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Botsalano Game Reserve: A Kalahari Jewel

Discover Botsalano Game Reserve: A hidden gem for wildlife, birding, and tranquil bushveld escapes near Mahikeng.

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Botsalano Game Reserve, near Mahikeng, South Africa, offers an intimate safari experience in a 5,800-hectare reserve. Known for its Kalahari thornveld, diverse wildlife including white rhinos and prolific antelope breeding grounds, and over 200 bird species, it's a haven for nature lovers seeking a peaceful bush escape.

A brief summary to Botsalano Game Reserve

Local tips

  • Bring your own food, drinks, and firewood, as Botsalano is primarily a self-catering destination.
  • Pack insect repellent, especially during the summer months.
  • Consider visiting during the cooler months for more comfortable game viewing.
  • Take advantage of the extensive network of tracks for mountain biking and hiking.
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Getting There

  • Car

    From Mahikeng, head northwest on the N4 towards Zeerust. Continue for approximately 50 km, then take the exit towards the R49. Follow the R49 for about 30 km until you reach the entrance to Botsalano Game Reserve on your left. Note that there may be tolls on the roads. Ensure you have sufficient fuel as stations may be limited.

  • Public Transport

    Take a bus from Mahikeng to Zeerust from the Mahikeng bus terminal. From Zeerust, hire a taxi or local shuttle to Botsalano Game Reserve, approximately 30 km away. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey. Taxi fare could range from 200-300 BWP.

  • Taxi

    A taxi directly from Mahikeng to Botsalano Game Reserve is approximately 40 km and takes 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. Negotiate the fare upfront, typically ranging from 200-300 BWP. Some taxi services like Uber may be available, costing around R500 to R700.

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Discover more about Botsalano Game Reserve

Botsalano Game Reserve, meaning 'friendship' in Setswana, is a 5,800-hectare protected area located near Mahikeng in the North West Province of South Africa, close to the Botswana border. Proclaimed in 1984, the reserve showcases a unique blend of Kalahari bushveld, Acacia, and Karee woodlands. The reserve is renowned as a breeding ground for various antelope species and white rhinos, boasting over 2,000 animals. Birdwatchers will delight in the diverse avian population, with over 200 identified species. Visitors can explore the park's extensive network of roads, enjoying self-drive game viewing or guided walks. Keep an eye out for giraffe, zebra, cheetah, and brown hyena. Botsalano's landscape features a mix of grasslands and savanna, with interesting geological formations including part of one of the oldest volcanic craters in the world. The climate is generally mild to hot, with cold winter nights. The reserve offers a tranquil escape with basic camping and accommodation options, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the peaceful bushveld.

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