife Haven Near Gaborone

Experience Botswana's wildlife up close at Mokolodi Nature Reserve, just a short drive from Gaborone. Conservation, education, and adventure await!

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Mokolodi Nature Reserve, a non-profit game reserve just south of Gaborone, offers an accessible escape into Botswana's wilderness. Established in 1994, the reserve is home to diverse wildlife, including rhinos, giraffes, and cheetahs, providing various activities like game drives and guided walks. It's a popular destination for both tourists and locals seeking a quick immersion into nature.

A brief summary to Mokolodi Nature Reserve

Local tips

  • Book activities in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability for game drives, rhino tracking, or cheetah walks.
  • Wear comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for outdoor activities, including sun protection and insect repellent.
  • Consider visiting during the dry season (April to October) for easier wildlife spotting, as the vegetation is less dense.
  • Bring Pula (BWP) for entrance fees, activities, and souvenirs, as smaller vendors may not accept credit cards.
  • Check for any seasonal closures, especially during the rainy season (December to March), before planning your visit.
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Getting There

  • Car

    If driving from Gaborone, take the A1 road southwest for approximately 15 kilometers (9.3 miles). Look for the exit sign to Mokolodi Nature Reserve and follow the signs to the entrance. The drive takes about 55 minutes. Ensure you have sufficient fuel, as gas stations are limited along the route. Parking is available at the reserve. There is a vehicle entrance fee of $5.30.

  • Public Transport

    From Gaborone Bus Station, take a bus or shared taxi towards Lobatse. These typically cost 10-20 BWP. Ask to be dropped off near Mokolodi. From there, hire a local taxi for the remaining 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) to the reserve, which may cost 50-100 BWP, depending on negotiation. Be prepared for a 1.5km walk from the bus stop to the entrance.

  • Ride-Hailing Service

    Use a ride-hailing service like Bolt or Uber from Gaborone to Mokolodi Nature Reserve. The cost varies depending on distance and time but expect to pay approximately 150 to 250 BWP from central Gaborone.

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Discover more about Mokolodi Nature Reserve

Mokolodi Nature Reserve, located approximately 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) south of Gaborone, is a 30-square-kilometer (12 sq mi) private, not-for-profit game reserve dedicated to wildlife conservation and environmental education. Founded in 1994 by The Mokolodi Wildlife Foundation, the reserve provides a sanctuary for a variety of indigenous African species, including some that are rare and vulnerable. The reserve features a diverse landscape of riverine terrain and rocky hills, with the picturesque Lake Gwithian serving as a scenic focal point. Mokolodi is home to a wide array of wildlife, including kudu, warthog, duiker, giraffe, steenbok, zebra, blue wildebeest, gemsbok, ostrich, impala, springbok, waterbuck, baboons, and vervet monkeys. The reserve also participates in a successful white rhino reintroduction and breeding program. In addition to the free-roaming wildlife, Mokolodi houses a reptile park and a wildlife sanctuary for disabled or orphaned animals. Visitors to Mokolodi Nature Reserve can engage in a variety of activities, including game drives, guided walks, horse-back safaris, rhino tracking, and cheetah visits. Environmental education is a key focus, with the reserve hosting thousands of schoolchildren each year for educational programs. Mokolodi also offers facilities such as camping sites, chalets, picnic sites, an education center, a museum and library, and a restaurant. The Mokolodi Wildlife Foundation's creation was motivated by a desire to promote wildlife conservation and environmental education among Botswana's children. Income generated from tourism activities helps subsidize the reserve's conservation and education programs.

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