Bordered by Chobe National Park in Botswana and Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe, Kazuma Forest Reserve is home to a diverse range of wildlife. This spectacular 4 000 square metre wilderness area teems with species like lion, leopard, wildebeest, the rare sable, giraffe and buffalo.
It is also part of an ancient migratory route between Chobe and Hwange for large herds of elephants, better known as the Elephant Corridor. The Kazuma region in Chobe, Botswana is characterized by mopane forest, grassy plains interspersed with tall ilala palms, and flat salt pans. The region is part of a larger Trans-Frontier Conservation Zone known as KAZA (Kavango Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area). It is a groundbreaking initiative protecting the wildlife and diverse ecosystems of 5 countries with a special focus on community involvement and socio-economic improvement through conservation.
Why Do People Travel to Kazuma Forest Reserve?
Kazuma Forest Reserve is known for its exceptional wildlife experiences. It is home to a wide variety of animals, including elephants, buffaloes, lions, leopards, cheetahs, and various antelope species. Visitors can enjoy incredible game drives and wildlife viewing in a more remote and less crowded setting compared to some other popular national parks in Botswana. The reserve is a paradise for bird watchers, with a rich diversity of bird species. Waterbirds, raptors, and songbirds can be observed, making it an excellent destination for bird enthusiasts. The reserve’s diverse landscapes, wildlife, and the ability to get close to animals provide excellent opportunities for nature and wildlife photography. Kazuma Forest Reserve is relatively less visited and less commercialized than some other game reserves in the region, offering a more secluded and peaceful safari experience in the wilderness. Visitors can explore the reserve through guided game drives, which allow for close encounters with the wildlife and an opportunity to learn about the behavior and ecology of the animals. Some safari operators offer guided walking safaris, allowing visitors to explore the reserve on foot, gain a deeper connection with nature, and learn about the smaller details of the ecosystem. With limited light pollution, the night sky over the Kazuma Forest Reserve is perfect for stargazing and appreciating the celestial wonders.
Safari Ideas for Kazuma & Chobe
Hugging the Zimbabwe border, the Kazuma Region in Botswana is less than three hours from the mighty Victoria Falls and only about an hour from Kasane. The location is conveniently close to Chobe but offers a more exclusive wildlife experience. Wildlife roams the area mostly undisturbed and game drives in the early morning or late afternoon bring sightings galore of majestic animals like elephants, lions, buffalo, a variety of plains game and countless bird species.
A guided walk gives visitors a unique African wilderness experience and offers an opportunity to see a vast array of smaller flora and fauna often overlooked whilst on a game drive. The impressive Chobe River is the perfect vehicle for an authentic water safari. Observing antelopes like puku and lechwe, coming up close and personal with hippos and crocodiles and scanning the sky for any one of the more than 400 bird species, is an excursion not to be missed.
Kazuma Forest Reserve Safari Packages
For exceptional safaris to Kazuma and Chobe stay at the Hideaways Camp Kuzuma, Chobe.