Orapa Game Park — From Dust to Wildlife Paradise

History African
@africanhistory
4 days ago

Tucked on the edge of the bustling Orapa mining town, the Orapa Game Park is one of Botswana’s most surprising conservation gems. Originally degraded cattle farmland, this area has been transformed by Debswana into a 10,000-hectare wildlife sanctuary, offering a sanctuary for over 20 species of mammals and a significant number of birds.

🦏 White rhinos, elegant giraffes, regal eland, twitchy springbok, and elusive leopards now roam freely in this fenced oasis. The park is meticulously managed and fenced, with animals introduced for both ecological restoration and education. It’s not a rugged wilderness—it’s a curated conservation park with reliable game viewing.

For birders, the park is a sweet spot. It’s recognized by BirdLife Botswana for its threatened and migratory bird species, including rare vultures. The Phala Education Centre inside the park is a bonus—used by school groups and visitors to learn about conservation, making this a destination with depth.

🚘 How to Visit:

Day visits only—no overnights allowed.

Entry requires a free permit and small fee, obtainable at the gate or Makumutu Lodge.

Self-drives are permitted; 4x4 is not mandatory, though early morning and late afternoon drives are best for sightings.

There are picnic spots inside, so bring your own snacks, water, and a pair of binoculars.


🎯 Perfect for:

Families and school trips

Bird watchers

Visitors en route to the Makgadikgadi area

Safari-goers seeking guaranteed rhino sightings


Orapa Game Park is a feel-good example of what happens when conservation meets corporate responsibility—wildlife returns, communities benefit, and visitors leave with more than just photos.

#OrapaGamePark #RhinoSanctuary #BotswanaWildlife #ConservationMatters #BirdwatchingBotswana #DiamondToWildlife #FamilySafariStop #OrapaTownVisit #PhalaCentre #SelfDriveBotswana #RewildedLand #TravelBotswanaSmart


Photo Credit: Tourism Connect