Khutse Game Reserve

Location: Salajwe, Khutse

Established in 1971, Khutse Game Reserve spans approximately 2,500 square kilometers and is located about 240 kilometers northwest of Gaborone, Botswana’s capital. The name “Khutse” translates to “place where you can kneel down and drink” in the local Sekwena dialect. The reserve adjoins the Central Kalahari Game Reserve to the north, with no fences separating the two, allowing for free movement of wildlife.

Geography and Wildlife

Khutse encompasses diverse Kalahari habitats, including rolling grasslands, fossil dunes, dry riverbeds, and numerous pans such as Motailane, Moreswa, and Molose. These pans attract a variety of wildlife, especially after rainfall. Commonly sighted animals include springbok, gemsbok, giraffe, wildebeest, hartebeest, kudu, and predators like lions, leopards, cheetahs, and the endangered brown hyena.

Accessibility and Activities

Due to its proximity to Gaborone, Khutse is a favored retreat for both residents and visitors. The reserve offers a remote wilderness experience, with activities primarily centered around self-guided game drives and wildlife viewing. Visitors are advised to be self-sufficient, bringing necessary supplies, as there are no shops within the reserve.

Physical Address

Khutse Game Reserve is accessible via a 240 km drive from Gaborone, passing through several Kalahari villages, including Molepolole. The reserve’s entrance gate is located near the village of Salajwe.

For further information you can contact the following offices:

Botswana Tourism Organization

Physical Address: Fairscape Precinct, Plot 70667, Fairgrounds Office Park, building 1A & 1B, 2nd Floor (East Wing) Gaborone

Tel: +267 391 3111

Email: marketing@botswanatourism.co.bw

Website: https://www.botswanatourism.co.bw/explore/khutse-game-reserve

Department of Wildlife & National Parks

Gaborone

Physical Address : Plot 50380, Moedi House, Fairgrounds

Tel : +267 39 71 405

Email: dwnp@gov.bw

Maun