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Check things to see along the trail and best time to go Explore Moremi Gorge Trail Explore Chobe National Park Intro | Highlights | Map | Best time to go | Where to stay? | Details | Guide | Botswana | FAQ | What to expect when backpacking in Khama Rhino Sanctuary Walking Trails The Khama Rhino Sanctuary Walking Trails offer a unique blend of adventure and wildlife spotting, but it’s not without its quirks. Stretching around 8 kilometers, the trails are relatively easy, making them accessible for most hikers, but don’t expect a heart-pounding trek—this is more about soaking in the scenery and keeping an eye out for rhinos. The landscape features a mix of grasslands and acacia trees, which is pretty stunning, especially at sunrise. Getting there by public transport can be a bit of a hassle, with limited options, so be prepared for some waiting around. Compared to other hikes in Botswana, like the more rugged trails in Tsodilo Hills, Khama is definitely more laid-back, but it lacks the dramatic views that some other spots offer. Overall, if you’re after a chill day with a chance to see some incredible wildlife, it’s worth the trip. Discover everything you want to know in the 📖  Botswana Travel Guide . Best time to go: May – October Duration: 2 days Distance: 20 kilometers Total ascent: 200 meters Get your Botswana Travel Guide 💡 Top Highlights Best things to see along Khama Rhino Sanctuary Walking Trails Botswana Grab your own Travelguide for only Rhino sightings and tracking — The whole sanctuary exists because of rhino conservation, so the walking trails give you a real chance to see rhinos on foot (with a guide). You’ll learn to read dung, tracks and wallows, which makes the encounter feel personal and immediacy-heavy—very different from spotting animals through a car window. Open pans and seasonal waterholes — Wide, flat pans open up like natural mirrors after rains and draw birds and thirsty game to the edges. The light and reflections are brilliant for photos, and the feeling of space here is a neat contrast to Botswana’s more riverine or wooded landscapes. Mopane woodland, termite mounds and bush textures — You’ll notice the small stuff: huge termite castles, twisted acacias and mopane trees, and insects and birds that thrive in the undergrowth. The close-up ecology on foot—smells, bark, the sound of moving leaves—makes the hike a richer sensory experience than a drive. Plains game and giraffe encounters — The trails often cross grazing areas where zebra, impala and giraffe feed. These animals are used to low, quiet human traffic here, so you can get satisfying, unhurried views and pictures without the bustle of a jeep-based safari. Community-run conservation and interpretive stops — Khama is a community project, and many walks include guide stories about local conservation, anti-poaching efforts and village ties. That cultural angle—real people protecting wildlife on their land—adds a meaning layer you won’t get on purely national-park hikes. Spotted a mistake or missing something? Contact me. To view the map, please enable javascript Loading the map 🌍 CLICK TO FILTER city town village unique site national park hike festival region 🌤️ When to Go? Best Time to visit Khama Rhino Sanctuary Walking Trails Hiking the Khama Rhino Sanctuary Walking Trails is a fantastic way to soak up Botswana’s wildlife and scenery. The best time to hit the trails is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. This period generally offers cooler temperatures, making it more comfortable for hiking. You can expect daytime highs around 20-30°C (68-86°F) and cooler nights dipping to about 5-15°C (41-59°F). As for the wet season, from November to April, temperatures can soar to 30-40°C (86-104°F) during the day, which can be a bit brutal, especially if you’re out and about. Plus, the trails can get muddy and less accessible. If you’re looking for fewer crowds and a bit of wildlife action, try to go in May or September. The animals are more active, and you might catch a glimpse of rhinos, of course, but also other wildlife without the hustle and bustle of peak tourist season. Pro-tip: Start your hikes early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the heat and catch the best wildlife sightings. Plus, sunrise and sunset in the sanctuary are absolutely stunning—definitely worth the early wake-up call! JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC 🛏️ Where to Stay? Best Places to Stay in Khama Rhino Sanctuary Walking Trails If you enjoy meeting fellow travelers, consider choosing hostels with high ratings for atmosphere. On the other hand, if you prefer having your own space, a hotel might be a better option. Best hostels in Botswana Best quality hotels in Botswana 🥾 Get Your Walking Shoes Trail Details of Khama Rhino Sanctuary Walking Trails Total Distance: The Khama Rhino Sanctuary Walking Trails cover about 8 kilometers (5 miles) on the main loop, but you can extend your trek with various side paths. Estimated Duration Total Distance: The Khama Rhino Sanctuary Walking Trails cover about 8 kilometers (5 miles) on the main loop, but you can extend your trek with various side paths. Estimated Duration: Expect to spend around 2 to 4 hours on the trail, depending on your pace and how much time you spend soaking in the scenery or spotting wildlife. Difficulty Level: This trail is generally considered easy to moderate. Most of the route … read more 👉 Total Distance: The Khama Rhino Sanctuary Walking Trails cover about 8 kilometers (5 miles) on the main loop, but you can extend your trek with various side paths. Estimated Duration Total Distance: The Khama Rhino Sanctuary Walking Trails cover about 8 kilometers (5 miles) on the main loop, but you can extend your trek with various side paths. Estimated Duration: Expect to spend around 2 to 4 hours on the trail, depending on your pace and how much time you spend soaking in the scenery or spotting wildlife. Difficulty Level: This trail is generally considered easy to moderate. Most of the route is flat, but there are a few uneven sections that might require a bit of careful footing. Starting Point: The trail starts at the Khama Rhino Sanctuary entrance. To get there by public transport, you can catch a bus from Gaborone to Serowe, which takes about 4-5 hours. From Serowe, you can take a taxi or arrange for a pickup to the sanctuary, which is about 30 kilometers away. Major Landmarks Along the Route: Waterholes: Several waterholes dot the trail, attracting a variety of wildlife, especially during the dry season. Viewpoints: There are designated spots where you can pause and take in the expansive views of the sanctuary and surrounding landscape. Type of Terrain and Scenery: The trail features a mix of dirt paths and some rocky sections. The scenery is a blend of open savannah and scattered woodlands, with beautiful acacia trees and grasslands. You’ll get a taste of Botswana’s unique landscape, which is both serene and striking. Typical Vegetation: Expect to see a variety of plants typical to the area, including acacia and baobab trees, along with tall grasses and shrubs. The vegetation can change as you move along the trail, providing a diverse experience. Wildlife: The sanctuary is home to a number of species, including: Rhinos: Obviously, the main attraction is the white and black rhinos, which you might see grazing. Birds: Birdwatchers will be thrilled with over 200 species, including ostriches and various raptors. Mammals: Besides rhinos, keep an eye out for zebras, giraffes, and various antelope. This trail is perfect for independent hikers looking for a bit of adventure without the heavy lifting. Just pack your water, wear some sturdy shoes, and enjoy the wild side of Botswana! ⚠️ Hiking info can sometimes be outdated or inaccurate. Before you hit the trail, check the latest conditions with locals. If you do spot anything that’s off, I’d love to hear from you,so I can update it for fellow travelers. ✈️ Get your own digital guidebook Botswana Travel Guide Discover the best Botswana has to offer — handpicked hikes, must-see cities, hidden gems, local festivals, and more. All in one handy downloadable pdf Botswana 115 pages full of highlights ✅ Why visit & When to go ✅ 47 must-see highlights ✅ 21-day country itinerary ✅ Top hikes & National parks ▼ More inside ✅ Best areas to stay ✅ History of country & cities ✅ Essential phrases & customs ✅ Key festivals & Events ✅ Money, food & transport Get your Guide Now Start planning today! 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Explore Botswana Khama Rhino Sanctuary Walking Trails isn’t the only highlight in Botswana. Explore all what Botswana has to offer. 🌆 Cities        Compare the top best cities : Gaborone, Francistown, Palapye, see all 🏡 Towns        Compare the top best towns : Kasane, Maun, Shakawe , see all 🌽 Villages        Compare the top best villages : Mokoro, see all ⭐️ Unique sites        Compare the top best wonders : Savuti Channel, see all 🏞️ National parks        Compare the top best parks : Okavango Delta, Moremi Game Reserve, Chobe , see all 🚶‍♀️ Hikes        Compare the top best hikes : Chobe Riverfront, Moremi Gorge Trail, Khama Rhino Sanctuary Walking Trails, see all 🎎 Festivals        Compare the top best festivals : Gaborone International Music and Culture Week, Maun International Arts, Maitisong, see all 🏝️ Regions        Compare the top best regions : Kalahari Desert, see all Explore Botswana ✈️ Ready to Go? Khama Rhino Sanctuary Walking Trails FAQ Get your own 2025 guide book for Botswana The TakeYourBackpack guidebooks are your all-in-one travel companion, featuring the best cities, national parks, hikes, beaches, and unique sites, along with essential tips on when to go, how to get around, exchanging money, and even local phrases to get you started — everything you need for a smooth, unforgettable backpacking adventure. Botswana Grab your own Travelguide for only How do I find the best and cheapest places to stay in Khama Rhino Sanctuary Walking Trails? Personal tip: I normally search on good rating for atmosphere (for meeting people) and location (for easy exploring). Cleanliness as a bonus. Best hostels in Botswana Best quality hotels in Botswana What should I pack for a backpacking trip to Botswana? Botswana’s got a wild mix of climates, so pack smart! Days can get scorching—think 30°C and above—especially in the Kalahari Desert, while nights in the Okavango Delta can be surprisingly chilly. Lightweight, breathable clothes are your best friend, but toss in a warm layer or two for those evening safaris. If you’re heading to rural areas or visiting villages, modest clothing is appreciated; think longer skirts for women and sleeves for both genders. Rainy season hits between November and March, so a compact rain jacket will save you from surprise showers. Keep it light, keep it versatile! Apart from this country specific advice, I have also crafted a general packing list that should help on any trip. Over the years, I’ve learned the importance of packing minimally. It’s so much easier to jump on the back of a truck or squeeze yourself into the last spot of a minibus without that supersized backpack. If you’re headed to a warm destination, leave your winter jacket at home; for colder regions, opt for thin thermal underlayers. Instead of packing your entire wardrobe, bring just three sets of clothes, as laundry facilities are available everywhere. Money & Documents Passport, visa (originals + some photo copies) Passport photographs Credit and debit cards (on world profile) Cash (US$ or €) Money belt Vaccination proofs Clothing Light, quick-dry clothing No jeans, too heavy Ultralight rain/wind jacket Thermo underwear Quick-dry towel Sunglasses Electronics Mobile phone + charger Power bank Travel adapter Local sim card (buy it on arrival) Health Toothbrush Deo Sunscreen, lips sunburn Anti-diarrhea Paracetamol Vitamin C Blister plasters Iodine (for desinfecting wounds) Anti-mosquito (DEET) Bit of emergency toilet paper Nail scissors Others Small number lock Waterproof packing cubes (for dirty clothes) Deck of cards(!) Ear plugs Travel pillow Spare glasses/contacts Kobo reader Moneybelt “Best way to carry your important documents” Light Backpack “Handy, lightweight backpack, excellent for backpackers who travel light” Large Backpack “Waterproof large lightweight backpack, excellent for backpackers who want to bring a lot” Outlander daypack “Handy Lightweight Travel Hiking Backpack Daypack, available in many colours” Carry on Backpack 40L “Whenever you can, travel with just carry-on luggage, saves costs and makes traveling much easier” Quick dry pant “Nothing beats these quick dry and light pants when traveling” Light rain jacket “Hiking in rainy season? These keep you dry” Thermo underwear “Less weight and volume than bulky sweaters or jackets” Quick dry towel “Normal towels get smelly and heavy when traveling” Travel adapter “Needed as each country has its own electricity plugs” Number lock “No chance of losing your key; handy for lockers in dormitories” Packing cubes “Keep your wet or dirty clothes separate from the rest” Travel pillow “Light and great for flights and long bus journeys” Lightweight, small mosquito net “Easy to carry, great for those nights where mosquitos are all around you” Kobo Reader “For reading 1.000s of books while carrying only one” Power bank “Pick a small and light one, with 10.000mAh or more” DJI Osmo Pocket 3 Vlogging Camera “The camera for quick videos while traveling” Waterproof action camera “Great action camera for outdoor active enthousiasts” Panasonic LUMIX FZ80D Compact Camera “When you need a large optical zoom (e.g. for safaris), look no further. The Lumix has a massive 20-1200mm zoom lens” Go Pro “The absolute champion in action videos” Ultra light tent “With only 1.08kg (2.38 pounds) this one is just the best you can get.” Ultra light sleeping airbed “Ultra light, still very comfortable and isolating!” Vitamin C “Vitamin C pills to compensate for less balanced food” Blister Plasters “Blister plasters for those long hikes” Iodine “Iodine for self desinfecting small open wounds” Mosquito repellant “Let‘s give those mosquito‘s no chance with 98% DEET” Got more questions? See the FAQ for all questions and answers for backpacking in Botswana. I 💚 feedback Final Thoughts If you’re wandering through Khama Rhino Sanctuary, don’t rush the trails. The vibe is chill, with a symphony of birds and the occasional rustle of wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled; the surprise of stumbling upon a rhino just a few meters away is unreal. Just a heads-up: the midday sun can be fierce, so pack extra water and a hat. Trust me, you’ll want to linger a while. 🫱 Share this page 🙋‍♂️ Give feedback last page update: 19 November 2025 Take  Your  Backpack Home Advisor Destinations Inspiration Planning Search To sign up for the nesletter, please enable javascript STAY UP TO DATE Sign up for the newsletter Africa Algeria Angola Benin Botswana Burkina Faso Burundi Cabo Verde (Cape Verde) Cameroon Central African Republic Chad Côte d’Ivoire Dem. Rep. of the Congo Djibouti Egypt Equatorial Guinea Eritrea Eswatini Ethiopia Gabon Gambia Ghana Guinea Guinea-Bissau Ivory Coast Kenya Lesotho Liberia Libya Madagascar Malawi Mali Mauritania Mauritius Mayotte Morocco Mozambique Namibia Niger Nigeria Republic of the Congo Réunion Rwanda São Tomé and Príncipe Senegal Seychelles Sierra Leone Somalia South Africa South Sudan Sudan Tanzania Togo Tunisia Uganda Western Sahara Zambia Zimbabwe Asia Afghanistan Armenia Azerbaijan Bahrain Bangladesh Bhutan Brunei Cambodia China Georgia Hong Kong India Indonesia Iran Iraq Israel Japan Jordan Kazakhstan Kuwait Kyrgyzstan Laos Lebanon Macau Malaysia Maldives Mongolia Myanmar Nepal North Korea Oman Pakistan Palestine Philippines Qatar Russia Saudi Arabia Singapore South Korea Sri Lanka Syria Taiwan Tajikistan Thailand Türkiye (Turkey) Turkmenistan United Arab Emirates Uzbekistan Vietnam Yemen Europe Albania Andorra Austria Belarus Belgium Bosnia & Herzegovina Bulgaria Croatia Cyprus Czechia (Czech Republic) Denmark Estonia Faroe Islands Finland France Germany Gibraltar Greece Guernsey Hungary Iceland Ireland Italy Jersey Kosovo Latvia Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg Malta Moldova Monaco Montenegro Netherlands North Macedonia Norway Poland Portugal Romania Russia San Marino Serbia Slovakia Slovenia Spain Svalbard Sweden Switzerland Türkiye (Turkey) Ukraine United Kingdom Vatican City State North  America Antigua and Barbuda Aruba Bahamas Barbados Belize British Virgin Islands Canada Cayman Islands Costa Rica Cuba Dominica Dominican Republic El Salvador Greenland Grenada Guadeloupe Guatemala Haiti Honduras Jamaica Martinique Mexico Nicaragua Panama Puerto Rico Saint Barthélemy Saint Lucia Saint Martin Saint Vincent & the Grenadines Sint Maarten Trinidad and Tobago Turks and Caicos Islands United States United States Virgin Islands Oceania American Samoa Australia Cook Islands East Timor Fiji French Polynesia Guam Kiribati Marshall Islands Nauru New Caledonia New Zealand Palau Papua New Guinea Samoa Solomon Islands Timor-Leste Tonga Tuvalu Vanuatu South  America Argentina Bolivia Brazil Chile Colombia Curaçao Ecuador Falkland Islands French Guiana Guyana Paraguay Peru Suriname Uruguay Venezuela Disclaimer | Privacy Policy | Cookies | About me To use these links, please enable javascript © takeyourbackpack.com | Contact To contact me enable javascript