Ghanzi- Travel Tips

What to See, How to Plan & Tours

Nestled into the western edge of Botswana, Ghanzi is often called the “capital of the Kalahari”. Located some 300 km south-west of Maun and near the Namibian border, it occupies a broad belt of sandveld where cattle ranches, San heritage and desert space converge.

Ghanzi lies on the northern rim of the vast Kalahari Desert, at an elevation of roughly 1,100–1,230 metres above sea level. The region is marked by flat sandy terrain, thorn-savannah and sparse scrub, with summer highs reaching 30–45 °C and winter nights dropping low. Despite the austere environment, the lands around Ghanzi support over 200 cattle farms – making the area a major contributor to Botswana’s beef industry.

Cultural tapestry. Originally home to the San people (also called Bushmen), the area around Ghanzi also became inhabited by Bakgalagadi, Herero, Afrikaner-farmers and others. You’ll find multiple languages spoken—Sesarwa, Shekgalagadi, Setswana, Herero among them.

Economic backbone: cattle ranching. Ghanzi’s cattle industry feeds a significant portion of Botswana’s beef exports, with some estimates citing 75% of exports from the region’s farms. Ranches proliferated into the 200-plus range, enabled by the fertile grazing ground and access to groundwater beneath the Kalahari sands.

Landscape & nature. The Kalahari setting gives Ghanzi its character: wide-open spaces, sweeping skies, and a climate that demands respect. The terrain may appear monotonous at first, yet it has its own majestic rhythm—sunsets glowing across the sand, a canopy of stars at night. Nearby game reserves and wilderness areas support antelopes, ostriches, giraffes and elusive predators—though the ranching and farming land dominate.

What to do. For travellers drawn by culture, a visit to the village of D’Kar, about 35 km north of Ghanzi, offers insight into San traditions and bead-craft workshops. Wildlife enthusiasts can arrange for desert walks, game drives or stay in lodges that border wilderness areas. The region is often described as a stop-over point for the Kalahari and beyond.

Getting there & staying. Ghanzi lies along the Trans-Kalahari Highway (A2/A3 corridor) and serves as a supply hub for travellers en route to Namibia or the Okavango Delta. Accommodation is modest—town lodges, guest-houses and camps on ranches are available. Options include Dqae Qare San Lodge and other lodges just outside town.

Best time to go & tips. The principal rainfall occurs January to April, after which the landscape recovers. Winter (June–August) brings cooler days and crisp nights, which many visitors prefer. As Ghanzi is remote and services limited, travellers should plan supplies, fuel and accommodation ahead. The water of the Kalahari is too salty for consumption—bring bottled water.

• Cultural visits to D’Kar village and San workshops
• Desert walks and wildlife excursions
• Stay in ranch lodges or guest-houses outside town
• Plan travel logistics: fuel, water, accommodation