Mokolodi Nature Reserve
Gaborone
Mokolodi Nature Reserve is a 30-square-kilometre private game reserve located just 10 kilometres south of Botswana's capital, Gaborone. Established in 1994 by The Mokolodi Wildlife Foundation, it serves as a sanctuary for a diverse range of indigenous African wildlife including giraffes, zebras, southern white rhinoceros, mountain reedbuck, and leopards. The reserve plays a crucial role in conservation efforts, notably participating in the national breeding programme for the southern white rhinoceros to help rebuild Botswana's rhino population. Visitors can explore an extensive network of paths designed for close wildlife viewing and enjoy activities such as game drives, rhino tracking, and giraffe tracking. The reserve also houses a reptile park featuring venomous snakes like the black mamba and Mozambique spitting cobra, alongside an aviary with rescued vultures. Beyond wildlife preservation, Mokolodi emphasizes environmental and conservation education, especially for children from across Botswana, including those from disadvantaged backgrounds. The reserve’s fee-based activities and accommodation support its charitable mission to foster a connection between Botswana's youth and the natural environment, promoting broader conservation awareness.
Plan your trip to Botswana with AI
Create a detailed itinerary in minutes. AI suggests the best places, restaurants, and an optimized route.
Tip: The best time to visit Mokolodi Nature Reserve is during Botswana's dry winter months when wildlife is easier to spot along waterholes. It is advisable to book game drives and tracking activities in advance to secure your preferred times. The reserve offers discounts for educational groups and children, supporting its mission to provide environmental education. Visitors should prepare for outdoor activities by wearing comfortable clothing and bringing sun protection. Early morning or late afternoon visits enhance wildlife viewing opportunities due to animal activity patterns.
Interesting facts
- •Mokolodi participates in Botswana's national breeding programme for the southern white rhinoceros to help rebuild the national herd.
- •The reserve houses large enclosures for cheetahs and African wild dogs, species that require special care and protection.
- •A reptile park within Mokolodi features some of Africa's most venomous snakes, including the black mamba and Mozambique spitting cobra.
- •Mokolodi hosts children from disadvantaged backgrounds to provide environmental education and inspire conservation awareness.
- •The reserve is situated on land donated specifically for wildlife conservation and education purposes.
History
Mokolodi Nature Reserve was founded in 1994 on 30 square kilometres of donated land near Gaborone.
Since its establishment by The Mokolodi Wildlife Foundation, it has grown into a key site for wildlife conservation in Botswana, particularly for species such as the southern white rhinoceros.
Over the years, the reserve has expanded its conservation efforts and educational programs, aiming to protect vulnerable species and engage local communities.
Plans have been made to extend the conservation area towards the nearby Lion Park to increase habitat protection.
Place Guide
Game Drives and Wildlife Viewing Paths
An extensive network of paths and guided game drives allow visitors to observe a wide variety of indigenous African wildlife, including giraffes, zebras, kudu, and predators like leopards, in their natural habitat.
Reptile Park
A dedicated area within the reserve housing venomous snakes such as black mamba, Mozambique spitting cobra, puff adder, and snouted cobra, offering educational insights into reptile species native to the region.
Aviary with Rescued Vultures
An aviary that shelters rescued white-backed and Cape vultures, providing care and rehabilitation for these important scavenger birds.
Rhino Tracking Experience
An interactive activity that allows visitors to track and learn about the southern white rhinoceros, supporting the national breeding and conservation programme.
Giraffe Tracking
A guided experience to observe and study giraffes within the reserve, enhancing understanding of their habits and role in the ecosystem.
Contact
Phone: 316 1955
