Mokolodi Nature Reserve, Nature reserve near Gaborone, Botswana
Mokolodi Nature Reserve is a protected area on the outskirts of Gaborone in southern Botswana, covering open savanna and enclosed habitats home to giraffes, zebras, antelopes, cheetahs, and African wild dogs. The reserve offers chalets and camping areas for overnight stays, with guided game drives, walking tours, and horse safaris available during the day.
The Mokolodi Wildlife Foundation established the reserve in 1994 on land that had been donated, with the aim of sheltering species that had lost habitat across southern Africa. Over the years it grew into a center for breeding programs focused on recovering species under serious threat.
Mokolodi is a place where school groups from across Botswana regularly come to see wildlife and learn about species protection through direct encounters. Visitors often find children walking the trails with guides, making it a lively spot for nature education throughout the year.
The sun is strong throughout the day, so light clothing and sun protection are important for any outdoor activity, and early morning or late afternoon are the best times to spot animals. Staying overnight on site means you can take advantage of those quieter hours without needing to rush.
The reserve has its own reptile park that features venomous snakes, something rarely found alongside a standard game reserve experience. On top of that, the dedicated enclosures for cheetahs and African wild dogs give visitors a close look at two of the most rarely spotted animals in the wild.
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